Football season starts with Essex hosting Walnut Friday night

The 2009 high school football season kicks off this Friday in Essex as the Trojans host the Walnut Warriors.

Behind the leadership of senior running back Colby Kinney, the Trojans will face a defense that gave up an average of 37 points per game last year.

This game will also test the mettle of sophomore Justin Moyer as he makes his first varsity start at under center at quarterback.

“He’s an intelligent player,” Essex Head Coach Mike Almquist said. “He’s got a very accurate arm and is a good athlete. He’s just going to have to take what he knows and jump in.”

The Warriors are led by seniors Kyler McCarty and Dillan Hamilton.

McCarty threw for 430 yards and eight touchdowns as starting quarterback in 2008.

Hamilton caught two of those touchdowns along with rushing for another eight as a junior last season.

“Looking at (Walnut), I think they’re in the same situation as we are,” Almquist said, referring to only 13 players coming out for football this season. “We have to get the most out of every position. That’s part of playing for a small school.”

The home opener starts at 7:30 at Essex Community School.