News
Ravens Host "Football 101 for Women"
August 16, 2012
Over 100 women attended "Football 101" on Aug. 15 at the Coffeyville Country Club.
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Over 100 occasionally rowdy ladies enjoyed a Wednesday evening at the Coffeyville Country Club with the Red Raven football coaching staff and select players, and learned more about the game during Coffeyville Community College’s third annual “Football 101 for Women.” The event was emceed by assistant coach Mo Crain, and included dinner and a raffle of prizes donated by several Coffeyville businesses.
Attendee Tara Thompson said she attended last year’s event and learned that the coin flip actually takes place before the team captains and referees hit the 50-yard line prior to kickoff. What is seen before the game at midfield is ceremonial to inform the crowd of the result.
“That was something that my husband and his friends didn’t know and that was cool,” said Thompson. “This year I want to know what all the signals are, so I don’t have to ask my husband.”
Thompson’s wish was answered as the Ravens’ coaching staff discussed and demonstrated a flurry of offensive and defensive call signals. Assistant coaches Jim Henry and Ben Barton especially entertained the gathering by demonstrating how the signals are communicated from the sideline to the players on the field.
Janice Wright attended to find out “about the coaches and their philosophy” and Marilyn Wulf wanted to know what the coaches’ expectations were for the program. “I’m here for the fun, learning about the game, and meeting the new coaches,” added Betty Corle.
Before the coaching staff started their presentations for the evening, three Raven players were introduced to the crowd and a question and answer session ensued. Players were asked questions about their favorite players, college majors and when they started playing football.
University of Iowa transfer quarterback A.J. Derby was asked why he chose to come to Coffeyville for his sophomore season. “I came to Coffeyville for the coaching staff,” said Derby.
With the change in coaches, a fan asked the players “With the coaching staff we have now, will we beat Butler?” Sophomore defensive end Deaven Jensen answered, “Yes, ma’am.” Jensen later told the crowd that his mother was the one who got him started playing football.
Linebacker Martrell Spaight was also introduced and answered several questions. Spaight was a first team NJCAA All-American last season and is one of the top defensive players in the country.
After the players’ segment, the coaches took over the program and after discussing the basics of referee signals, offensive and defensive formations, allowed the fans to ask any question about football. The toughest questions of the night came from the coaches’ wives.
Head Coach Aaron Flores finished the program by thanking the fans for coming out and for their support. “We hope you learned more about the game and will have more fun watching the games,” said Flores.
Flores was asked by a fan if the Ravens would be a more disciplined team in 2012. “Yes, you will see a different team,” answered Flores. “The keys are to surround kids with great coaches, and bring in the right kids who are a fit with the program we want to build.”
The Ravens open the 2012 season with a road trip to Hutchinson on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. The season opener can be seen live on Cox Cable on Kansas Channel 22. The home opener will be Sept. 1 when the Ravens host Trinity Valley at 7 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
