Sports

They spend entire seasons without facial recognition or credit for protecting the quarterback while he stands in the pocket searching for targets downfield. They also pave the way for ball-carriers to gain yardage.

Ferris opened the new volleyball season with a three-game sweep at Palmer, 25-10, 25-16, 25-18, on Tuesday. The difference in execution between the teams was as evident as the contrast in their shoe colors.

In the season debut for both teams, Italy proved its mettle when they overcame a crushing second set pounding, to trim Blooming Grove, 3-2, in a high drama, five-match battle.

Athletic Director Don Drake confirmed several changes to the Ennis Athletic Department, most of them confirmed between the spring and the summer months. He recently pointed out that all vacancies with the EISD are filled.

Former Ferris quarterback and Ennis JV QB Dylan Wright transferred to the University of Minnesota in January. Ranked as the No.

HC Sam Harrell and the full coaching staff will tune-up the full varsity football team at Mansfield Legacy H.S. in a Thursday scrimmage at 6 p.m. The Lions must replace 15 graduated starters, more than any team in District 8-5A.

Senior setter Emily Gilstrap returns to distribute the ball to teammates on the frontline of attack this season.

High school football in Eastern Ellis County produced all five teams a berth in the playoffs for the second successive season.

Their wheels are whirling like the cartoon Taz-man. Big 5 teams hit the court this week, four of them on Tuesday, Aug. 10, with one, Ennis taking action later in the week, including their home debut on Friday against Hillcrest.