MCKENZIE (April 25) – Before an estimated 1,500 fans, the Bethel Wildcats ended spring football practice with its annual spring game. Before the game, the Wildcat coaching staff held their first combine for upcoming seniors. 97 participants, including players from Chattanooga, Maryville, Camden, Trenton, South Fulton and the state of Alabama, participated.

“It was a great day for Bethel football,” said Bethel Head Coach Dino Kaklis. “We had an incredible crowd. I’m very thankful to them for coming out and giving up their Saturday afternoon to watch a glorified practice. It’s great to see the interest the community has in our program and our kids.”

Players began to line up at 6:45 a.m. for the Bethel spring combine for upcoming high school seniors. Patterned like a NFL type combine, players were timed in the forty-yard dash and shuttle drill. They were further tested vie 175-pound bench press repetitions and vertical jump before having an opportunity to work with Bethel coaches specific to their positions.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with our Combine,” said Kaklis. “It was great to see young men make a commitment early on a Saturday morning to go through a four-hour combine. They did an awesome job. All the guys gave a great effort and their focus was really good.”

The scrimmage featured two halves, each comprising 35 plays. All Wildcat players received an opportunity to play in the game. The offense showed improvement as quarterback Cory Millikan completed several passes. Ricky Currie looked impressive, especially on a 71-yard touchdown run where he was able to showcase his speed.

“We did some nice things on offense and on defense,” added Kaklis. “It was nice to see some of the guys stepping up. I think Corey Millikan came into his own and made some really nice throws. It was nice to see Rickey Currie in the back field. He had a nice 71-yard touchdown run and showed he still has breakaway speed. Wade Vandergriff (linebacker) had a good end to spring practices. Jonathan Hathaway (defensive line) had a really nice spring and ended it today on a high note. It was also nice to see our kicker Sean Fraser hit 3 of 5 including three 55-yarders. He has been working hard and made big improvements in just his second year of American football.”

Bethel opens the 2009 campaign on the road in Chicago, Illinois against pre-season #16 Saint Xavier University on August 27 at 7:00 p.m.

• Bethel Concludes Spring with Strong Scrimmage; Successful Combine
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