After the Edmondson/Westside High football team won just four games last year, the number of fans who thought the Red Storm had a chance at a 2006 state title probably could?ve fit into a telephone booth. But on Friday night, there will be plenty of Red Storm backers present at Poly as Edmondson (11-1) faces Southern of Anne Arundel County (8-4) in the Class 2A state semifinals.
“Coming into the season, we expected to be where we are,” Edmondson coach Dante Jones said. “We worked hard and prepared hard.”
Following a disappointing 2005 season in which five of the team?s six losses came by a combined 33 points, the Red Storm dedicated themselves to become better, and closer, asa team. With only six seniors last year, this season?s 2A North Region champion features 20 seniors who have led the way. Edmondson, which has never won a state title, last reached the semifinals in 2002.
Training, hanging out, going to church together ? all of these activities developed a tight-knit group that can rely on each other. Perhaps no act of maturity better signifies this esprit de corps than when senior starting quarterback James Thorne (25 of 54, 605 yards, 2 TDs) gave way to freshman Carrol Washington (53 of 96, 1240 yards, 10 TDs) early in the season. The result was a more effective and dangerous attack.
“[Washington?s] just stepped up,” Jones said. “The key to his maturing process was James Thorne. He helps him and has become a mentor for him.”
Maintaining a high level of play has helped Edmondson players get noticed by Division I college programs. Standouts like Sterling Jones, Kyle Jackson, Dionta Cox, Darrian Johnson and Kareem Damon have been getting looks from the likes of Hampton, Towson and Delaware State.
“Each level you go, all you?re doing is making your life better,” Jones said.
