Eagle River optimistic about 2010 chances

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Every year, the first high-school football games in the nation kick off in Alaska. It all begins Friday, and several area teams are stepping up their game in anticipation.

Last year, Eagle River made steps from a fledgling Cook Inlet Conference bottom-feeder to a legitimate contender. The Wolves won three games -- including their first two ever in conference play.

Eagle River brings back a host of hungry returning players, but second-year head coach Kenny Ray won't get caught up with certain styles that are in vogue in today's game.

“Run the football, we’re not a big passing team -- I’m a firm believer that you’re going to be in the state championship, and I could prove it to you year in and year out,” Ray said. “Last year, the two teams in the state championship were running football teams, and you need to be able to run the football in October to get to the playoffs.”

Contact Kevin Wells at kwells@ktuu.com