THEIR HEART PUTS WESTON FOOTBALL ON THE GRID(IRON)

Click to view image

As a resident of Platte City, it’s hard to remember the days when there weren’t youth football programs provided.  It’s then that you’re informed that those programs aren’t an option for all towns, especially the smaller towns, and in particular, Weston, MO.

This year is the first year that youth football has been offered in Weston, under the direction of C.R. Carter; a West Platte graduate and Weston’s newly elected mayor.  Before Carter started the program, young footballers had to travel to other towns in order to play.
The onset of youth football in Weston gives the future of football in Weston a fighting chance; that and the high school team that is giving it a name, as well.  West Platte’s varsity team--led by seniors and captains Todd Brown, Luke Wetzel and Colby Clemens--is in the midst of a promising season.  And in their youth days, all three boys had to travel to Platte City to play, coached by Eric Clemens (Colby’s father).

A captain, by definition, is the field leader of a team.  All three young men help define that term in different areas and different ways.  Brown (named All-State and All-District), the lead by example type, plays offensive/defensive line.  Wetzel, the comedian, plays quarterback in his first year as a varsity starter.  And Clemens (named All-District), the motivational one, plays middle line-backer and center.

Former youth coach Clemens commented on the three players’ biggest improvements over the years, saying that Brown (a former QB), went from throwing a ball to dominating the line; Wetzel has grown from shying away from contact to initiating it; and Clemens has been the most consistent/coachable player from day one.

The three senior captains are leading West Platte in a promising direction; a direction that has been anticipated by the family of the 2nd and 3rd generation players for years, a direction that is fun to watch as it develops and grows.

Keep an eye on Weston football this year; see what it means to truly play with heart.

                                                                By Rian Crowell Babcock