PLAYOFF GAME - AT HOME!!

Disciples Play Saints in Home Playoff Game
The Time of the Game has Changed to 2pm!

November 8, 2007

This Saturday, at 2pm, the Disciples will play their first playoff game at home against the Maryland Christian Saints. The location of the game is the Disciples home field at Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831. The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

Come out Saturday and cheer for the Disciples!

Bulldogs Best Disciples

November 1, 2007

Disciples Team

Playing at Liberty University’s impressive Williams Stadium, the Disciples ended their regular season with a 13-0 loss to the Liberty Christian Academy Bulldogs junior varsity team. Although the loss dropped the Disciples regular season record to 7-3, a strong second half gives the team momentum headed into the playoffs. The Disciples will have the opportunity on Saturday (November 10) to avenge one of their losses when they play the Frederick (Maryland) Eagles, who won the regular season game between the teams 7-6.
The Bulldogs got off to a quick start in Thursday night’s game, scoring on their first two possessions. Cory Harrington scored the first touchdown on a 9-yard run, but a trick play on the extra point was unsuccessful. When the Disciples offense failed to move the ball, the Bulldogs then extended their lead on a 40-yard touchdown pass from Seth Good to Terrance Casey. This time the extra point kick was good, and the score was 13-0. The first quarter highlight for the Disciples was a 48-yard run by Josh Harris, his longest run of the season.
During the second quarter, the Disciples defense began to stiffen. The Bulldogs appeared to be headed for an easy third score, when their running back broke free down the right sideline and had a blocker ahead of him, but Levi Scott saved the touchdown by fighting through the block and tackling the runner on the 5-yard line. The Disciples stopped a run on first down, and then a host of defenders sacked Good on second down. The Bulldogs third down pass was intercepted in the end zone by Nathan Hollis, who returned the ball over 60 yards to give the Disciples offense their best starting position of the night. Neither team was able to mount another serious scoring threat until late in the second quarter, when the Bulldogs completed a long pass to give them another first and goal right before halftime. The Disciples defense again rose to the occasion, as Daniel Ryan intercepted a pass in the end zone on the last play of the half to prevent a score.
At halftime, Coach Hollis and his staff challenged the players to play a more physical game in the second half. That strategy was effective, as the second half saw the Disciples offense start to move the ball more consistently, but they were unable to score. Josh Harris led the Disciples with 114 yards rushing on 11 carries, but most of those yards came in the first half as an injury early in the second half limited his mobility. Nathan Hollis added 26 yards on 6 carries and completed 3 passes for 32 yards. The defense likewise shut down the potent Bulldogs offense in the second half, recording 4 sacks and keeping the Bulldogs from getting their talented playmakers the ball in the open field.
It was an emotional night for the Disciples as nine Seniors played their last regular season game. Dan Barner, Mike Durrette, David Harner, Josh Harris, Michael Harvey, Kevin Metzger, David Norfleet, James Schlueter and Levi Scott led the team to a 7-3 record in what was a breakthrough season for the team. As the coaches told the team after the game, their hard work, dedication and leadership will be greatly missed.
The Disciples had their usual strong fan following, as the usual ranks of family and friends were joined by several older siblings who attend Liberty University and brought their friends to cheer for the Disciples. After the game, one of the Bulldogs coaches gave the team a tour of Liberty University’s weightlifting and conditioning facilities.

By Dave Watson

Disciples 2007 Seniors

Disciples Coaches at Half-time

PATRIOTS SOCCER - 2007 CHAMPS!!

On Monday, October 29,

The CVHAA PATRIOTS SOCCER TEAM

won the

2007 VCAA TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

vs.

SPIRIT HOMESCHOOL!!!!

GREAT JOB, TEAM!! GREAT JOB!!!

Disciples Defeat Quantico

October 30, 2007

In the make-up game for last Friday’s rainout, the Central Virginia Homeschool Disciples defeated the Quantico Warriors 26-7. On a cold, clear night, the Disciples showed a balanced offense, running for over 200 yards and passing for over 140 yards, and the defense did not allow a first down or point in the second half. Jonathan Kinker, filling in for the injured Mike Durrette, rushed for 82 yards and 2 touchdowns and also caught a touchdown pass from Nathan Hollis. Playing their first game in 17 days because of a bye week and the rainout, the Disciples showed some rust in the first half but once again finished strong to improve their record to 7-2.

The game was played at Quantico High School, which is located on the Marine Corps Base Quantico. All the players on the Warriors have at least one parent serving in the Marines and stationed at the base. The pre-game colors were presented by Quantico Junior ROTC Color Guard.

The Disciples defense made a big play early, as Levi Scott recovered a Warriors fumble on the second play from scrimmage. The offense then marched down the field for its first score, highlighted by a 22-yard run by Josh Harris. Jonathan Kinker scored his first touchdown on a 3-yard run. The conversion was unsuccessful, and the Disciples had a quick 6-0 lead. The Warriors answered, however, on their next possession, driving down to score on a 3-yard sweep by Robert Davis. Masaki Omura kicked the extra point, and the Warriors led 7-6 at the end of the quarter.

The Disciples regained the lead in the second quarter, with Jonathan Kinker scoring the touchdown on a 9-yard run. The Warriors stopped the conversion attempt, but the Disciples led 12-7. During the quarter the Disciples defense recovered its characteristic intensity, making adjustments and beginning to shut down the Warriors offense. The half ended with a flourish, as the offense regained the ball with just over 2 minutes to go and executed a nearly flawless 2-minute drill. Using its timeouts and spiking the ball several times to stop the clock, the Disciples moved the ball to the Warriors 34 yard line with about 30 seconds to go. Nathan Hollis threw a swing pass to Jonathan Kinker in the right flat, and Kinker cut all the way across the field, picking up several key downfield blocks, and raced along the left sideline for a touchdown to make the halftime score 18-7.

On the opening drive of the second half, the Disciples offense drove for another touchdown, with Thomas Gresham scoring on a 5-yard run. The Disciples converted the extra point on a pass from James Schlueter to Nathan Hollis for a 26-7 lead. The Disciples defense maintained its intensity throughout the second half, holding the Warriors without a touchdown or a first down. After the initial drive, the second team offense played the rest of the half. Although it did not score, it moved the ball effectively and picked up a number of first downs, including converting two 4th downs on passes from James Schlueter to Ian Kirkland.

The Disciples defense started the game slowly but asserted itself strongly after the first quarter. Despite playing without their leading scorer and rusher, the Disciples offense was effective throughout the game, mixing passes and runs and using for the first time its new option plays. Quarterbacks Nathan Hollis and James Schlueter combined for 10 out of 17 passing for 144 yards and 1 touchdown. Six different Disciples caught passes, with Ian Kirkland leading the way with 3 receptions. Jonathan Kinker ran for 82 yards on 9 carries, and Josh Harris added 65 yards on just 7 carries.

Quantico High School was a great host, and enjoyed showing off some new renovations at their field. They kept the refreshment stand open after the game to provide a meal for the Disciples players and their families. The Warriors team played a hard, clean game with heart and determination. Attending a military school for students who have at least one parent in the Marines and stationed at Quantico, the Warriors players are rarely at the school for more than 2 years, which creates a challenge for the coaches in building continuity in their program. At halftime the Warriors honored their senior football players and cheerleaders.

VCAA Soccer Tournament Semi finals - PATRIOTS vs Victory Christian School

Thursday was the Patriots’ first game in the end of the season league tournament. They faced Victory Christian Academy at AM Davis Elementary School, the host field of the tournament. As it was the second round, all four teams left are pretty good competitors. Victory put up good opposition, and for a long time, the Patriots could not score. Although Victory was not getting the ball very far down the field, the competition in general for both teams was better then usual. Eventually, the Patriots’ James Denison poked one into the back of the net for the lead. Before halftime, Nick Shaffer scored two more goals for the Patriots, including one amazing left-footed shot from far out. The second half started as the first half, with much competition but not a lot of good opportunities to score. However, James Denison again brought the Patriots back into the zone when he hit a beautiful volley off of a corner kick from Daniel Pegram. Later, Nick Shaffer combined with Daniel Pegram again for a give and go resulting in a goal. The Patriots came out on top, 5-0.
In the second tournament game, Spirit Homeschool defeated West End Christian.
The Patriots will be playing Spirit for the VCAA championship this Monday, October 29th at 4:00P at AM Davis School on Providence Rd near the intersection of Midlothian and Providence RD.
The consolation game will also be played on Monday, October 29th at AM Davis. That game is between West End Christian School and Victory Christian School. The VCAA awards ceremony immediately follows the completion of both games.

By Daniel Pegram

CVHAA “JV” Soccer vs Spirit

October 12, 2007

Friday the Patriots’ younger players and bench got a chance to show what they can do. There was a “JV” game against Spirit for those who do not normally play much to get to play a lot. Our guys showed part of the reason that our team has down so well – our bench players can contribute a lot! They came out strong and had many opportunities on goal, and ended up winning 2-0. Cailey Smith had the first goal and Joe Armstrong had the other. Great job guys!

By Daniel Pegram

CVHAA Patriots co-ed Soccer vs. West End

October 11, 2007

The Patriots came out on top after a match against West End Christian School. They played well during the first half and scored five goals relatively easily. However, West End came out strong the second half, scoring four goals in the first 25 minutes of the 40-minute period. Two came off of corner kicks and two came in the form of Penalty kicks (one-on-one shots resulting from a foul or hand ball inside the penalty box). Only up by one goal, the Patriots dug in and held West End the rest of the half, and finally added one goal at the very end to finalize the win. They remain undefeated with a score of 6-4. Way to go guys!

By Daniel Pegram

Disciples Win Sixth in a Row

October 6, 2007

The Central Virginia Homeschool Disciples offense ran for over 300 yards and its defense did not allow a point as the team jumped out to a 22-0 first-quarter lead and defeated the Eagles from the Model Secondary School for the Deaf 36-0. The offense rushed for over 300 yards, with Mike Durrette contributing 155 yards on 10 carries and 3 touchdowns, and the defense shut down the Eagles and its top player Sean Harden, becoming the first team to hold the Eagles offense scoreless. The win was the Disciples sixth in a row and improved their record to 6-1.
On a beautiful night for football in Washington, D.C., the Disciples set the tone for the game on the opening kickoff with Matt Reber and Kevin Metzger stopping the Eagles kick returner with a crunching tackle. The defense held the Eagles to negative yardage on its first drive and forced a punt. The Disciples offense then moved quickly and methodically down the field for a touchdown on a 2-yard run by Josh Harris. Mike Durrette ran in the 2-point conversion for an 8-0 lead.
The Eagles first scoring opportunity came on its next drive when Sean Harden broke a long run that looked like it might go all the way, but David Harner chased him down and made a touchdown-saving tackle. The Disciples defense stiffened near the goal line and held on a 4th down play to turn the ball back over to the offense. On the first play from scrimmage, Mike Durrette sprinted 77 yards for a touchdown. Levi Scott fought his way into the end zone for the 2-point conversion, breaking tackles and carrying a number of Eagles players for the final yard.
After another defensive stop, the Disciples drove into Eagles territory with several key runs by Josh Harris, including one for 29 yards. Quarterback Nathan Hollis then rolled out to his right and hit Mike Harvey in the end zone for a 19-yard touchdown. The conversion was unsuccessful, and the Disciples led 22-0 at the end of the first quarter.
The quick start by the Disciples offense allowed the coaches to begin substituting freely in the second quarter. The offense scored again in the second quarter on a 2-yard run by Mike Durrette and 2-point conversion by Josh Harris to make the score 30-0 at halftime. In its only series of the second half, the Disciples starting offense scored a touchdown on Mike Durrette’s 17-yard run. The conversion failed, and the Disciples lead was 36-0. The Eagles played hard to the very end, and the last play saw the Disciples safety Nathan Hollis tip a pass that was dropped by the Eagles receiver in the end zone, preserving the shutout.
Even with two starting offensive linemen held out for injuries, the Disciples line opened the way for the team to rush for a team record 307 yards. In addition to Mike Durrette’s 155 yards, Levi Scott rushed for a season-high 66 yards on just 8 carries and Josh Harris added 58 yards on 6 carries. The Disciples quarterback Nathan Hollis attempted just 3 passes on the night, but one went for a 19-yard touchdown to Mike Harvey.
The Disciples defense did a great job of containing the Eagles offense, giving up some yardage but not allowing any scores. This was the first time this season the Eagles were held without a touchdown. The Disciples had one of their best tackling games of the year, with defenders repeatedly bringing down the Eagles ball carriers in the open field. The Disciples pass rush and secondary took away the Eagles passing game, with both David Harner and Nathan Harris batting down passes to prevent long completions.
The Disciples also played their best game of the year on special teams. The coaching staff had emphasized kickoff coverage in practice this week, and it showed as the Disciples consistently held the Eagles returners to short returns. Although the Disciples only had to punt one time, James Schlueter got off a beautiful 47-yard punt that rolled dead deep in Eagles territory.
The game was held at the Model Secondary School for the Deaf field on the campus of Gallaudet College in Washington, D.C. The School has approximately 175 deaf and hearing impaired high school students. Eagles Coach Bob Miller said after the game that although there are special challenges to coaching a deaf team, fundamentally football is football and they teach blocking, tackling and so forth just like any other team. The Eagles consider this a rebuilding year, but the team exemplified good sportsmanship and played hard until the final whistle, making some very good plays on both offense and defense. The Eagles Sean Harden was one of the better players the Disciples have faced, and he played running back, quarterback, tight end, safety and punter during the game.

By Dave Watson

Patriot Co-ed Soccer vs. Spirit

October 2, 2007

Patriots Remain Undefeated!

The Patriots played a tough game against Spirit Homeschool Tuesday. Spirit is the only team that has come close to beating the Patriots thus far, yet last time they met, the Patriots had won 3-2. Spirit came out strong this game, and although the Patriots scored the first goal, Spirit scored twice before halftime as well. Our goal occurred when their goalie misjudged a shot by James Denison that appeared to be a cross. It went over their keeper’s head and into the goal. The Patriots knew they had to win the loose balls this game if they were to win, yet during the first half they did not do a good job doing that, especially the center mids Daniel Pegram and Nick Shaffer. They were down 2-1 at halftime. The Patriots came out during the second half and for about 10 minutes looked about the same as the first half, not nearly aggressive as needed. However as the half continued, Spirit began to tire and the Patriots gradually started looking more aggressive. About midway through the second half James Denison had a beautiful cross which ended up on Nick Shaffer’s head and in the goal. The Patriots continued to play well the rest of the half, yet could not score. At the end of regular time, Daniel Pegram hit a nice corner to Jesse Bogert who had a nice header attempt that went over the goal. The game progressed into a 10-minute overtime period. The Patriots had several more attempts on goal but to no avail. The final score was a tie, 2-2. Because it was only a regular season game there was no more overtime given. The Patriots remain undefeated and in first place with Spirit in second. Good work guys!

By Daniel Pegram

Disciples Player Mike Durrette Honored

October 3, 2007.

Central Virginia Disciples running back Mike Durrette was honored by being named one of the Richmond Times Dispatch Game Breakers for his performance against Chincoteague High School on Friday night. Durrette, who rushed for 130 yards on 19 carries and scored 2 touchdowns, was included in the list of top prep football players for last weekend’s games. Durrette also rushed for 91 yards and 3 second-half touchdowns in the previous week’s come from behind victory over Portsmouth Christian, giving him a total of 221 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns in the two Disciples victories.
The 5-1 Disciples will be going for their sixth win in a row against the Model School for the Deaf in Washington, DC on Saturday.

By Dave Watson

Disciples Celebrate Homecoming with Fifth Win in a Row

September 29, 2007.

Homecoming and Senior’s Night saw the Disciples once again overcome a halftime deficit with a strong second half to defeat the Chincoteague Ponies 22-10. Behind an offense that rushed for over 200 yards, led by Mike Durrette’s 130 yards and 2 touchdowns, and a stifling defense that allowed only 1 touchdown and pitched a second half shutout, the Disciples improved their record to 5-1.

The night began with a moving tribute to Bob Barner, a Virginia State Police trooper who died 10 years ago of brain cancer. Mr. Barner played football for Liberty University and his three sons, Dan, Joshua and Jeremiah, all play for the Disciples. Friday night was the last home game for Dan, a senior. The color guard of the Virginia State Police presented the colors before the game, and several of Mr. Barner’s former State Police colleagues were in attendance.

The first quarter began for the Disciples like the second half of the Portsmouth Christian game. The Disciples defense got a quick turnover when Jared Simmons recovered a fumble, and the offense moved the ball steadily down the field running the ball up the middle. Mike Durrette finished the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run. The conversion attempt failed, and Disciples had a 6-0 lead.

The Ponies responded and moved the ball deep into Disciples territory on their next drive. When a 4th down run by the Ponies came up 12 inches short, the Disciples took over on downs on their own 5-yard line. The Ponies scored their first points, however, when the Disciples pitchout went awry. Although the Disciples recovered the fumble in the end zone, it was a safety for the Ponies, closing the score to 6-2. That was how the 1st quarter ended.

The Ponies scored the only touchdown of the 2nd quarter, on a well-thrown 35-yard pass from quarterback Jason Tolbert that hit receiver Matt Clark in stride and he carried it into the end zone for the score. Tolbert then ran in the 2-point conversion and the Ponies took a 10-6 lead. Although the Disciples moved the ball consistently on offense, they were unable to put any points on the board in the 2nd quarter. The Disciples defense contributed to the scoring, however, as they recorded a safety late in the half on a play similar to the Ponies’ safety. The Ponies mishandled a handoff near the goal line and recovered in their own end zone, tightening the halftime score to 10-8.

At halftime, the Disciples honored their 9 seniors and their parents. This years seniors include Dan Barner, Mike Durrette, David Harner, Josh Harris, Michael Harvey, Kevin Metzger, David Norfleet, James Schlueter and Levi Scott. This is an outstanding group of young men who have provided tremendous leadership over the past 3 years, and this year have led the team to its best season yet.

On the Ponies first possession of the second half, the Disciples defense came up with another key takeaway, as linebacker Dan Barner made a spectacular one-handed interception of a Jason Tolbert pass and returned it to the Ponies 26-yard line. The Disciples offense then drove down to the 2-yard line and took the lead when quarterback Nathan Hollis rolled to his right and hit a wide-open Kevin Metzger in the end zone. The extra point conversion was unsuccessful but the Disciples had regained the lead, 14-10.

This set the stage for another exciting, nerve-wracking 4th quarter. With both defenses hitting hard and playing well, neither team was able to score until the final 2 minutes of the game. The Disciples, who had taken over on downs on the Ponies 46 after another great defensive stop, moved the ball down into Ponies territory. The drive appeared stalled however, as the Disciples faced a 4th and 11 on the Ponies 20-yard line with just under 2 minutes to go. Throughout the game the Ponies defense did a good job of taking away the outside runs, screen passes and downfield passes that the Disciples had used so effectively in their comeback win at Portsmouth Christian last week. On this play, with the Ponies looking for a sweep or a pass, the Disciples crossed them up by running a counter play up the middle. The offensive line opened a hole and Mike Durrette shot through it, running by and through the Ponies secondary for a game-clinching 20-yard touchdown. Josh Harris added an exclamation point as he flattened a Ponies linebacker at the goal line in scoring the 2-point conversion for a 22-10 lead.

The Disciples defense made one final stop. With all 3 Barner brothers playing together for the first time this season, the defense held the Ponies for 4 downs. David Norfleet and Justin Thomas each recorded a sack and two Ponies pass attempts were incomplete. The Disciples offense then downed the ball on the final play, and the team had another hard-fought victory.

The Disciples defense dominated the game, allowing only 1 touchdown, scoring a safety and coming up with 2 takeaways, each of which led to a touchdown. Although the Ponies offense made several good plays, it was never able to mount a sustained scoring drive. The Ponies defense, which was obviously well-prepared for the game, limited the ability of the Disciples to run some of their more successful plays from last week, and the Disciples also had to overcome injuries to two offensive line starters in the 1st quarter. Nevertheless, the offense effectively pounded the ball inside for 222 rushing yards. Mike Durrette led the way with 130 yards on 19 carries, and Josh Harris added 55 yards on 12 carries.

After the game, the 2 teams met at midfield and Disciples Coach Dave Hollis led the teams in prayer. The Disciples also expressed their appreciation to the Chincoteague team and it coaches and their fans for making the long journey to play the Disciples. Because of the geographic location of Chincoteague, the Ponies face some of the same obstacles as the Disciples. With the closest high school over 50 miles away, they travel far and wide for their games. Friday’s game started 20 minutes late to allow the Ponies time for pre-game warm-ups because their bus was delayed by traffic on I-64 coming to the game.

Before the game, the Enon Athletic Association, whose beautiful, well-maintained football field serves as the Disciples home field, presented the team with a $1,000 donation. The team very much appreciates their support.

The Disciples drew their largest crowd of the season, as many in the Richmond area home school community turned out to cheer on the team. After playing virtually all its games on the road the first two seasons, it is a great encouragement to the team to have a large home crowd of enthusiastic fans cheering for them.

By Dave Watson

CVHAA “JV” Soccer vs. YMCA

Last week some of the Patriots’ players (mostly younger ones) played a non-league game against a YMCA team. They played well and won 7-1. Davis Mercer, the usual goal keeper on the team, helped train Daniel Pittman at the position throughout the game. In the meantime, he also managed to score 3 goals, a hat trick. Other goals scorers were Josiah Routhier, Jesse Bogert, Hunter Aliceburg, and Daniel Pittman. Way to go on the win guys!

By Daniel Pegram

CVHAA Patriots Co-ed Soccer

Friday, September 21, 2007

The Patriots played a physical game against Banner Christian School Friday, September 21st. The Patriots started strong with a quick header goal by Preston Tran, and another soon after by James Denison off a corner, and things looked as if they would be easy. Throughout most of the first half however, our guys looked decent but sloppy in their execution. The second half was rough with several of the Patriots’ main players getting fouled often, though seemingly not on purpose. Our guys were very close to converting several of the free kicks and corner kicks into goals; however, none of them went in. The Patriots came away with a 6-0 win, but it was a hard-fought battle. Great job guys!

Come support the Patriots at their next game

vs. West End

Friday, September 28

4:00 pm @ Point of Rocks Park !!

By Daniel Pegram

Disciples Homecoming and Seniors Night

At 7pm on Friday, September 28, the Disciples play Chincoteague High School.

The game will be Homecoming and Seniors Night, and the Disciples are hoping for a great turnout from their fans in the Central Virginia homeschool community.

The location of the game is the Disciples home field at Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831.

The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

Come out and support our Disciples!

Disciples Win Fourth in a Row

September 22, 2007

The Disciples recorded their fourth victory of the season in dramatic fashion, overcoming a 14-0 halftime deficit to beat the Portsmouth Christian Academy Patriots 26-20. The Disciples offense, unable to get traction in the first half, roared back in the second half to score 26 unanswered points led by Mike Durrette’s 3 touchdown runs. On a hot, humid afternoon in Portsmouth, the Disciples achieved their most significant and impressive victory in their 3-year history.

The Patriots opened the scoring with their first drive. After the Disciples defense stopped the Patriots on three plays, the Disciples were called for roughing the kicker on the 4th down punt and the Patriots retained possession. The Patriots then drove for a touchdown, with the key play a long pass completion with a spectacular catch by Jared Jeffers. After the Disciples defense stopped 3 straight plays, on 4th down quarterback Josh Pope passed 15 yards to Brandon Crittenden for the score. The extra point attempt failed, and the Patriots led 6-0.

In the second quarter, the Patriots extended the lead. An apparent touchdown on a punt return by Brandon Crittenden was called back because of an illegal block in the back, but it left the Patriots with good field position. R.T. Driver then broke a 34-yard run for a touchdown, and quarterback Josh Pope ran in the conversion for a 14-0 lead.

The Disciples mounted their best drive of the half in the waning seconds. Sparked by quarterback Nathan Hollis’s passing, the Disciples drove into Patriots territory. As the clock ran out, a roughing the passer penalty on the Patriots gave the Disciples one last opportunity. Hollis completed a long pass to James Schlueter, who battled down inside the 10 yard line but was unable to reach the end zone as the half ended.

After an emotional half time, the Disciples received the second half kickoff and set to work at changing the momentum and direction of the game. With the offensive line stepping up its play, the Disciples ran six straight power running plays up the middle moving the ball crisply down the field. Quarterback Nathan Hollis then completed a pass to James Schlueter deep in Patriots’ territory, and Mike Durrette scored the first Disciples touchdown on a 20-yard sweep to the right sideline. The conversion was unsuccessful, but the Disciples had narrowed the lead to 14-6.

The next Patriots’ series ended when cornerback David Harner stepped in front of receiver Jared Jeffers to intercept a Josh Pope pass. The Disciples then drove down the field again, scoring their second touchdown on a beautifully run screen pass. From the Patriots 47-yard line, Nathan Hollis passed to Josh Harris in the left flat. With his offensive line providing several key blocks, Harris bowled over the remaining Patriots defenders and raced into the end zone. The conversion was unsuccessful, but the Disciples had closed the gap to 14-12.

On their first possession of the fourth quarter, the Disciples offense again methodically moved down the field. A highlight was a perfectly executed fake punt on 4th and 10, with punter Nathan Hollis throwing a first-down pass to Kevin Metzger. Mike Durrette scored his second touchdown of the game on a 12-yard run, and the Disciples were in the lead. Hollis completed the 2-point conversion pass to James Schlueter, and the Disciples led 20-14.

On their next drive, quarterback Josh Pope made several nice runs and the Patriots penetrated deep into Disciples territory. The defense stiffened, and Josh Harris intercepted Pope’s 4th down pass, returning it past midfield to set up another Disciples score. After two inside runs, the Disciples crossed up the Patriots defense with a misdirection play. With the motion back going to his left and taking the defense with him, the Disciples ran the sweep to the right sideline and Mike Durrette took it 30 yards for the touchdown. The conversion failed and the Disciples led 26-14.

The Patriots received the ball after a short kickoff in the Disciples territory, and made the most of the opportunity. After almost being sacked in the backfield, quarterback Josh Pope hit a wide-open Brandon Crittenden in the end zone for a touchdown, narrowing the Disciples lead to 26-20. The extra point kick attempt was blocked, but the stage was set for a possible dramatic ending. The Patriots comeback ended, however, when the Disciples’ Jon Watson recovered the attempted on-side kick. The Disciples offense ran out the clock for an amazing come-from-behind 26-20 victory.

Although it struggled for most of the first half, the Disciples offense moved the ball consistently in the second half. Mike Durrette ran for 84 yards on just 8 carries, 3 of them for touchdowns. Josh Harris ran for 85 yards on 11 carries, at times seeming to carry half the Patriots defense with him, and caught 2 passes for 41 yards, including one for a touchdown. Quarterback Nathan Hollis completed 9 of 17 passes for 180 yards, with one touchdown and no interceptions, with the majority of the yards coming on completions to James Schlueter. After a lackluster first half, the offensive line stepped up to open holes for the running backs and give Hollis time to pass.

Despite giving up 20 points, with 2 of the touchdowns on short drives, the Disciples defense did a good job of bottling up the potent Patriots offense. They limited the catches of explosive receiver Jared Jeffers, intercepted two passes and repeatedly made key stops during the comeback. The 3-5-3 defense put constant pressure on the Patriots offense and kept the team in the game until the offense got untracked.

On a day when the Disciples got off to a poor start, Coach Dave Hollis and his staff praised the team after the game for rising to the occasion in the second half, never giving up and battling to win the game. The coaching staff deserves credit for motivating the team, making significant mid-game adjustments and making a number of great play calls at critical points in the game which put the Disciples in a position to win the game.

After the game, Coach Hollis and Coach Josh Blalock of the Patriots commended both teams on playing a hard, clean game and competing for four quarters of exciting football. The teams met at mid-field and players from both teams led the teams in a time of prayer together.

This is the first season that Portsmouth Christian Academy, which has 900 students in grades Kindergarten through 12th Grade, has fielded a football team. Their field, which was just recently completed, was in beautiful shape. Athletic Director Larry Smith and the Patriots fans were good hosts, and the Disciples look forward to continuing games against the Patriots in the future.

The Disciples as always had a great turnout from their enthusiastic and vocal fans, who suffered with the team through the first half, cheered them on to victory in the second half and rejoiced with them in the outcome.

At 7pm on Friday, September 28, the Disciples play Chincoteague High School. The game will be Homecoming and Seniors Night, and the Disciples are hoping for a great turnout from their fans in the Central Virginia homeschool community.

The location of the game is the Disciples home field at Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831. The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

Come out and support our Disciples!

Disciples Win Third Game in a Row

September 15, 2007

In a battle of two of Virginia’s homeschool football teams, on Saturday the Central Virginia Homeschool Disciples beat the Loudon Homeschool Lions 42-6. On a beautiful Fall afternoon, the Disciples won their third game in a row and improved their record to 3-1, dominating both sides of the line of scrimmage against the Lions. The Disciples offense had 5 players run for touchdowns, and the defense added a touchdown and a safety. Only a spectacular 75-yard pass play by the Lions kept the Disciples from recording their second shutout of the season.

The Disciples defense smothered the Lions offense on their first drive, and the offense drove quickly down the field for their first score. Levi Scott scored on a 20-yard run, and Mike Durrette ran in the 2-point conversion for an 8-0 lead. After a mishandled kickoff, the Lions were pinned deep in their own territory. The Disciples defense then trapped the Lions quarterback in the end zone for a safety, and a 10-0 lead. Following the Lions kick, the Disciples offense drove quickly down the field again for anther score. Nathan Hollis scored the touchdown on a 15-yard run, and Shawn Estes ran in the conversion. The Disciples led 18-0 at the end of the 1st Quarter.

The Disciples quick start allowed Coach Hollis and his staff to substitute freely for much of the rest of the game. The starting offense played just one more series, at the start of the 3rd Quarter, which allowed many players on both offense and defense to get significant game experience. A number of players stepped up and played well in their first extended playing time.

After another defensive stop, the Disciples offense scored its third touchdown at the beginning of the 2nd the quarter with Jonathan Kinker running for a 4-yard touchdown. The extra point attempt failed. The highlight of the game for the Lions came when Quarterback Paul Larock threw a long pass downfield, and wide receiver Seth Kijewski made a nice leaping catch, kept his balance and outran the Disciples defenders to the end zone for a 75-yard touchdown. The Disciples defense stopped the extra point attempt, and the half time score was Disciples 24, Lions 6.

The Disciples offense took the second half kickoff and drove down the field for another quick score. Josh Harris scored the touchdown on a 4-yard run, and the Lions blocked the Disciples extra point kick. The Disciples defense scored the next touchdown. After pushing the Lions offense back to its own goal line, the Disciples forced a fumble in the end zone and Matt Reber recovered for the touchdown. The Disciples extra point kick was wide left, and the Disciples led 36-6 at the end of the 3rd Quarter.

The Disciples scored the only touchdown of the 4th Quarter, with David Norfleet scoring on a 1-yard run. The Lions had a scoring opportunity when they completed another long pass, but a diving tackle by Thomas Gresham saved the touchdown and the defense stopped the Lions from moving the ball further.

After the game, the two teams met at midfield for a time of prayer. Coach Dave Hollis praised the Lions for the effort they put forth, and the improvement they have made since the two teams met for a preseason scrimmage. The Lions are in their first year, and dressed 16 players for the game. Led by Coach Ron Kijewski and his staff, the Lions are building a program and looking to recruit more players from the Northern Virginia homeschool community for next year. Speaking with some of the parents of the Lions players, they view the Lions and the Virginia homeschool movement as an answer to prayer and they look forward to seeing the team improve.

The Disciples’s coaches were pleased with the team’s play. The offense continued to look sharp, with the offensive line opening holes and the backs running hard. Other than the two long pass completions, the Disciples defense held the Lions offense to negative yardage. Their blitzing, attacking style once again kept the other team’s offense off balance.

Zack Hayes suffered a knee injury late in the game, but it did not appear to be serious. Six injured Disciples players were able to sit out the game, and all of them are probable for next week’s game.

Next Saturday the Disciples play Portsmouth Christian School. The game is at 2pm at 3214 Elliott Avenue, Portsmouth, VA 23702.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! On Friday, September 28, at 7pm the Disciples play their final home game of the season against Chincoteague High School. This will be Seniors Night. The location of the game will be Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831. The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

Come out and support our Disciples!

September 15 Game a Home Game!

September 11, 2007

At Noon this Saturday, September 15, the Central Virginia Homeschool Disciples play the homeschool Loudon Lions. The location of the game has been changed from Loudon, VA to the Disciples home field at Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831. The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

*For map to field, see link http://www.cvhaa.net/page48.html.

Come out and support our Disciples!

Disciples Upset Colonels

September 8, 2007

On a hot Saturday afternoon, the Disciples beat the Massanutten Military Academy Colonels 22-13, improving their record to 2-1 and recording the first victory ever by a homeschool team over a non-homeschool varsity football team. The combination of the Disciples persistent offense and attacking defense were too much for the Colonels, who had defeated Quantico High School 40-7 in their previous game.

The Disciples opened the game by perfectly executing an onside kick. Their initial drive ended with a fumble, however, and Massanutten took a 7-0 lead on its fourth play from scrimmage, a 52-yard run by Yannick Morgan-Welch. On a spectacular play, he ran a sweep to the left sideline, was stopped, reversed his field, broke several tackles and then sprinted down the right sideline, outracing the Disciples defense for a touchdown. This turn of events could have been demoralizing, but the Disciples offense answered with a long drive ending with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Nathan Hollis to Kevin Metzger. The Disciples then took the lead, which they never relinquished, when Nathan Hollis completed a pass to James Schlueter for the 2-point conversion.

The Disciples increased their lead in the second quarter with another long drive. A key play was a fourth down run where they faked a reverse and Mike Durrette raced down the right sideline for a first down to keep the drive going. Nathan Hollis scored on a 1-yard run on third and goal, and then completed a pass to Mike Durrette for another 2-point conversion and a 16-7 lead. The Colonels had an apparent kickoff return for a touchdown called back because of a clipping penalty, and the Disciples tenacious defense stiffened near the goal line and prevented the Colonels from scoring at the end of the first half.

The Disciples scored again in the third quarter with another strong drive by the offense. Levi Scott scored the touchdown on a 3-yard run. The 2-point conversion attempt failed, and the Disciples carried a 22-7 lead into the last quarter.

The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, as the Disciples blitzing, aggressive defense continued to disrupt the plays of the potent Colonels offense. The Colonels finally revisited the end zone when Evan Woodfork scored on a 5-yard run with just over 2 minutes to play, bringing the score to 22-13. The Colonels lined up for a 2-point conversion, which would have brought them within one touchdown, but the Disciples defense stiffened for a final time, smothering the quarterback and forcing a fumble. The Disciples offense then ran out the clock, securing the hard-fought victory.

As was evident to all in attendance, the Disciples were well-prepared and well-coached by Coach Dave Hollis and his staff, Jon Harris, Tim Rollogas, Roy Simmons, Bill Ratliff, JT Taylor and Randy Patterson. The team played the entire game with great heart, determination and discipline against a bigger, deeper, talented Massanutten team. The Disciples fans did their part as well, often making more noise than the more numerous Massanutten home team fans as they cheered their team on to victory.

This was a defining game for the team. The Disciples defense bottled up the Colonels explosive running attack, often hitting the backs in the backfield and forcing a number of fumbles and other offensive mistakes. The Disciples offense had its best game of the year, with backs Josh Harris, Michael Durrette, Levi Scott and Nathan Hollis combining to rush for over 200 yards and Nathan Hollis completing 6 of 9 passes to keep the Colonels defense on its heels. Every Disciples player contributed to this team victory, from the players who played both ways the whole game to the ones who didn’t get in the game but provided constant encouragement and support to their teammates on the field.

It was a clean, hard-hitting game, and there were no serious injuries reported. After the game, as is their tradition, the Disciples joined with the Colonels at mid-field for a time of prayer.

Highlights of the game can be seen on the Massanutten website. http://www.mmafootball.com/. Click on “Scoreboard”.

At Noon this Saturday, September 15, the Disciples play the homeschool Loudon Lions. The location of the game has been changed from Loudon to the Disciples home field at Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Rd, Chester, VA 23831. The cost is $5/adult, $3/student, free for pre-school age ($10 family max).

Come out and support our Disciples!

Patriots Soccer vs. Victory Christian Academy Knights

Keeper Davis Mercer

Monday, September 10, 2007

The Victory Christian Academy Knights didn’t stand a chance as the Patriots played their best game so far this year. This was the first year that Victory has had a soccer team; nevertheless, they put up a great fight in the first half, and at halftime looked like they still had a decent chance to win the game.

The score was 2-0 in the Patriots’ favor.
In the second half the Patriots’ midfield controlled the play, dominating the Knights and creating more opportunities. This was largely due to the fact that as the half progressed, the Knights looked extremely tired, and were not as in as much of a hurry to run to the ball.
Throughout the entire half the Patriots showed why they are undefeated. They scored four more goals in the 40-minute half, and had many more shots on goal. They really are beginning to come together as a team.

As far as the goals are concerned, Nick Shaffer and Eric Wilkening each contributed 2 goals, with Ryan Milby and Daniel Pegram scoring one apiece. James Denison also contributed 3 assists, which is outstanding for soccer.

YOUR CVHAA Patriots came out on top with score of 6-0.

By Daniel Pegram

Patriots Soccer vs. Spirit

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Homeschoolers clashed against homeschoolers as the Patriots’ co-ed soccer team butted heads with Spirit Homeschool. Eric Wilkening poked a left-footed shot into the back of the net after receiving a pass from Daniel Pegram midway through the first half. Spirit scored a goal on a breakaway near halftime, tying the score.

Coming out of halftime the Patriots still lacked aggression as Spirit players were winning most of the loose balls. They paid for it with 30 minutes to go as a Spirit player grabbed a loose ball, took a few dribbles, and put a shot past Patriot goalie for the lead. Thankfully their lead was short lived as the Patriots surged forward with new determination and aggression. Several minutes later Daniel Pegram headed the ball to Nick Shaffer who put a shot into a vacant portion of the goal, tying the game at two apiece. Just two minutes later Nick Shaffer had the ball near the corner and played a beautiful cross between a defender and the goalie and to a wide open Cailey Smith. He simply had to tap the ball into the net for a Patriots’ lead.

The Patriots finished the last 15 minutes strong and came away with a win 3-2.

By Daniel Pegram

Patriots Soccer vs. Grove Avenue

Thursday, September 6, 2007

The Patriots were victorious over a very young team from Grove Avenue Christian School. The Patriots’ older, more experienced players dominated from the start, and Coach Claude Armstrong substituted frequently for the entire first half.

In the second half, Coach Armstrong cleared the bench. Those players continued to do very well and increased the lead; the final score was 16-0.
The Patriots should be pleased with their performance today, but they should also be aware that much more difficult opponents are waiting.
Great job Patriots!

By Daniel Pegram

CVHAA Disciples Football Team Make a TOUCHDOWN in the Local NEWS!

August 24, 2007

The CVHAA Disciples hit the news in Richmond, Virginia!!

Check out these links to "read all about it"!!!

• NBC 12 : http://www.nbc12.com/sports/state/9362731.html?skipthumb=Y
• WRIC 8: http://www.wric.com/Global/category.asp?C=1121&nav=menu28_4 - Scroll down, and look to the left. Then click on Game On!
• InRich.com: http://www.inrich.com/cva/ric/search.apx.-content-articles-RTD-2007-08-24-0003.html