Indian River's foray back into the Section 3 ranks last season after a hugely successful run in Section 10 was an unqualified success.
The Warriors finished 3-2 in the brutal Class A National, and 6-3 overall after barely losing to East Syracuse-Minoa in the sectional quarterfinals. They were competitive in every game with a dynamic offense.
However, this year's team is just a shadow of that club with new players taking over almost all of the key skill positions, and coach Corey Marsell looking for some young players to step up and show they can play at the varsity level.
Replacing the likes of quarterback Zane Fish, explosive tailback Andre Green and powerful fullback Justin Swinton will not be easy. That trio accounted for more than 2,000 yards rushing and 37 touchdowns on the ground in 2009.
Nathan Davis and Darrius Bryant will try to fill Fish's shoes.
The backfield will be manned by several players, including the only back with any experience, Shawn Dukes, brother of former standout Curtis Dukes.
Veteran wideout Shawn Mitchell could possibly play a bigger roll if the Warriors choose to throw the ball a little more this year.
INDIAN RIVER WARRIORS
2009 record: 6-3, 3-2 Class A National.
Coach: Cory Marsell (5th year, 35-4).
Players to watch: Cornelious Dukes (Sr., RB/LB); Shawn Mitchell (Sr., WR/DB); Derrek Dalton (Jr., OL/DL); Dalton Boyd (Jr., OL/DL); Alex Tibbles (Sr., OL/DL); Nathan Davis (Sr., QB/DB).
