Roadrunner Football

All Region and All Star Games

2009-12-10T10:52:00.001-08:00

Austin-East mopped up when it comes to all region players. The Roadrunners had a total of 10 All Region players. Devonte Hawkins and Sheldon Wade topped all other players in two categories. For Hawkins, he was voted Player of the Year on defense and Sheldon was voted specialist of the year for his efforts returning punts and kicks. Both Hawkins and Wade were will also be playing in the Kentucky vs. Tennessee All-Star Game on January 16th.

Other Roadrunners on the first team were Malcolm Clark (OL), Tremond Robinson (WR), Ravon Farris (DL), Curtis King (RB), David Rucker (DB) Jarion Cullom (LB). Devante Sales (DB) and Lamont Boyd (OL) were both voted Honorable Mention as well. Kwayu Graham was voted coach of the year after leading the team to a 9-4 record after losing the majority of their top players the year before. The Roadrunners were full of sophomores and juniors and still managed a quarterfinal playoff appearance.

Roadrunners Knock Off Pigeon Forge and Get Ready For Senior Night Against Gibbs

2009-10-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night the Roadrunner Offense led the charge against Pigeon Forge taking this one 34-6. The offense was led by Quarterbacks Richeson Johnson (6-8 112 yds) and D.J. Oggs (7-11 60 yds 1 TD). Tremond Robinson led Roadrunner receivers with 5 catches for 100 yards. The ground game also continued to roll and Curtis King closed in on 1000 yards (total 983 yds) with 155 yards with one touchdown (total 13).

Come out this week fans as the Roadrunners play host to Gibbs High School. This is a very important game for the Roadrunners as it will determine playoff placement. Make sure that you are there and there early to catch all the Senior Night activities and cheer on the Roadrunners as they hope to collect their seventh win of the year.

RED OUT!!!!

2009-10-20T04:48:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners are now 5-3 overall and undefeated in the region after an impressive win against Union County and a (literally) sloppy muddy victory against once undefeated Gatlinburg-Pittman.

This week the Roadrunners will play host to the Panthers from Pigeon Forge who come in looking to rough up the Roadrunners. They are being carried by the legs of Chase Travis who leads the area in rushing with over 1300 yards in eight games. The Roadrunners look to have another strong performance and continue on as the playoff draw near.

Fans, we are asking YOU to support the Roadrunners by wearing RED!!! It's our first annual Red Out, which means it's our goal to have totally red stands. Wear red jackets, beanies, shirts, whatever you have wear it!!! Spread the word and we look to see you Friday Night on the Hill for Homecoming and the Red Out!

Curtis King PrepXtra POW

2009-09-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Curtis King for winning the PrepXtra Player of the Week (Carter). Curtis has 246 yards rushing and three touchdowns in last weeks route against Carter High. Curtiis led has led the Roadrunners in rushing the past three weeks. He is averaging over nine yards per carry. Impressive numbers but Kings success can attributed to a total team effort. Look for Curtis and the rest of the Roadrunners to continue rolling this week against Chattanooga Brainerd and we will see you tonight at 7:30.

Roadrunners Run Through Hornets

2009-09-21T04:23:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners knocked off the Carter Hornets friday night 32-9. At halftime (and after an hour lightning delay) the Roadrunners trailed 9-0. But on the first play from scrimmage in the second half Curtis King broke a long run down the sideline for the first Roadrunner touchdown. And from that point on, the Roadrunners turned it on and were not to be scored on again. AE scored 32 unanswered points and if it were not for silly penalties the score would have been worse.

The Roadrunners rushed for over 400 yards. 20 carries and 246 of those yards were by sophomore sensation Curtis King.
"He's figured out what were trying to do, and our offensive line really found themselves tonight." Said Head Coach Kwayu Graham of King and Company.

It looks as if the Roadrunners not only have a stellar steel curtain esque defense but they also are beginning to look like a high scoring offense. And with 5 more regular season games to go it looks like the Roadrunners are peaking at just the right time. So fans, come out this Friday night and support YOUR AE Roadrunners as they take on Chattanooga Brainerd at 7:30 on the hill. There will be a pre-game carnival for kids on the baseball field starting at 6 and stick around for the always exciting battle of the bands after the game.

3 More Points

2009-09-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

After a tough 28 - 30 loss last friday night, the Roadrunners are back at it this week as they travel to Carter to begin region play. The Roadrunners are 1 - 0 in the region. The region win came over arch rival Fulton.

Last week the Roadrunners offense had a field day against top ranked Catholic. They rushed for nearly 300 yards total, and the anchor of their running game was Sophomore RB Curtis King who had over 140 yards rushing and averaged 10 yards per carry.

The Roadrunners are a mere 3 points away from perfection. Many people did not give them a chance against any of the teams they have played thus far, but with the toughest schedule in the state, the Roadrunners are looking to make a statement to everyone. Do not count them out and look for big things throughout region play and into the playoffs.
And make sure you come out to Carter Friday night to watch YOUR Austin-East Roadrunners.

Check Out Clips From Last Weeks Game

2009-09-08T18:09:00.000-07:00

Roadrunners Outlast Falcons

2009-09-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night the Roadrunners played host to number 1 ranked Fulton (4A). There was not an empty seat in the house (or in the ally) and the fans got what they wanted. Both teams came out strong and Fulton was the first to score, make their two point conversion setting the score 8-0. But the Mighty Roadrunner offense showed a lot of heart and discipline by marching right down field and scoring (failing on a two point try) making the score 8-6.

Thats how the game went all night, back and forth, blow for blow. In the end, it was the Roadrunners who stepped up holding on 20-14 in a game where both teams were trying to make a statement, not only for the region but for area respect. "This game truly means a lot for our kids. They hear about this game in the community for a whole year, and how you perform in this game determines what you hear," Coach (Kwayu) Graham stated. The Roadrunners are now up 2-0 in the cross town matchup and unlike years past, the Roadrunners and Falcons will not meet in the playoffs.

It seems that the offense is beginning to find their rythme and the defense continues to press on and overcome adversity throughout the game. Travei Pryor, Devante Hawkins, and the Roadrunner Secondary all made big plays the whole night and look for them to continue to make big plays next week against Catholic.

So fans, come out and support YOUR Austin-East Roadrunners this Friday Night at Knox Catholic High School as the Roadrunners take the road to face the Fighting Irish in a much anticipated rematch of last years quarterfinal game. Check out the Gameday Matchup page to find out about the Catholic Fighting Irish.

Devante Hawkins Up For Weekly Award

2009-09-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

Senior MLB Devante Hawkins has been nominated by Prep Xtra for Defensive Player of the Week. Hawkins racked up 14 tackles and 3 tackles for a loss. He needs your help winning! If you look at the top of the page and click on the PrepXtra POW link it will take you directly to the voting site. Get your votes in quick.

Heartbreaker In Hamilton County

2009-08-31T07:51:00.000-07:00

6-7. Friday night at Ooltewah the Roadrunners controlled the game. In a game where most of the faithful as well as the unfaithful did not give the Roadrunners a chance, were suprised to hear the final score friday night.

"I'm very proud of our kids, but we need to execute and finish big games." Coach Graham said. "Our defense did a great job, and I can say with confidence that we have one of the best defenses in the state." Added Graham.

The Roadrunners held the Owls to under 150 yards of total offense, had two turnovers, and only allowed the Owls one first down in the first half, as well as, one trip to the red zone which unfortunately ended up being a game winner. The offense drove the ball on what was said to be the top defense in 6A all night, but missed on a few red zone opportunities as well as an extra point try which would have caused the game to go into overtime. The offense was led by another strong ground performance led by sophomore running back Cordy Cox and in the passing game big catches were made by Tremond Robinson. And as said earlier the defense swarmed all night and the line and linebackers were in rare form all night.

"The Roadrunners (1-1) will now face the Fulton Falcons (2-0) at home Friday night at 7:30. Come early and cheer on YOUR Austin-East Roadrunners. Check out the Gameday Matchups Tuesday to see what the opposition will bring come Friday.

1 Down 14 To Go

2009-08-24T07:43:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners displayed a "Never Give Up" attitude Saturday night at Burke-Toney Stadium against the Hurricanes from Morristown East. The Roadrunners won 26-21 as their bone crushing defense picked up where they left off last season and their offense showed signs of greatness throughout the night.

The Roadrunner offense racked up over 375 total yards of offense 317 on the ground. D.J. Oggs (SO) was the backbone of the rushing game as he compiled over 150 yards on the ground from the quarterback position.

"Oggs can make things happen," said Head Coach Kwayu Graham. "I know everyone talked about Tee (Morristown East) but we have our own gamebreaker in D.J. (Oggs)." Graham added.

Tee Howell from Morristown returned two kickoffs for touchdowns and, on Special Teams, looked untouchable. But on the offensive side of the ball the Roadrunners were able to contain the playmaker and the Roadrunner Defense make their mark on Hamblein County.

The Roadrunners left the game healthy and began preparing immediately for Ooltewah Sunday afternoon. The Roadrunners will head to Chattanooga Friday to take on the Owls Friday night at 7:30.

Friday Night Lights

2009-08-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night (Friday) the Roadrunners will be under the lights for the first time this season at Neyland Stadium for the 2009 KOC Jamboree. Roadrunners will match-up against Halls High School for what Coach Graham and company hope to be a coming out party for what is to come in 2009.

During summer camp '09 the Roadrunners had three scrimmages. Throughout each scrimmage the Roadrunners grew stronger and stronger. The defense only gave up one touchdown and continued punishing opposing offenses'. The offense showed signs of greatness as well. Many believe that the Roadrunners have started faster and been more consistent than they have in a long time. Graham believes his team is very close to reaching that level of greatness acheived by previous state championship teams, but there is still work to do.

This should be a great year! So come out this friday and begin to support your 2009 Austin-East Roadrunners.

Key Games:
Fulton (Sept 4.) H
Gatlinburg Pittman (Oct 16.) A

Key Players
Tremond Robinson (6'2" 170) Junior WR
Devante Hawkins (5'11" 225) Senior MLB
Ravon Farris (6' 215) Senior DE
Richeson Johnson (6'1" 210) Senior QB
D.J. Oggs (5'8" 150) Sophomore QB
David Rucker (6' 175) Sophomore S

Newcomers
Jyshon Forbes (5'10" 160) Sophomore WR/DB
Sheldon Wade (5'10" 165) Senior WR/DB
Josh Sawyer (6'2" 215) Junior TE/DE
Curtis King (5'9 165) Sophomore RB

PrepXtra Magazine!!

2009-08-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

Head out to Pilot to pick up your 2009 PrepXtra High School Football Magazine.

Let's Get It Started!

2009-07-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners have officially started two-a-days. It has been a challenging summer for the Roadrunners but it has prepared them for what looks to be a promising season. Coach Graham and his staff have been hard at work to create a successful, as well as a positive atmosphere. Graham has put specific requirements on his team and coaches expectations are high, but reasonable. Players are expected to be at practice and be on time. If a player misses three practices during summer camp he will miss the first game. "This has been put in place to help the team. Out motto this year is "change the culture," said Graham.

The Roadrunners are returning many experienced players this year including returning All-State MLB Devante Hawkins who looks to have a repeat season. Hawkins is being courted my many Division I schools. Other returning players looking to have a breakout season are Ravon Farris(DE/TE), Tremond Robinson (WR), Jarion Cullom (LB), David Rucker (WR/DB), while DJ Oggs and Richeson Johnson battle for the quarterback position. There are also many newcomers in the lineup that look to make an immediate impact. The Roadrunners are on the right track and this Friday, the Roadrunners will be scrimmaging Powell (away). And in only a few short weeks they will be on the road in Morristown on August 22 against the Morristown East Hurricanes. Come out and SUPPORT the Roadrunners in their quest to bring home the 3A State Title.

Update

2009-06-30T06:41:00.000-07:00

Read about the "ultimate team" under the IMPACT tab.

Boys of Summer

2009-06-05T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners were back in action this week as they began their summer workouts. Many familiar faces were around, as well as many newcomers. All together, there were on average, 65 players preparing for the upcoming season.

All players are expected to be in attendance and those who are not will face consequences and possibly dismissal from the team when practice starts in July.

Workouts start promptly at 5:30 and last till about 8pm Mon-Thurs.

Also, voluntary passing sessions for QB's and WR's are on Mon, Tues, and Thursday's. This is totally independent and there will be no coach present due to TSSAA rules.

Youth Roadrunner Camp

2009-05-26T04:58:00.000-07:00

This Saturday May 30th bring your son/daughter out to Mt. Zion Church to the annual Little Roadrunner Football Camp. Many of the high school players will be in attendance to work with the future of Austin-East Football. Camp starts at 8 am and you can find the address of the church at the bottom of this post. We hope to see you there!!

2714 Brooks Avenue
Knoxville, TN

2009 Football Mandatory Meeting!!

2009-05-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Thursday May 21st at 5:30 there will be a mandatory informational meeting in the auditorium for ALL upcoming and current Austin-East football players. We will discuss calendars, rules, summer workouts, and general Roadrunner football information. It is imerative that players and a family represenative are in attendance.

We look forward to seeing you there and don't forget to come out and support the Roadrunners tomorrow at 5 pm for our annual Red/Blue game.

Spring Scrimmage #2

2009-05-15T04:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Roadrunners played host to Science Hill High School out of Johnson City, TN. The Roadrunners continued to improve and build on what already appears to be one of the best spring's in a long time. "We are much farther ahead than I expected," said Graham. "I like the spirit and attitude on this team, I am truly pleased with the efforts of our kids so far." Graham added.

The Roadrunner defense checked in with another stellar performance choking out Science Hill's offense and allowing zero points throughout the scrimmage. The offense was led by Richeson Johnson and D.J. Oggs at quarterback. The offense moved the ball at will against the Topper defense, but they also turned the ball over five times. One thing Coach Graham and company were looking for this spring were "playmakers" on the offensive side of the ball and at days end it was not only Tremond Robinson and Jyshon Forbes that made big plays during the scrimmage, it was also the Roadrunner offensive line.

The Roadrunners appear to be moving in the right direction and with spring practice coming to a close there is only one more thing for the Roadrunners to do and that is play in the annual Red and Blue Game. Come out and support AE Tuesday May 19th for the annual Red and Blue Game.

Spring Scrimmage #1

2009-05-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

The Roadrunners saw their first action of the spring yesterday against Central High. AE seemed to have picked up where they left off last November with an impressive showing during their first spring scrimmage. "I'm pleased to see us where we're at, but we still have work to do," Graham commented. The Roadrunner defense held Central's first offensive squad to zero points and the Roadrunners scored their first points when Tremond Robinson caught a pass in the corner of the endzone.

There were many bright spots in the scrimmage, but what was most encouraging to the Roadrunner staff was the intensity of the players and the fact that there were over 20 freshman and sophomores that played an important role in the scrimmage. The Roadrunners are getting better everyday and we all are eagerly anticipating the first game come August.

AE will continue to practice the rest of the week and will face Science Hill HIgh School out of Johnson City, TN Thursday at 5 pm. Come out and support your Austin-East Roadrunners.

Spring Is In The Air

2009-05-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday began the first day of what looks to be a very promising spring practice for the Roadrunners. Although the day was filled with rain and mud Coach Graham and company believe this spring could be the beginning of something special. "I was very impressed with our kids today," Graham said, with over 50 players out for spring. "We are going to keep things basic and continue to build on what we started last year. We have a lot of kids coming back who are young, but experienced on the field."

The Roadrunners will be returning many starters including All-State linebacker Devante Hawkins. Other household names include David Rucker, DJ Oggs, and Ravon Farris who made their impact felt in the 2008 season and will continue to build on things this spring.

AE is set to scrimmage Knox Central on May 11th and will host 6A Science Hill High School out of Johnson City May 14th. Spring Practice will conclude May 19th when the Roadrunners hold their annual Red and Blue game. Come out and support the Roadrunners as they prepare for and pursue a State Championship in the upcoming 2009 season.

ROBERTSON HIRED ON AS OFFENSIVE LINE COACH

2009-04-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

AE has a new addition to its staff this upcoming year. Offensive Line coach Kelley Robertson joins the ranks as the newest member of the AE coaching staff. Robertson coached the OL at Knox Powell for the past several seasons and will continue to stay on the offensive side of the ball at AE as he will coach the offensive line this upcoming season. “We are glad to have a guy like coach Robertson on the staff,” said Graham. “He brings a high level of intensity to the offensive line which is well needed.”
Coach Robertson hit the ground running his first week on the job as he began meeting with the Offensive line and getting to know them. “It’s important to build relationships with your position. I just want come in here and do what’s right by the kids and this program.”

Roadrunners Will Host Rivals National Combine

2009-04-02T05:56:00.000-07:00

Austin East Football has historically been known for its high caliber athletes year in and year out. Most of Knoxville’s current professional football and basketball players come from AE. Within the past 4 years, there have a total of 36 AE players who have signed scholarships and had the opportunity to grace the grid-iron in college. Because of this, AE has partnered up with ‘Rivals’ to host a nation-wide football combine for underclassmen. Top players from Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia will be in attendance. This event will be held at Austin East High School on Saturday April 25th, 2009. Registration begins at 8:00am and events will continue until 4:00pm.

8 AE PLAYERS SUSPENDED INDEFINATELY FOR THE SPRING

2009-04-02T05:54:00.000-07:00

Coach Graham and his staff are cracking down on discipline. Recently, a group of AE football players were caught after hours at an unsupervised party. This was a clear violation of Graham’s ‘State of Emergency’ policy he enforced several weeks prior to this incident. “We will not tolerate this type of behavior. This year we mean business. That’s the only way we can take this program to the next level. I hate that these kids had to learn the hard way, but we have to move forward and focus on the big picture,” responded Graham.

Graham Implements State Of Emergency For Roadrunners

2009-04-02T04:29:00.000-07:00

Due to recent off the field issues Coach Graham has recently implemented the A-E Football State Of Emergency Plan. The State Of Emergency has specific guidelines for Roadrunner football players to abide by such as:

-Curfew
-No trouble with Juvenile Justice System
-No Parties unless approved by Head Coach
-No Drugs or Alcohol
-Following school related policies
-and so on...

If players do not follow these rules they will have a disciplinary contract signed by the parent and student athlete. That student athlete will not be able to participate in football practice until the contract is completed. There was a mandatory meeting at the beginning of the month to discuss the plan. The Coaching Staff and Administration of Austin-East is taking this very seriously because they want their football program to be a positive representatiion for the Austin-East Community, as well as the rest of Knoxville.