High school football: Focus on details seen as key to success for Snow Canyon

Note: Snow Canyon finished with a 3-6 overall record in 2009 and a 2-4 record in the combined Region 9. It did not qualify for the playoffs

ST. GEORGE — Snow Canyon football coach Jay Graft believes the little things make all the difference.

His players often don't see the significance of such things as punctuality and always wearing white socks to practice, but Graft believes those little things instill a sense of discipline that translates onto the football field.

In 2009, the seniors were committed to those details but the underclassmen struggled with the concepts. Graft believes the contention contributed to the team's win-loss record.

"We were 17 points away from losing only two games last year. The only game we weren't in a position to win last year was Dixie," Graft said. "It was those little things that we just didn't get done, and hopefully they realize the importance of that this year. And I think we'll be a lot better."

Snow Canyon's close losses included Morgan (28-26), Las Vegas (17-10), Hurricane (27-26) and Desert Hills (21-14).

The latter two region losses ultimately cost the Warriors a playoff berth.

"The big key for us is playing together. I think in high school football, if you ask most coaches, you can be as talented as you can be but if your kids won't play together and care about each other you're suspect," Graft said.

The talent and cohesion appear to be there with the 2010 season just around the corner. Combined with an abundance of experience a return to the playoffs seems likely.

A good chunk of that experience is on the offensive side of the ball, with eight returning starters. Quarterback Austin Larsen is back after throwing for more than 1,000 yards last season, and he could easily double that output with the players he'll be throwing to.

Wide receiver Dillon Appel is a big, strong receiver who has verbally committed to Southern Utah, whereas Jake Brown is a 6-foot-6 tight end with great athleticism. Tanner Smith could be another weapon at receiver, but he's been dealing with a stress fracture in one his vertebrae and as of early August there was no official timetable for his return.

"He's a handful to tackle at receiver," Graft said.