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BAHS announces 2010 football schedule
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, December 3, 2009 11:12 AM CST
Some old, some new.
Six of Broken Arrow High School’s football opponents in 2010 are long-time rivals with
the Tigers.
The other four, however, will be uncharted territory for new coach Steve Spavital.
BAHS, which reached the Class 6A semifinals this season, has been assigned to
District 6A-3 by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association.
Familiar foes, Owasso, Tulsa Washington and Union, are the non-district opponents.
The Tigers have Muskogee, Sapulpa and Jenks in district play.
Putnam City West, Southmoore, Norman and Shawnee round out the district slate
and those will be first-ever games between the schools.
Like Broken Arrow, Southmoore reached the Class 6A semifinals this year before
being ousted by Jenks, which plays Union this Friday for the championship.
The Sabercats won’t be total strangers. BAHS’s first pre-season scrimmage this fall
was at Southmoore.
Shawnee leaps to the big-school division next year. The Wolves were 11-0 before
being upset by Bixby in the quarter-finals.
BROKEN ARROW HIGH SCHOOL
2010 Football Schedule
Date Opponent Time
S3 at Owasso 7:30
S10 at Washington 7:30
S17 Union 7:30
S24 at Putnam City West* 7:30
O1 Muskogee* 7:30
O8 at Sapulpa* 7:30
O15 Southmoore* 7:30
O21 Norman* 7:30
O29 at Jenks* 7:30
N5 Shawnee* 7:30
*District 6A-3 games
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, December 3, 2009 11:12 AM CST
Some old, some new.
Six of Broken Arrow High School’s football opponents in 2010 are long-time rivals with
the Tigers.
The other four, however, will be uncharted territory for new coach Steve Spavital.
BAHS, which reached the Class 6A semifinals this season, has been assigned to
District 6A-3 by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association.
Familiar foes, Owasso, Tulsa Washington and Union, are the non-district opponents.
The Tigers have Muskogee, Sapulpa and Jenks in district play.
Putnam City West, Southmoore, Norman and Shawnee round out the district slate
and those will be first-ever games between the schools.
Like Broken Arrow, Southmoore reached the Class 6A semifinals this year before
being ousted by Jenks, which plays Union this Friday for the championship.
The Sabercats won’t be total strangers. BAHS’s first pre-season scrimmage this fall
was at Southmoore.
Shawnee leaps to the big-school division next year. The Wolves were 11-0 before
being upset by Bixby in the quarter-finals.
BROKEN ARROW HIGH SCHOOL
2010 Football Schedule
Date Opponent Time
S3 at Owasso 7:30
S10 at Washington 7:30
S17 Union 7:30
S24 at Putnam City West* 7:30
O1 Muskogee* 7:30
O8 at Sapulpa* 7:30
O15 Southmoore* 7:30
O21 Norman* 7:30
O29 at Jenks* 7:30
N5 Shawnee* 7:30
*District 6A-3 games
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Tigers earn all-district honors
Bullock, Price and Salazar get individual awards
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, December 10, 2009 10:11 AM CST
Broken Arrow High School’s Jon Bullock, Ronnie Price and Carl Salazar were singled
out among the All-District 6A-3 football selections made by the coaches.
Bullock was the Defensive Player of the Year, Price the wide receiver and Salazar
received the special teams honor.
Eight others from the Tigers’ 10-3 semifinals team were picked and eligible for
Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State.
Also picked from BAHS were Rowdy Harper (offensive line), Trey Stephens (offensive
line), Steven Hopper (running back), Alex Cochran (receiver), Adam Ford (defensive
line), James Renfrow (defensive line), Terry Williamson (defensive line) and Will
Watford (defensive secondary).
Bullock, a three-year starter, tied for second as BAHS’s leading tackler with 98 stops,
sharing that team distinction with Watford.
Bullock, a 6-0, 215-pounder, was credited with 71 yards in losses and had two forced
fumbles, one fumble recovery and a pass interception.
Price, a 5-9, 160-pound all-around performer, was Broken Arrow’s leading receiver
with 43 catches for 604 yards and three touchdowns.
A senior, Price started most of the season at cornerback where he registered 22
tackles, 17 of those unassisted, with four interceptions and five blocked kicks.
Salazar, who didn’t start kicking a football until August 2007, was among the state’s
most prolific placekickers.
The senior, who doubles in soccer, was the leading scorer on Broken Arrow’s second
highest scoring offense in school history.
Salazar was 55-of-56 on extra points and kicked 13 field goals, accounting for 21
percent of BAHS’s scoring.
ALL DISTRICT 6A-3
2009 Football
OFFENSE
Line - Jake Alexander, Jenks; Eric Hansen, Jenks; Bob Graham, Jenks; Chris King,
Jenks; Tyler Ott, Jenks; Mason Jones, Sapulpa; Matt Noble, Sapulpa; Tyler Smith,
Sand Springs; Burgess Shaw, Sand Springs; Lance Kitchens, Sand Springs; Jeremy
Burton, Muskogee; Cliff Weatherford, Muskogee; Rowdy Harper, Broken Arrow; Trey
Stephens, Broken Arrow.
Running Backs - Lee Graves, Jenks; Cory Jones, Jenks; Donnell Craven, Muskogee;
Steven Hopper, Broken Arrow.
Quarterbacks - Gavin Little, Claremore; Mitch Stevenson, Muskogee; Mike Glisson,
Sapulpa.
Wide Receivers - J.T. Barnett, Sapulpa; Mike Thompson, Bartlesville; Jordan Basks,
Claremore; Cole Chapman, Muskogee; Brent Bolinger, Sand Springs; Kyle Bales,
Sand Springs; Ronnie Price, Broken Arrow; Alex Cochran, Broken Arrow.
DEFENSE
Line - David Lore, Jenks; Junior Trevino, Jenks; John Mark Elliott, Jenks; Justin
Butterfield, Bartlesville; Matt Anderson, Sand Springs; Ryan Lester, Muskogee; Chris
Bruce, Muskogee; Willie Johnson, Tulsa Memorial; Robert Hensley, Tulsa Memorial;
Adam Ford, Broken Arrow; James Renfrow, Broken Arrow.
Linebackers - Hunter Johnson, Jenks; Ryan Quadnau, Sapulpa; Tyler Butcher,
Claremore; Sean Coppock, Claremore; James Tolson, Claremore; Eddie Venters,
Muskogee; Brandon Piercy, Muskogee; Ronald McKnight, Tulsa Memorial; Terry
Williamson, Broken Arrow; Jon Bullock, Broken Arrow; Royal Isokariari, Tulsa
Memorial.
Secondary - Devin Pugh, Jenks; Stephen Brown, Jenks; Kane Barnes, Sapulpa;
Paden Fleak, Sapulpa; Justin Thompson, Bartlesville; Evan Crutchfield, Claremore;
Dakoda Basks, Claremore; Branton Bogar, Muskogee; Ruben Gaines, Muskogee;
Will Watford, Broken Arrow.
Special Teams - Brad Haus, Jenks; Jake Littrell, Claremore; Carl Salazar, Broken
Arrow; Marshall Gilbert, Tulsa Memorial.
Coach of the Year - Ron Smith, Bartlesville
Co-Players - Mike Thompson, Bartlesville; Jake Alexander, Jenks.
Offensive Player - Terrance Dixon, Sand Springs
Defensive Player - Jon Bullock, Broken Arrow
Co-Offensive Linemen: Bob Graham, Jenks; Justin Butterfield, Bartlesville
Purple Heart Award - Johnny Deaton, Sand Springs
Ironman Award - James Tolson, Claremore
Receiver - Ronnie Price, Broken Arrow
Co-Defensive Linemen - Junior Trevino, Jenks; Ryan Lester, Muskogee
Linebacker - Tyler Butcher, Claremore
Defensive Back - Brenton Bogar, Muskogee
Special Teams - Carl Salazar, Broken Arrow
Tight End - Tyler Ott, Jenks
Bullock, Price and Salazar get individual awards
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, December 10, 2009 10:11 AM CST
Broken Arrow High School’s Jon Bullock, Ronnie Price and Carl Salazar were singled
out among the All-District 6A-3 football selections made by the coaches.
Bullock was the Defensive Player of the Year, Price the wide receiver and Salazar
received the special teams honor.
Eight others from the Tigers’ 10-3 semifinals team were picked and eligible for
Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State.
Also picked from BAHS were Rowdy Harper (offensive line), Trey Stephens (offensive
line), Steven Hopper (running back), Alex Cochran (receiver), Adam Ford (defensive
line), James Renfrow (defensive line), Terry Williamson (defensive line) and Will
Watford (defensive secondary).
Bullock, a three-year starter, tied for second as BAHS’s leading tackler with 98 stops,
sharing that team distinction with Watford.
Bullock, a 6-0, 215-pounder, was credited with 71 yards in losses and had two forced
fumbles, one fumble recovery and a pass interception.
Price, a 5-9, 160-pound all-around performer, was Broken Arrow’s leading receiver
with 43 catches for 604 yards and three touchdowns.
A senior, Price started most of the season at cornerback where he registered 22
tackles, 17 of those unassisted, with four interceptions and five blocked kicks.
Salazar, who didn’t start kicking a football until August 2007, was among the state’s
most prolific placekickers.
The senior, who doubles in soccer, was the leading scorer on Broken Arrow’s second
highest scoring offense in school history.
Salazar was 55-of-56 on extra points and kicked 13 field goals, accounting for 21
percent of BAHS’s scoring.
ALL DISTRICT 6A-3
2009 Football
OFFENSE
Line - Jake Alexander, Jenks; Eric Hansen, Jenks; Bob Graham, Jenks; Chris King,
Jenks; Tyler Ott, Jenks; Mason Jones, Sapulpa; Matt Noble, Sapulpa; Tyler Smith,
Sand Springs; Burgess Shaw, Sand Springs; Lance Kitchens, Sand Springs; Jeremy
Burton, Muskogee; Cliff Weatherford, Muskogee; Rowdy Harper, Broken Arrow; Trey
Stephens, Broken Arrow.
Running Backs - Lee Graves, Jenks; Cory Jones, Jenks; Donnell Craven, Muskogee;
Steven Hopper, Broken Arrow.
Quarterbacks - Gavin Little, Claremore; Mitch Stevenson, Muskogee; Mike Glisson,
Sapulpa.
Wide Receivers - J.T. Barnett, Sapulpa; Mike Thompson, Bartlesville; Jordan Basks,
Claremore; Cole Chapman, Muskogee; Brent Bolinger, Sand Springs; Kyle Bales,
Sand Springs; Ronnie Price, Broken Arrow; Alex Cochran, Broken Arrow.
DEFENSE
Line - David Lore, Jenks; Junior Trevino, Jenks; John Mark Elliott, Jenks; Justin
Butterfield, Bartlesville; Matt Anderson, Sand Springs; Ryan Lester, Muskogee; Chris
Bruce, Muskogee; Willie Johnson, Tulsa Memorial; Robert Hensley, Tulsa Memorial;
Adam Ford, Broken Arrow; James Renfrow, Broken Arrow.
Linebackers - Hunter Johnson, Jenks; Ryan Quadnau, Sapulpa; Tyler Butcher,
Claremore; Sean Coppock, Claremore; James Tolson, Claremore; Eddie Venters,
Muskogee; Brandon Piercy, Muskogee; Ronald McKnight, Tulsa Memorial; Terry
Williamson, Broken Arrow; Jon Bullock, Broken Arrow; Royal Isokariari, Tulsa
Memorial.
Secondary - Devin Pugh, Jenks; Stephen Brown, Jenks; Kane Barnes, Sapulpa;
Paden Fleak, Sapulpa; Justin Thompson, Bartlesville; Evan Crutchfield, Claremore;
Dakoda Basks, Claremore; Branton Bogar, Muskogee; Ruben Gaines, Muskogee;
Will Watford, Broken Arrow.
Special Teams - Brad Haus, Jenks; Jake Littrell, Claremore; Carl Salazar, Broken
Arrow; Marshall Gilbert, Tulsa Memorial.
Coach of the Year - Ron Smith, Bartlesville
Co-Players - Mike Thompson, Bartlesville; Jake Alexander, Jenks.
Offensive Player - Terrance Dixon, Sand Springs
Defensive Player - Jon Bullock, Broken Arrow
Co-Offensive Linemen: Bob Graham, Jenks; Justin Butterfield, Bartlesville
Purple Heart Award - Johnny Deaton, Sand Springs
Ironman Award - James Tolson, Claremore
Receiver - Ronnie Price, Broken Arrow
Co-Defensive Linemen - Junior Trevino, Jenks; Ryan Lester, Muskogee
Linebacker - Tyler Butcher, Claremore
Defensive Back - Brenton Bogar, Muskogee
Special Teams - Carl Salazar, Broken Arrow
Tight End - Tyler Ott, Jenks
Call him 'All State'
BAHS's Bullock cited by football coaches association
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, December 23, 2009 8:45 AM CST
Jon Bullock has been described in many
ways.
His immediate coach Danny Phillips
called the Broken Arrow High School
senior linebacker “a handful” and high
maintenance.”
Defensive coordinator Adam Gaylor had
other references after three years.
Among those was “a knucklehead.”
Cracking a grin, Bullock didn’t argue.
“They’re right,” he said.
There is something, however, the Tigers
coaches can call Bullock in unison –
All-State.
Bullock, a three-year starter at BAHS,
was named Oklahoma Coaches
Association All-State and will play July 30
for the Large East at Union-Tuttle Stadium.
“Just being a three-year starter in this program says a lot,” Phillips said. “That speaks
volumes.”
Bullock was BAHS’s second leading tackler this season with 98 stops, sharing that
spot with safety Will Watford.
A 6-0, 215-pounder, Bullock had 23 unassisted tackles and was second on the team
for yards in losses with 71, four behind team-tackle leader John Coleman.
Bullock, who wrestles for the Tigers, also registered one sack, two forced fumbles,
one fumble recovery, had an interception and knocked down two passes.
He was part of a Tiger run defense that allowed only 831 yards over 13 games.
“All I’ve wanted is to play football. It’s my life,” Bullock said. “Honestly, being a three-
year starter wasn’t a big deal because it was something I wanted to do.”
In a game that has become complex, Bullock kept a simple philosophy.
“I’d see the guy with the ball, chase him and tackle him,” Bullock said, smiling. “It’s
simple. It’s only football.”
Phillips said that is facade.
“Jon is a smart player. He knew what was going on,” Phillips said. “He was our
quarterback on defense.”
The game, he said, kept Bullock on a path, which often times has been rocky.
“I’ve had my issues,” he said, softly. “But, I’ve worked through a number of those and
have grown up a lot.”
Bullock, a 178-pounder as a sophomore, learned to channel daily frustrations.
“I kept those things in a ball, keep my mouth shut and saved them for football,”
Bullock said. “I let them loose at practice.”
Bullock often kept his coaches on edge, sometimes on purpose.
“I’d make some of their days pretty wild,” Bullock said, laughing.
Phillips, who joined the Tiger staff in 2008, had a sometimes unenviable task.
“Jon has been high maintenance at times but that’s not an all-bad thing,” Phillips
said. “Sometimes, the good ones are that way. That is Jon. He tested me everyday
and he sure was a handful at times.”
Bullock introduced Phillips to the Tiger defensive scheme.
“Jon knew what was going on, for sure,” Phillips said. “Heck, he was teaching me how
we operate the 4-3 defense.”
Though they butted heads, they developed a strong bond.
Phillips helped Bullock get a grip.
“Coach Phillips taught me a lot and not just about football,” Bullock said. “Coach
taught me a lot about life. He’s helped me mature and grow up.”
BAHS's Bullock cited by football coaches association
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, December 23, 2009 8:45 AM CST
Jon Bullock has been described in many
ways.
His immediate coach Danny Phillips
called the Broken Arrow High School
senior linebacker “a handful” and high
maintenance.”
Defensive coordinator Adam Gaylor had
other references after three years.
Among those was “a knucklehead.”
Cracking a grin, Bullock didn’t argue.
“They’re right,” he said.
There is something, however, the Tigers
coaches can call Bullock in unison –
All-State.
Bullock, a three-year starter at BAHS,
was named Oklahoma Coaches
Association All-State and will play July 30
for the Large East at Union-Tuttle Stadium.
“Just being a three-year starter in this program says a lot,” Phillips said. “That speaks
volumes.”
Bullock was BAHS’s second leading tackler this season with 98 stops, sharing that
spot with safety Will Watford.
A 6-0, 215-pounder, Bullock had 23 unassisted tackles and was second on the team
for yards in losses with 71, four behind team-tackle leader John Coleman.
Bullock, who wrestles for the Tigers, also registered one sack, two forced fumbles,
one fumble recovery, had an interception and knocked down two passes.
He was part of a Tiger run defense that allowed only 831 yards over 13 games.
“All I’ve wanted is to play football. It’s my life,” Bullock said. “Honestly, being a three-
year starter wasn’t a big deal because it was something I wanted to do.”
In a game that has become complex, Bullock kept a simple philosophy.
“I’d see the guy with the ball, chase him and tackle him,” Bullock said, smiling. “It’s
simple. It’s only football.”
Phillips said that is facade.
“Jon is a smart player. He knew what was going on,” Phillips said. “He was our
quarterback on defense.”
The game, he said, kept Bullock on a path, which often times has been rocky.
“I’ve had my issues,” he said, softly. “But, I’ve worked through a number of those and
have grown up a lot.”
Bullock, a 178-pounder as a sophomore, learned to channel daily frustrations.
“I kept those things in a ball, keep my mouth shut and saved them for football,”
Bullock said. “I let them loose at practice.”
Bullock often kept his coaches on edge, sometimes on purpose.
“I’d make some of their days pretty wild,” Bullock said, laughing.
Phillips, who joined the Tiger staff in 2008, had a sometimes unenviable task.
“Jon has been high maintenance at times but that’s not an all-bad thing,” Phillips
said. “Sometimes, the good ones are that way. That is Jon. He tested me everyday
and he sure was a handful at times.”
Bullock introduced Phillips to the Tiger defensive scheme.
“Jon knew what was going on, for sure,” Phillips said. “Heck, he was teaching me how
we operate the 4-3 defense.”
Though they butted heads, they developed a strong bond.
Phillips helped Bullock get a grip.
“Coach Phillips taught me a lot and not just about football,” Bullock said. “Coach
taught me a lot about life. He’s helped me mature and grow up.”
HAPPY PLAYER — Broken Arrow High
School's Jon Bullock was named
Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State
for football.
DOUG QUINN/BA LEDGER
School's Jon Bullock was named
Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State
for football.
DOUG QUINN/BA LEDGER
Spavital officially BAHS coach
Move approved by school board
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Monday, January 11, 2010 6:19 PM CST
Steve Spavital’s elevation to Broken Arrow
High School football coach became official
Monday night by the Broken Arrow school
board.
BAHS Athletic Director Ken Ellett made the
recommendation to the board.
“I am really excited for Steve and our
football program,” Ellett said. “We
appreciate the support of our board and
administration.”
Spavital had been the Tigers’ assistant
head coach the last three seasons under
Ron Lancaster.
When hired in 2007, Lancaster agreed to be the BAHS coach for three seasons with
the intention of Spavital being the successor.
“This is one of the most exciting times in my life to be the head coach,” Spavital said.
The 53-year-old Spavital chuckled and added, “It’s one of the scariest times, too, with
the expectations.”
BAHS was 25-16 the last three seasons, reaching the Class 6A semifinals in 2009 in
Lancaster’s last season at the helm.
“Those expectations come from what Ron has done for this program,” Spavital said. “I
am thankful to the administration for giving me this opportunity.”
Spavital was the defensive coordinator at Union High School from 1991-2005 under
Bill Blankenship when the Redskins went to the state title game seven straight years,
winning the gold ball three times.
When Blankenship stepped down from UHS after the 2005 season, Spavital was
snubbed when Kevin Wright was hired.
Spavital, son of Oklahoma A&M legend Jim Spavital, didn’t coach in 2006, but called
it “a blessing in disguise."
"There was another plan for the my life,” he said.
Spavital has been the BAHS assistant athletic director since his hiring in the winter of
2007. He will continue those duties.
“Not only is Steve a tremendous coach,” Ellett said, “he’s a tremendous administrator.
We’re very happy to have him continue in our program.”
Move approved by school board
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Monday, January 11, 2010 6:19 PM CST
Steve Spavital’s elevation to Broken Arrow
High School football coach became official
Monday night by the Broken Arrow school
board.
BAHS Athletic Director Ken Ellett made the
recommendation to the board.
“I am really excited for Steve and our
football program,” Ellett said. “We
appreciate the support of our board and
administration.”
Spavital had been the Tigers’ assistant
head coach the last three seasons under
Ron Lancaster.
When hired in 2007, Lancaster agreed to be the BAHS coach for three seasons with
the intention of Spavital being the successor.
“This is one of the most exciting times in my life to be the head coach,” Spavital said.
The 53-year-old Spavital chuckled and added, “It’s one of the scariest times, too, with
the expectations.”
BAHS was 25-16 the last three seasons, reaching the Class 6A semifinals in 2009 in
Lancaster’s last season at the helm.
“Those expectations come from what Ron has done for this program,” Spavital said. “I
am thankful to the administration for giving me this opportunity.”
Spavital was the defensive coordinator at Union High School from 1991-2005 under
Bill Blankenship when the Redskins went to the state title game seven straight years,
winning the gold ball three times.
When Blankenship stepped down from UHS after the 2005 season, Spavital was
snubbed when Kevin Wright was hired.
Spavital, son of Oklahoma A&M legend Jim Spavital, didn’t coach in 2006, but called
it “a blessing in disguise."
"There was another plan for the my life,” he said.
Spavital has been the BAHS assistant athletic director since his hiring in the winter of
2007. He will continue those duties.
“Not only is Steve a tremendous coach,” Ellett said, “he’s a tremendous administrator.
We’re very happy to have him continue in our program.”
THE BOSS NOW — Steve Spavital, left,
was elevated from assistant head coach
to head coach for Broken Arrow High
School football Monday night.
RANDEL KEITH/BA LEDGER
was elevated from assistant head coach
to head coach for Broken Arrow High
School football Monday night.
RANDEL KEITH/BA LEDGER
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Click here to view the 2009 article archive.
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NEW BOSS — Steve Spavital was elevated
to head football coach at Broken Arrow
High School Monday night.
DOUG QUINN/BA LEDGER
to head football coach at Broken Arrow
High School Monday night.
DOUG QUINN/BA LEDGER
Dad, 'doodling' paved Spav's way
New Tiger coach began early in life
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:33 AM CST
Steve Spavital spent a lot of his time in
elementary school “doodling.”
Young Spavital tested his teachers’
patience levels by designing football
plays in his notebooks.
Even at a tender age, Steve - the son
of a football coach - was etching out his
future with those X’s and O’s.
He was obsessed by football at an early
age. That passion didn’t subside.
Those days of dreaming up plays paved
his way into his dream life – following his
father’s footsteps into the profession.
“I would have spent hours doing nothing
but that ... if the teachers would have let
me,” Steve said, smiling. “I did a lot of
doodling.”
On Monday, Steve took another step
when he was elevated to head football
coach at Broken Arrow High School.
Steve, 53, succeeds – as part of a
plan – Ron Lancaster, who coached
the Tigers the last three years and
groomed “Spav” for the post.
That grooming began in Stillwater and Edmond, where Steve spent his childhood
while his father, the Oklahoma A&M legend, was coaching.
When Jim Spavital returned to Stillwater in the 1960s as a coach at OSU, Steve was
in a child’s dream world.
“I spent a lot of time exploring Gallagher Hall,” Steve said. “I knew that place from the
basement to the top. There were some places, though, I shouldn’t have been.”
At that early age, Jim left a lasting mark on his son.
Jim recognized early his son had a gift for play-making and encouraged the
youngster.
“Dad gave me templates, just like he used,” Steve said. “I don’t know how many of
those I filled up. I’d make up plays and then see how my defense could stop the
offense.”
Last weekend, while going through boxes, Steve rediscovered some of those early-
day doodlings.
“Wow,” Steve said. “Looking back, I can’t believe some of those plays.”
Fast forward into the 1990s, Steve’s two sons, Zac and Jake, now coaches at the
University of Houston, did their own doodlings.
“They did the same thing I used to do,” Steve said, grinning. “That was cool.”
Steve – nicknamed Bull by his dad – spent his high school days in Winnipeg,
Canada, at Westwood Collegiate Institute, while his father coached the Blue Bombers
in the Canadian Football League.
“Dad always called me ‘Boy,’” Steve said. “I didn’t know my real name was Steve until
I was 16 years old.”
After graduating from OSU in 1978, Steve embarked on his own coaching career with
his father’s stamp.
In 1981, Steve was a first-year teacher and defensive coordinator at Seminole High
School.
Against Henryetta, which was quarterbacked by Troy Aikman, Seminole trailed 21-7
at halftime.
“Dad met on the sideline with me as we were going into the locker room,” Steve said.
“He told me the adjustments we needed to make. We did and we won the game, 28-
21.”
Jim, however, gave his son some advice.
“‘Son, if you are in this just to win football games, you’re in the wrong business.’”
Steve said. “That’s how he coached.”
Between 1992-2005, Steve was defensive coordinator when Union High School won
three state championships and finished second four times.
“It’s not all about winning gold balls,” Steve said. “Football needs to be the best
experience of their lives.”
•
STEVE SPAVITAL
Coaching History
2007-Present: Broken Arrow High School assistant head coach/defensive coordinator.
1992-2005: Union High School, assistant head coach/defensive coordinator
1990-92: Edmond Memorial High School defensive coordinator.
1988-89: East Tennessee State University offensive line coach.
1985-88: Sapulpa High School head coach.
1981-84: Seminole High School assistant head coach/defensive coordinator.
1979-81: Glenpool High School assistant coach.
Honors
2005 - National assistant coach of the year
2004 - Oil Bowl coach
1988 - Outstanding Young Men of America
1987 - Sapulpa Teacher of the Year
1986 - Coach of the Year
1985 - Coach of the Year
Education
1983 - Master of Science in Administration, East Central University.
1978 - Bachelor of Science, Oklahoma State University.
1974 - Westwood Collegiate Institute, Winnipeg, Canada.
New Tiger coach began early in life
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:33 AM CST
Steve Spavital spent a lot of his time in
elementary school “doodling.”
Young Spavital tested his teachers’
patience levels by designing football
plays in his notebooks.
Even at a tender age, Steve - the son
of a football coach - was etching out his
future with those X’s and O’s.
He was obsessed by football at an early
age. That passion didn’t subside.
Those days of dreaming up plays paved
his way into his dream life – following his
father’s footsteps into the profession.
“I would have spent hours doing nothing
but that ... if the teachers would have let
me,” Steve said, smiling. “I did a lot of
doodling.”
On Monday, Steve took another step
when he was elevated to head football
coach at Broken Arrow High School.
Steve, 53, succeeds – as part of a
plan – Ron Lancaster, who coached
the Tigers the last three years and
groomed “Spav” for the post.
That grooming began in Stillwater and Edmond, where Steve spent his childhood
while his father, the Oklahoma A&M legend, was coaching.
When Jim Spavital returned to Stillwater in the 1960s as a coach at OSU, Steve was
in a child’s dream world.
“I spent a lot of time exploring Gallagher Hall,” Steve said. “I knew that place from the
basement to the top. There were some places, though, I shouldn’t have been.”
At that early age, Jim left a lasting mark on his son.
Jim recognized early his son had a gift for play-making and encouraged the
youngster.
“Dad gave me templates, just like he used,” Steve said. “I don’t know how many of
those I filled up. I’d make up plays and then see how my defense could stop the
offense.”
Last weekend, while going through boxes, Steve rediscovered some of those early-
day doodlings.
“Wow,” Steve said. “Looking back, I can’t believe some of those plays.”
Fast forward into the 1990s, Steve’s two sons, Zac and Jake, now coaches at the
University of Houston, did their own doodlings.
“They did the same thing I used to do,” Steve said, grinning. “That was cool.”
Steve – nicknamed Bull by his dad – spent his high school days in Winnipeg,
Canada, at Westwood Collegiate Institute, while his father coached the Blue Bombers
in the Canadian Football League.
“Dad always called me ‘Boy,’” Steve said. “I didn’t know my real name was Steve until
I was 16 years old.”
After graduating from OSU in 1978, Steve embarked on his own coaching career with
his father’s stamp.
In 1981, Steve was a first-year teacher and defensive coordinator at Seminole High
School.
Against Henryetta, which was quarterbacked by Troy Aikman, Seminole trailed 21-7
at halftime.
“Dad met on the sideline with me as we were going into the locker room,” Steve said.
“He told me the adjustments we needed to make. We did and we won the game, 28-
21.”
Jim, however, gave his son some advice.
“‘Son, if you are in this just to win football games, you’re in the wrong business.’”
Steve said. “That’s how he coached.”
Between 1992-2005, Steve was defensive coordinator when Union High School won
three state championships and finished second four times.
“It’s not all about winning gold balls,” Steve said. “Football needs to be the best
experience of their lives.”
•
STEVE SPAVITAL
Coaching History
2007-Present: Broken Arrow High School assistant head coach/defensive coordinator.
1992-2005: Union High School, assistant head coach/defensive coordinator
1990-92: Edmond Memorial High School defensive coordinator.
1988-89: East Tennessee State University offensive line coach.
1985-88: Sapulpa High School head coach.
1981-84: Seminole High School assistant head coach/defensive coordinator.
1979-81: Glenpool High School assistant coach.
Honors
2005 - National assistant coach of the year
2004 - Oil Bowl coach
1988 - Outstanding Young Men of America
1987 - Sapulpa Teacher of the Year
1986 - Coach of the Year
1985 - Coach of the Year
Education
1983 - Master of Science in Administration, East Central University.
1978 - Bachelor of Science, Oklahoma State University.
1974 - Westwood Collegiate Institute, Winnipeg, Canada.
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Peers endorse new Tiger coach
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:37 AM CST
In these parts, Steve Spavital’s best known as Bill Blankenship’s defensive
coordinator at Union High School from 1991-2005.
When Broken Arrow promoted Spavital Monday to head coach, it prompted Mark
Garner to dust off “a little known fact.”
Many perceived Spavital as being the understudy in that stretch when UHS won six
state championships and finished second four other times.
While Blankenship credited Spavital with the Redskins’ success, their relationship
began on opposite sides of the table.
In the mid-1980s, the shoe was on the other foot.
In 1985, Spav – as he’s best known – was a first-year head coach at Sapulpa High
School. His assistant was Blankenship.
It was a year that might have been the most pivotal in Blankenship’s career.
“Steve taught me about being a head coach,” Blankenship said. “I had been a head
coach the two previous years. Obviously, I didn’t know what I was doing.”
Blankenship hired Spavital at Edmond Memorial High School after the 1988 season
to be his assistant in 1990. Spavital followed Blankenship to Union two years later.
Now an assistant coach at the University of Tulsa, Blankenship endorsed Spavital’s
promotion to the Tigers’ head coaching job.
“Steve will do an outstanding job,” Blankenship said. “He teaches, challenges and
trains his coaches. He’s ready.”
Garner, a long-time offensive line coach at Union, said Spavital has key skills.
“Spav has a work ethic that can’t be matched,” Garner said.
When it’s football, Spavital is all-business.
“You see this focused and intense coach but there is another side,” Garner said.
“You train animals and coach kids. Steve is one of the best of building those
relationships with players. You know that because kids keep coming back to see him.”
That intensity, Garner said, flows during practice, not just on Friday nights.
“It wasn’t much fun in practice going against Spav’s defense,” Garner said. “His group
was always ready to go.”
When Ron Lancaster was hired at BAHS in the spring of 2007, he brought Spavital
out of a one-year retirement.
After the 2005 season, Blankenship resigned as the Redskins coach, but Union didn’t
hire Spavital, who didn’t coach in 2006.
“When I came to Broken Arrow, I brought Steve with the purpose of him succeeding
me,” Lancaster said. “He’s proven himself and he understands the game. He has the
skills and qualities to run a Class 6A program. Steve will do an outstanding job.”
Kirk Fridrich, now the UHS head coach, called Spavital’s elevation “well-deserving.”
Fridrich joined the UHS defensive staff in 1993 after a stint at Metro Christian
Academy.
“Spav has had a big influence on me,” Fridrich said. “A lot of what I learned under
him we use today. I am happy for Steve to get this chance.”
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:37 AM CST
In these parts, Steve Spavital’s best known as Bill Blankenship’s defensive
coordinator at Union High School from 1991-2005.
When Broken Arrow promoted Spavital Monday to head coach, it prompted Mark
Garner to dust off “a little known fact.”
Many perceived Spavital as being the understudy in that stretch when UHS won six
state championships and finished second four other times.
While Blankenship credited Spavital with the Redskins’ success, their relationship
began on opposite sides of the table.
In the mid-1980s, the shoe was on the other foot.
In 1985, Spav – as he’s best known – was a first-year head coach at Sapulpa High
School. His assistant was Blankenship.
It was a year that might have been the most pivotal in Blankenship’s career.
“Steve taught me about being a head coach,” Blankenship said. “I had been a head
coach the two previous years. Obviously, I didn’t know what I was doing.”
Blankenship hired Spavital at Edmond Memorial High School after the 1988 season
to be his assistant in 1990. Spavital followed Blankenship to Union two years later.
Now an assistant coach at the University of Tulsa, Blankenship endorsed Spavital’s
promotion to the Tigers’ head coaching job.
“Steve will do an outstanding job,” Blankenship said. “He teaches, challenges and
trains his coaches. He’s ready.”
Garner, a long-time offensive line coach at Union, said Spavital has key skills.
“Spav has a work ethic that can’t be matched,” Garner said.
When it’s football, Spavital is all-business.
“You see this focused and intense coach but there is another side,” Garner said.
“You train animals and coach kids. Steve is one of the best of building those
relationships with players. You know that because kids keep coming back to see him.”
That intensity, Garner said, flows during practice, not just on Friday nights.
“It wasn’t much fun in practice going against Spav’s defense,” Garner said. “His group
was always ready to go.”
When Ron Lancaster was hired at BAHS in the spring of 2007, he brought Spavital
out of a one-year retirement.
After the 2005 season, Blankenship resigned as the Redskins coach, but Union didn’t
hire Spavital, who didn’t coach in 2006.
“When I came to Broken Arrow, I brought Steve with the purpose of him succeeding
me,” Lancaster said. “He’s proven himself and he understands the game. He has the
skills and qualities to run a Class 6A program. Steve will do an outstanding job.”
Kirk Fridrich, now the UHS head coach, called Spavital’s elevation “well-deserving.”
Fridrich joined the UHS defensive staff in 1993 after a stint at Metro Christian
Academy.
“Spav has had a big influence on me,” Fridrich said. “A lot of what I learned under
him we use today. I am happy for Steve to get this chance.”
Hopper commits to NSU
Eight other Tiger footballers to sign Wednesday
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Monday, February 1, 2010 9:40 AM CST
Broken Arrow High School tailback Steven Hopper announced Friday he has
committed to play football at Northeastern State University.
BAHS’s all-time ground gainer had committed to the University of Houston last
summer.
NCAA signing day is Wednesday.
Offensive tackle-deep snapper Rowdy Harper from BAHS has committed to Houston.
Other Tigers who have committed are kicker Carl Salazar (Air Force Academy),
linebacker Jon Bullock (University of Central Oklahoma), defensive end Terry
Williamson (UCO), offensive lineman Trey Stephens (UCO), James Renfrow
(Northeastern State), wide receiver Ronnie Price (Northeastern A&M) and tight end
Brady Robinson (NEO).
Hopper gained 2,471 yards and scored 36 touchdowns in just two seasons as a
Tiger. He surpassed Prince McKinney (2,278) for the all-time rushing record.
McKinney, who played at BAHS from 2003-05, will be a senior at NSU this fall.
Hopper, who didn’t play football as a sophomore, had 1,516 yards rushing as a junior
to set the BAHS single season record.
A 6-1, 190-pounder, Hopper set Broken Arrow’s single game rushing mark as a
senior with 307 yards on 16 carries against Sand Springs.
Eight other Tiger footballers to sign Wednesday
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Monday, February 1, 2010 9:40 AM CST
Broken Arrow High School tailback Steven Hopper announced Friday he has
committed to play football at Northeastern State University.
BAHS’s all-time ground gainer had committed to the University of Houston last
summer.
NCAA signing day is Wednesday.
Offensive tackle-deep snapper Rowdy Harper from BAHS has committed to Houston.
Other Tigers who have committed are kicker Carl Salazar (Air Force Academy),
linebacker Jon Bullock (University of Central Oklahoma), defensive end Terry
Williamson (UCO), offensive lineman Trey Stephens (UCO), James Renfrow
(Northeastern State), wide receiver Ronnie Price (Northeastern A&M) and tight end
Brady Robinson (NEO).
Hopper gained 2,471 yards and scored 36 touchdowns in just two seasons as a
Tiger. He surpassed Prince McKinney (2,278) for the all-time rushing record.
McKinney, who played at BAHS from 2003-05, will be a senior at NSU this fall.
Hopper, who didn’t play football as a sophomore, had 1,516 yards rushing as a junior
to set the BAHS single season record.
A 6-1, 190-pounder, Hopper set Broken Arrow’s single game rushing mark as a
senior with 307 yards on 16 carries against Sand Springs.
************************************************************
They know the wrath of Spav
BAHS players understand coach's intent
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, February 4, 2010 5:58 PM CST
Richie Fruechting and Willie Bell know all-to-well the wrath of Spav.
After an off-season drill, the two were standing only feet away from Spav – aka Steve
Spavital.
The newly elevated Broken Arrow High School football coach is legendary for intense
moments in practice or games.
His targets usually are players for mistakes or lapses.
Fruecthing and Bell – starters in the defensive secondary last fall – drew Spavital’s
ire more than once.
They were asked the same question – “Have you ever been Spavved?”
Without hesitation, and almost in unison, both agreed. Both were smiling.
Then, just as quickly, they glanced at their coach, who flashed back a smile.
Fruechting and Bell knew they were in good standing – at least for a moment.
Bell, a starting cornerback last fall as a junior, said Spavital can communicate his
message in two ways.
“He can do a lot of yelling,” Bell said, grinning. “But, he’s got those eyes. When he
gives you that stare, he doesn’t have to say anything. You know you’re in trouble.”
Fruechting – pronounced freeze-sting – has taken his share, too.
“One time,” Fruechting said, shaking his head and smiling, “I tried to comeback at
him. I said one word and kept my mouth shut.”
Neither are complaining and both have embraced Spavital as the Tiger head coach.
“We understand,” Fruechting said. “He’s only trying to make us better.”
Conversations, Fruechting said, aren’t always one way.
“Coach Spav is easy to approach and we can talk to him,” Fruechting said. “There’s
good communication there.”
BAHS players understand coach's intent
By DOUG QUINN
Sports Editor
dougq@baledger.com
Published:
Thursday, February 4, 2010 5:58 PM CST
Richie Fruechting and Willie Bell know all-to-well the wrath of Spav.
After an off-season drill, the two were standing only feet away from Spav – aka Steve
Spavital.
The newly elevated Broken Arrow High School football coach is legendary for intense
moments in practice or games.
His targets usually are players for mistakes or lapses.
Fruecthing and Bell – starters in the defensive secondary last fall – drew Spavital’s
ire more than once.
They were asked the same question – “Have you ever been Spavved?”
Without hesitation, and almost in unison, both agreed. Both were smiling.
Then, just as quickly, they glanced at their coach, who flashed back a smile.
Fruechting and Bell knew they were in good standing – at least for a moment.
Bell, a starting cornerback last fall as a junior, said Spavital can communicate his
message in two ways.
“He can do a lot of yelling,” Bell said, grinning. “But, he’s got those eyes. When he
gives you that stare, he doesn’t have to say anything. You know you’re in trouble.”
Fruechting – pronounced freeze-sting – has taken his share, too.
“One time,” Fruechting said, shaking his head and smiling, “I tried to comeback at
him. I said one word and kept my mouth shut.”
Neither are complaining and both have embraced Spavital as the Tiger head coach.
“We understand,” Fruechting said. “He’s only trying to make us better.”
Conversations, Fruechting said, aren’t always one way.
“Coach Spav is easy to approach and we can talk to him,” Fruechting said. “There’s
good communication there.”
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