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In Rich County it’s common to hear conversations about the D bar, JF or Kearl Ranch but Friday’s topic was the Diamond Ranch Academy. The Diamondbacks made their first trip to Randolph where the Rich High Rebels (4-4) notched a 21-0 win.
The Diamondbacks’ (5-4) reputation of a high power offense created an anticipated scoring show. The home team coaches had watched the highlights of Monticello's 60-46 win over their opponents earlier in the week.
“I thought it would be high scoring and we’d have to score every time to win,” said Rich High head coach Ashley Brown. “We knew they can score in a hurry. The line played well today and they never get any credit.”
After a scoreless first quarter, Rich got on the scoreboard with a 70-yard half-back pass from Brent Wallentine to Bracken Pinter. Rich quarterback Austin Groll found Pinter with the second scoring strike from 45 yards out. Diamond Ranch’s Kyle Atchison showed off his strong left arm as he led his team to the Rebel five-yard line but an incomplete pass as the first half horn sounded left the score 14-0.
The Rebels were able to control time of possession in the second half as their front line helped the offense sustain long drives. Kaden Thomson capped the final drive with a 20-yard score off the left side.
The two programs are quite a contrast. The Rebels have been playing together since Little League while the Diamondbacks come from all around the world. The majority of the Academy players have not played football before coming to the Ranch.
The coaches have not allowed lack of experience, familiarity or history to stop them from creating a successful program. They work to maintain a team where players will not be around for more than two years, and a key player may leave midway through a season as he graduates from the Ranch.
Rich County’s introduction to the Diamond Ranch Academy left the Rebels and their fans with an impression of a quality team overcoming the challenges of a new program, with style. Up next, the Rebels travel to Layton Christian Academy as they battle for playoff position, and Diamond Ranch will have a bye-week to prepare for their first playoff experience.
