Football: Verdugo Hills gets lift from Troy Richards
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Verdugo Hills football Coach Chad Runnels has been trying for several years to get Troy Richards to play football. He’s been the starting center fielder for the baseball team.
“He’s the fastest kid in school,” Runnels said.
A heart ailment prevented Richards from coming out, along with concerns from his mother, Runnels said.
But Richards got clearance from his cardiologist and approval from his mother, and the Dons (2-2) couldn’t be happier. He’s averaging 20 yards a reception, with 10 catches, and the Dons last week knocked off unbeaten Village Christian, 32-17.
Verdugo Hills didn’t have quarterback Gage Van Kempton for its first two games (broken hand), but his return allowed standout receiver Carter Otte to return to his normal position. With Otte, Richards and Jacob Moore, Verdugo Hills has a solid receiving trio.
Next up is a game that could decide the East Valley League championship, when Verdugo Hills hosts Arleta.
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