by Mark Travis
For The Post
For most, success is the ultimate goal. For Nelsonville-York, excessive success is more like it.
Not only did the Buckeyes capture their seventh Tri-Valley Conference Ohio Division title in eight years last season, but they did so with very few seniors at skill positions. They clinched the championship with a thrilling 28-27 win over Athens in the final week of the season to wrap up a 5-0 conference campaign.
As has been the case for the past decade, Nelsonville-York is prepared to make a run at its eighth TVC-Ohio title in nine years. A big reason for the team’s expected success is the familiar cast. The Buckeyes will be returning key starters at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and both lines.
Quarterback Nathan Dean led the team last season both on and off the field, and his composure in Nelsonville-York’s close games has many believing Dean can lead the team to yet another title. As the field general, he understands what it will take for him to meet expectations.
“Without a doubt,” Dean said, “my leadership is what is going to pull us together, not only as a team but also as a family. I want to improve not just my attitude but my ability to make my teammates better no matter what.”
Dean had several individual accolades last season to go along with the team-wide success. He threw for 1300 yards and 20 touchdowns (not official), was an all-TVC-Ohio selection and an all-district honorable mention. Dean isn’t one to brag about his accomplishments, though, as he credits his teammates for his success.
“I didn’t do it all myself,” he said. “I wouldn't have been able to do it without a solid line and some great receivers.”
Dean, who has been on his arm strength and delivery this off-season, says his senior season is bittersweet.
“I’ve been told all through school to enjoy it because it goes so fast, and now I understand just how much of a treasure it is to play high school football,” he said. “I’m excited to get started with my final year, but at the same time I don't want it to come.”
The Buckeyes kick off their season on Aug. 27 against the Trimble Tomcats. Dean says he has an ongoing relationship with players at Trimble and was proud to have bragging rights over them last season. But now that he is a senior, this game means more to him than ever before.
“Normally the winner gets bragging rights for a year, but the winner of this game gets bragging rights for a lifetime,” Dean said.
