Center of attention

Abbey brings strong physical and leadership skills to Salem's on-the-rebound program

  When you work your tail off seven days a week every fall day for three straight years and only taste victory a handful of times, frustration can build.
  But that frustration has been supplanted by anticipation for Salem senior center Blake Abbey as the 2009 high school football season approaches.
  Abbey's outlook has been bolstered by the optimism generated by a new coaching staff led by Kurt Britnell, who was hired this past spring.
  "I was talking to some other seniors a couple weeks ago about how members of this senior class have only won a couple football games their entire high school career -- and that includes junior varsity and freshmen," said Abbey, a member of Salem's leadership committee. "It drives us to work that much harder to achieve success during our last year here.
  "This team's attitude has been outstanding so far and it doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon. From last season to this season, it's been amazing. Everyone's attitude is starting to change to a positive level and everyone is enjoying the sport more."
MIDDLE MAN
  At 6-foot-1, 210 pounds, Abbey isn't considered large by offensive linemen's standards. However, he makes up for his lack of girth with quickness with smarts and an always-running motor.
  "Blake is definitely one of our most vocal leaders," said Brtinell. "He's one of our smaller offensive linemen, but he has great technique and instincts."
  Being named as one of the four representatives of the Rocks' leadership committee was an honor for the three-sport athlete, who wrestles in the winter and plays lacrosse in the spring.
  "I like the fact that a lot of the other players look to me for leadership," he said. "I feel like I owe it to the team to give them everything I've learned to help them out as much as I can."
  Abbey said the biggest on-the-field change since last year has been the simplification of the team's offense.
  "It's a lot more basis this season," he said. "Last year, it was a little too complicated and too complex. We're able to focus on the basic things now.
  "The biggest change, though, has been everyone's attitude. We're a lot more positive and and ready to have a good season."