By By GREG KATSKI
Staff Writer
The Carolina Stallions semi-professional football team opens preseason play tonight with an in-state matchup against the Durham Rattlers at Choppy Wagner Stadium on the campus of Washington High School.
The game, slated for a 6 p.m. kickoff, is sure to be hard-nosed, according to Stallions head coach Michael Wright.
“We know we’re going to have a pretty good contest,” he said on Monday.
The Stallions are led by thoroughbred lineman Fred Cobb, a former Pam Pack football standout. The second-year Stallion player is joined on the semi-professional squad by former Washington greats Phonzie Gibbs, Derrick Norfleet and Sedrick Cobb. Northside High School is sure to be well-represented by superior athlete and Panthers alum Derrick Leathers.
Coach Wright said he prefers to play in the vein of a traditional pro-offense, with lots of I-formations and running between the tackles. Expect Cobb to be at the center of a lot of plays on offense, as Coach Wright called him the captain of the team’s offensive line.
“He’s an outstanding lineman,” Coach Wright said.
The Stallions’ coach said he hopes his team doesn’t have to air it out too much, and can rely on the ground game.
Cobb will also see some time on the other side of the ball as a defensive lineman. Like Cobb, most players on the Stallions play multiple positions on offense and defense.
Tickets for the game can be purchased at the stadium gate for $10. The stadium’s concession stand will be open throughout the game and the game will feature a halftime musical performance.
The Carolina Stallions are a non-profit organization. The team, which plays in the Colonial Football Alliance, was formed in December 2002 and receives its funding mainly through local sponsorships. Without the support of sponsors and fans, Coach Wright said the players wouldn’t be able to suit up for games like the showdown tonight.