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Issue date: 8/29/02 Section: Sports

The scrimmage Saturday 24, marked the first public competition for the Busters. The season openes against Dodge City this Saturday at 7 p.m. with a pre-game tailgate party from 4:30 to 6:30.

With the smell of grass on the field and the sound of helmits colliding, Broncbuster fans know that the 2002 season is on its way.

The coaches are looking toward the more experienced sophomores for leadership. Marcus West, Garden City, Kan., returns to the roster as starting linebacker for the Busters.

"I've been like a leader, but I've never been real vocal," West said. "I know on defense we need someone that's going to talk. I know Ced (cornerback Cedric Williams) is in that position, too. He's out there but he needs help, too. Me and him are out here hopefully trying to be leaders of this defense and get us going, get us ready for the season because everybody's going to bring their best shot."

Larson said that it is very natural to turn to the sophomores and returning players for that leadership the team needs.

"We are looking for guys, that when put in a tough situation, instead of hanging their head and worrying about themselves, they try to get everyone cranked up," Larson said. "I think it is easy for our returning starters to do so."

Between the years of 1989 and 2001, no other Jayhawk Conference team has won more bowl games than Garden City. They have also had more bowl appearances than any other team. Last season the Busters defeated Scottsdale, Ariz. in the Valley of the Sun Bowl.

"I believe that the reason we have been able to be so successful is because of the kids that do get in to play and get a taste for that," Larson said. "Of course our red shirt program had been extremely helpful for us and I think we have a bunch of good football coaches working for us."

Larson said that there is a high number of returning players this year including tailbacks Kay Jay Harris and Tyson Thompson. Although there is a great number of players, the Busters are still lacking in the number of linemen.

"I think a lot of people are misunderstanding us," sophomore tailback, Kay-Jay Harris said. "Our O-line played a big part in our offense, and a lot of guys think because we don't have the same line as last year we're not going to be as good. I think our guys this year are just as talented. They know they're going to have to work harder because they want to challenge last year's line. That's why they won't take a play off and they're going to bust their butt every play."

Last year, Harris rushed for 1,279 yards and scored 12 touchdowns.

"Since I've been here, the coaching level has risen. Which means there is going to be better coached teams and anyone can win on any given day," Larson said. "So, our expectations are high and I think it's really how we handle the adversity that comes our way."

The season will officially kick-off on August 31 with a home game versus Dodge City Community College.

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