The once rich Marionville football tradition is back on the upswing after half a decade of lean years.  Bill Voorhis enters his 3rd season as head coach of the Comets and is ready to take another step forward in the Mid Lakes Conference.

HEAD COACH - Bill Voorhis, 3rd season (9-11)

2011 RECORD - 5-5

RETURNING STARTERS - 9 offense, 9 defense

PLAYERS TO WATCH - Nate Hill (Sr. OL/DL), Tommy Geisendorfer (Sr. OL/DL), Jacob Miller (Jr. DT), Ryan White (Jr. QB), Kyle Linebaugh (Sr. FB), Seth Smith (RB), Augie Gracia (OL, MLB)

The Comets finished 4-6 2 years ago, then 5-5 last year, each time taking a step in the right direction.

"Two years ago we were in every game and lost 6," said Voorhis.  "Last year we were winning in the 4th quarter in all but 1 of our 5 losses.  So we've got to find a way to finish better, but I feel like we're getting stronger and better."

With 9 starters back on both sides of the ball, experience won't be a problem.  And while size is limited at the skill positions, that group features good speed.  The key however may be the men up front.

"That's where we're going to lean on.  We're hoping offense can stay on the field as long as we can, and then the defense can give us a 3-and-out, and get the offense back out there."

Four of five starters return on both lines.  All four received postseason honors last season.

Replacing fullback Dylan Rapp and All-Mid Lakes Conference running back Brandon Benn will be a difficult task, but coach Voorhis believes Kyle Linebaugh and Seth Smith are up for the challenge.

Numbers are the highest they've ever been (40 players out), and weight room attendance was strong this summer.  The Comets are hoping it all adds up to a return to the glory days, in what figures to be another stacked conference schedule with no gimmies.

"I don't think anybody can go into any game and think they've got a doormat."

The Comets open the season August 24th, going out of conference to host Miller.  The following Friday they visit Pleasant Hope in the conference opener.