Just curious who exactly isn''t or wasn't taking New Palestine serious? I think they proved last year they could play with and beat Center Grove when they actually did. I would hope most around here (with the exception of a few) know Coach Ralph is and has been an excellent Coach since he has taken the job at New Pal. In my own personal opinion the stand out qualities I see in Coach Ralph: his teams win because he has them winning where it all starts in the weight room, he has been a master at having his offensive line play very disciplined and fundamentally sound, he has the ability to get his team to buy into his culture and schemes, he has been excellent at making sure his teams are very well condition (and they need to be with having 2 way players). Outstanding qualities for him as a coach and he has developed some fine young men.
One question for Center Grove fans. Is Carson Steele still nursing a nagging hamstring injury. I don't ask because I feel he would have changed the outcome of the game. It certainly does hurt you not having your leading rusher, but New Pal is a fantastic team. I ask because I hope the young man is back on the field soon, I love watching him run hard just as much as I enjoy Spegal run hard!