Category: Football

Player Vault: Corri Milliner

Sun Valley State’s Record-Breaking Receiver: The Legacy of Milliner
In the annals of college football, few names resonate with the same awe and admiration as Milliner from Sun Valley State University. The year 2007 will forever be etched in the memory of football enthusiasts, not just for the usual highlights of the season but for the extraordinary feats accomplished by this senior wide receiver.
Milliner’s 2007 campaign was nothing short of legendary. He shattered the single-season receiving yards record, amassing an astonishing 2,254 yards. This performance wasn’t just about breaking records; it was about redefining what was possible on the field. His ability to consistently find gaps in defenses, his speed, and his hands made him an unstoppable force, turning every game into a spectacle.
Complementing his yardage was an equally impressive tally of touchdowns. Milliner scored 38 times, setting a new benchmark for touchdown catches in a season. Each touchdown was not just a score but a moment of magic, showcasing his ability to turn ordinary plays into extraordinary feats.
Over his career at Sun Valley State, Milliner’s total receiving yards stood at 3,187, a testament to his consistency and skill over the years. His career was marked by not just individual brilliance but also by the significant impact he had on his team’s success, often being the difference between victory and defeat.
As his college career concluded, the football world watched with bated breath to see where Milliner’s talents would take him next. Surprisingly, his post-graduation plans leaned towards a career in car sales, a decision that might raise eyebrows but speaks volumes about his diverse interests and ambitions. However, the allure of the NFL was not entirely dismissed. Milliner expressed a willingness to explore NFL tryouts, hinting at a potential continuation of his football journey.
The transition from college football to the professional ranks is fraught with challenges, but for someone like Milliner, who has already broken records and redefined expectations, the NFL could be another stage to showcase his talents. His decision to also consider car sales reflects a pragmatic approach to life after college sports, where not every athlete makes it to the professional level, yet all need to plan for life beyond the field.
Milliner’s story at Sun Valley State University is more than just about breaking records; it’s about inspiration. For young athletes, he represents what dedication, skill, and passion can achieve. For fans, he provided moments of pure football joy, plays that will be replayed and remembered for years to come.
As Milliner steps into this new phase of life, whether it’s on the gridiron or in a car showroom, his legacy at Sun Valley State remains unchallenged. He leaves behind not just records but a standard of excellence and a reminder that greatness can come from anywhere, even from a university not traditionally known for producing NFL stars.
The football community, while eager to see him try out for NFL teams, will also watch with interest his venture into car sales

Player Vault: Johnny Alexis

Jonathan Alexis: The Legend of Ellisburg’s Gridiron
In the annals of University of Ellisburg football history, few names resonate as powerfully as Jonathan Alexis, affectionately known as “UE’s Johnny Football.” Alexis’s journey at Ellisburg is not just a story of athletic prowess but a narrative of transformation, innovation, and sheer brilliance on the field.
Jonathan Alexis first burst onto the scene as a wide receiver, where his agility, speed, and hands quickly made him a standout. During his sophomore year, Alexis amassed an impressive 1400 yards receiving, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays. However, it was his junior year that would redefine his legacy and the game itself at Ellisburg.
Under the visionary coaching of Coach Will, Alexis was transitioned from a receiver to a running back. This move was met with skepticism, but it soon became clear that this was not just a change in position but a strategic masterstroke. Alexis, with his receiver’s agility and a running back’s power, became an unstoppable force. His junior year was nothing short of phenomenal. He shattered records, becoming the Lucky 13 Conference’s all-time single-season rushing leader with an astonishing 3,054 yards.
His performance that season was not just about numbers; it was about the way he played. Averaging 6.3 yards per carry, Alexis wasn’t just running; he was dancing through defenses, leaving defenders in his wake. His 28 touchdowns that season were not just points on the board but moments of magic that electrified the stadium and captured the hearts of fans.
The impact of Alexis on Ellisburg football went beyond the field. His games were events, drawing crowds that had never seen such excitement in college football. His ability to turn any play into a potential touchdown made every game a spectacle. Fans, media, and analysts alike began to refer to him as “UE’s Johnny Football,” a nod to his game-changing presence and the joy he brought to the sport.
As his college career neared its end, the decision to declare for the NFL draft was met with both excitement and a touch of sadness. Excitement for what Alexis could achieve on the professional stage, and sadness because Ellisburg would lose one of its brightest stars. However, there was a collective pride in knowing that Alexis was not just leaving; he was taking the spirit of Ellisburg with him to the NFL.
Jonathan Alexis’s legacy at Ellisburg is multifaceted. He redefined positions, broke records, and, most importantly, inspired a generation of players and fans. His story is one of adaptation, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. As he steps into the NFL, there’s an expectation of greatness, not just because of his stats or his play but because of the heart and soul he has shown on the field.
Ellisburg will always remember Jonathan Alexis as more than just a player; he’s a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and when a player decides not just to play the game but to change it. As he embarks on his professional career, the echoes of his runs, his touchdowns, and his spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of Ellisburg fans, a testament to one of the all-time greats in college football.

Alex Russo Statue

Alex Russo: The Dual-Threat Dynamo of the Lucky 13 Championship Season
In the annals of college football, few names resonate with the kind of awe and admiration as Alex Russo, the quarterback who led the University of Ellisburg to an unforgettable championship in the Lucky 13 season of 2007. Russo’s performance during this magical run wasn’t just remarkable; it was historic, setting new benchmarks for what a quarterback could achieve on the field.
The Season of Records
Alex Russo, sporting the iconic #9 jersey, became the embodiment of versatility and sheer athletic prowess. Throughout the season, he not only passed for an impressive 1,950 yards but also rushed for an additional 1,593 yards. This dual-threat capability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, who found themselves constantly outmaneuvered by his strategic plays and lightning-fast runs.
A Game-Changing Style
Russo’s style of play was revolutionary. His ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions on whether to pass or run kept defenses on their toes. His passing game was marked by precision and timing, often finding receivers in tight windows or threading the needle for crucial first downs. On the ground, Russo was equally formidable, using his agility and speed to break through lines or outrun defenders for significant gains.
The Championship Game
The pinnacle of Russo’s season came during the championship game against Sun Valley State, where his performance was nothing short of legendary. In a game that went into overtime, Russo’s leadership and skill were on full display. He completed passes for 146 yards without a single interception, showcasing his accuracy and decision-making under pressure. His rushing yards in that game matched his passing, adding another 146 yards on the ground, which was crucial in keeping the chains moving and the clock ticking.
Strategic Mastery
Coach Will’s game plan, which relied heavily on Russo’s dual-threat capabilities, was evident in how the team utilized his skills. Plays were designed to exploit the defense’s indecision, with Russo often making last-second decisions that caught defenders off-guard. This strategy was particularly effective in the final moments of regulation and overtime, where every yard was crucial.
Legacy and Impact
Alex Russo’s season not only led Ellisburg to a championship but also left an indelible mark on college football. His performance statistics alone would be impressive, but it was the way he played—fearlessly, with a blend of intelligence and raw talent—that truly set him apart. His ability to lead his team, especially in high-stakes games like the championship, has made him a figure of inspiration for aspiring quarterbacks and football enthusiasts alike.
The Statue of a Legend
In recognition of his contributions, a bronze statue of Alex Russo, QB #9, now stands as a testament to his legacy. This statue, capturing him in mid-throw, symbolizes not just his athletic achievements but the spirit of Ellisburg football. It serves as a reminder of what one individual can achieve when talent meets opportunity, under the lights of a championship game.
Alex Russo’s 2007 season with the Ellisburg Stampede will forever be remembered as one of the greatest individual performances in college football history, a season where he didn’t just play the game; he redefined it.

New Ellisburg Helmets

New helmet design for Ellisburg Stampede football team

The Ellisburg Stampede football team will be coming into the 2023 football season with a new helmet design. The school has merged the classic E with the bison logo. UE will be adopting this logo for all its sports.

The new helmet design was created by the school Alumni Association/ The director of alumni said, “I’m really happy with how it turned out,” said Starks. “I think it’s a great representation of the school and the community.”
The bison-E hybrid was approved by the UE athletic department.

The athletic director for Ellisburg, said that he is excited about the new look. “We’ve been wanting to update our image for a while now, and this new logo does that.” “It’s fresh and modern but still pays homage to our tradition.”
The new logo will be rolled out beginning in August and will be on all of the team’s uniforms, as well as on promotional materials and merchandise.

NCU 2015 RECAP

New Calico’s success continues to be a spark of inspiration for the state. The team finished the 2015 season ranked 22nd, an impressive feat that only strengthens their resolve.

YEARWLCONF
NCU 201594(7-2)

BCU 2015 Recap

BCU has had one of the worst seasons in recent history, and it’s going to take a lot of work for them to get out from under this. Coach Andrew will need all his creativity if he wants any shot at saving face with players who have been let down on every level by their coaching staff.

YearWLConf
BCU 201357(3-6)

PINEVILLE 2015 RECAP

Pineville parted ways with coach Stan Gibbler. Jay Smith is the new hire for the Pineville team. The team took a new direction and hired former Pineville QB, Jay Smith. He has plenty of experience as both player and coach with a high football IQ.

YearWLConf
Pineville 2015111(0-9)

UNAB 2015 SEASON RECAP

The Andres Bayou football team has added on another winning season. Coach Anderson’s “360” strategy is paying off, as they are now 8-5 with an impressive win streak of six of the last seven games,

YEARWLCONF
Andrews Bayou 201585(5-4)

SVSU 2015 SEASON RECAP

Coach John revitalized the Sun Chiefs to an solid 8-5 record. SVSU is now a contender for the conference title.

YEARWLCONF
Sun Valley 201585(5-4)

UE 2015 RECAP

Ellisburg won the conference championship and then, a national title. Joe Malone broke all of his records with 4276 passing yards in the process. Coach Will added even more rings to his already impressive collection while leading this team to victory against impossible odds.

YearWLConf
Ellisburg 2015140(10-0)