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12/3/05

Massillon football report


Tigers look to add to legend


Winning state title in playoffs is missing piece

By Michael Beaven

Beacon Journal sportswriter


The football program at Massillon is one of the most storied in the country. A big part of the history is legendary coach Paul Brown, who coached the Tigers from 1932-1940.
The Tigers won 22 state poll championships before the inception of the state playoffs in 1972.
But the Tigers have never captured a state championship on the field.
Massillon coach Tom Stacy hopes to change that tonight at Fawcett Stadium in Canton when Massillon (13-1) plays Cincinnati St. Xavier (14-0) for the Division I state championship at 7 p.m..
``It's kind of a monkey on your back that hopefully we can do something about,'' Stacy said Monday. ``We just look at it as another challenge and a great opportunity.
``There have been so many big football games throughout the great tradition and history of Massillon football.
``To really downplay those 22 state championships, I'll never do that because there are too many guys I have to answer to in town that played on those teams,'' Stacy added with a laugh.
``I have gotten several phone calls from players on those quote-un-quote mythical state championships that would love to see us win it.''
In addition to alumns that still are involved with the program, the Tigers always have their strong fan base on their side.
``Obviously the backing of our community (is important), as I have said before I believe we have the best high school football fans in the nation,'' Stacy said. ``When you get that throng of Tiger Nation behind you, it makes a big difference when you go to visiting places and play in playoff games.''
St. Xavier coach Steve Specht recognizes the mystique of the Massillon program and looks forward to an anticipated huge crowd in Stark County.
``The Massillon tradition is as big as anything in the country, that is something special,'' Specht said.
Asked about playing in Canton, he said ``at this point of the season you play (a championship game) in a parking lot or behind any kind of grocery store.''
Standing in the way for Massillon is a tenacious St. Xavier defense, which has posted six shutouts.
``This is by far the best defensive team I have seen on videotape this season,'' Stacy said. ``They fly to the football and have great speed and quickness.''
Stacy is impressed by the Bombers in every phase of the game as well.
``They are the complete package,'' Stacy said. ``I just don't see weaknesses.
``They have speed, quickness, good coaching and good size where you need size.''