Chargers face tough test in Hilton Head Prep

The Northwood Academy football team rebounded from a loss to Porter-Gaud in Week 3 to pick up victories over First Baptist and Thomas Sumter to push its record to 4-1.

"Those were good wins, but we have a huge test this week," Northwood coach Jerry Stoots said. "We'll see if we can sustain that momentum and to stay focused mentally."

The Chargers host defending SCISA state champion Hilton Head Prep on Friday, and Stoots said he'll know then if his team is a contender to unseat Hilton Head Prep. The Dolphins ended a three-game losing streak last weekend with a 45-15 conquest of Colleton Prep.

"It's a huge game because it's a region game, and it's against the defending state champion. We haven't done very well against them."

Stoots said he's seen improvement from his squad just about every week and the Chargers have been able to remain relatively healthy despite losing offensive lineman Mark Bisognani, who suffered a broken leg against the Cyclones.

Northwood has used a balanced high-octane offense that features running back Uriah Singleton. He opened the season with a two-carry, 96-yard performance against Richard Winn, and hasn't slowed down. He leads the Lowcountry with 1,057 yards and 15 touchdowns rushing on only 92 carries.

"He's done a great job, but we're fortunate to have several players who have performed well," Stoots said. "Uriah's getting a lot of yards as a result of their effort."

Brandon Stoots, the coach's son, gives the team balance. He completed 37 of 69 passes for 564 yards and five touchdowns. His favorites targets are Justine Tretera and Nick Eberhart. Tretera has 11 receptions for 226 yards and four scores, while Eberhart has 10 catches for 189 yards and a score.

Tretera also leads the team with 34 tackles, including nine solo.

Chabra commits

Wando all-state setter, Larz Chabra has verbally committed to play volleyball at Erskine College.

She is averaging eight assists per game, and totals 472 for the season for the Warriors, who are trying to return to the Class AAAA state championship. She has tallied more than 2,400 assists in her career.

"Larz is the quarterback of our team, she controls the offense and puts the ball in the hands of our hitters," coach Alexis Glover said. "She has been a very dedicated and determined player since she was in the ninth grade and is that same way today. She is an excellent leader. It has been my pleasure to coach Larz."

Reach Philip M. Bowman at pbowman@postandcourier.com or at 937-5592.