Franklin senior Beau Baker did a little bit of everything for the Grizzly Cubs his final season, including finding the end zone against Greenwood.
Daily Journal file photo
Former Franklin free safety Beau Baker finished his high school career with 294 tackles, but seems game for more.
And though Baker won’t feel the familiarity of wearing his Grizzly Cubs uniform as a participant in the 57th annual North/South All-Star Classic, he does get to bring along his helmet.
Of course, it might not be all that recognizable come kickoff, given the surplus of decals.
Baker is one of four players from Johnson County suiting up for the South team, joining defensive lineman Ryne Roehling from Class 6A state champion Center Grove, and two players instrumental in Whiteland advancing to the 5A championship game — offensive lineman Zach Yaryan and defensive lineman Mason Darlington.
The local representation continues with Center Grove coach Eric Moore being named to lead the South squad.
“I’m excited about that,” Baker said. “(Moore) seems like a great guy, and I feel he’ll be fun to play under.”
Neither Baker nor Roehling intends to play football at the collegiate level, instead focusing on the first steps of their respective careers.
Beginning in August, Baker plans to attend Millrite School/Ivy Tech in Monrovia in conjunction with his employment at Trivette Contracting; Roehling is going to major in actuarial science at Purdue.
That should make the days ahead that much more special for the duo as friendships are made and helmet decals exchanged (the latter an all-star tradition since the early 1990s).
“I’m very excited to be put in front of the community of Franklin, and to represent the football program,” said Baker, a 5-foot-9, 189-pounder who made 93 tackles as a senior and also contributed on offense and special teams.
“Franklin football is just like family to me. Everybody is always in a good mood, and are always there for you if you need them. But I’m looking forward to meeting some new people, to play one more time and try to do my best.”
Players and coaches report to the University of Indianapolis on Tuesday afternoon to check in, pose for team photos, practice and attend team meetings. Things ramp up Wednesday and Thursday, with each squad scheduled for two full-pads practices a day at Key Stadium.
“It’s really cool to get another opportunity to play, and to meet new people,” said the 6-3, 240-pound Roehling, who helped lead the Trojans to a third consecutive 6A title. “It’s pretty exciting to play with some of the best players in the state.
“The goal, obviously, is to win. But more so than ever, I’m just excited to have fun and play football.”
The 5-11, 270-pound Darlington, whose 73 tackles played a key role in the Warriors’ magical season, intends to play football at Indiana Wesleyan. Yaryan, who stands 6-2, 267, will do the same at Franklin College.
In the spring, Baker was informed he was a state all-star, making him the family’s second. His aunt, Michelle (Baker) Davis, also a Franklin graduate, broke ground as a member of the 1987 Indiana All-Star team in girls basketball.
“I got selected, and coach (Chris) Coll called me down to his office and told me,” Baker said. “Oh, I was pumped. I couldn’t wait to tell some people.”
IF YOU GO
North/South All-Star Classic
When: July 14, 7 p.m.
Where: Decatur Central High School
Admission: Adults $8 in advance, $10 at the gate, $11 online at Go Fan. Students $4 in advance, $5 at gate, $6 online
Local players: FS Beau Baker (Franklin), DT Mason Darlington and OL Zach Yaryan (Whiteland), DT Ryne Roehling (Center Grove)
South head coach: Eric Moore (Center Grove)
