Published: October 28, 2009 08:32 am      

Residents root for River Kings

CLINTON — Clinton native Ronald Jones played with All-American Ken Ploen, watched Max Lynn’s 1944 and 1947 teams shut down opponents and observed the 1985 River Kings fight their way to a perfect season.

But under those Friday night light’s no Clinton team has performed better than Coach Lee Camp’s 2009 squad, Jones, 77, said.

“In all the years I've never seen a football team like we have this year,” the former Clinton High running back said.

The buzz about the River Kings (9-0) has radiated throughout town. While pumping gas the person next to you might have a Clinton High bumper sticker or the store sign may read “Good Luck River Kings.”

The water cooler, local tavern, dinner table or even at church the discussions about the River Kings can be more lively than talks about health care.

“It's not just the parents but the entire community has pledged support in one way or another,” said Clinton High Athletic Director Gary Lueders. “I know there are people who are coming out to football games this fall who haven't been to a game in several years.”

At the games, the support is apparent with fans in their black, red or white shirts. The “Black Outs,” “Red Outs” and “White Outs” have been a tremendous success.

Rob Cassidy, owner of Paul’s Discount, said he’s had a difficult time keeping River Kings clothing in stock.

“We ordered maybe 120 pieces that first week and we had to call within less than 24 hours and tell them we didn't have enough apparel,” Cassidy said, whose son Ryan is a starting linebacker. “Each week we order more thinking we didn't have enough the week before then we have to call again.”

Through nine games this year the River Kings looked like the varsity playing the JV. They’ve had dominating wins over Davenport North, West and Central. Also, a 45-0 shutout of Muscatine has Clinton residents wondering out load about a state championship.

First, the No. 3 team in the state has to take on Cedar Rapids Prairie tonight. To hopefully increase fans’ interest even more the school is selling “Finish Flags,” which are similar to the Pittsburgh Steelers “Terrible Towel,” for $3 each.

Lueders said the crowd support has brought a 12th-man type of feel for the team, but he said players have stayed focused on what’s happening between the lines.

“Our kids have really focused on winning the game and they let mom and dad worry about what T-shirt they're going to wear to the game Friday night,” he said.

If the River Kings win it would be their first postseason win since 1975.