By Austin Marsman

Excitement was high heading into Friday night’s season opening game, and Martin’s home crowd got quite the treat, as the Clippers posted a blowout 50-0 victory over White Cloud.

Head coach Mike McGuire predicted the game would be “all about which team can execute” and that was an accurate forecast. White Cloud failed to match the Clippers’ offensive intensity for the entire game.

Payton Hunt, Clayton Geerlings, Logan Elkins, Travis Thorne, Carter Hilton, Rayne Torres and Cayden Curry all scored touchdowns for the Clippers. Alejandro Guevera kicked three extra points, missing one field goal attempt.

Sophomore quarterback Travis Thorne was credited for a strong arm, good for 224 passing yards and four touchdowns.

By halftime, the Clippers had racked up 36 points, creating a running clock situation for the entire second half. The Indians were plagued by multiple interceptions and turnovers, making difficult efforts for a successful offensive drive.

The venue for Friday night’s game saw its last home opener and it will serve its last season. Martin’s bond project includes plans for a new football complex, starting next fall.

The Martin junior varsity team defeated Lawrence 30-0. Next week, both Martin teams will travel to Holton, near Muskegon, to battle the Red Devils.

PHOTOS: (Courtesy of Austin Marsman):

Sophomore quarterback Travis Thorne (11) had a terrific debut, passing for more than 200 yards and four touchdowns.

Senior Austin Pillars (62) was a key member of the Clipper defense that posted a shutout.