Skyline passing tournament draws teams from around the state

"The event was awesome," Spartan head coach Mat Taylor said. "We have so many parent volunteers who helped at the event. Through the leadership of the Skyline Gridiron Club it has turned into a well-oiled machine."

Skills and Drills featured a 7-on-7 passing tournament over two days. It differs from similar events in the area, however, in that scores are not kept and there is no official winner.

"It is all about getting better and coaching all of the kids and running your schemes," said Taylor, noting coaches love the format. "In competitive tournaments a lot of times you only go with the players who are deemed the starters at that time because you want to go with the hot hand."

Games took place on six different fields and lasted 30 minutes. Each team started at the 40-yard line and was only allowed to pass the ball. Defenses weren't allowed to pass rush. The format results in high-tempo style of play that allows quarterbacks and receivers to sharpen their routes and timing, while defenders work on reacting quickly to the ball.

"It is a great way to get good quality playing time for all players and to run your schemes," Taylor said. "It is also a great way for your team to develop your identity and start to develop that competitive edge."

The event also featured a lineman challenge and a kicking and punting competition. The Reporter is waiting on results from those events.

This year's tournament featured defending 4A champion Ferris from Spokane. Area teams Eastlake, Eastside Catholic and Issaquah were on hand, along with other big-name 4A schools Bothell and Curtis.