Former ball boys now battling to start as Dutch Fork quarterback

Growing up, Graeson Underwood and Ty Olenchuk spent many Friday nights on the Dutch Fork sideline as ball boys.

But this year, the sophomores are battling to see who will have the ball in his hands as they compete to be the starting quarterback for the defending Class 5A champions.

“It is a big step up. I used to be looking at these guys and thought it could be me in a few years,” Olenchuk said. “And now I have the chance.”

“Ever since we were in elementary school, we would come out and have a ton of fun with each other,” Underwood said. “Coach (Tom) Knotts invited us to be ball boys after one of his summer camps. And that is why I know so much about the offense, because he has kept me learning every single day.”

Both quarterbacks took their share of reps as the Silver Foxes held their first practice Friday.

Knotts said he isn’t opposed to playing two quarterbacks at the same time. He did it a few years ago when Derek Olenchuk, Ty’s older brother, and Clayton Little shared duties and sometimes rotated every play.

Underwood and Olenchuk will split reps during the scrimmages, which start on Thursday against Spartanburg. Knotts said a decision will be made prior to the opener at Independence (N.C.) on Aug. 18.

“It is always best when you have one quarterback, but we will get it figured out. Right now it is a work in progress. I think they both could master the position,” Knotts said. “They are both talented quarterbacks and both just sophomores. Sometimes they act like sophomores, but I am treating them more like seniors. I expect some big improvement when we get into a scrimmage situation.

“They are both progressing OK. Ty needs to learn a little more and Graeson’s knowledge is good but he needs to throw it like Ty is. They both offer a lot of good stuff.”

Underwood saw action in seven games last season behind Reese Nichols and threw 23 passes for 211 yards. Dutch Fork players and coaches say one of Underwood’s best qualities is his knowledge of the offense.

Olenchuk is better known for his prowess on the baseball diamond and has committed to play for Clemson. The sophomore had some people tell him to give up football and concentrate on baseball.

“I love football, and I’m just not going to quit football just so I can sit around and do baseball,” Olenchuk said. “I love both sports and want to enjoy playing both.”

Both quarterbacks are enjoying the competition and wouldn’t have a problem if they split time.

“Definitely the competition is there and we are battling. We bring different aspects,” Underwood said. “It matters that we work hard and push each other and not go against each other. That is important, making one another better.”

This story was originally published July 28, 2017 at 4:30 PM with the headline "Former ball boys now battling to start as Dutch Fork quarterback."