PORT BYRON - Port Byron coach Mike Bass couldn't have picked a better way to open the 2003 football season.

It was his first game at the helm, and the team drubbed Tully 57-0 to start a three-game win streak and put the team just two wins shy of a post season berth.

But then came Cato-Meridian (also 3-0), and state-ranked Weedsport and LaFayette. Before they knew it, Port Byron was 3-3, and then lost its final regular season game to Hannibal 34-28.

It was a disappointing end for the Panthers, who had such high hopes to start the season.

"One of the problems that we had here last year is that this school hasn't seen a winning season in over a decade," Bass said. "I think that plays on our kids sometimes. We've got to shake these kids loose and convince them that it's okay to have a winning record out here."

Fortunately, Port Byron returns a artillery of offensive weapons to work with. Four-year varsity quarterback Ray Miles is coming off a successful season in which he led the OHSL Class C West in passing, completing 54 attempts for 788 yards.

"We're looking at Ray Miles to step up and be a team leader," Bass said. "He's being recruited so we're hoping he'll step forward and be a leader for us."

Miles has several receivers to choose from, including Nate Short, Andrew Perkins and Jeff Wingood. Last season, Perkins had 10 receptions for 159 yards to go along with seven touchdowns.

"Short, Wingood and Perkins were all first-year kids last year and now they have a year under their belts," Bass said. "Hopefully that will come into play this year."

Bass believes that his squad has the potential to put some numbers on the board, but only if the blockers can create space.

"We've got some speed and some talent," Bass said. "We're just hoping that these kids will have the toughness to compliment our skill players."

Staff Writer Michelle Prego can be reached at 253-5311, ext. 257 or at citizensports@lee.net