Starr Reaction

Proving that great rivalries are based on respect, rather than animosity ... here are some comments from Birmingham coach Ed Croson to Monday's announcement that Troy Starr was leaving Taft High to join Urban Meyer's staff at Florida

``It sounds like a good opportunity for him. He's been around a lot of talent so he sure knows what it looks like,'' Croson told Daily News reporter Matthew Kredell.

`` You don't see that hardly at all. It's rare people make that kind of jump.''

``I think the Taft-Birmingham rivalry is bigger than Troy Starr and Ed Croson. Enough kids go to the schools who know each other that bragging rights are inherent in the game.

``There's still a lot of talent at Taft with their lower-level kids. Whoever gets that job, the cupboard is not bare. Taft will still be a force to deal with.