ADVERTISEMENT

EPC South Previews 2018

Parkland

Last Season: 13-1 (District 11 Champions; defeated by St. Joseph’s Prep 49-14 in state quarterfinals)
Returning Starters: 5 (1 offense, 4 defense)
Head Coach: Tim Moncman (23-5 at Parkland; 101-41 overall; 5 District XI Championships, 1 state championship, 3 state finals)

Parkland is the six-time defending District 11 champion in the highest classification. Interestingly, last year was the first year in Parkland’s run they were the top seed in the District 11 tournament after winning from the 6, 3, 7, 2, and 3 seeds in the first five years of their run. The Trojans did so on the strength of a power running game and an efficient, veteran quarterback who could spread the ball around to a reliable receiving corps. And, as always, the played excellent defense under Tim Moncman. It was not the most talented of the Parkland teams (only running back/linebacker Jahan Worth and left tackle Kobe Thomas were Division I (FCS) recruits), but they dominated a down District 11 field.

This year, Parkland has to replace heavy graduation losses, particularly at the skill positions on offense. Parkland loses two-time All State performer, Jahan Worth, who ran for 1,433 yards and 33 TDs last year. Michael Ruisch was a two-year starter at quarterback and threw 485 of Parkland’s 516 passes in the last two seasons. At receiver, Parkland loses their three leading pass catches, headlined by 50 catches, 1,100 yards, and 9 TDs from Tyler Hays. Juan Salas and Cole Wetherhold both had more than 30 catches and 500 yards as well. From the offensive line, All State left tackle Kobe Thomas moves on, as do three other starters. Defensively, Worth moves on as Parkland’s career tackles leader, Xavier Huff was an All State defensive end, Juan Salas was an All EPC pick at linebacker as was Jeremy Sell at defensive tackle.

Position Groups (returning starters in bold)

Quarterback
Andrew Lee (Sr. 6’2 170)
Tanner Lewis (Jr. 6’2 185)
Michael McCarty (So. 6’2 190)

The battle replace Ruisch has a strong set of competitors. Lee was the primary back-up on the varsity team last fall (throwing the only 6 non-Ruisch/non-trick play passes of the season). Lee is a very good athlete – he’ll figure in at defensive back if doesn’t win the QB battle – and gives Parkland a QB run threat if he’s the guy. Lewis is more of a drop-back passer, who was the primary JV quarterback last year. Ideal frame, has a nice release, and throws a good deep ball. McCarty will be in the mix. He’s a really strong runner with a varsity build already as a sophomore. He needs to clean up his release, but he’s also playing with Jason Brader’s FASST Elite 7-on-7 team, which typically has a lot of the best skill guys in the Valley.

Running Backs
Joey Guida (Sr. 5’8 180)
Dominic Nelson (Sr. 5’8 180)
Christian Suriel (Sr. 5’8 180)

Guida and Nelson combined for 865 yards last season as secondary ballcarriers to spell Jahan Worth. They are carbon copies of each other, small, strong runners who can hide between the tackles amongst the immense Parkland offensive line. Guida is the third brother in his family to be a multi-year starter at Parkland, and both Nick and Frank played in state title games (Nick a linebacker on the 2002 state champs and Frank a linebacker on the 2015 runner ups).

Receivers/Tight Ends
Conner Bernecker (Sr. 6’2 185)
Nick Johnston (Jr. 5’9 150)
Christian Antry (Sr. 6’1 230)
Yorick Kumar (Sr. 6’0 165)
Dylan Rahm (Sr. 6’2 180)

Bernecker and Johnston both played a ton of snaps last year as 4th and 5th receivers and combined for 25 catches last season. Bernecker looks like their #1 going into the season, he’s tall and rangy and a threat on the outside. Johnston is a classic little slot receiver who can make guys miss in the open field. Kumar and Rahm look to me like the contenders for the third spot in Parkland’s offense. Kumar saw some times and made a catch last year as a junor. Rahm, a Brown lacrosse recruit, is a really good athlete with size and can work his way into the rotation. Antry is the tight end. He got a decent amount of snaps last year as Jeremy Sell’s primary backup at the position, and like Sell, is a big, physical guy who they will almost use as a third tackle in the run game.

Offensive Line
Adam Piston (Sr. 6’0 195)
Landon Pitts (Sr. 6’4 260)
Nicholas Dawkins (Jr. 6’4 270)
Michael Bennett (Sr. 6’5 285)
Gavin Downing (Sr. 6’3 305)

Although Piston is the only returning starter at the only projected starter under 260 pounds on the offensive line. Parkland’s run this decade has been on the strength of excellent offensive line play. While they are replacing four starters, they’ve been able to reload at the position. Pitts saw time as a primary back up last season and should slot in at left tackle to replace the All State Kobe Thomas. Bennett also saw time due to injury last season. Downing and Dawkins are both monstrously sized high school linemen and will give opponents real problems with their physicality.

Defensive Line
Zac Fitzgerald (Sr. 6’1 200)
Adam Piston (Sr. 6’0 195)

Christian Antry (Sr. 6’1 230)
Josh Mede (Jr. 6’0 185)
Nicholas Dawkins (Jr. 6’4 270)
Cory Border (Sr. 6’1 245)

Piston and Fitzgerald are returning starters here and both were key contributors to an excellent defense last year. Both are undersized, quick, athletic linemen, which has been a Parkland staple in this run, particularly at defensive end. Fitzgerald is a Florida Southern lacrosse recruit. Piston plays more tackle than end but can be a real problem for less athletic interior linemen. Antry will likely get first shot as an edge setter and run stopper at defensive end on the strong side. Parkland doesn’t like having linemen go both ways, particularly their bigger kids, but Dawkins might be too good to keep off of the field at defensive tackle.

Linebackers
Joey Guida (Sr. 5’8 180)
Christian Suriel (Sr. 5’8 180)
Dante Medlar (Jr. 6’1 175)
Alex Ocasio (Sr. 5’8 185)
Angel Ramos (Jr. 5’10 190)

Most of the linebacker snaps are wide open with the graduation of Jahan Worth and Mason Malozzi. Guida started at outside linebacker last year and is Parkland’s leading returning tackler. He runs well and has a good football IQ. Suriel also saw snaps as a backup last year and would be my guess for the other outside spot. What they don’t appear to have in this group is a thumper for the inside, which has been the backbone of their defense for years, with Rob Dvorcek, Nezar Haddad, Preston Saylor, Erik DiGirolamo, Jahan Worth passing the torch for years. Who steps up this year will be interesting.

Defensive Backs
Conner Bernacker (Sr. 6’2 185)
Austin Imler (Sr.)
Luke Dauberman (Jr. 5’9 165)
Chris Lessel (Jr. 5’9 165)
Jordan Lewis (So. 6’2 170)

Bernecker started at safety last season and was a key contributor on defense. He will be counted on to stabilize the back end of the defense. Imler saw some time at the other safety spot last season and in a nickelback role. Dauberman, Lessel, and Lewis all should compete for the cornerback spots and have big shoes to fill in replacing Juan Salas and Cole Wetherhold.

Expectations

Parkland, as usual, is the favorite going into the season. But they appear more vulnerable than in years past. Even when graduating a lot, they’ve had clear stars returning or stepping in to bigger roles. We’ll see if anybody emerges as an All State caliber player that the Trojans can bank on in tough games. They will be incredibly well coached, as always, and they’ve got tons of size on the offensive line. That gives you a puncher’s chance in high school always. They don’t have a ton of size around the rest of the field, but will rely on scheme and coaching to extend their streak to seven straight district titles.

SJP Schedule?

Just wondering who, if anyone, SJP will be playing Labor Day weekend. I know there was talk they would be going to Maryland to play St.Frances Academy, but the school website for SFA has them playing a Virginia team that weekend. (It also indicates there's been a lot of controversy about their football program.)

I assume they're still playing St. Peter's Prep and Good Counsel the following two weeks.

The Recruiting Zone (August 13th, 2018)

Find out what colleges are recruiting Garth Barclay, Dominic DeLuca, Draven Doebler, Steven Balulis, and Reed FitzSimmons now!

......................................................................................................

York Suburban defensive end Garth Barclay
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I definitely want to play sports in college and I hope I am blessed enough to have the opportunity to have it be football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’m the youngest of three, so I’ve been on more college tours than most 16-year olds. It’s really helping me prioritize the type of college I would hope to attend.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I started with Lauren’s First and Goal because it is such a great instructional camp as well as a great place to start developing relationships with multiple college coaches. I followed that with Penn State and Lafayette in June. In July, I went to University of Delaware and back to Penn State because at the June camp, the defensive coach suggested I come back to focus just on defense in July. I love camps. I find them both mentally and physically challenging and I learn something new from every coach I work with. I felt I got some positive feedback and am excited to show new game film with the coaches I met.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I never really had a favorite college growing up. Both my parents were DI athletes at Princeton in football and rowing and were involved in alumni activities, so I spent a lot of time on campus there.”

......................................................................................................

Derry Area athlete Dominic DeLuca
What schools have offered you for wrestling?
“VMI and Bucknell.”

How did the offers come?
“They both came over the phone.”

What were your first thoughts on the scholarships and the schools that offered?
“I’m thankful for the scholarships, but my recruitment is still open.”

What other colleges are recruiting you for wrestling?
“Pitt, Clarion, American University, George Mason, and others with interest.”

Are you leaning more towards wrestling in college?
“I haven’t decided if I’m going to wrestle or play football.”

What schools are recruiting you for football?
“For football, it is Army, Penn, Bucknell, Cornell, Towson, Youngstown State, Penn State, and some other DIIs.”

When do you want to make a final decision?
“I haven’t decided my final decision date. It will probably be around January.”

What are the biggest factors in your final decision?
“Academics, coaching relationship, facilities, and overall the best fit for me. I am excited to see what the future holds.”

......................................................................................................

Lewisburg linebacker Draven Doebler
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I mean if I get the opportunity to play football in college, yes.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“None as of now.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I’ve been on a few college visits this summer. I’ve been to Temple, Pitt, Bloomsburg, IUP, and West Chester.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I have not been able to make any camps.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up would definitely be Penn State. Them being so close to home plus having a great football team made me fall in love with them from an early age.”

......................................................................................................

Schuylkill Haven running back Steven Balulis
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would like to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Lycoming College has shown some interest.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Lycoming College and Lebanon Valley College.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“We went to Downingtown East this year for camp. Overall, we did very good against the bigger schools.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Notre Dame has always been my favorite college growing up.”

......................................................................................................

Central Valley linebacker Reed FitzSimmons
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I want to play college football at the highest level I can.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have not been recruited by any colleges yet, but I was ranked as the #21 player on Pennlive.com’s prospect list for PA 2020. I am hoping that this ranking will help me along the recruiting process.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have not made any trips.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I went to Indiana University of PA, Youngstown State, Pitt, and the Robert Morris University camps. I enjoyed all of them. There were a lot of coaches at each one and all of them gave great coaching that I look to use to improve on this season.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I’d have to say Notre Dame. I am Irish, and I did root for them as a kid.”

......................................................................................................

Q&A with Central Valley linebacker Reed FitzSimmons

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“The season is almost here, so I have been working to get myself into game playing shape. I’m trying to put on more muscle weight as well.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“I definitely feel like I have gotten stronger and I have improved all of my lifting totals from last season.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We have a Week zero game against Blackhawk. They are a Quad-A school, and I really like our chances on starting this season off with a win.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“We have a lot of potential to be very successful. We lost a lot of guys both offensively and defensively, but the new and younger guys have started to take advantage of the opportunity for playing time. I feel that we can be a good team when it all comes together.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“Thomas Jefferson. They were the Quad-A state champions last season, but I look forward to that game as a very nice challenge for our team.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I want to play college football at the highest level I can.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have not been recruited by any colleges yet, but I was ranked as the #21 player on Pennlive.com’s prospect list for PA 2020. I am hoping that this ranking will help me along the recruiting process.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have not made any trips.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I went to Indiana University of PA, Youngstown State, Pitt, and the Robert Morris University camps. I enjoyed all of them. There were a lot of coaches at each one and all of them gave great coaching that I look to use to improve on this season.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I’d have to say Notre Dame. I am Irish, and I did root for them as a kid.”

Q&A with Schuylkill Haven running back Steven Balulis

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“With my workouts, I’m just doing a lot of running and hitting the weight room to keep my strength up.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“I feel like I’ve improved my overall game. I feel faster, stronger, and I am getting better each day.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open up with Jim Thorpe. Overall, they are very talented and have a lot of good players back.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“As of right now, it’s hard to tell. We just want to dominate this season.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“North Schuylkill will be the toughest game on our schedule. They have a lot of young talent back.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would like to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Lycoming College has shown some interest.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Lycoming College and Lebanon Valley College.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“We went to Downingtown East this year for camp. Overall, we did very good against the bigger schools.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Notre Dame has always been my favorite college growing up.”

Q&A with Lewisburg linebacker Draven Doebler

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“As of late, we have been in the weight room four days a week and at the same time have been putting in scheme just getting ready for the upcoming season.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“Out of anything, I would definitely say my strength. Coach Moyers’s workout regimen has drastically increased my strength and will definitely help me this season.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open up the season with Selinsgrove. I know almost every year Coach Hicks puts together one heck of a squad. Their athleticism makes me want to compete with them, especially after scrimmaging them for the past couple years.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“I believe all the pieces are finally going to fall together this season. This is the biggest group of seniors we’ve had in a number of years and we’re definitely ready. I think the sky’s the limit this season.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
"I would say the toughest game on our schedule would definitely have to be Central Columbia because they return a good number of starters and a leading rusher."

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I mean if I get the opportunity to play football in college, yes.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“None as of now.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I’ve been on a few college visits this summer. I’ve been to Temple, Pitt, Bloomsburg, IUP, and West Chester.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I have not been able to make any camps.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up would definitely be Penn State. Them being so close to home plus having a great football team made me fall in love with them from an early age.”

Q&A with Derry Area athlete Dominic DeLuca

What schools have offered you for wrestling?
“VMI and Bucknell.”

How did the offers come?
“They both came over the phone.”

What were your first thoughts on the scholarships and the schools that offered?
“I’m thankful for the scholarships, but my recruitment is still open.”

What other colleges are recruiting you for wrestling?
“Pitt, Clarion, American University, George Mason, and others with interest.”

Are you leaning more towards wrestling in college?
“I haven’t decided if I’m going to wrestle or play football.”

What schools are recruiting you for football?
“For football, it is Army, Penn, Bucknell, Cornell, Towson, Youngstown State, Penn State, and some other DIIs.”

When do you want to make a final decision?
“I haven’t decided my final decision date. It will probably be around January.”

What are the biggest factors in your final decision?
“Academics, coaching relationship, facilities, and overall the best fit for me. I am excited to see what the future holds.”

Q&A with York Suburban defensive end Garth Barclay

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“My focus since the end of last season was to put on weight and gain strength. Two days after the last game until the start of lacrosse season, I worked out at least five days a week with Coach Ali Johnson who also owns Max-I-Mus Fitness. He has professional football experience, so he understands how to tailor my workouts to give me the maximum benefit as it relates to football. I had to back off that routine during lacrosse season but was back at it as soon as lacrosse was over. During the summer, I will sometimes have three workouts a day. I start at 7:30 with Head Coach Andrew Loucks at the high school, go to Maximus Fitness midday, then practice with my tournament lacrosse team in the evenings. Through mid-July, I spent most weekends playing lacrosse tournaments or football camps. Now I’m back to training five days a week doing what I can to make an impact this season. I’ve gained at least 30 pounds and hope to add more this month.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“What most people would notice is my increased size, but what I’ve really worked hard on is increasing my football intelligence. Coach Loucks is working with me trying to constantly improve it. I’m also fortunate to have an older brother playing DI football. When he comes home, he’s teaches me what he’s learned on the college field.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“York Catholic is our season opener. I always wish we played them later in the year when both teams have worked out their early season kinks. We have a great rivalry and I think it would be a fantastic late season game.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“We have a great group of guys. If everyone works up to their potential and puts in the maximum effort, we could go places this year.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“The next game is always the toughest. One game at a time, one week at a time can build a great season.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I definitely want to play sports in college and I hope I am blessed enough to have the opportunity to have it be football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’m the youngest of three, so I’ve been on more college tours than most 16-year olds. It’s really helping me prioritize the type of college I would hope to attend.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I started with Lauren’s First and Goal because it is such a great instructional camp as well as a great place to start developing relationships with multiple college coaches. I followed that with Penn State and Lafayette in June. In July, I went to University of Delaware and back to Penn State because at the June camp, the defensive coach suggested I come back to focus just on defense in July. I love camps. I find them both mentally and physically challenging and I learn something new from every coach I work with. I felt I got some positive feedback and am excited to show new game film with the coaches I met.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I never really had a favorite college growing up. Both my parents were DI athletes at Princeton in football and rowing and were involved in alumni activities, so I spent a lot of time on campus there.”

Mid State Football Top 20 (1-5)


(All Classifications)

Here is information and thoughts on Mid State football, meaning District 3 teams and a few relevant D4 and D6 teams, having to cut off “Mid State” somewhere. Hard breaking it down with geographic absolutes. So here goes with some best guesstimates, as always, just for the fun of it.

1 State College: Mid Penn Commonwealth, 6A, 10-3
Boo-coo bodies back from last year’s 10-3 team that lost to Pine Richland 49-21 in the quarterfinals last year. They should be improved this year with a more seasoned Qb in senior Tommy Friberg (63%, +2000yds), #2 and #3 receivers back and many experienced running backs led by junior Isaiah Edwards (6-0 200 54/542), Cohen Russell (5-8, 170, 34/294) and Brady Dorner (Rb/Qb 5-11, 180, jr, 38/304). No lack of speed or experience with Keaton Ellis (5-11, 165, sr), Kyle Domico (5-8, 165, jr) and Dresyn Green (5-8, 150, so) returning. Played a lot of youth last year. BIG numbers return on D; over 500 returning tackles, 297 on the DL. Plenty of athletes, speed and are never lacking for size along the lines. Like last year, they’ll get off to a fast start (5-0 ly, 6-0 this?) unless St. Augustine-NJ (5-5) gets them in game 2 at Richland before back-to-back trips to Harrisburg to play the Cougars and Central Dauphin. Look out Lions as Harrisburg and Rams should have their people in place by then coming off big rebuild/reloads.

2 Cumberland Valley: Mid Penn Commonwealth, 6A, 10-3
The Eagles graduated most of their skill off a 10-3 outing that lost to Manheim Townnship 24-21 in the District 3 final. But they return Qb Pessinger who can zing it as needed (14/21/226 vs Township in playoffs) probably to TE Stone Huffman 6-2, 225 for starters and a host of experienced receivers. Maximos Dell’Anno (6-1, 190, so), Connor Madison (5-10, 195, Jr, FB?) and Kamil Jackson (6-2, 180) will likely move into HB slots. DTs Chase Myers (6-2, 300), Quincy Thomas (5-9, 225), DE Stone Hoffman (6-2, 225), ILB Jake Hart (5-9, 180) plus alternates will give the D a decent look. The schedule is always challenging in the Commonwealth, opening at home with McDevitt (non-conf) who’s locked and loaded again, then 3 straight road trips to Central York who has people back and a strong Qb, Coatesville who many are favoring to win 6A followed by rival Central Dauphin at Landis. Game #5 is against Harrisburg in Mechanicsburg where the crowd will be SRO and belligerent….looking for some Cougar meat after last year’s embarrassing 56-14 loss in the Burg. Cougars have to cross the river this time so look for a war with Chapman packed. East Shore vs West Shore!

3 Manheim Central: Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2, 5A, 13-1
Like Berks and McDevitt, Central brings back a load of talent that lost to Gateway 31-28 in the semifinal after knocking off Governor Mifflin 30-29 in the district final. So make that 17 district titles for the Barons. 17! That will happen with a record of 55-13 in district playoff games. They’re set in the backfield with Qb Evan Simon (2599, 60%, 29/10) and Rb Tyler Flick with 1489 yards back. Most of receiver corps is gone but a typical beefy Baron line returns to batter some heads again. Three senior starters return in Tyler Dougherty (6-0 275), Brent Wolgemuth (6-0 268) and Josh Painter (6-1 280). Half the D returns led by LB Landan Moyer (93 tackles) and Dougherty going 2-way at DT. They could get off fast at Susquehanna Township (super young last year) and Hempfield (big grad losses especially Qb) then home to fierce rival Warwick who they edged last year 35-27.

4 Berks Catholic: Berks Inter-County Section 2, 4A, 13-1

The Saints ripped through the Berks Inter County-2 again, this time by a cumulative score of 195-21. Right, time to move up to the Berks-1 until a glance at last year’s schedule shows they bounced their reps Exeter 48-7 and Weiser 47-0. And they pounded McDevitt-Harrisburg 45-24 in the postseason before losing to Cathedral in the 4A semifinal 42-24. But this year sees them adjusting, opening with Reading rival Exeter again, then home to Central Dauphin and McDonogh-MD (beat LaSalle and Malvern last year) before traveling to Malvern Prep after a trip to Boyertown. Heck of a schedule upgrade taking on those three. Senior Qb Terrance Derr (6-2, 195, sr 1098, 63%) is back with most of the backfield (excluding Rb/S Cooper Lutz 1528yds-Syracuse) and 6 starters on defense. DE Kyle Roberts (6-1 245 sr), DL Luke Painton (6-6, 230, jr) C/NG Nico Myers(6-2, 270, sr) and LB/RB Brandon George (6-4, 240, sr, 66 tackles) head the defense. Early homers to CD and McDonogh will set the tone. Unfortunately the merger with the Lancaster Lebanon League was turned down. Here we would have seen Governor Mifflin, Berks Catholic, Exeter and others play Wilson, Township, Manheim Central, Cocalico and others. Too bad. But it did give us BC’s exciting schedule this year which provides the competition they couldn’t get in the Berks-2.

5 Bishop McDevitt: Mid Penn Keystone, 4A, 10-3
They are absolutely loaded with Qb Chase Diehl back after throwing for 2937 yards with a 70% completion rate, along with Rb CJ Reyes-Diggs (6-1, 190, 592) and his principal receivers who have nearly 2000 yards between them; Nazir Burnett at 1118 and T’nyis Becker at 878. DT Carter Christopher (6-3 290 sr) anchors a line and defense that returns many starters (both lines) and alternates. The Crusaders had non-competitive losses last year to Berks Catholic 45-24 in the West semifinal (district title) and Harrisburg 35-0 and Cumberland Valley 49-23 in the regular season, but look to be more this season with big numbers returning. We’ll know in the opener at Cumberland Valley then at Middletown game 3. McDevitt, CV and the Raiders are 3 of the top teams in the Harrisburg area. Thereon they should roll although Cedar Cliff game 5 could be a wild one as the Colts have some giddy-up this year.

Home + Away Game Uniforms, Practice Jersey and Duffel Bag $97

Update your programs entire look this off season. Get two sets of top quality custom designed 9 panel NCAA game quality uniforms for $82 total. Lock in your order before 08/10/2018 to take advantage of launch sale pricing on our Matrix Series uniforms.

Custom QI-Core Matrix Viper Custom Football Uniform:
One Custom B34 QI-Core Viper Matrix Football Jersey
One Custom B34 QI-Core Viper Matrix Football Pants
One Pair Custom Football socks
1 year warranty
Minimum order 15
$41 (50% due to produce and ship, remaining balance can be paid in interest free payments over 12 months)
https://brand34sports.com/shop/b34-qi-core-matrix-viper-custom-team-football-uniforms/

Matrix Viper Evo Football Team Kit
2 Custom B34 QI-Core Viper Matrix Football Jerseys
2 Pairs Custom B34 QI-Core Viper Matrix Football Pants
2 Pairs Custom Football socks
1 Pro Star Football Practice Jersey
1 Custom Duffel Bag
1 year warranty
Minimum order 15
$97 (50% due to produce and ship, remaining balance can be paid in interest free payments over 12 months)
https://brand34sports.com/shop/b34-qi-core-matrix-viper-evo-team-football-kit/

Mid State Football Top 20 (6-10)

(All Classifications)
Here is information and thoughts on Mid State football, meaning District 3 teams and a few relevant D4 and D6 teams, having to cut off “Mid State” somewhere. Hard breaking it down with geographic absolutes. So here goes with some best guesstimates, as always, just for the fun of it.

6 Harrisburg: Mid Penn Commonwealth, 6A, 11-1

Tremendous grad losses of extraordinary talent losing Micah Parsons (DE/RB), receiver Shaquon Anderson-Butts and Ronald Kent, and Qb Jahmir Wilkerson (2188, 60%) from a team that beat Imhotep 33-14, McDevitt 35-0, Central Dauphin 48-10, State College 51-28 and Cumberland Valley 48-14. That was their best offense ever (before John Harris-Wm. Penn merger; Harris High was awesome!) at 47ppg and best D since George Chaump’s 2007 12-2 team that allowed 12ppg. Tough replacing Qb’s under rated arm and of course impossible replacing Parsons. Receiver corps wipeout (principal receivers 95/1881yds) but great depth there and at Rb where experience returns. The D returns real depth and starters at linebacker headed by D1 talent Andre White (6-3, 220, sr, 89 tackles), Jai Burney (5-9, 210, sr, 64 tackles) and Deonte Nichols (6-1, 210, sr, 28 tackles). Tymere Evan (5-10, 240, sr) and Dasean Grady (6-3, 315, sr) will plug the line. Super quick Rynell Gantt (5-10, 170, sr) returns at S/WR. Count on their finding a Qb who can run and manage a game! They open at home to Coatesville who some have said will trounce them. Coatesville is good, maybe real good, but shouldn’t get cocky coming to Harrisburg. Then it’s Reading (new coach) before a dangerous Cedar Cliff team and rival CD East where both return their Qbs. Thereon it gets even nastier against Cumberland Valley, Central Dauphin and State College. Cougars have some nice parts but a tricky slate could trip them up.

7 Middletown: Mid Penn Capital, 3A, 14-1
The Blue Raiders got to the state finals the last two years losing to Quaker Valley 41-24 last year and Beaver Falls 30-13 the year before. Graduation took a chunk out of a stellar defense that allowed 12 and 9ppg the last two years with a winning margin of 41-12 in 2016 and 41-9 last year. But, they return one of the better backs in central PA in Jose Lopez (6-0, 195) who motored for 1749 yards last year through 12 games til injured (knee), missing Scranton Prep, Conwell Egan and Quaker Valley. Brady Fox (+1000 rush yards) had another strong year but graduated. Besides Lopez, they return Qb Scott Ash (5-11, 175, sr) and 4 of his lineman; C-OG/NG Joe Gusler (6-1 275), OG/DT Cole Senior (6-1, 230, 87 tackles) and OT/DE Ethan Miller (6-3 250 sr), Morgan Billman (6-0 230 sr) or Brock Welsh (6-3 240 so) at OG. Believe Trayvon Joseph is back at TE; DE last year. Caught Raiders once to see Welsh, then a freshman just bulldoze people. Also return some key D people in DTs Senior, Welsh, Colin Graham (6-0 260 jr) and DE Adonis Taveras (6-3 230 sr). Gage Radabaurgh (5-11 180 sr) returns at linebacker. They open on the road to Lower Dauphin and Northern before the monster home opener when they step up in class for a super rare game against Bishop McDevitt. Get there early!

8 Cocalico: Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2, 5A, 10-2
Best kept secret in District-3 last year, kicking some serious ass especially vs Governor Mifflin winning 42-21. This is the same Mifflin team that beat Harrisburg in the postseason. But losses to district kingpin Manheim Central, 17-7 in the regular season and 21-20 in the playoffs (2nd round) did them in. Like Perkiomen Valley in District-1, their losses came to one team. They return much of the team this year that scored 44ppg with a nasty defense that allowed 13ppg. So they should be good again but possibly drop some from last year’s D level where 10 starters returned. But, if the O trends up, look out! Dual threat Qb Noah Palm is back (6-0, 190, sr) after rushing for 1145 yards and passing for another 542. If you like teams that run the ball you’ll love the boys from Denver who run it 89% of the time. Old school!

9 Central Dauphin: Mid Penn Commonwealth, 6A, 6-5

Having 6 double digit winning seasons the preceding 7 years (76-17 W/L) along with a Quad-A state title in 2011 and deep tradition made last year’s 6-5 outing a real shocker. Their worst year prior to that was the 5-5 campaign in 2000. But they still managed to beat Wilson and Cumberland Valley with their worst defense (21ppg) since 2003’s squad that allowed 23 before losing to Manheim Township 28-0 in the 1st round. You can’t allow 21ppg in the Mid Penn Commonwealth.
That should improve with senior DLs Jaden Baylor (6-4 298), Gabe Bollinger (6-3 290), Willie Schuler (6-3 225) and Carter LaPorte (6-2 230) back. They have a number of well-regarded sophomore lineman in the wings and should be solid at LB with Adam Burkhart (FB/LB 5-11 220 sr), Kyle Minnich (6-1 210 sr) and Mason Griffith (6-1 225 sr). Played many sophomores last year, DB Elijah Vargas (5-9 175), DL Josh Krasevic (6-3 255), LB Jacob Hicks (5-10, 190)), Nick Chimienti (6-1 175) at CB, Nick Hoffman (6-2 195) at SS/QB, et al. It’s a big rebuild on offense with enough D to allow its development. The schedule is unforgiving (scrimmage at Dallastown) opening at home to Wilson then at Berks Catholic before coming home to Manheim Township and Cumberland Valley. Phew!

10 Wilson: Lancaster-Lebanon Section 1, 6A, 8-4
Last season was the worst for Coach Dahms since taking over the program in 2006, and first year since 2007 they didn’t have a double digit winning season. So it was 9 straight going 109-14 from 08 to 16. Last season saw their 68 game conference winning streak (LL-Section One games) snapped, losing at Manheim Township who won the LL crown and district. Wilson also lost in the 2nd round to Township 28-14. And they had sizeable grad losses including Qb Connor Uhrig’s 1668yds (64%, 15/6), their all-time leading rusher Ignacion Reynoso’s 1561 yard and 272 yards receiving. All totaled he amassed 4778 career ry and 79 Tds. Many DLs and LBs grad but they return a core in OG Nate Keller (6-0, 260, jr), their top lineman, Mike Kline (6-3, 270, sr), MLB Nick Johnson (6-0, 230, sr, 78 tackles) and LB Isaiah Gilmore (5-11, 175, sr). Historically the Bulldogs have good defense and are a “factory” cranking out quality Qbs. The D allowed 19ppg last year and 20 the year before which is way off the charts for their typical 10-12ppg yield. It was a disappointing even under achieving season given the talent returning where they went 3-3 against “quality”, losing to Central Dauphin, Governor Mifflin and Manheim Township while defeating Hempfield, Spring Ford and Red Lion. Not a good year. They open this year at Central Dauphin, then home for their #1 rival Governor Mifflin followed by Spring Ford then a tough one at Manheim Central where the Barons will be out to make a statement.

Mid State Football Top 20 (11-15)

(All Classifications)
Here is information and thoughts on Mid State football, meaning District 3 teams and a few relevant D4 and D6 teams, having to cut off “Mid State” somewhere. Hard breaking it down with geographic absolutes. So here goes with some best guesstimates, as always, just for the fun of it.

11 Williamsport: Wyoming Valley-Division 1, 6A, 7-4
Should be improved with Qb veteran Joe Fagnano returning after a strong year, completing 212 of 327 passes at 65% for 2468 yards. His Td-Pick ratio was 30/4. Nice! His top two receivers also return in Marcus Simmons (72/790) and Colin Espisito (30/370). Good luck keeping up with these water bugs with Simmons at 5-8, 145 and Esposito at 5-6, 135. The line returns Ben Garverick (6-2 270 sr), Ethan Williamson (6-3 285 jr) and Tucker Kreisher (6-2 275 sr). But the big news is the return of one of PA’s top backs in Treyson Potts (5-10, 185 Minnesota commit) who missed all of last year with an ACL after rushing for over 2000 yards as a sophomore. Without him last year they scored 36ppg but allowed 32. This year they don’t see Delaware Valley or Wyoming Valley West til the 2nd half of the season meaning they should get off to a strong start against Central Mountain, Altoona, Berwick, Hazelton and Crestwood.

12 CD East: Mid Penn Commonwealth, 6A, 6-5
Should be a factor (not a player) with Qb back and most of last year’s young defense that will have to improve from 34ppg. They were in the negatives everywhere with an offense averaging 20ppg resulting in losses to Harrisburg, State College, Cumberland Valley (twice) and McDevitt by an average score of 49-9. But the season was a huge success by East High standards with a 35-31 upset of rival sister school Central Dauphin; Army-Navy type rivalry. The schedule is difficult, opening with Manheim Township and Lower Dauphin. Then comes the road game in White Plains (Above Yonkers, Westchester County) against AAA and NYCHSFL (New York Catholic HS FB League) state champ Archbishop Stepinac (10-2). Stepinac’s losses were to Iona Prep-Long Island and Cardinal Hayes in the Bronx. For linkage purposes, Stepinac beat Canisius 49-28 in the state final who then lost to McDevitt-Harrisburg 28-21 and Cathedral-Erie 31-20.

13 Governor Mifflin: Berks Inter County Section 1, 5A, 12-2
Suffered heavy grad losses especially RB Isaac Ruoss who set a school record of 1789 rush yards and 29 Tds, QB Kam Wolfe’s 1340 passing yards, lineman of the year Ben Gates (-11, 230), LB Niles Tanis et al. But so what, it’s Mifflin with their 132-35 won-loss since the last losing season in 2003. They began well last year trouncing West York’s slumping program 48-13 then knocking off bitter “Reading” rival Wilson 21-14, with the Mustangs from the suburbs of Shillington on the south side and Wilson from the western burbs in West Lawn. Next up was Cocalico (then 4A) from Denver who administered a wake-up call putting a 42-21 hurtin on em. That was all the wake-up call they needed going on to rout the ultimate 6A district champ Manheim Township the following week 49-14. High School football! They went on the beat York High Bearcats (9-2, Y-A co-champs) then stunned the state beating Harrisburg (11-1) 26-14 before succumbing to Manheim Central 30-29 in the district final on a missed xp. Central went on to lose to Gateway in the semi 31-28. With most of last year’s key players gone, the Mustangs are looking at a major reload. And the schedule doesn’t help opening at Cedar Cliff in Camp Hill, then Wilson before the home opener to Cocalico. We’ll know how the reload went after those 3 games.

14 Manheim Township: Lancaster-Lebanon, Section 1, 6A, 12-2
The Blue Streaks won’t repeat as the district champ this year with the loss of dual threat Qb Luke Emge who passed for 1880 yards and ran for another 465. Compounding things, running back Grayson Sallade is gone taking 1146 rush yards with him. Offensively it was their best ever at 42ppg and their best defense at 15pp since 2007’s 11-2 team that allowed 10. It was quite a year beating both Central Dauphin and Wilson twice and Cumberland Valley 24-21 for districts before losing to Pine Richland. They graduated most of their key starters but played many so they’ll have experience returning to fill many positions although Emge was special. This year sees them opening at Central Dauphin East, then home to Dallastown before going back to Landis to play Central Dauphin. They’ll cruise at Penn Manor then back into the fire playing the 5A bad ass Cocalico at home followed by Wilson, also at home. East High Panthers, D-town and Cocalico are new on the schedule.

15 Dallastown: York-Adams 1, 6A, 8-3
Finished with a flurry going 5-1, but losing to Hempfield 31-28 in the 1st round. They return one of the top backs in central PA in Nyzair Smith (5-10, 180, sr) with 2097 rush yards last year. 6-3, 195 sr John Cook got significant time at Qb (10 games 10/19 155yds). Cook will be glad to see Raymond Christas (6-1, 240, sr) back at center. They scored 38 a game allowing 21 with heavy D losses. But that never stopped anyone in the York-Adams League where it’s fun and gun time when Smith isn’t dazzling them. D-town could surprise despite graduation losses. This year’s schedule starts off with 3 LL-Section One teams; Hempfield, Manheim Township and Penn Manor, before going to the Mustang Corral at South Western, then home to Northeastern’s Bobcats with their impressive young quarterback.

Mid State Football Top 20 (16-20)

(All Classifications)
Here is information and thoughts on Mid State football, meaning District 3 teams and a few relevant D4 and D6 teams, having to cut off “Mid State” somewhere. Hard breaking it down with geographic absolutes. So here goes with some best guesstimates, as always, just for the fun of it.

16 Cedar Cliff: Mid Penn Keystone, 5A, 7-3
A 5-0 finish following a 28-21 loss to McDevitt suggests they could surprise, especially as they were a young team last year at many positions. They finished the year 4-2 in the Mid Penn Keystone, a game behind Lower Dauphin and 2 behind McDevitt, averaging 33ppg, allowing 19. Had dual Qbs in Chris Dare and Bobby Whalen although it appears Dare could get the nod based on finishing strong completing 20 of 28 for 230 yards against McDevitt. Whalen is the dual threat and a fine receiver so we’ll see how it shakes out. Return a lot of the D led by MLB Donovan Bell (5-11, 215, sr, 112 tackles), LBs Brennan Quigley (6-0, 185, sr, 48) and Kevin Lusk (5-11, 200, sr, 65), Elijah Ikeda (5-9, 185, so, 24), DE Justin Resto (6-2, 235, sr, 42), SS Bobby Whalen (6-1, 175, sr, 38) and CB Pedro Clinton (5-9, 170, jr, 14). Isaiah Tirado (5-8, 240, sr, 21) returns to the DL. The schedule is brutal opening at home to Governor Mifflin, followed by consecutive road games at Cocalico, Harrisburg, Hollidaysburg and conference rival McDevitt.

17 Central York: York-Adams 1, 6A, 6-4
6-2 190 senior Qb Cade Pribus (+1784 passing, +528 rushing), a pile of last year’s running backs and a thin defense will have them exciting again! Pribus has offers from Delaware and Albany. They return some people up front in DEs Reid Hershner (6-3, 190, sr) and Ian McNaughton (6-1, 210, jr) plus DTs Devin Gaffney (6-2, 240, sr) and Ben Barkowski (6-5, 285, sr). They lost the York-Adams best DB with Rodrick Farley, graduating for Clarion University after transferring in from powerful Skyline in Dallas-TX. But they should get off to a nice start excepting Cumberland Valley game 2 after opening with city rival West York, then CV, Hempfield and Red Lion. Both Hempfield and Red Lion lost quality at Qb, and with New Oxford and South Western following, they could be 5-1 and cruising unless they slip at Dallastown, Northeastern or York High closing out.

18 Exeter Township: Berks Inter County Section 1, 5A, 7-4
Coach Matt Bauer turned a sluggish program around since coming onboard in 2009 following two consecutive winless seasons. Prior to ’09, he was an assistant at the school for 6 years in charge of LBs/RBs and Co D/C before a 1 year stint at Governor Mifflin as the DL Coach. This D background showed up immediately, trimming 8 points from their 2008 yield of 38ppg and in subsequent years, dropping to 23ppg in 2010. 2011’s team allowed 15. Following two losing years it’s been all winning seasons, amassing a 57-22 record. No one’s calling them a monster program but they have become consistent, showing toughness and class last year after consecutive losses to Spring Ford, Berks Catholic and Mifflin by reeling off 5 straight to make the playoffs where they were defeated by Harrisburg.
At 24ppg, last year was the worst defense of the Bauer era. And that was with a supportive offense at 31ppg. Gone from that offense are Qb Brandon Unterkoefter (1392, 54%) who importantly rushed for 1138 yards. The other top two running backs also graduated, Gage Moran and Nick Sarangoulis with 1008 and 638 yards respectively. Jack Fiucci’s 512 yards in receptions also graduated. The line will miss Dylan Niedrowski (6-5, 295) who is off to UConn. So it’s looking
thin although the D returns DT Dave Filippello (6-4, 250, sr), 3 LBs and their FS. Year in and year out, Coach puts together a massive line. Schedule wise it’s shaky with Berks Catholic in the opener at Exeter followed by Boyertown, a trip to the Mid Penn to play Lower Dauphin (that’s different!) followed by Spring Ford away. Looks like a .500 season but who knows what comes up from the underclasses.

19 Selinsgrove: Heartland Athletic Conference Division-1, 4A, 11-3
The Seals had a hell of a year which is nothing new for a program that won a state title in 2009 (16-0, beat Manheim Central in final 10-7) and had but one losing season in over 20 plus years. They came close to big things again last year, losing 33-32 on a failed 2-pt conversion (pressured pass fell short) with .11 left in the quarterfinal against Bethlehem Catholic. The Hawks went on to lose to Imhotep who lost to Cathedral Prep in the final. The big loss for this season is the graduation of record setting Qb Logan Leiby who completed 64% of passes for 3782 yards. His Td to Pick ratio was 42-15. The receiver corps was gutted with 3112 of their 3782 yards graduating. 5 starters return to the defense with RB Joe Kahn ((6-0, 190, sr, 1114yds) and WR Joshua Nylund (5-10, 180, jr, 30/519) back on offense and defense. Coy Bastian (6-0, 175, so) looks to be the new Qb after playing in 8 games last year as a freshman. The HAC-1 is wide open with Shikellamy and Jersey City graduating their Qbs and big numbers from good squads where Shik beat the Seals in the regular season before losing to them in the post season. While Jersey Shore’s tough D which allowed 12ppg wasn’t quite enough, losing 14-7 in districts to the Seals. Too bad they don’t play more Harrisburg area teams being a mere 47 miles upriver.

20 Red Lion: York-Adams 1, 6A, 8-3
A 1-3 finish ruined a 7-0 start losing to fellow York Adams members Central York and Dallastown before bowing out in the 1st round against Wilson. LB Elijah Workinger (6-2, 245, sr, 98 tackles) is the center piece to their defense, joined by fellow LBs Ben Hornberger (6-1, 180, sr), Quentin Lyons (6-3, 190, sr) and Kurt Keough (6-0, 175, sr). Jared Miller (6-0, 230, sr) returns up front. But they’ll sorely miss Qb Zach Throne’s 1350 passing yards (67%) and 1523 on the ground. Big Zerick Nease (6-5, 265) will also be missed on the line and on spot duty on defense. So while they’re greatly reduced, an opening slate of J. P. McCaskey (Lancaster High), and Waynesboro at home, could get them off to a good start before heading to Chambersburg where the Trojans have gone 3-37 the last 4 years. Conversely, since taking over in 2013, Coach Jesse Shay turned things around at Red Lion immediately, going from a 1-9 season to a 4-6 outing, then cranking out consecutive winning seasons since then.

The Recruiting Zone (August 6th, 2018)

Find out what colleges are recruiting Austin Millar, Chase Diehl, Shane Kozick, Isaac Rumery, and Dylan Farronato now!

......................................................................................................

Danville defensive back Austin Millar
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I’m definitely going to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“The schools recruiting me right now are Millersville, Mansfield and Misericordia, but everything is open in my recruiting.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I think Millersville has been recruiting me the hardest as of now. I just went to a camp there and we are working out a date for a gameday visit.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I’ve been to a bunch of college camps such as Clemson, Millersville, Penn State and more.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“This summer, I’ve only went to Millersville and that was a good camp. I love how much energy their coaches have and the brand-new turf field they’ve just made.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Alabama just because when I was little I always used to like the first ranked team. Lately, I’ve been getting into Penn State football mostly because my mom went there.”

......................................................................................................

Bishop McDevitt quarterback Chase Diehl
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, football. I’ve been working for it since the age of five. I enjoy playing basketball for fun, but I’m not good enough for college level.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Virginia Military Institute, Bucknell, Lehigh, Princeton, Robert Morris, and some others. I enjoy getting to know each and every school, and what they have to offer.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“VMI.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Not officially, but I spent a lot of time on the road this spring touring campuses and talking with coaching staffs. This summer, I attended a few college camps.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I attended Temple, Virginia Military Institute, Lehigh, Robert Morris, and Saint Francis. They went very well, and I had a lot of great feedback. I enjoyed competing at these camps and working with the staffs.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Not really. I enjoy watching certain players from a bunch of teams.”

......................................................................................................

Danville safety Shane Kozick
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I have kept an open mind about playing football in college. I will see how my senior year goes and what kinds of looks I get.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have been contacted by Harvard, New Hampshire, Bucknell, and multiple DII and DIII schools.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have visited Bucknell University and they are my top choice to go for school.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Bucknell has always been my favorite school because two of my family members graduated from there and I am a fan of their basketball and football teams.”

......................................................................................................

Freeport safety Isiah Bauman
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes. I love both basketball and football, but I have settled in to football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Holy Cross, RMU, Temple, Harvard, Columbia, St. Francis, Vanderbilt, Boston College, IUP, and Bucknell.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Columbia and Boston College.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Columbia.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“There were no camps. I wanted to work on strength and speed.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Miami and Ohio State.”

......................................................................................................

Lewisburg safety Dylan Farronato
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I have the intentions on playing football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have gotten a lot of interest from many Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Penn, and Brown. Also, Coach Tim Banks from Penn State has consistently been in contact with me. Lastly, Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Davidson for sure. I receive letters from them weekly, if not daily. The coaching staff is always in contact with me through social media or my cell phone all the time.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I’ve made many trips. I visited all the schools I listed above along with Buffalo, UMASS, Dartmouth, Lafayette, Colgate, and Army West Point.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I did more of the camp circuit last summer. This summer, I attended Harvard’s camp, Brown, and then I finished the summer up at Penn State. Camps have gone great so far. I have put myself in the position to gain an offer for sure.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Being from Central Pennsylvania, my favorite college was definitely Penn State.”

......................................................................................................

Q&A with Lewisburg safety Dylan Farronato

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“Throughout the summer, we’ve been hitting the weight room Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with light field work following. Now that the season is closer, we are amping up the field work.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“I believe the strength of our team is one of the biggest improvements from last year to this year. But the biggest I feel like is our mindset. Kids are starting to get hungry to get out on the field and make big plays and win some ball games.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open up with Selinsgrove during the first game at home. Going into the game, we aren’t exactly sure what they will be like. They lost a lot of the starters on both sides of the ball, but at the same time, they will fill those slots with pretty good kids right behind them. Traditionally, they are a good program, so it could be a dog fight. We are ready to go.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“My expectations are extremely high for this team. Coming off of last year’s fluke in the district playoffs, everyone sees what could have been and now everyone wants to make that feeling happen. We’ve been working extremely hard in hitting the weights and getting faster. We are learning the offense and defense better than ever. Personally, it’s district title or we didn’t live up to our potential. I know a lot of other guys on the team feel the same way.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“Week nine at Central Columbia. They are a great team with a lot of returning starters.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I have the intentions on playing football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have gotten a lot of interest from many Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Penn, and Brown. Also, Coach Tim Banks from Penn State has consistently been in contact with me. Lastly, Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Davidson for sure. I receive letters from them weekly, if not daily. The coaching staff is always in contact with me through social media or my cell phone all the time.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I’ve made many trips. I visited all the schools I listed above along with Buffalo, UMASS, Dartmouth, Lafayette, Colgate, and Army West Point.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I did more of the camp circuit last summer. This summer, I attended Harvard’s camp, Brown, and then I finished the summer up at Penn State. Camps have gone great so far. I have put myself in the position to gain an offer for sure.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Being from Central Pennsylvania, my favorite college was definitely Penn State.”

Q&A with Freeport safety Isiah Bauman

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“Working out with team strength and conditioning coach and getting ready for the season.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“Strength and speed.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“Derry. They have been very good the last couple of years and it will be a great challenge.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“Expect our team to compete for a playoff spot and try to win the conference championship.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“We feel we are in a tough conference and will treat every week like a challenge.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes. I love both basketball and football, but I have settled in to football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Holy Cross, RMU, Temple, Harvard, Columbia, St. Francis, Vanderbilt, Boston College, IUP, and Bucknell.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Columbia and Boston College.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Columbia.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“There were no camps. I wanted to work on strength and speed.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Miami and Ohio State.”

Q&A with Danville safety Shane Kozick

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“I have been lifting with a program that I followed since freshman year. I am focused on maintaining strength throughout the season at this point.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“I have improved most on speed this year. Twice a week, our team had speed and agility clinics after practice. Also, I improved on timing with my quarterback to make our offense as crisp as possible.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open with Shikellamy this year. This is the first time we play them since my freshman year, so I don’t know much about them. I know they have had successful seasons the last few years.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“I think our team will be very good this year. We have a lot of athletes on the field this year, so we can spread the ball around. It will be hard to key on one player with so many threats on the outside.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“Our toughest game on the schedule is Southern Columbia this year.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I have kept an open mind about playing football in college. I will see how my senior year goes and what kinds of looks I get.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have been contacted by Harvard, New Hampshire, Bucknell, and multiple DII and DIII schools.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have visited Bucknell University and they are my top choice to go for school.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Bucknell has always been my favorite school because two of my family members graduated from there and I am a fan of their basketball and football teams.”

Q&A with Bishop McDevitt quarterback Chase Diehl

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“I work out at least five days a week. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, we work out as a team at McDevitt. Tuesday and Thursday, we workout at Spooky Nook with Jim Launer and his team of trainers. We do an hour of speed and agility and then have team yoga class immediately after that. I try to fit in a throwing session with my receivers on the weekends, if the weather cooperates.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“Since last season, I have improved my speed and arm strength. I spent a lot of time this winter studying coverages.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open with Cumberland Valley on August 24th. They lost a bunch of good players, but they are always a tough opponent.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“Our team looks very good. A lot of people talk about chemistry and our team definitely has it. We started together as freshmen playing JV at McDevitt, and we have worked hard together. For a lot of us, this will be our third year on varsity. We really are a family on and off the field.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“Hopefully Berks Catholic in the district championship."

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, football. I’ve been working for it since the age of five. I enjoy playing basketball for fun, but I’m not good enough for college level.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Virginia Military Institute, Bucknell, Lehigh, Princeton, Robert Morris, and some others. I enjoy getting to know each and every school, and what they have to offer.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“VMI.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Not officially, but I spent a lot of time on the road this spring touring campuses and talking with coaching staffs. This summer, I attended a few college camps.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I attended Temple, Virginia Military Institute, Lehigh, Robert Morris, and Saint Francis. They went very well, and I had a lot of great feedback. I enjoyed competing at these camps and working with the staffs.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Not really. I enjoy watching certain players from a bunch of teams.”

Q&A with Danville defensive back Austin Millar

What have you been doing as of late with your workouts?
“I’ve been getting my quad back in shape. I haven’t been lifting heavy, but I’ve been targeting muscles without weights to strengthen them more.”

What do you feel you have improved on the most since football ended?
“Since the season ended, I feel like I’ve gotten much faster and my vision has gotten so much better as well.”

Who do you open the football season with? What are your thoughts on them overall?
“We open the season with Shik and I haven’t heard anything about them this season. We aren’t going to take anything lightly.”

How do you believe your team will be next season?
“Next season, the team could be something special. Even though we’ve lost some great players, we still have seven players returning on both sides of the ball.”

What is the toughest game on your schedule for 2018?
“The toughest game this year is obviously going to be Southern. They have a great group of players and most are getting recruited. We need to prepare ourselves for the most against them.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I’m definitely going to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“The schools recruiting me right now are Millersville, Mansfield and Misericordia, but everything is open in my recruiting.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I think Millersville has been recruiting me the hardest as of now. I just went to a camp there and we are working out a date for a gameday visit.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I’ve been to a bunch of college camps such as Clemson, Millersville, Penn State and more.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“This summer, I’ve only went to Millersville and that was a good camp. I love how much energy their coaches have and the brand-new turf field they’ve just made.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up was Alabama just because when I was little I always used to like the first ranked team. Lately, I’ve been getting into Penn State football mostly because my mom went there.”

The Recruiting Zone (July 30th, 2018)

Find out what colleges are recruiting Jon Quinque, Isaac Rumery, Thomas Sheehy, Dante Presutti, and Alex Atcavage now!

......................................................................................................

Canon-McMillan quarterback Jon Quinque
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I am definitely planning on playing sports in college. I would love to play baseball or football, and maybe I could be lucky enough to play both.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Going into my junior season, I'm still pretty young to the recruiting process. I have been going to camps exploring my options as of right now.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“For football camps, yes, but I haven't been able to tour any campuses yet. I am looking forward to view campuses and continue attending prospect camps.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I recently attended a Duquesne University prospect camp and am planning on attended more in the future.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Growing up, I had two colleges that had an impact on my life; Clemson University and Duquesne University. My pap was a quarterback at Clemson and has continued to coach football throughout his life. He has had a huge impact on my life and development in my sports. My mom and many other family members are alumnus of Duquesne University.”

......................................................................................................

Clearfield quarterback Isaac Rumery
What colleges have been recruiting you?
“All the schools that have offered me along with Penn State, Syracuse, Delaware, and W&M.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Other than the schools I’ve received offers from, I’d d say Penn State.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I’ve made several.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I attended camps at Temple, Delaware, W&M, Pitt, Penn State, and Syracuse. They went well as I left with offers from some schools.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Being so close to Penn State, it was always my favorite school.”

......................................................................................................

Mars wide receiver Thomas Sheehy
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Not really. I’m not sure if I am that interested in a college sport.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“No colleges.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I’ve been to Penn State a lot. It is my parents and sister’s alma mater.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“Pitt camp both individually and for their 7-on-7. The individual camp was great. I thought I did very well and put myself out there. We were 7-on-7 champs, so that was a pretty big deal to us.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Penn State.”

......................................................................................................

Montour linebacker Dante Presutti
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I’d like to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“The colleges that have been recruiting me and that have stayed in touch with me the most are Saint Francis, Dayton, and Notre Dame College.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I’ve visited Saint Francis, Dayton, Furman, Princeton, Columbia, and Bucknell.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I attended Robert Morris, Saint Francis, Dayton, and Notre Dame College camps. They went really well and I received a lot of great coaching and insight on the game at the next level.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, I’m a huge Wisconsin Badgers fan. I’ve liked them ever since JJ Watt was there.”

......................................................................................................

Honesdale offensive tackle Alex Atcavage
What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Penn State, Notre Dame, Syracuse, Pitt, Boston College, Lafayette, Delaware, Delaware State, Rutgers, and Maryland.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Penn State, Boston College, and Syracuse.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, I’ve been out to Notre Dame, made multiple visits to PSU and Boston College, and I’ve also been to Pitt and Maryland.”

What camps did you attend this summer? How did the camps go overall?
“I was at PSU, Boston College, Notre Dame, Pitt, Syracuse, and Temple. I did really well at all of them, but I definitely have a lot of work to go to reach my goals.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, Penn State because of it being my home state.”

......................................................................................................
ADVERTISEMENT

Filter

ADVERTISEMENT