Playbook 2011

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011 PLAYBOOK 2011

THE ABINGTON JOURNALwww.theabingtonjournal.com211 South State StreetClarks Summit, PA 18411Phone: (570) 587-1148

Kristie Grier CerutiAbington Journal Editor(570) [email protected]

GO LACKAWANNAwww.golackawanna.com210 Wyoming AvenueScranton, PA 185003

Chris HughesGo Lackawanna Editor(570) [email protected]

Tom RobinsonProject [email protected]

Paul AndrewsGo Lackawanna General Manager(570) [email protected]

Contributing Writers/Photographers• Don McGlynn(570) [email protected]• Robert Tomkavage(570) [email protected]• Elizabeth Baumeister(570) [email protected]• Matt Morgis• Jason Riedmiller• J. Michael Schirra• Alex Seeley• Alice Stuffle• Emily Taylor• Stephanie Walkowski

On the CoverPhoto – Jason RiedmillerDesign – Lindsey Jones

Pictured - From left, Scranton’sJoe McCarthy, West ScrantonMalcolm Sweeting, andLackawanna Trail’s Eric Laytos.

Retail AdvertisingAccount ExecutivesJudy ComerfordT’Shaiya StephensonKaren Fiscus

OUR TEAM

The top teamsfrom the 2010 foot-ball season are try-ing to find ways toduplicate their suc-

cess.Playbook, the section you hold in

your hands, represents a repeatperformance for Go Lackawannaand The Abington Journal.

Playbook 2011, a Lackawanna Foot-ball Conference season preview, is thesecond straight year that the two news-papers combined efforts for the seasonoutlook. This is the fifth straight yearthat the section, originally in a smallerform, has been part of The AbingtonJournal.

In the section, we will tell you aboutjust how difficult the task of repeatingcould be in the LFC this season. Thepages that follow take a comprehensivelook at what to expect in the seasonahead.

The section includes information onall 20 teams that make up the confer-ence, with concentration on the 14football-playing high schools that takeat least some of their student bodyfrom within Lackawanna County.

Each of the 14 county teams has itsown season preview story with an em-phasis on returning veterans and topnewcomers most likely to fill the re-

maining spots in the lineup. Coverageof each of those teams includes a factbox, featuring last year’s performance,a list of returning all-stars, enrollmentfigures and the division and state clas-sification in which the team competes.The all-stars listed represent thoseselected for their divisional team in2010 by www.northeastpafootball.com.

Complete rosters and season sched-ules are also included on the teampages, as well as pictures of those whoadd to the scene at games on Fridaynights – and occasionally Saturdayafternoons. Photos of band membersand cheerleaders are part of each teampackage.

Also included is a look at how someof those marching bands prepare forthe competitive portions of theirschedules.

Following the favorite team or teamsof each reader involves an awareness ofthe entire league and the issues itfaces.

The six schools from outside thecounty are all summed up with factboxes, a combined schedule and amore concise look at their season out-looks.

Health concerns surrounding thesport on all levels are addressed withan in-depth look at the latest under-standing of concussions as addressedin a summer seminar at the Common-wealth Medical College.

Of course, many of the preseasonquestions center on who the best

teams and players are.Playbook attempts to answer those

questions, as well as they can be ad-dressed before the season ever starts.

The league overview explains whyValley View, Lakeland and LackawannaTrail are viewed as favorites but Dela-ware Valley, Abington Heights, Dun-more, Riverside and Old Forge are alsofeared by opponents.

The centerfold feature on the threeathletes on the cover takes a look atthe multi-sport exploits of Scranton’sJoe McCarthy, West Scranton’s Mal-colm Sweeting and Lackawanna Trail’sEric Laytos.

The preseason discussion, thoughexciting, is just the beginning.

Go Lackawanna and The AbingtonJournal will continue to cover the LFCduring the season, both in weekly printeditions and in online updates headinginto and throughout each weekend atwww.golackawanna.com/sports andwww.theabingtonjournal.com/sports.Go Lackawanna coverage will featurethe 14 county teams while The Abing-ton Journal will focus on AbingtonHeights, Lackawanna Trail, Lakelandand Scranton Prep.

Enjoy the season ahead by keepingPlaybook available for reminders onschedules and what to expect from theopponents your favorite team meetsalong the way.

TOM ROBINSONPlaybook 2011 Coordinator

Combined staffs return to action

Abington Heights.......................................................................................................................Pages 5-6, 44

Scranton............................................................................................................................................Pages 8-10

Scranton Prep....................................................................................................................................Pages 11-13

Valley View .......................................................................................................................................Pages 14-15

West Scranton..................................................................................................................................Pages 16-17

North Pocono ................................................................................................................................Pages 18, 34

Dunmore ...........................................................................................................................................Pages 19-21

Carbondale.....................................................................................................................................Pages 22-23

Lakeland.........................................................................................................................................Pages 26-27

Riverside ........................................................................................................................................Pages 28-29

Holy Cross .....................................................................................................................................Pages 30, 37

Lackawanna Trail ............................................................................................................................Pages 31-33

Old Forge........................................................................................................................................Pages 35-36

Additional Lackawanna Football Conference teams ..............................................................Pages 39-40

Mid Valley........................................................................................................................................Pages 41-42

INSIDE

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3LEAGUE OVERVIEW

SCRANTON – Dr. Wayne Sebastia-nelli’s views from the Penn State Uni-versity sidelines make it clear to himthat football has changed since the1970s when he played at Valley ViewHigh School and the University ofRochester.

“If you look at the game now, it isplayed in so much space that it is veryuncommon for a tackle not to be madeat close to full speed,” Sebastianellisaid. “When I played, you very seldomhit someone beyond three or fouryards.”

The running start before collisions inthe modern era of football, with itsspread formations and speedy receiversdarting into the path of larger, moremobile linebackers, has created chal-lenges that test even the impressive ad-vancements in equipment and sportsmedicine.

The impact of those collisions can beseen in other injuries, but perhaps themost-talked about current injury issuein football, from its youngest players toits oldest, is the concussion.

On-field diagnosis, pre- and post-inju-ry assessments, treatment plans, re-turn-to-play scenarios, cumulative ef-fects and potential impact later in lifehave all been the subject of discussionin recent years.

“I can tell you that I think we’velearned more in the last five to 10 yearsthan we did in the previous 100,” saidDr. Michael (Micky) Collins, a consult-ant for the National Football League’sPittsburgh Steelers and the NationalHockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins.

While more is known, there remainsmuch more that needs to be known.

When the Commonwealth MedicalCollege in Scranton hosted its first sem-inar in July, concussions in sportsformed the agenda.

Collins and Sebastianelli shared their

HeadinjuriescauseconcernSummer seminar addressedseriousness of concussions.

By TOM ROBINSONGo Lackawanna Reporter

See INJURY, Page 47

Changes are expected atthe top of the Lacka-wanna Football Con-

ference divisions this season.Only Lakeland, which won

the title in Division 2 despiteRiverside having more overallsuccess, is considered a favor-ite to repeat.

Valley View and LackawannaTrail are regarded as teams to beatin the other divisions where the de-fending champions are not evennecessarily seen as the top threats.

Veteran teams at Valley View andDelaware Valley are ranked aheadof Abington Heights, which haswon at least a piece of the last threeDivision 1 titles, in a preseason pollof division coaches. LackawannaTrail is given the edge over OldForge in Division 3 where Susque-hanna is trying to overcome the

loss of the division’s top offensiveplayer and what was supposed tobe the division’s top returning play-er.

Lakeland is rated the favoriteover Dunmore in Division 2.

A closer look at each division ofthe LFC:

DIVISION 1Nyeem Wartman has committed

to Penn State largely because of his

GO LACKAWANNA FILE PHOTO

Alex Filarsky, a two-time all-state selection as a defensive back, will help the Chiefs try to defend theirdivision championship.

Chiefs, Lions, and CougarsDIVISION FAVORITESBy TOM ROBINSONGo Lackawanna Reporter

See OVERVIEW, Page 46

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PAGE5

Abington Heights is hoping anew group can lead theComets to familiar success.

The Comets closed each of thelast two seasons as LackawannaFootball Conference Division 1and District 2 Class AAA cham-pions. The team went undefeatedin the regular season, advancing asfar as the first round of the Penn-sylvania Interscholastic AthleticAssociation Class AAA playoffs,where eventual state championAl-lentown Central Catholic was re-sponsible for the only loss in a 12-1season.The difference between lastyear’s team and this year’s is theamount of experience the Cometshave coming back.In 2010, Abington Heights had

10 starters returning. This year,the Comets have three.

For the Comets, fewer starters meansmore opportunities for new players to geton the field.“There’s a lot of excitement, and a lot of

enthusiasm about the 2011season,” Come-ts coach JoeRepshis said.“There are a lot of posi-tions to be filled, andwhat we have are someplayers who have had agreat off-season, greatsummer, who are readyto compete and step in,and have their opportuni-ty to get on the footballfield.”Returning to the team

this year on defense istackle Joe Dolan, middlelinebacker Matt Riggiand back Brandon Pacy-na. Dolan is the only re-turning starter on of-fense.“Dolan has had a very

good career,” Repshissaid. “He played as a freshman so he’llbe a four-year player in the program.Each year, he’s worked extremely hardin the offseason on both sides of theball. He’s an anchor for us on the offen-sive line. He’s very strong, athletic,plays with a great effort and a great mo-

tor.“We have high expectations coming in-

to his senior season.”The triowill be joined on the fieldwhen

they begin play in September by a groupof players who, whilethey didn’t start, did seeplaying time last year.“We lost a lot of start-

ers on both sides of theball due to graduation,but we have a lot of play-ers who have gottensome very good varsityexperience through thepast year or two,” Rep-shis said.One of those players is

quarterback Dante Pas-qualichio. Last year, as asophomore, Pasquali-chio took over in the sec-ond quarter of the Dis-trict 2 semifinals for aninjured Mike Beamish,and started at the posi-

tion in the district finals and first round ofthe state playoffs.Pasqualichio made a case for securing

the starting position full-time this yearwith a strong performance, completing

STEPHANIE WALKOWSKI PHOTO

Abington’s varsity captains for 2011 are, from left, front, Brandon Sochovka, Joe Dolan, and Brandon Pacyna. Back, Dylan Berar-delli, Matt Riggi, and Casey Quinn.

By DONMcGLYNNAbington Journal Reporter

See ABINGTON, Page 44

New faces, same aspirations

Nickname: CometsHome Field: Comets Stadium,Clarks SummitDivision: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 444Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 7-0 for first placein Division 1; 12-1 overall; 10-0 inregular season; won District 2Class AAA by defeating NorthPocono, 21-7, and West Scran-ton, 28-21; lost in state playoffsto Allentown Central Catholic,54-14.Returning all-stars: Joe Do-lan, first-team OL; Matt Riggi,second-team LB.

FACTS ANDFIGURES

ABINGTON HEIGHTS

ROSTER

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.2 Dustin Eyerman, 5-9, 175, So., FB/DE3 Sean Rock, 5-7, 140, So., RB/DE4 Jake Henzes, 5-8, 135, Fr., WR/DB5 Zach Kilbourne, 5-6, 150, So., RB/LB6 Joe Carroll, 6-1, 160, So., WR/DB7 Joe Murray, 5-10, 170, So., WR/LB8 Brandon Sochovka, 5-10, 185, Sr., TE/LB9 Dante Pasqualichio, 5-9, 165, Jr., QB/DB10 Casey Quinn, 6-0, 200, Sr., TE/LB11Ryan Fiorillo, 6-0, 140, Jr., WR/DB12 J.C. Show, 6-2, 180, So., WR/DB13Matt Tumavitch, 5-9, 155, Sr., FB/LB14Matt Huggler, 5-8, 135, So., WR/DB17 Dan Harris, 5-11, 165, Sr., WR/DB18 Nathan Hollander, 5-9, 140, So., WR/DB19 Joe Dietz, 5-11, 160, So., WR/LB21Alosha Fox, 5-5, 140, Jr., RB/DB22 Jamie Henzes, 5-10, 165, Jr., WR/DB23 Kyle Tierney, 5-8, 130, So., WR/DB24 Chris Murnin, 5-10, 165, Jr., WR/DB25 Corey Degilio, 5-6, 130, Sr., RB/DB26 Alfonse DeSanto, 5-6, 180, Sr., FB/LB27 Joe Mills, 5-8, 165, Sr., RB/LB28 Ryan Judge, 5-7, 170, Jr., RB/LB30 Kyle Walsh, 5-6, 140, Jr., WR/DB31Jerry Langan, 5-10, 180, Jr., FB/LB32 Sam Kontz, 5-10, 160, So., FB/LB33Matt Riggi, 6-0, 225, Sr., FB/LB34 Quinn Karam, 5-7, 180, So., RB/LB35 Jerry Murray, 5-6, 150, So., RB/LB37 Sam Vale, 5-7, 145, So., K/P38 Garrett Mehall, 5-9, 180, Sr., FB/DE40Will Kozar, 5-10, 165, So., WR/DB41Pat Kearney, 5-8, 215, Jr., FB/DL43 David Kontz, 5-8, 160, Jr., WR/DB44 Justin Brown, 6-1, 175, Sr., TE/DE46 Kevin Wellard, 5-7, 160, So., RB/DB47 Toli Epsom, 5-9, 155, Sr., WR/DB/K48Mark Novak, 5-9, 150, Sr., RB/LB50 Corey Moletsky, 6-0, 205, So., OL/DL51Max Pagnani, 5-10, 200, So., OL/DL52 Glenn Hopkins, 5-9, 195, Sr., OL/LB54 Joe Dolan, 6-1, 255, Sr., OL/DL55 Dan Stevens, 5-9, 230, So., OL/DL56 T.J. Murray, 6-3, 230, Jr., OL/DL57 Drew Kuzma, 5-9, 185, So., OL/LB58 Chris Sagan, 5-10, 200, Jr., OL/DL61Kyle Pitts, 5-9, 175, So., OL/DL62 Zack Sutter, 5-11, 180, Jr., OL/DE63Mike Voyce, 5-9, 195, Sr., OL/DL64Marquis Ivey, 5-9, 200, Sr., OL/DL65 Logan Herman, 5-11, 210, So., OL/DL66 Peter Hubbard, 6-1, 230, Jr., OL/DE67Mason Moher, 6-2, 270, Sr., OL/DL73 Colin Langan, 5-10, 210, Sr., OL/DL75 Dylan Berardelli, 6-1, 240, Sr., OL/DE77 Ben Barrick, 6-2, 250, So., OL/DL78 Jon Rarrick, 6-1, 300, Jr., OL/DL79 Bobby Bauman, 5-11, 250, So., OL/DL80 Sean Sanderson, 6-1, 165, Jr., WR/DB81Alex Nelson, 6-2, 170, Sr., TE/DE82 Kevin Malone, 6-2, 195, So., TE/DE83 Nick Ksiazek, 6-0, 165, So., TE/DE84 James Brown, 6-0, 155, So., TE/DE85 James Neff, 6-0, 160, Sr., WR/DB86Michael Fitzpatrick, 6-0, 175, So., TE/DE87 Conor Dickinson, 5-11, 165, Jr., WR/DB88BrandonPacyna, 5-10,205,Sr.,WR/DB/K/P

SCHEDULESept. 3 – HAZLETON AREASept. 9 – at Wyoming Valley WestSept. 17 – TUNKHANNOCKSept. 23 – at WallenpaupackOct. 1 – DELAWARE VALLEYOct. 8 – VALLEY VIEWOct. 15 – at Scranton PrepOct. 22 – WEST SCRANTONOct. 28 – at North PoconoNov. 4 – at Scranton

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Varsity cheerleaders at Abington Heights are, from left, front, Marisa Gretz, EricaKeller, Jenna Jalowiec, Gianna Baldoni, Alexa Julian, and Susie Stone. Second row,Ally Lamanna, Stephanie Larar, Jessica Kurey, Courtney Norton, and Allie Albright.Third row, Hollis Coldwater, Brooke Chapple, Ann Moschorak, Julia Pagnani, CamilleDeMatteo, Casey Wrobel, and Danielle Barrasse.

STEPHANIE WALKOWSKI PHOTOS

The 2011 Abington Heights Marching Comets.Ally Lamanna.

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No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.5 Vancel Barnes, 6-0, 168, Sr., WR/DB7 Karlon Quiller, 6-0, 165, Jr., WR/DB9 Tyler Newhart, 5-11, 138, So. WR/DB10 Mike Marichak, 5-10, 185, Sr., WR/DB13 Andrew Mason, 5-9, 165, Jr., WR/DB14 Jim McNally, 5-6, 160, Jr., QB/DB15 Jake McCarthy, 6-1, 160, Fr., WR/TB/DB/K16 Eric Pabst, 5-11, 200, Sr., TB/LB17 Marlinn Waiters, 6-0, 170, Jr., QB/DB18 Kyle Pieczynski, 6-2, 175, So., QB/DB19 Joe O’Malley, 5-11, 203, Sr., FB/LB20 Bryan Keller, 5-9, 152, So., TB/DB21 Junior Potter, 5-7, 147, Sr., TB/DB22 Matt Gorton, 6-2, 162, Sr., TE/LB23 Jeff Smith, 5-9, 124, Jr., WR/DB24 Dylan Crusen, 5-10, 157, Jr., WR/DB28 Paul Rutledge, 5-9, 179, Jr., TB/LB31 Joe McCarthy, 6-3, 230, Sr., TB/DB34 Jon Wegielewski, 5-11, 170, Sr., WR/DB36 Deep Patel, 5-9, 142, Sr., WR/DB37 Marcus Morrison, 6-0, 195, So., TB/DB39 Marquis Brownlee, 6-1, 197, Jr., TB/DB40 Scott Syryla, 5-6, 145, Jr., FB/LB41 Jared Little, 5-6, 195, So., FB/LB42 Pat Robinson, 6-0, 190, Sr., TE/LB45 Kyle Czarkowski, 5-10, 205, Jr., FB/NG46 Tyree Andrews, 5-9, 150, So., TB/DB47 James Lewis, 5-9, 157, So., WR/DB48 Matt Redetsky, 6-4, 205, Jr. , TE/DE50 Dan Stuckart, 5-11, 160, Jr., G/LB51 Eric Pitt, 5-9, 180, Sr., G/DT52 Chris Herbert, 5-11, 215, Jr., T/DT53 Mike Watral, 6-1, 213, Sr., C/LB54 Shawn Smith, 5-10, 205, Jr., G/DT55 Joel Casteleiro, 5-11, 195, Sr., G/DT56 Peter Nguyen, 5-10, 210, So., G/DT57 Mike Condrad, 5-8, 197, Jr., G/LB58 John Vargas, 5-9, 220, So., G/DT59 Brian Cummings, 5-11, 178, Sr., G/DE60 Kyle Grabowski, 5-8, 188, So., G/DT61 Carlos Rosario, 5-5, 215, Jr., G/DT62 Stephen Locker, 5-7, 250, Jr., G/DT63 Jared O’Hearn, 6-1, 210, Sr., G/DT64 Chris Lewis, 5-8, 210, So., G/DT65 Chris Santiago, 6-1, 214, So., G/DT66 Eric McCabe, 6-3, 190, Jr., G/T/DE67 Anthony Saul, 6-1, 185, So., G/DE68 Anthony Salcedo, 5-11, 242, Jr., T/DT69 Mike Ray, 6-0, 265, So., T/DT70 Cody McPhillips, 6-1, 255, So., T/DT71 Alex Eiden, 5-11, 285, Jr., T/DT72 Paul Brady, 6-5, 282, Jr., T/DT73 Justin Gale, 5-9, 255, Jr., T/DT74 Matt McGuigan, 6-3, 219, Jr., T/DT75 Fabian Coleman, 5-10, 220, So., G/DT78 Jeff Nunez, 6-0, 221, So., T/DT79 Frank Pallien, 6-1, 195, Sr., T/DE81 Elijah Howard, 5-11, 163, Sr., WR/DB82 Anthony Preambo, 6-3, 162, Sr., WR/DB84 Mark Dunford, 5-9, 167, Jr., WR/DB86 Mitchell Williams, 6-1, 195, So., TE/DE87 Kareem Smith, 6-2, 157, Jr., WR/DB88 Kevin Bagasevich, 6-1, 202, TE/DE89 Brandon Navoczynski, 6-1, 202, TE/DE99 Hiren Patel, 5-11, 154, Jr., WR/DB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – WYOMING VALLEY WESTSept. 9 – at Pittston AreaSept. 16 – EAST STROUDSBURGSOUTHSept. 23 – VALLEY VIEWOct. 1 – at Scranton PrepOct. 7 – at West ScrantonOct. 14 – at North PoconoOct. 21 – DELAWARE VALLEYOct. 28 – at WallenpaupackNov. 4 – ABINGTON HEIGHTS

SCHEDULE

There are very few secrets when assessing the hopes of the Scranton Knights.“We always have skills, but the last few years, up front, we were kind of light and weak,” Scranton

coach Mike Marichak said. “This offseason, the guys up front put a lot of time in the weightroom.“They worked hard.”The Knights will not be at a size advantage as often as in the recent past and, if the line play improves, they

have skill position players who scare opponents enough to think they could jump from 3-7 to contender status.

“Everybody knows it,” Marichak said.“I don’t care what level you’re at. It allstarts up front.

“We have a ton of talent with guys atthe skill positions and speed. If theseguys come together, we’re going to be allright.”

Mike Marichak, the coach’s son, isback for his third year as a two-way start-er at wide receiver and defensive back.

Eric Pabst is a three-way starter on de-fense, Joe McCarthy is a three-yearstarter on offense and both have experi-ence as starters on the other side of theball.

Marlinn Waiters, whostarted at wide receiverlast year, is set to startat quarterback.

McCarthy, who hasstarted at quarterbackand wide receiver in thepast, should settle in attailback behind return-

ing fullback Kyle Czarkowski. McCarthyled the team in rushing last season.

“We try to get the ball to him anywaywe can, whether it is as a running back,

CHRISTOPHER J. HUGHES PHOTO

Scranton High School’s veteran lineman are, from left, Frank Pallien, Brian Cummings, Mike Watral and Joel Casteleiro.

Developing line Knights’ focusBy TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

Nickname: KnightsHome field: Scranton Memo-rial StadiumDivision: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 705Classification: AAAA2010 Recap: 2-5 tied for sixthin Division 1; 3-7 overall.Returning all-stars: JoeMcCarthy, second-team ath-lete; Mike Marichak, second-team DB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

Marichak

See SCRANTON, Page 10

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SCRANTON

VOTE FORJames J. TimlinScranton School Director Paid for by friends

of James J. Timlin

CHRISTOPHER J. HUGHES PHOTOS

Front, from left, Jessica and Amanda VanBuskirk, Emily Wesolowski, Amanda Lucas, Greg Swartz, Megan Bresser, Samantha Reinhardt, Melisa Gallo, Moriah Lovell, andChristina and Justine Mason. Back, Mercedes Acevedo, Justin Severe, Noe Dominguez, Chris Doherty, John Domenick, George Reif, Anthony Mandile, Aaron Grier, MarcusPerkins, Frankie Castaldi, and Jade Weibrecht.

Scranton High School’s senior cheerleaders are, from left, front, Kaycee Crofton, Ms. Knight Lindsay Smith,and Samantha Weiksner. Back, Lauren Beppler, Cara Browning, Megan Jones, Alyssa Auer, and Kaela Barchak.

ScrantonHigh’s KayceeCrofton, Ms.Knight LindsaySmith, andSamanthaWeiksner strikea pose.

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slot or wideout,” coachMarichak said.Kevin Bagasevich is

back at receiver alongwith Marichak.Karlon Quiller is also

back. Quiller was off to astrong start last year be-fore an injury ended hisseason early.Vancel Barnes also fig-

ures to be part of the com-bination of receivers.Jake McCarthy, Joe’s

freshman brother, maysee some time as an all-purpose receiver/backon offense and will likely

returnsomekicks.Pat

Robinsonhas someexperi-ence attight end.

Center Mike Watral,guard Brian Cummingsand tackle Frank Pallienreturn from the startingoffensive line.Pallien may move to

guard.Eric McCabe should

figure into the mix atguard or tackle.Guard Mike Condrad

and tackle Paul Brady arealso expected to be fight-ing for playing time this

season.Czarkowski returns at

nose guard, Joel Castelie-ro is back at defensivetackle and Brandon Na-voczynski returns at de-fensive end.Pabst is back for third

season at linebackerwhere Joe O’Malley andRobinson also return.Marichak, Bagasevich,

Barnes, Quiller and JoeMcCarthy all have experi-ence as starters in thesecondary.Because of his antici-

pated offensive load,coach Marichak wouldlike to be able to limitMcCarthy to use as an ex-tra defensive back in sit-uations.

SCRANTONContinued from Page 8

“We have a ton of talent with guysat the skill positions and speed. If these guyscome together, we’re going to be all right.”

— Scranton coach Mike Marichak

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SPECIALSECTION,S

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SCRANTON PREP

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.

1Pat Fricke, 6-2, 180, Sr., TE/S

2 Kevin Bannon, 6-0, 170, So., WR/DB

3Matt Walker, 5-10, 150, So., QB

4 Jake Stafursky, 5-11, 175, Jr., WR/DB

5 J.J. Fives, 6-2, 210, Sr., TE/WR,

8 Pat Marino, 5-5, 130, So., TB/DB

9 Rock Magnotta, 5-10, 165, Jr., WR/

DB

12 Tom Burke, 6-1, 155, Sr., WR/DB

15 Tom Timlin, 6-1, 160, Sr., QB

16 Griff DiBileo, 6-1, 170, Jr., QB

21Corey Kapicki, 5-10, 165, So., TB/LB

25 Pat Perih, 6-1, 200, Sr., RB/LB

29 Norm Frederick, 5-9, 150, Sr.,

WR/DB

31Hunter Mulligan, 5-8, 145, So.,

WR/DB

32 Owen Perih, 5-10, 180, So., FB/LB

33Marshall Kupinski, 5-9, 170, Jr.,

RB/LB

34 Tom Steele, 5-8, 180, Jr., RB/LB

35 Seth Stafursky, 5-11, 180, TE/LB

39Mike Burney, 5-10, 160, Sr., K

40 Clem Rinaldi, 5-11, 200, Jr., RB/LB

50 Brad Shovlin, 5-11, 165, Jr., G/DE

51Chris Opsasnick, 6-2, 220, So.,

G/DT

53 Shane Farrell, 5-11, 245, Sr., C/DT

55 Silas Sheridan, 6-0, 220, Jr., G/DE

60Mike Voitek, 6-1, 225, Jr., T/DT

61Noah Beh, 6-5, 230, So., T/DE

62 Seth Newhart, 6-0, 175, Jr., G/DE

63 Nick Chaump, 5-9, 240, So., G/DT

64 Fran Notarianni, 5-10, 210, Sr.,

C/NG

65 Ryan Rudalavage, 5-11, 200, Sr.,

G/DE

66 Griff Walters, 5-8, 160, Sr., G/LB

68 Joe Holmes, 5-10, 235, So., C/DT

71Nick Sadowski, 5-11, 330, Sr., T/DT

72 Alec Meta, 6-1, 200, Jr., C/DT

75 John O’Boyle, 6-1, 225, So., T/DT

76 Devin Wood, 6-2, 235, So., T/DT

78Mike Burke, 6-1, 240, Jr., T/DT

82 Zach Brandt, 6-3, 180, So., TE/DE

88 Chris Schoen, 5-10, 145, Sr., WR/

DB

95 Aaron Para, 6-1, 180, Jr., TE/LB

ROSTER

Sept. 3 – LAKELANDSept. 10 – at DallasSept. 16 – at CarbondaleSept. 23 – at North PoconoOct. 1 – SCRANTONOct. 7 – at WallenpaupackOct. 15 – ABINGTON HEIGHTSOct. 21 – at Valley ViewOct. 29 – DELAWARE VALLEYNov. 4 – WEST SCRANTON

SCHEDULE

A strong returning groupof players,with a year ofDivision 1 experience

under their belts, is leavingScranton Prep confident that itcan be competitive this season.The Cavaliers moved from

Division 2 to Division 1 lastyear. The switch put a numberof new teams on their sched-ule for the first time in yearsand they finishedwith an over-all record of 3-7.Going into this year, the

team has a better idea of whatto expect from opponents,and, despite the record, coachNickDonato looks back on the2010 season positively.

“It was kind of an enjoyableyear,” Donato said. “We wouldhave liked to have won a fewmoregames, but we stayed competitiveall year, felt every time we tookthe field we had a chance to win,and we played that way.”The team returns five

starters on defense – out-side linebackers Pat Perihand J.J. Fives, inside line-backer Clem Rinaldi, de-fensive tackle Fran Nota-rianni and safety PatFricke, who are hoping tohelp Scranton Prep rack upa few more wins this year.“Those are five solid

kids, so there’s a solid nu-cleus there that if we canget kids to fill around themon defense, we should befine,” said Donato.Rock Magnotta could be joining the re-

turning five at cornerback, along with agroup of underclassmen.“Most of our bigger kids are going to be

sophomores,” Donato said. “We had a verygood freshman team last year. Most of our

freshman teams the last few yearshave had outstanding skill kids.This one, from last year, had agreat group of linemen.“I don’t know how soon we’re

going to get them on the field, butthose coming along will be a big

key for us, too.”The group of talented

sophomores will be com-peting against several Cav-aliers who saw substantialplaying time last year in-cluding Shane Farrell,Ryan Rudalavage, andMike Burke.Donato said the players

that are going to make upthe offensive and defensivelines is one of two big ques-tions facing ScrantonPrep’s coaching staff thispreseason, the other was

whowas going to take over as quarterback.TomTimlin and Griff DiBileo were com-

peting for the position. DiBileo playedbackup last year, and Timlin, who played

DON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Scranton Prep’s returning starters are, from left, front, Fran Notarianni and Marshall Kupinski. Back, JJ Fives, Clem Rinaldi,Pat Perih and Pat Fricke.

Prep returns strong coreBy DONMcGLYNNAbington Journal Reporter

See PREP, Page 13

Nickname: CavaliersHome field: ScrantonMemorial StadiumDivision: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 335Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 2-5 tied forsixth in Division 1; 3-7overall.Returning all-stars:None.

FACTS ANDFIGURES

Donato

SPECIALSECTION,S

UNDAY,A

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011 SCRANTON PREP

Cassie Lucke leads the Scranton Prepcheerleaders during a recent practice.

Brianna Coyne, front, rehearses with thesquad.

EMILY TAYLOR PHOTOS

From left, first row, Cassie Lucke, Nicole McAndrew, Cate Hartman, Annie Ferrario, Tori Sluko, and Aleni Mackarey. Second row,Brittany Rolon, Dana Addesa, Rebecca Brown, Ashley Hine, Caroline Marino, and Brianna Coyne. Third row, Ashtyn Tarapchak,Maggie McHale, Charlette Woethers, Katie O’Brien, Sydney Gedman, Elizabeth Greco, and Emily Boino. Fourth row, Jenna Walker,Tinnina Atherton-Ely, Grace Rapp, Bridey Moyle, Olivia Farrell, Olivia Hager, and Meghan Rose. Fifth row, Gabby Summa, GabbyRossi, Rachel Para, Isabelle Ragan, Gracie McGrath, Abigail Dempsey, and Maggie Hanqhue. Absent from photo, Emily Lance.

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The Class of 2011 average best SATscores were: Critical Reading-573,Math-566, Writing-579.

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SPECIA

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SCRANTON PREP

for the Cavaliers his sophomore year, isrejoining the team after taking his junioryear off.“Right now DiBileo’s one, and Timlin’s

two,” Donato said. “He (DiBileo) didn’treally play in any crucial situations lastyear, but he was an outstanding quarter-back with our freshman team, as Timlinwas also, and when Griff went in, in theJV games, and when he got in varsitygames he did a good job for us.”

Joining DiBileo in the starting lineupwill be Rinaldi, returning at fullback, andNotarianni, retuning at guard and center.Fives, who started last season as tail-

back, filling in for the injured John Ma-riotti, will play the flanker position thisyear and Marshall Kupinski will play tail-back.“J.J. stepped in and played tailback last

year for us, Donato said. “Marshall was asophomore.… About halfway through theyear (Marshall) was ready to go in.“We like J.J. at a wide-out position, and

we like Marshall at the tailback.”Magnotta is also expected to start at

tight end.

PREPContinued from Page 11

EMILY TAYLOR PHOTO

Grace Rapp and Rebecca Brown, in front, lead a cheer during practice.

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SPECIALSECTION,S

UNDAY,A

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011 VALLEY VIEW


1Abdul Muhammed, 6-2, 235, Sr., FB/DT

2 Cody McAndrew, 5-11, 160, Jr., WR/CB

3 Nyeem Wartman, 6-3, 230, Sr., TE/LB

4 Adam Iyoob, 5-8, 145, Jr., QB/CB

5 Garrett Rupe, 5-11, 155, Jr., WR/CB

6 Brandon Bednash, 6-0, 170, Sr., WR/S

7 Corey Angeli, 6-1, 180, Jr., WR/S

8 RaeKwon Patrick, 5-11, 250, Jr., FB/NG

9 Tony Rovinski, 5-11, 165, Sr., WR/CB

10 Liam Callejas, 5-9, 155, Jr., QB/S

11Brian Lalli, 6-1, 180, Sr., WR/S

12 Tyler Phillips, 6-0, 175, Jr., TB/CB

14 T.J. Grant, 5-9, 150, So., K

15 Andrew Garbarino, 6-4, 185, Jr., TE/DE

16 Cory Callejas, 6-3, 160, Sr., WR/S

18 Alec Sebastianelli, 6-0, 170, So., WR/S

19 Dave Lesnefski, 5-8, 160, So., K

20 Rob Castellani, 5-11, 160, Jr., TB/CB

21Patrick Jeffers, 6-0, 195, Sr., TB/S

23 Nate Santarelli, 5-9, 160, So., QB/CB

24 Luke Brady, 5-9, 155, Sr., K

26 Dylan Pollack, 5-9, 165, Jr., TB/LB

28 Brandon Ossont, 5-11, 175, Jr., TB/CB

29 Billy Santarelli, 6-0, 175, WR/CB

30 Nick Krehel, 5-10, 185, Sr., LB

33 Brandon Hazelton, 5-10, 165, Sr., P

35Matt Rudavinski, 5-10, 165, So., TB/LB

38 Noah Strackbein, 5-9, 165, So., WR/LB

40 Bobby Williams, 5-8, 155, Jr., FB/LB

44 Tyler Kapinus, 5-9, 215, Sr., FB/LB

45Matt Wolfel, 5-18, 165, Sr., FB/LB

49 Kevin Kozlowski, 5-11, 180, Jr., WR/S

50 Antonio Zini, 6-1, 220, Sr., T/DT

51 Luke Soltis, 5-8, 215, Sr., C/NG

54 Darnell Ashton, 6-1, 220, Jr., G/LB

55Mike Galantini, 6-3, 255, Sr., T/DE

56 Anthony Galantini, 5-10, 225, Jr., G/NG

57 Vince Rinaldi, 6-0, 220, So., G/DT

59 Jose Figueroa, 5-11, 225, So., T/DT

60 E.J. Sumski, 5-8, 220, Jr., T/DT

66 Brett Mozeleski, 6-1, 290, So., T/DT

68 Jimmy Dougherty, 6-1, 195, Jr., T/DE

71Mike Soltis, 6-2, 280, Sr., T/DT

73 Aqyil Muhammad, 5-11, 300, Jr., T/DT

75 Chris Cicilioni, 6-2, 225, Sr., G/DE

77 Anthony Mengoni, 6-1, 275, Jr., C/DT

82 Brian Vanvestraut, 6-1, 220, So., TE/

LB

86 Xavier Allen, 5-9, 150, So., WR/CB

88Michael Christ, 5-7, 155, Jr., WR/CB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – EAST STROUDSBURGNORTHSept. 9 – CARBONDALESept. 16 – at CoughlinSept. 23 – at ScrantonSept. 30 – WALLENPAUPACKOct. 8 – at Abington HeightsOct. 14 – at Delaware ValleyOct. 21 – SCRANTON PREPOct. 28 – at West ScrantonNov. 4 – NORTH POCONO

SCHEDULE

The Eastern Conference playoffs do not have the prestige they enjoyed through the early years of the stateplayoff system. The conference still has a purpose for many, however, as the Valley View Cougars areabout to try to prove.

Valley View missed out on the District 2 playoffs, which feed into the Pennsylvania Interscholastic AthleticAssociation playoffs, a year ago. They did earn a spot in the runner-up Eastern Conference playoffs, which theyused to tack on two more impressive wins over Berwick and Coughlin while claiming the Class AAA title.

The Cougars will trytouse their veteran-filledlineup and the momen-tum they gained in theEastern Conferenceplayoffs to fulfill thisyear’s promise as theLackawanna FootballConferenceDivision1 fa-

vorite.“I think last yearwe thoughtwe’d have a

good season,” Valley View coach GeorgeHowanitz said.“We wound up winning the Eastern

Conference, so it turned out OK for thekids.”The regular season may not have gone

quite as well as Howanitz hoped, but thepost-season result was just fine for a team not quite ready tocontend for district and state honors.“I think it’s relevant, just in the fact thatwewon a champion-

ship,” Howanitz said.“You could have a teammake the (district) playoffs, lose the

first game and your season’s over.

“If that’s the case, I’d rather take the twogames, win the Eastern Conference cham-pionship and end the season as a cham-pion.”The Cougars now start this season with

the makings of a team that could win big-ger titles.Tight end/linebacker Nyeem Wartman

and wide receiver/defensive back BrianLalli are regarded as two of the confer-ence’s top two-wayplayers and several oth-er returning starters are not far behind.Wartman has already committed to a

football scholarship from Penn State.“He’s very athletic,” Howanitz said of

the 6-3, 230-pounder.“He runs well. He’s big. He can play in-

side. He can play outside.“The versatility was a big thing for Penn State.”The Nittany Lions will probably use Wartman on defense,

but the Cougars will get more out of his athletic ability.“By the end of last year, I think he was the best tight end in

DON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Valley View’s returning division all-stars are, from left, Mike Galantini, Mark Soltis, Brian Lalli, Tyler Kapinus, Chris Cicilioniand NyeemWartman.

Good view for CougarsBy TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

See VALLEY, Page 15

Howanitz

Nickname: CougarsHome field: John Henzes VeteransMemorial Stadium, Peckville.Division: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 312Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 3-4 tied for fourth in Division1; 7-5 overall; 5-5 in regular season; wonEastern Conference Class AAA title bybeating Coughlin, 28-7, and Berwick, 35-21.Returning all-stars: Brian Lalli, first-team DB and second-team WR; NyeemWartman, first-team LB and second-team TE; Patrick Jeffers, first-team RB;Mark Soltis, first-team OL; Mike Galantini,second-team OL; Chris Cicilioni, second-team DL; Tyler Kapinus, second-team LB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

SP

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15VALLEY VIEW

the league,” Howanitz said.Wartman was second on the

Cougars in receptions behindLalli, who pulled in 45 passesfor 585 yards.

The Cougars have otherweapons returning.

Pat Jeffers ran for 1,697yards last season while LiamCallejas passed for 1,062 andnine touchdowns with a com-pletion percentage of 52.2.

“Our skill position kids areback for the most part,” Howa-nitz said. “They’re very good,they’ve gotten bigger andthey’ve gotten faster.

“It’s going to be very hard tokey on one guy.”

Fullback Tyler Kapinus, thesecond-leading rusher, is alsoback.

Center Anthony Mengoni,guard Chris Cicilioni and An-thony Galantini, tackles MarkSoltis and Mike Galantini andkicker Luke Brady are alsoback to the starting lineup.

Tony Rovinski, a transferfrom Hazleton Area, and Gar-rett Rupe are likely to spend alot of time at the other wide re-ceiver spot.

Tyler Phillips is expected toget some action at runningback.

Mike Galantini and AbdulMuhammad and Cicilioni, anend, all return to the defensivefront.

Nose guard RaeKwon Pa-trick and end Darnell Ashtonare likely to join them.

Wartman, Kapinus and NickKrehel return at linebackerwhere Matt Wolfel is also ex-pected to see time.

Lalli and Phillips are back inthe secondary. Rovinski, Rupeand Cody McAndrew will helpfill out the spots in the defen-sive backfield.

VALLEYContinued from Page 14

RIGHT: Mellophone playerKevin Burke is in step with

the horn section.

JASON RIEDMILLER PHOTOS

Valley View’s football cheerleaders practice a build for the 2011 season.

BELOW: Valley View BandCaptain Tori Rudovitz and

bassist Adam Martin.

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SPECIA

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UNDAY,A

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011 WEST SCRANTON

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.1Malcolm Sweeting, 5-11, 168, Sr., WR/DB2Marcus Moody, 5-9, 184, Sr., FB/LB3 Cory Kelly, 5-10, 170, Sr., WR/DB4 Tyler Rakauskas, 5-11, 210, Sr., FB/LB5 DeVaughn Chollette, 6-1, 220, Sr., RB/LB6 Daniel Repshis, 6-1, 185, Sr., QB/DB7 Dylan Lindberg, 6-0, 185, Sr., WR/DB8 Joe Devine, 5-9, 165, Jr., WR/DB9Mike Messina, 5-10, 165, So., WR/DB10 Collin Lipowitch, 5-11, 225, So., QB/DB11Andrew Soulinhavong, 5-9, 160, Sr., WR/DB12 Jason Manning, 5-10, 195, So., FB/LB13Mike Baranowski, 5-7, 135, So., WR/DB14 Eric Thomas, 5-10, 165, Jr., WR/LB15 Tyler Merrigan, 6-0, 155, Jr., WR/DB16 Nathan Manning, 5-8, 165, Sr., QB/DB17 Demetrius Dickey, 5-10, 169, Jr., RB/LB18 Cory Jackson-Bey, 5-10, 184, So, WR/DB19 Noe Herrera, 5-8, 160, Sr., K20 Patrick Gerrity, 5-10, 150, Jr., WR/DB21 Frazon Isaac, So, 5-10, 160, WR/DB22 Tyaire Quiller, 5-10, 195, So., TE/DL23 Cullen Fanning, 5-11, 170, So., TE/DE24 Patrick Cooper, 5-8, 157, So., RB/LB25 Brandon Oleski, 5-10, 160, Jr., WR/DB26 Jordan Aquilera, 5-7, 155, Jr., WR/DB27 Lamont Wright, 5-7, 155, Jr., WR/CB29Marquis Brownlee, 5-10, 190, Jr., RB/DB31Cody Mazzocchi, 5-8, 135, So., WR/DB34 Karriem Davis, 5-8, 140, Jr., WR/DB35 Jerry Cocozello, 5-10, 198, Sr., OL/DE40 Doug Christiano, 5-9, 145, Jr., WR/DB41Zach Seabridge, 5-9, 151, So., RB/LB43 Angel Ortiz, 5-8, 135, So., WR/DB44 Robbie Bennett, 5-10, 230, So., OL/DL46 Vince Miller, 5-11, 210, Sr., TE/DE47 Jalel Monroe, 6-1, 185, So., WR/DB48 Tyler Jordan, 5-9, 165, So., OL/DL50 Gary DiBileo, 5-10, 245, So., OL/DL51Brian Fallon, 5-9, 195, So., OL/DL52 Jon Kobrynich, 5-10, 185, Sr., OL/LB54 Paul Stefani, 5-8, 230, So., OL/DL55 Randy Karosek, 5-11, 210, Jr., OL/DL56 Ross Bonaddio, 6-0, 250, Sr., OL/DL57 Cory Cunningham, 6-2, 210, Jr., OL/DL58 Carl Zenker, 5-9, 195, So., OL/DL59 Harry Wildrick, 5-9, 216, So., OL/DL60 Russell Benke, 6-2, 225, Jr., OL/DL62 Tom Kraser, 5-10, 195, Sr., OL/DL64 Jake DeSarno, 6-0, 225, Sr., OL/DL65 Tommy Irwin, 6-0, 261, Jr., OL/DL66 Vinny Goldstein, 6-0, 205, Sr., OL/DL67 Tyrell Bacon, 5-11, 210, Sr., OL/DL68 Cameron Williams, 5-11, 215, Sr., OL/DL73 Jon Manuel, 5-8, 185, So., OL/DL74 Jaleel Howard, 6-3, 261, So., OL/DL77 Joniel Acosta, 5-10, 225, So., OL/DL78 Devon Johnson, 5-9, 210, Sr., OL/DL81Marcus Royce, 6-1, 190, So., WR/DB82 Anthony Zelliner, 6-2, 185, Jr., WR/DB84 Brandon Sprague, 5-9, 146, So., WR/DB85 Louie DiBileo, 6-3, 225, So., TE/DL86 Corey Lyons, 5-8, 150, So., WR/DB88 Nyallah Johnson, 6-2, 170, Sr., WR/DB89 Dregg Ackies, 5-10, 150, Sr., WR/DB

ROSTER

West Scranton went fromhaving the LackawannaFootball Conference’s

most productive offensiveweapon totrying to develop its best 1-2 punch.Running back DeVaughn Chol-lette and wide receiver MalcolmSweeting will each expand theirroles to find more ways to get theball more often as the Invaders tryto rebuild an offense that lost ninestarters, including quarterbackTyler Hughes.

“There’s only one ball and thosetwo kids have to be touching most ofthe time,” Invad-ers coach Joe Ge-rek said.Most of the of-

fensive plays inlast season’s runto the District 2Class AAA cham-pionship gamestarted or endedwith Hugheswhen he passedfor 2,320 and 24touchdownswhile running for1,406 yards and 20 touchdowns.Danny Repshis and Nate Manning

spent the preseason battling it out for

the quarterback job.“I think both of those guys are going

to be capable, butno one is going toreplace TylerHughes,” Gereksaid. “I don’tthink anyone inthe league willhave a kid likeHughes.“He was a spe-

cial kid. I don’tthink I’ll see onelike him again.”Chollette was

the lone setbackoften last season in West Scranton’s


Members of West Scranton’s ’LB Unit,’ from left, Marcus Moody, Demetrius Dickey, DeVaughn Chollette, Jon Kobrynich,and Tyler Rakauskas, hope to successfully defend the bell against city rivals at Scranton on Oct. 7.

West looks to two standoutsBy TOM ROBINSONGo Lackawanna Reporter

See WEST, Page 17

Nickname: InvadersHome field: Scranton MemorialDivision: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 423Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 6-1 second in Division 1; 9-3overall; 8-2 in regular season; beat Dallasin District 2 Class AAA playoffs, 49-26,before losing to Abington Heights, 28-21.Returning all-stars:Malcolm Sweeting,first-teamWR and second-team DB;DeVaughn Chollette, first-team LB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

SPECIALSECTION,S

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WEST SCRANTON

Sept. 2 – at RiversideSept. 9 – WYOMING AREASept. 16 – at DunmoreSept. 23 – at Delaware ValleySept. 30 – NORTH POCONOOct. 7 – SCRANTONOct. 14 – WALLENPAUPACKOct. 22 – at Abington HeightsOct. 28 – VALLEY VIEWNov. 4 – at Scranton Prep

SCHEDULE

spread offense when he av-eraged 5.3 yards per carrywhile rushing for 708 yards.He is expected to get moreopportunities to run the balland in different situations.“We’re going to have a

blocker for him sometimesin the backfield,” Gereksaid. “Last year, any yards

he got, hegot on hisown.”This sea-

son, Chol-lette maycatch theball as well.“We’re go-

ing to try toget him into the slot posi-tion at times,” Gerek said.“He has developed into animproved receiver.“We want to get him into

space to give him a chanceto make some plays.”Sweeting caught 47 pas-

ses for 813 yards and eighttouchdowns. He may befound in the slot or at splitend in addition to possiblysneaking into the backfieldat times.Dylan Lindberg, who

caught nine passes as a partof the receiver rotation, isthe only other offensiveplayer with significant ex-perience.Gerek expects to again

have a deep core of receiv-ers for use when the Invad-ers open things up.Joe Devine, Cory Kelly

and Patrick Gerrity shouldall see action.MarcusMoody has the in-

side track on being the full-back in front of Chollettewhen West Scranton usesthe I-formation.Connor Duffy and Jason

Manning also will spend

time in the backfield.Vince Miller, Louie DiBi-

leo and Cullen Fanninghave been working at tightend.The entirely new offen-

sive line could still gothrough some adjustments.Vinny Goldstein is at

center where Brian Fallonmay also play. Jon Kobryn-ich and Joniel Acosta areguards with Gary DiBileoproviding depth. Ross Bo-naddio and Russell Benkeare at the tackle spotswith Cory Cunningham al-so available. Carl Zenkercould also fit into the of-fensive line.The entire front will also

have to be replaced on de-fense.Cameron Williams, Jake

DeSarno, Paul Stefani andJaleel Howard are workingon the interior. Miller, Fan-ning, Jerry Cocozello andTyaire Quiller are the endcandidates.The rest of the defense

has experience.Chollette and Tyler Ra-

kauskas return as starting li-nebackers. Kobrynich,Moody and DemetriusDickey also have experi-ence while Jason Manningand Duffy are trying to fig-ure into the mix.Sweeting and Kelly re-

turn at cornerbacks withLindberg back at strongsafety.Devine and Patrick Ger-

rity are working at freesafety.

WESTContinued from Page 16

Gerek

Running back DeVaughn Chollette and wide

receiver Malcolm Sweeting will each expand

their roles to find more ways to get the ball

more often as the Invaders try to rebuild an

offense that lost nine starters.


The West Scranton cheerleaders gather during the 2010 bell game at Memorial Stadium.

Junior Drum Major Matt George

Justin Ambrozia on mellophoneand Anna Torres on bells.

Senior Drum Major Carla Castro,standing, and tenor saxophonistSarah Youshock.

SPECIA

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011 NORTH POCONO


1 Mike Finella, 5-9, 170, Jr., RB/LB

5 John Gething, 5-11, 205, Sr., RB/LB

7 Joey Waldsmith, 5-10, 155, Sr., WR/DB

8 Tom Cirillo, 6-0, 195, Sr., WR/LB

12 Ryan Zaffino, 5-8, 150, So., WR/DB

14 Jack Williams, 6-4, 210, Sr., QB/DB

15 Nick Russoniello, 5-10, 140, Jr., QB/DB

16 Brian Morgantini, 5-10, 175, Jr., RB/DB

17 Matthew Nawrocki, 6-0, 170, So., QB/DB

18 Mat Acevedo, 5-11, 160, Jr., WR/DB

20 Ryan Kaye, 5-7, 120, So., WR/DB

21 Martin Moran, 5-11, 145, So., RB/DB

22 Matt Domenick, 5-11, 160, So., RB/LB

23 Eric Ciaglia, 5-11, 135, So., WR/DB

24 Austin Heinemann, 5-9, 145, Jr., WR/DB

26 Alex Carling, 6-5, 190, So., WR/DB

29 Christopher Angerson, 5-7, 130, So.

WR/DB

30 Garrett Fisher, 5-10, 200, Jr., RB/LB

32 Scott Van Brunt, 5-9, 175, So., RB/LB

33 R.J. Valenti, 5-4, 150, So., RB/LB

34 TaQuay Harris, 5-5, 150, Jr., RB/DB

36 Brendon Kelly, 5-8, 165, Sr., WR/DB

41 Cal Batzel, 5-11, 195, Sr., RB/LB

44 Blake Bauman, 5-9, 170, So., WR/DB

50 Rick Baldauff, 6-1, 210, Sr., OL/DL

51 Jimmy Hasselbrock, 6-0, 200, So., OL/

DL

52 Conor Rosen, 6-0, 190, So., OL/DL

53 Al Granville, 5-11, 195, Sr., OL/DL

54 Mike Gerakoui, 5-10, 205, Sr., OL/DL

56 Damian Benfatti, 5-8, 205, So., OL/DL

57 Tyler Schirra, 6-0, 275, Jr., OL/DL

58 Josh Polachek, 5-10, 210, Jr., OL/DL

64 Josh Weltz, 6-0, 250, So., OL/DL

65 Ray Watkins, 6-0, 285, Jr., OL/DL

72 Michael Levanthal, 5-11, 175, So., OL/DL

73 Nick Jaggars, 5-8, 210, Sr., OL/DL

76 Pete Festa, 6-0, 275, Sr., OL/DL

77 Rocco Antidormi, 6-1, 195, Sr., OL/LB

80 Shariff Daniels, 6-1, 220, Jr., TE/DL

81 Ryan Sheerer, 6-2, 170, Jr., WR/DB/K

84 Dom Verdetto, 6-3, 175, Sr., WR/DB

85 Terez Goodman, 5-7, 130, So., WR/DB

86 John Docalovich, 6-0, 200, Jr., TE/DL

87 Marcus Nielsen, 6-1, 205, Sr., TE/DL

88 Matthew Ritter, 5-10, 170, Jr., WR/DB

S C H E D U L E

Sept. 2 – DUNMORESept. 9 – at BerwickSept. 16 – at RiversideSept. 23 – SCRANTON PREPSept. 30 – at West ScrantonOct. 7 – DELAWARE VALLEYOct. 14 – SCRANTONOct. 21 – at WallenpaupackOct. 28 – ABINGTON HEIGHTSNov. 4 – at Valley View

SCHEDULE

Developing strong team chemistry could be the key to overcoming other possible shortfalls for aninexperienced North Pocono team.

The Trojans finished last season with an overall record of 6-5, advancing to the first round of theDistrict 2 Class AAA playoffs where they lost to AbingtonHeights.

Graduation meant the loss of 21 players, who helped carry North Pocono to last year’s success, leaving alot of questions for the coaching staff as they put together this year’s lineup.

“We have a lot ofwork to do,” coach Ja-son Sepkowski said.“We lost quite a fewplayers.”

Despite the losses,Sepkowski saidwatching the way histeam has bonded dur-ing the preseason has

given him some confidence.“I like how they’re coming together,

and gelling as a team” Sepkowski said.“I think having good team chemistry,and believing in each other that theycan get their jobs done … and gainingthat experience as quickly as they can, and just feed offeach other. I think if we can do that, we’ll grow up as a foot-ball team and get better.”

One player who has been helping make up for the team’slack of experience has been returning starting quarterbackJack Williams.

Williams completed 52 of 97 passes for 714 yards andthree touchdowns against four interceptions. He complet-

ed 53.6 percent of his passes. Williamsalso scored one rushing touchdown on51 carries.

“He’s going to be a senior, and it’s hissecond year at quarterback, so we’regoing to build around him a little bitthis year,” Sepkowski said.

Williams will be joined on offense byonly one other returning starter, offen-sive lineman Rick Baldauff.

On defense, defensive end MarcusNielsen is the only true returning start-er.

There are several Trojans who sawplaying time last year who will becalled upon to play a bigger role in

2011.On defense, they’ll look to backs Joey Waldsmith, Matt

Acevedo and TaQuay Harris, linebackers J.P. Gething andCal Batzel and lineman Shariff Daniels.

On offense, the team hopes running back Gething andreceiver Waldsmith will be able to handle increased work-

J. MICHAEL SCHIRRA PHOTO

North Pocono’s senior players include, from left, front, Al Granville, Brandon Kelly, Mike Gerakoui, Joey Waldsmith, Nick Jaggers,and Tom Cirillo. Back, Rocco Antidormi, Marcus Nielsen, Jack Williams, JP Gething, Cal Batzel, Rick Baldauff, and Pete Festa.

Chemistry lifts TrojansBy DONMcGLYNN Abington Journal Reporter

Sepkowski

See TROJANS, Page 34

Nickname: TrojansHome field: North PoconoMiddle School, Moscow.Division: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 407Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 4-3 for third inDivision 1; 6-5 overall; 6-4 inregular season; lost in Dis-trict 2 Class AAA semifinalsto Abington Heights, 21-7.Returning all-stars: None.

FACTS AND FIGURES

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19DUNMORE

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In order to coach as long and as successfully asJack Henzes has, it is necessary to address a va-riety of scenarios at one time or another.

The task Henzes faces this year at Dunmore doesnot come along often.“Of our 10 linemen, we lost nine,” Henzes said of the

players who were part of the offensive rotation. “That’sour biggest concern, replacing our offensive line.”

Dunmore rebuilding lineCHRISTOPHER J. HUGHES PHOTO

From left, Jordan Dempsey, Austin Semon, Chris Yurechko and Daiquon Buckley, will use their experience in the backfield to run behinda rebuilt offensive line.

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.1 Daiquon Buckley, 5-10, 195, So.,RB/LB2 Matt Rogan, 5-7, 140, So., WR3 Corey Coviello, 5-10, 180, Sr.,WR/SS4 Jason Kraycer, 5-8, 140, So.,WR5 James Cole, 5-9, 135, Jr., K6 John Rinaldi, 6-2, 180, Jr.,WR/S8 Ryan Miller, 5-8, 135, Jr., K9 Sal Marchese, 5-10, 160, Fr., QB10 Jordan Dempsey, 6-2, 180, Sr.,QB13 Mike Kolcharno, 5-9, 160, Jr.,WR/CB14 Brandon Kujawski, 5-10, 150,So., QB15 Eamon Earley, 5-9, 160, Sr.,WR26 Austin Seamon, 5-8, 180, Jr.,RB/DB28 Josh Zilla, 5-11, 180, So., TE32 Matt Fisk, 5-8, 175, Jr., RB33 Robert Cordaro, 5-10, 190, Sr.,FB/TE41 Robert Gentile, 5-9, 190, Sr.,FB/LB45 Chris Yurechko, 5-9, 195, Sr.,FB/LB47 Matt Sawka, 5-9, 155, Sr.,WR/CB48 Josh Sawka, 5-10, 155, So.,RB/LB50 Kevin Mee, 5-11, 190, Jr., G55 Tim Drewes, 6-1, 205, Fr., OL60 Tom Dailey, 5-9, 180, Sr.,G/LB62 Dan Graf, 5-11, 190, So., OL70 Jake Korgeski, 5-11, 220, Jr., G71 Mike Boland, 6-3, 235, Jr., OL74 Jim McHale, 6-4, 260, So., T75 Cory Jones, 6-2, 190, Jr., G76 Mike Becchetti, 5-10, 180, So.,OL79 Mark Mesko, 6-2, 270, Sr., T82 Jordan Sweeney, 5-10, 165,Jr., TE97 Matt Smolskis, 6-1, 225, Sr.,TE/LB

ROSTER

By TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

Nickname: BucksHome field: V.J. Gatto Stadium, Dunmore.Division: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 178Classification: A2010 Recap: 3-2 third in Division 2; 7-5 overall; 6-4 in regularseason; beat Old Forge, 21-0, in District 2 Class A playoffsbefore losing to Riverside, 22-14.Returning all-stars: Daiquon Buckley, first-team RB; TomDailey, first-team LB; Jordan Dempsey, second-team QB; ChrisYurechko, second-team FB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

See DUNMORE, Page 21

Sept. 2 – NORTH POCONOSept. 9 – at MeyersSept. 16 – WEST SCRANTONSept. 23 – at MontroseSept. 30 – MID VALLEYOct. 7 – HONESDALEOct. 14 – at LakelandOct. 21 – at Western WayneOct. 28 – CARBONDALENov. 4 – at Riverside

SCHEDULE

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LEFT: From left, Alec Gerchman, Domin-ic Behler, Josh Cantarella, NatalieWalsh, Kelcey Hallinan, and AndrewRemetta.

ABOVE: Trombonists Gabriel Cecci andBen Pacifico with tuba player AaronBeck.

BELOW: FlautistsMegan Bernotsky,front, and Kerissa

Svecz lean backduring a rehearsalof Dunmore’s half-

time show.

BILL TARUTIS PHOTO

BELOW: CatherineNotckick and the Dun-more High School foot-ball cheerleaders per-form at the Ss. Anthonyand Rocco Festival inDunmore in August.

RIGHT: DunmoreHigh School majo-

rette MaggieDempsey skillfully

twirls a flamingbaton at the Ss.

Anthony and Roc-co Festival in Dun-

more.

LEFT: PercussionistsJohn Glinsky, MichaelaSheehan, George Rein-ecke, and Mary Fergu-son.

BILL TARUTIS PHOTO

SP

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21

DUNMORE

Although it is uncommon toput together the whole line atone time, it is an issue Henzeshas seen before.“In (19)90, because we lost

all those kids from our ’89state championship team, wehad to do the same,” Henzessaid. “We have to have somepatience and get better eachweek as the season goesalong.”Although there will be new

faces, Henzes said there is tal-ent and size among the candi-dates to join senior tackle

Mark Mesko,the only veter-an offensive li-neman.Jake Korges-

ki is likely tohandle one ofthe guardspots.

Jim McHale, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound sophomore, and Mi-chael Boland, a 6-4, 245-poundjunior, are candidates at tack-le.Danny Hart may be at cen-

ter, or at guard where the oth-er candidates include KevinMee, Danny Drewes and CoryJones.Matt Smolskis is the leading

candidate at tight end whereJosh Zilla may also get some

time.John Rinaldi started at wide

receiver but missed time earlyand late in the season with in-juries. Mike Kolcharno willhandle the other receiver spot.The backfield is heavy on

experience on both sides ofthe ball from a team that reac-hed the District 2 Class Achampionship game.Jordan Dempsey returns at

quarterback.Chris Yurechko, who got off

to a slow start because of apreseason illness, is the full-back. Bob Cordaro, who re-turned to the position afterplaying tight end last season,and Robert Gentile give theBucks more options.Henzes plans on using at

least two players at the tail-back position, which generallyhas a heavy workload in theBucks’ ball-control attack.Daiquon Buckley rushed for

more than 1,000 yards as afreshman, but Austin Seamonmay start out at the position.Seamon missed most of the

first half of last season with ahigh ankle sprain,then fin-ished strong.“When he came back, he

played extremely well for us,”Henzes said. “He has got thetype of speed you need and hehas good vision.“We’ll use two tailbacks. We

play three AAA schools. Youneed some backs.“We’ll try to share the car-

ries because both Austin and

Daiquon also have to play de-fense for us.”Seamon will put in his time

as a strong safety in the veter-an defensive backfield.“Where we’re going to be

good is with the experience ofour secondary guys,” Henzessaid.Kolcharno and Matt Sawka

are back at the corners. CoreyCoviello joins Seamon inhandling the strong safety po-sition. Rinaldi is at free safety.Yurechko and Tom Dailey re-

turn as starters at linebackerwhere Gentile and Buckley al-so have experience. Josh Saw-ka could also see playing time.Smolskis, a tackle, is the on-

ly player back in the defensiveline.

DUNMOREContinued from Page 19

BILL TARUTIS PHOTO

Bianca Nati and the rest of the Dunmore High School football cheerleaders perform at the recent Ss. Anthony and Rocco Festival in Dunmore.

Henzes

SPECIALSECTION,S

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011 CARBONDALE


2 Cody Kilhullen, 5-10, 175, Jr., TE/DE

3 Stephen White, 5-8, 140, Sr., DB/WR

5 Bradley Sales, 5-5, 130, Fr., RB/DB

7 Joey Gigliotti, 5-11, 185, Jr., QB/DB

10 Jordan Martin, 5-11, 160 Fr., TE/DE

11Michael Scotch, 5-8, 145, Jr., WR/DB

12 Jesse Jankowski, 5-9, 180, So., QB/LB

13 Greg Nepa, 5-11, 170, So., TE/LB

14 Jason Martin, 6-3, 160, So., WR/DB

18 Ricky Jones, 5-8, 145, So., WR/DB

19 Lukas Durkin, 5-11, 160, Jr., WR/DB

22 Sam Demianovich, 6-1, 175, Jr., RB/LB

24 Brandon Sales, 5-6, 165, Jr., RB/DB

25 Eddie Jones, 5-2, 110 Fr., RB/DB

27 Kevin Ormes, 5-9, 170, Jr., OL/DE

29 Chance Rossetti, 6-0, 160, So., OL/DE

31Peter Barnes, 5-8, 150, So., WR/DB

33 Jeffrey Arthur, 5-8, 150, Fr., TE/LB

34 Tim Mantis, 5-9, 190, So., RB/LB

36 Remington Hedden, 5-7, 160, Jr., RB/LB

38 Chippy Calabro, 5-8, 145, So., RB/DB

50 Chris DeGrazia, 6-0, 165, Jr., G/DE

52 Joe Munifo, 5-10, 215, Sr., G/DT

53 Brian Lavolpe, 5-9, 210, So., OL/LB

54 Isaiah McCord, 6-0, 210, So., OT/DE

55 Joe Sosa, 5-9, 220, Jr., OT/DT

56 Bailey Hughes, 6-2, 240, Jr., G/DT

57 Jack Bradley, 5-11, 210, So., OT/DT

58 Nick Cordova, 5-7, 160, Jr., G/LB

60 Guy Higdon, 5-9, 250, Fr., OT/DT

62 Joe Marion, 5-10, 230, Jr., C/NG

63Matt Stinnard, 6-3, 260, So., OT/DT

64 C.J. Bandru, 5-9, 240, So., OT/DT

65 A.J. Tornvall, 6-2, 365, Sr., OT/NG

66 Russell Dodge, 5-10, 250, Jr., OT/DT

69 Tyler Skasko, 5-10, 175, Jr., G/NG

72 Josh Scombordi, 6-0, 200, So., G/DT

73 Zach Rossetti, 5-10, 180, Jr., TE/DE

74Matt Robison, 6-0, 190, Jr., OT/DT

76 Pat Barney, 5-6, 175, Fr., OT/DT

77 John Thomas, 6-0, 240, Jr., OT/DT

78 Lee Frutchey, 5-9, 340, Sr., OT/DT

81 Jose Mendez, 5-10, 145, Jr., WR/DB

84 Christopher Larson, 5-9, 180, Fr., TE/LB

87 Chris Conway, 5-10, 135, Fr., WR/DB

89 Cory Conway, 6-2, 180, Sr., WR/DE

99 Jacob Huff, 5-8, 175, Sr., TE/LB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – Lackawanna TrailSept. 9 – at Valley ViewSept. 16 – SCRANTON PREPSept. 24 – at Holy CrossSept. 30 – SUSQUEHANNAOct. 7 – LAKELANDOct. 14 – at Western WayneOct. 21 – RIVERSIDEOct. 28 – at DunmoreNov. 4 – HONESDALE

SCHEDULE

Carbondale Areastruggled through aone-win season last

year, but coach Larry Ga-briel is confident a large ju-nior class is ready to leadhis team to better results.

“The whole junior classis standing out,” Gabrielsaid. “We should be muchmore competitive andmuch improved. Last year,we had a 1-9 season andthere were really only twoother games that we felt wewere even in position towin late in the game overthe course of the season.

“Our goals are still to bein position to win in thefourth quarter every Fridaynight.”

Although its ef-fort didn’t pro-duce many wins,Gabriel thinkslast year’s seniorclass set a goodexample for thecurrent players tofollow.

“They worked hard andthey showed the way,” hesaid. “They taught a lot ofvaluable lessons to ouryounger guys and hope-fully our young guys cancontinue (what theystarted).”

The Chargers return ju-nior quarterback Joe Gi-gliotti who was the full-time starter last seasonafter also seeing sometime as a freshman.

“I learned a lot,” Gigliotti said. “Ilearned that I have to keep my compo-sure better and be more of a leader. Thatis what I picked up over those two years.”

Brandon Sales returns as the startingtailback and Sam Demianovich will alsosee some action in the backfield. Re-mington Hedden returns as the starter at

fullback.Lukas Durkin

returns as astarter at widereceiver. Mi-chael Scotchand Jason Mar-tin are expect-ed to factor in

at the position. Accordingto Gabriel, Sales andDemianovich will also besplit out wide in somepackages.

Cody Kilhullen andGreg Nepa will share thetight end duties.

On the offensive line,Joe Marion returns as thestarter at center as doesBailey Hughes and RussellDodge at guard. Chris De-Grazia and Isaiah McCord

will be the starters at tackle. Joe Munifowill also be in the mix on the line.

Hughes, a tackle, is the only returningstarter in the defensive line. Tyler Skas-ko is expected to be the other starter attackle, while Kilhullen and McCord are

DON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Carbondale’s only senior players are, from left, front, Lee Frutchey and Stephen White. Back, AJ Tornvall, Cory Con-way, and Joe Munifo.

By ROBERT TOMKAVAGEAbington Journal Reporter

HughesGabriel Gigliotti

See CHARGERS, Page 23

Nickname: ChargersHome field: Andrew J.Cerra Sports Complex,Carbondale Area HighSchoolDivision: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 191Classification: AA2010 Recap: 1-4 fifth inDivision 2; 1-9 overall.Returning all-stars: None.

FACTS ANDFIGURES

Juniors carry Carbondale

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SPECIALSECTION,S

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CARBONDALE

ALEX SEELEY PHOTOS

From left, first row, Kayleigh Fisher, Abby Robinson, Erica Wilczewski, and Captains Dominique Liuzzoand Alyssa Torch. Second row, Brandi Cerra, Emily Hilker, Brooke Caviston, Kayla Roberts, and Lind-sey Edger. Third row, Nicole Drawga, Hayley Skroupa, Eliza Totsky, Gabby Cassaro, Mia Esgro, andJennifer Pfleger. Fourth row, Melissa Morgan, Emily Jablonowski, Jennifer Kunkelman, Alex Hilker,Audrey Gardus, and Britteny Sales.

the projected starters atend.

Hedden returns as astarter at outside line-backer. Demianovich willbe the other starter on theoutside. Sophomore BrainLavolpe is a strong con-tender to start at inside li-nebacker.

Gigliotti and Sales re-turn at cornerback. Dur-kin, Stephen White andRicky Jones are compet-ing for spots at safety.

Cory Conway will bethe kicker and Martin willhandle the punting du-ties.

Gabriel feels like histeam has put last seasonbehind it and is ready tocompete at a high level.

“They have bought intoeverything that we askthem to do,” Gabriel said.“Themajority of kids havebeen in the weightroomevery time we ask them.We’ve been in the class-room implementing ourschemes during chalk-board sessions. They aremore upbeat and enthusi-astic.”

CHARGERSContinued from Page 22

Cheerleaders from Carbondale High School practice a routine for the 2011 season.

Left base Mia Esgro, right base Jennifer Pfleger, and back JoeMarion lift flyer and cheer captain Alyssa Torch.

Eric Laytos hasstep.Laytos stood

podium, MarchGiant Center

ceiving a gold medal aschampion.This summer, between h

nior years in high schoocommitted to continue hiat the University of Virgione team in the countryJune’s national semifinals.By the time the 2010-11

ketball season ended, Mwas generally recognizedaround, full-time guard inwanna League.“The kid is, I think, th

the area,” West Scranton fGerek said. “I mean purefootball player.”Before the 2011-12 schoo

tos, Sweeting and McCartplenty of opportunities tothe wrestling mat, the basthe baseball diamond.First, however, they will

on fall Friday nights as thdangerous players in the L

Laytos, S

By TOM ROBINSONGo Lackawanna Reporter

s been to the top

d at the top of theh 13, 2010, at thein Hershey, re-a state wrestling

his junior and se-ol, Joe McCarthyis baseball careerinia, the number-y until losing in.1 high school bas-Malcolm Sweeting

as the finest all-the entire Lacka-

he best athlete infootball coach Joeathlete, not just

ol year ends, Lay-thy figure to haveo excel again onsketball court and

take center stagehree of the mostLackawanna Foot-

ball Confer-ence.“This is my

15th year of do-ing this,” Lack-awanna Trailcoach SteveJervis said. “Er-ic is one of themost recruitedplayers I’vehad.“He wants to

find a good fit,whether it’swrestling orfootball.”The power of

Laytos is one ofthe biggest rea-sons the Lionshave thechance to pro-duce one of theLFC’s biggestturnaroundsand just may bethe best teamin Division 3.The speed

and strength combination that makeMcCarthy a major baseball prospect arelikely to find a way into prominence onceagain when Scranton builds its offense.At just 5-11, 168 pounds, Sweeting can

dunk a basketball and make long nights forthose assigned to keep up with him. Whilethe other two both move much better thanthe average 6-3, 230-pounder, Sweeting’sathleticism makes him a player that cannotbe ignored on either offense or defense,whether it is football or basketball season.Football so often dominates, with other

sports revolving around it, in the lives ofthe top high school athletes in LackawannaCounty.Laytos, McCarthy and Sweeting will try

to show that the right type of athlete canstill excel on the football field, even if othersports arguably take priority for them attimes.Sweeting first felt control of a game while

playing basketball. Laytos has had the mostsuccess a high school athlete can experi-ence on the wrestling mat – as an individu-al state champion – but now considers foot-ball on equal terms as he assesses his fu-ture. McCarthy will end his football dayssoon but is happy that he never gave in tothe thought of becoming a full-time base-ball player at a young age.“I’ve had thoughts about staying strictly

baseball year-round,” said McCarthy, whosefather Joe was a three-sport star at Scran-ton Central before going to South Carolinafor baseball. “But my parents said theydidn’t really think playing all three hurt mychances.”That point was driven home this summer

when Virginia, McCarthy’s top choice ofschools, extended the baseball scholarshipoffer.Just as the three athletes have had to

answer their own questions about how tobest use their abilities in sports, theircoaches have struggled at times to find themost efficient use of what can be very im-pressive skill sets.The best approach? Try using their con-

siderable abilities in as many ways as pos-sible.McCarthy debuted as a quarterback,

moved to receiver, then settled in at tail-back where he is likely to be found mostoften this year. He has started in the sec-ondary, but with a heavy offensive work-load ahead, coach Mike Marichak wouldrather return him to the role of being anextra defensive back for use in certain sit-uations.

Sweeting has been busy on both sides ofthe ball as a wide receiver and defensiveback and has been downright scary as akick returner. Don’t be surprised if he alsomoves into the backfield at times in hissenior year, possibly even taking somesnaps from center.Laytos plays fullback but in an offense –

the wing-T – that can emphasize him moreas a ballcarrier than lead blocker. He hasspent some time at linebacker, but he hassettled in as the strong-side defensive end,responsible for stopping opponents fromgetting outside but also being set free to tryto tee off on the quarterback in passingsituations.Their teams’ success may depend on all

three remaining multiple threats this sea-son.“We will try to get the ball to him anyway

we can, whether it be as a running back, aslot or a wideout,” said Marichak, whoused McCarthy in all those spots last sea-son after moving him out of the quarter-back position he held for his sophomoreand the beginning of the junior year.McCarthy made a big splash as a sopho-

more quarterback. In his debut he threw for202 yards and three touchdowns to lead arally to an 18-15 victory over Wyoming Val-ley West. A week later, he passed for 108yards and ran for 103 in a 27-14 win overPittston Area.Two games into his sophomore season,

he was one of the LFC’s most talked-aboutplayers. Two games into his junior season,it was time to start considering a betterspot from which to help the strugglingKnights.McCarthy realizes he might have never

moved if football was his number-one sport,but when other high school quarterbackswere throwing to their favorite receivers insummer seven-on-seven scrimmages,McCarthy was putting his arm to work inthe outfield or on the mound.When his timing and release were fouled

up to start out the 2010 season, his days asa quarterback were numbered.“I feel like running back or wide receiver

is where I should be playing,” said McCar-thy, who, with limited practice time, hasalso been a key part of the rotation on twochampionship basketball teams at Scran-ton. “Wherever is going to help us win ismy job.“I think if football had been the main

thing, I would have been a quarterback. ButI started late and last year I was havingtrouble throwing the ball.”

It may have been time to move McCarthyout of football’s most prestigious position,but he certainly wasn’t heading for thebench.“Joe is such a great athlete that he made

a lot of things happen with his legs,” Mar-ichak said of McCarthy’s quarterback playin the spread offense. “He had always beena tailback before that.“The point is, you have got to get the ball

in his hands.”The Knights started 1-3 last season, then

went 2-4 the rest of the way with losses byone and three points to Valley View andNorth Pocono, two teams above them inthe Division 1 standings.McCarthy wound up leading the team in

rushing while helping the offense improvedown the stretch.With Laytos running for more than 1,000

yards and scoring 14 touchdowns, Lacka-wanna Trail improved to 4-6 last season, upfrom 1-9 a year earlier.By that time, Laytos was already well

known for his athletic prowess.That was not the case in the 2010 wres-

tling postseason when he put together animprobable winning streak that made him astate champion as a sophomore – the firstthat young to ever win the 215-pound classin Pennsylvania and also the first of thatage from Lackawanna County in any weightclass.“I like being under the radar, then com-

ing up,” Laytos said.It is a scenario he would like to repeat

this football season.“It’s going to be different,” he said. “Ev-

eryone’s excited. It’s going to be a goodyear.”Laytos acknowledges that nothing has

been accomplished yet. After three seasonswith just six total wins, the Lions first haveto prove they belong in consideration for areturn to the spot they once had secured asthe top team in Division 3.His roll through the district, regional and

state wrestling tournaments, however,taught him what can happen when momen-tum gets started.“I think winning just got me excited,” he

said, looking back on the state title. “Whenyou win districts, that’s a big thing. Youstart thinking you can accomplish any-thing.“You start working harder and your in-

tensity goes up.”And, once he started working out for

Sweeting and McCarthy turn their attentions to football in fall

See ATHLETES, Page 38

SPECIALSECTION,S

UNDAY,A

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011 LAKELAND


2 Bobby Lepre, 5-7, 132, So., RB

3 Dylan Kutch, 5-9, 123, Jr., WR

4 Tim Hackenberg, 5-5, 128, So., RB

5 J.J. Rojenches, 5-11, 175, Sr., QB

6 Kyle Kiehart, 6-1, 156, Jr., QB/WR/OLB

7 Shawn Carito, 6-0, 132, So., WR

8 Gavin O’Donnell, 5-10, 146, So., WR

9 Billy Thomas, 5-9, 178, Jr., RB

11 Justin Cunningham, 5-7, 155, Sr., WR

13 Adam Davis, 5-7, 134, So., RB

18 Alex Filarsky, 6-1, 170, Sr., WR/S/P

19 Chet Anuszewski, 5-10, 136, So., QB

20 Chris Roche, 5-10, 156, So., RB

21Ron Patterson, 6-2, 189, Sr., TE

22 Ryan Nichols, 5-10, 158, Sr., RB/CB/K

23 Mike Novak, 5-9, 143, Sr., WR/CB

25 Christian Selvenis, 5-9, 200, Fr., RB/

LB

26 Joey Natale, 5-9, 150, Jr., WR/CB

27 Chris Recker, 5-8, 154, Jr., RB

28 A.J. Rupp, 5-5, 164, So., RB

29 Jesse Lick, 6-2, 157, Sr., WR

34 Cody Gonsauls, 5-9, 165, Jr., RB/LB

40 Tyler Brady, 6-1, 192, Jr., RB/OLB

44 Rio Standefer, 5-7, 140, Sr., WR

50 Jon Sekely, 5-6, 177, Jr., OL/LB

51 Josh Diehl, 5-8, 222, Jr., OL/DL

52 Kurt Burns, 6-0, 193, Sr., OL/DT

53 Jake Noldy, 5-9, 162, Jr., OL/DL

54 Tyler Piatt, 5-9, 214, Sr., OL/DL

55 A.J. Rudalavage, 5-9, 198, Jr., OL/DL

56 A.J. Wormuth, 6-0, 192, So., OL/DE

57 Bob Bradley, 5-10, 165, So., OL/DL

58 Chris Burcheri, 5-10, 231, Sr., OL/DT

59 Jordan Tratthen, 5-6, 206, So., OL/DL

60 Willie Demyan, 5-10, 175, Jr., OL/DL

62 Ben Johnson, 5-9, 197, Sr., OL/DE

63 Colby Clauss-Walton, 6-3, 283, Jr.,

OL/DT

65 Nick Humphreys, 5-10, 222, Jr., OL/DL

66 Kyle Griffin, 6-3, 350, Jr., OL/DL

70 Joe Teeple, 5-8, 134, So., OL/DL

71 Jared Rude, 5-8, 185, So., OL/DL

72 Billy Mecca, 5-8, 249, Sr., OL/DL

74 Frank Bauman, 6-3, 278, So., OL/DL

75 Mike Fron, 5-5, 166, So., OL/DL

80 Brian Bylotas, 5-11, 135, So., WR

84 Tyler Chadwick, 5-8, 144, Jr., WR

85 Dante DeAntonio, 6-1, 196, Jr., TE/DE

87 Tim Johnson, 5-11, 183, Jr., TE

88 Cody Delfino, 6-2, 230, Jr., TE/ILB

ROSTER

Sept. 3 – at Scranton PrepSept. 9 – RIVERSIDESept. 16 – GARSept. 24 – at SusquehannaSept. 30 – LACKAWANNA TRAILOct. 7 – at CarbondaleOct. 14 – DUNMOREOct. 21 – at HonesdaleOct. 28 – RIVERSIDENov. 4 – at Western Wayne

SCHEDULE

Past success at Lakeland,combined with enough re-turning talent, means more

lofty expectations for the defend-ing Lackawanna Football Confer-ence Division 2 champion Chiefs.The Chiefs advanced to the Dis-trict 2 Class AA championshipgame and finished 10-2 in 2010.Although they lost a significantnumber of key players to gradua-tion, many with playoff experiencereturn under coach Jeff Wasilchak.“There are a lot of big shoes tofill,” Wasilchak said. “The guyswho played well last year, we ex-pect to playwell again this year andthe guys who have to fill the emptyspots have to step up, too.

“I think the traditionof Lakeland (football)helps to carry that on.Guys see it as a chal-lenge, not as a disad-vantage.”On offense, junior

KyleKiehart and seniorJ.J. Rojenches, whoboth saw some time asthe position last yearwill compete for thestarting spot at quarter-back.Senior Ryan Nichols

returns as the startingtailback as does juniorTyler Brady at fullback.According to Wasil-

chak, juniors ChrisRecker and Cody Gon-sauls may also see timein the backfield.The Chiefs utilized a multitude of

runners last year, but this season Ni-chols andBradywill be expected to car-ry the load.“I’ve been training hard in the offsea-

son, lifting a lot of weights to try to get

stronger so I can takeall the hits,” Nicholssaid.At wide receiver, se-

nior Alex Filarsky re-turns as a starter andJoey Natale returns tothe team after not play-ing last season.Junior Cody Delfino

returns as a starter attight end.Junior Colby Clauss-

Walton returns as astarter at one tacklespot and senior KurtBurns is expected to bethe other starting tack-le.Senior Tyler Piatt re-

turns as the starter atcenter with junior A.J.

Rudalavage at guard.Juniors Jon Sekelsky and Willie De-

myan, and senior Chris Burcheri are incompetition for the other guard spot.The Chiefs face a challenge on the

DON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Lakeland’s returning starters are, from left, front, Ryan Nichols, AJ Rudalavage, Kyle Kiehart, Tyler Piatt, and Mike Novak.Back, JJ Rojenches, Alex Filarsky, Colby Clauss-Walton, Cody Delfino, and Tyler Brady.

Continuing winning waysBy ROBERT TOMKAVAGEAbington Journal Reporter

See LAKELAND, Page 27

Nickname: ChiefsHome field: LakelandHigh School, JermynDivision: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 211Classification: AA2010 Recap: 5-0 firstin Division 2; 10-2overall; 9-1 in regularseason; beat Susque-hanna, 20-3, in District2 Class AA playoffsbefore losing to GAR,40-21.Returning all-stars:Ryan Nichols, first-team K, first-team DBand second-team RB;Alex Filarsky, first-team DB; Cody Delfino,second-team DL.

FACTS ANDFIGURES

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COURTESY PHOTO

AT LEFT: The Lakelandcheerleaders are, fromleft, first row, sopho-mores Alexis Mcder-mott, Taylor Ferko,Breann Boyarsky,Jordan Curnow, andSamantha Jenkins.Second row, juniorsAlissa Steier, AbbyRieder, Sommer Lar-kin, and Ashton Boyar-sky. Third row, seniorsDeanna Leri, KristenBazink, Megan Bab-canec, Jennifer Mag-notta, Kyra Brownell,and Andrea Sokolow-ski. Fourth row, Cap-tains Tori Doyle andJana Pezanowski.BELOW: The LakelandHigh School marchingband.

Captains Jana Pezanowski and Tori Doyle.

LAKELAND

defensive line, having to re-place all four starters fromlast season.

Both starting defensiveends and one tackle gradu-ated and the other starterat tackle, Delfino, is mov-ing to inside linebacker.

Clauss-Walton,BurnsandBurcheriare ex-pected tobe in themix at de-

fensive tackle, while ju-niors Dante DeAntonioand Tim Johnson alongwith sophomore A.J. Wor-muth will likely be the con-tributors at defensive end.

“There a lot of people inthere competing. Some-body has to emerge,” Wasil-chak said.

Brady and Kiehart re-turn as starters at outsidelinebacker.

Delfino will start at in-side linebacker. Sekelsky,Gonsauls and freshmanChristian Selvenis could al-so see action at linebacker.

Filarsky, a two-time, sec-ond team Class AA all-stateselection, returns as a start-er a safety.

Nichols returns as astarter at cornerback, Na-tale and Mikey Novak willalso see time at corner-back.

“We have some depth inthe secondary,” Wasilchaksaid.

Nichols will be the kick-er and Filarsky will handlethe punting duties.

Wasilchak has been im-pressed with a lot of play-ers during the off-seasonfrom the freshman to se-niors.

“Mikey Novak, a senior,has made some greatstrides,” he said.

“Christian Selvenis is afreshman who is impres-sive.”

LAKELANDContinued from Page 26

Wasilchak

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SPECIALSECTION,S

UNDAY,A

UGUST28,2

011 RIVERSIDE

GOVIKINGS!

Serving the Community for over 23 Years!421 Lawrence Street, Old Forge • 457-8323


2 James Colondres, 5-7, 145, Jr., WR/DB

3 CodyMackin, 6-2, 185, Sr., WR/DB

4Matthew Aniska, 5-9, 155, Sr., WR/DB

5Alec Parchinski, 5-10, 175, Jr., QB/LB

6 Tyler Briskie, 5-10, 150, Sr., WR/DB

9 Tim Lebiak, 5-9, 175, Sr., K

10Nicholas Dranchak, 6-1, 200, Jr., QB/DB

14 Jason Ford, 5-7, 145, Jr., WR/DB

15 SamDeStefano, 5-9, 160, Jr., RB/DB

16 Christian Reed, 5-11, 160, Jr., WR/DB

17 John Plisko, 5-11, 150, Fr., QB/DB

19Michael Loftus, 6-2, 185, Jr., TE/DE

21Hakeem Lincoln, 5-7, 180, Sr., RB/LB

22Dave Sweetman, 5-10, 175, So., WR/DB

23Nick Killino, 5-9, 160, Jr., WR/DB

24 Jim Tucker, 5-11, 175, Jr., WR/DB

25 Lashon Turner, 5-8, 175, Jr., RB/LB

32Anthony Yackobovitz, 5-7, 165, So.,

RB/LB

33 John Nawrocki, 5-11, 165, Sr., WR/DB

34Mike Killino, 5-11, 150, Jr., RB/LB

36 Jim Odzana, 5-7, 170, Jr., RB/LB

41Troy Kempa, 6-0, 180, Sr., TE/LB

42 Tom Lavelle, 6-0, 170, So., TE/LB

50 ShaneWeller, 6-1, 230, Sr., OL/DL

52 Glen Burge, 5-10, 180, Jr., OL/DT

54 Joe Nannini, 6-2, 210, Sr., OL/DE

55 EdMartz, 6-2, 210, Jr., OL/DE

56 Clayton Casino, 6-2, 220, So., OL/DT

57Mark Donaghey, 6-0, 220, Jr., OL/LB

60Bryant Guevara, 5-6, 205, Jr., OL/DE

65Michael Pietrowski, 5-10, 290, Sr., OL/DT

66Mark Gorton, 5-9, 220, So., OL/DL

70 Jose DeJesus, 5-6, 270, Sr., OL/DT

72 Tyler Armillay, 6-1, 260, So., OL/DT

74 JimHoban, 6-3, 305, So., OL/DT

77Kevin Jones, 6-3, 325, Jr., OL/DT

79Mike Piasecki, 6-1, 220, OL/DE

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – WEST SCRANTONSept. 10 – at Holy CrossSept. 16 – NORTH POCONOSept. 23 – at Lackawanna TrailSept. 30 – at Old ForgeOct. 7 – WESTERN WAYNEOct. 14 – HONESDALEOct. 21 – at CarbondaleOct. 28 – at LakelandNov. 4 – DUNMORE

SCHEDULE

The Riverside Vikings team that opens the 2011 season will lookmuch different than the one that was the last LackawannaFootball Conference squad to end the 2010 season.

Evan Prall heads a revamped coaching staff and just three full-timestarters return on each side of the ball for the defending District 2Class A champions.

Mike Pietrowski, a 290-pound se-nior, returns at guard and defensivetackle.Tyler Armillay, who had a standout

freshman season in the offensive line,moves to two-way duty, along withMark Donaghey and Dave Sweetman,a pair of defensive starters who saw alot of offensive action.

Nicholas Dranchak moves back tohis original high school position, tak-ing over at quarterback for state ClassA Player of the Year Corey Talerico.“We have a good nucleus back,” Prall

said. “We have the three guys up front.We have a quarterback who has played


Returning starters who helped lead Riverside to the Class A state championship game in 2010 are, from left, Dave Sweetman,Mike Pietrowski, Nicholas Dranchak, Mark Donaghey and Tyler Armillay.

Changes start at topBy TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

Nickname: VikingsHome field: Taylor Veterans MemorialStadium.Division: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 172Classification: A2010 Recap: 4-1 second in Division 3; 14-2overall; 9-1 in regular season; defeated North-west, 34-0, and Dunmore, 22-14, to win Dis-trict 2 Class A title; defeated Southern Co-lumbia, 36-0, Schuylkill Haven, 41-0, andBishop Carroll, 34-20, in state playoffs beforelosing to Clairton, 36-30, in state champion-ship game.Returning all-stars: Tyler Armillay, first-teamOL; Mike Pietrowski, second-team OL andsecond-team DL; Dave Sweetman, second-teamDB; Nicholas Dranchak, second-team DB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

See RIVERSIDE, Page 29

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RIVERSIDE

there before.“We have some skill athletes on

the outside.”How well the newcomers can fill

in will determine if the handful ofreturnees can keep Riverside incontention a year after going 14-2and playing in the state final.“We have athletic, tough, hard-

working kids,” Prall said.Pietrowski, Ar-

millay and Do-naghey could geta boost up frontfrom Ed Martz, adefensive endwho is movingfrom end to theinterior line on of-fense.

“He has made a commitment tomake the move from end,” Prallsaid. “Every drill he does, he does100 percent.“When you have people like that

up front, it makes it a little easier,especially for a first-year coach.”Armillay is at center with Pie-

trowski and Martz likely at guards.Donaghey and 325-pounder KevinJones are the tackles.Michael Loftus is at tight end.Sweetman, who saw plenty of ac-

tion as both a back and receiverlast season, is at wide receiver,along with Cody Mackin, Jim Tuck-er and John Nawrocki. Prall wouldnot rule out the possibility ofSweetman again seeing time in thebackfield.“We’re going to be a multiple of-

fense,” Prall said. “If they can carrythe football and make people miss,they’ll end up with the ball in theirhands.”Hakeem Lincoln is a running

back.Dranchak started at quarterback

as a freshman and was in the rota-tion of receivers last year.Prall said Jason Ford, Tucker and

Nawrocki are all making progressas wide receivers and defensivebacks. They could join Sweetmanin the secondary.Donaghey moves from defensive

end last season to linebacker thisseason. Loftus, Lincoln, Alec Par-chinski and Troy Kempa are theplayers with the best shot at join-ing him there.Loftus is also in the mix at defen-

sive end along with Martz and JoeNannini.Pietrowski, Armillay and Jones

are the down linemen.

RIVERSIDEContinued from Page 28

Prall

EMILY TAYLOR PHOTOS

Riverside marching band members include, from left, first row, Destianna Evans and Morgan Perry. Second row, Aaron Robbins,Lauren Grzyboski, Neena Hurley, Kayla Reagan, Valeriya Kazysta, Kayla Creedon, Aubrey Edstrom, Morgan Gable, Brittany Fox, andAndrew Gallagher. Third row, Joey Kester, Evan Harbert, Sarah Murphy, Ryan O’Malley, Taylor Donahue, Sazia Nowshin, and VinnieDonaghey.

From left, front, Kellie Nash, Rachael Ogden, Captain Taylor Berto, Miss Viking Stephanie Tilberry,Captain Kyra Leasure, Basketball Captains Ashley Puchalski and Katelyn Shaughnessy, MelonyPlisko, and Tate Jackson. Back, Jenelle Richards, Hannah Oustrich, Lexi Scott, Abbey Wzorek,Kelsey Shaughnessy, Megan Kolis, Madison Petro, Julia Osmolia, Melia Garcia, and Ana Sottile.

Bases Taylor Berto, MeganKolis and Kellie Nash lift Ab-bey Wzorek.

Kelsey Shaughnessy Andrew GallagherFrom left, Aaron Robbins, Neena Hurley, Valeriya Kazysta.

SPECIALSECTION,S

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011 HOLY CROSS

704157

The Holy Cross running attack was both predictable andimpressive a year ago.Running about 10 times for every pass attempt, the Cru-

saders still managed to churn out yards.Rob Heyen, Tyler Hinkley and Joe Merli each had their mo-

ments leading the way while teaming to rush for more than 200yards per game for the Eastern Conference Class A finalists.

Heyen, Hinkley and Merli are allback, but new coach Jeff Stevens in-sists the Holy Cross offense will notoperate exactly as it did last season.

“We’re making the changes regard-less of whether we had to or not,” Ste-

vens said. “Last year, we ended upfacing teams that put 11 in the box.What we did best was running theball and to face those 11, we want to

Top 3 runners returnDON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Tyler Hinkley, Rob Heyen, and Joe Merli make up the veteran Holy Cross backfield.

By TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.1Andrew Meis, 5-7, 135, So., WR/DB2 Robert Heyen, 6-1, 185, So., QB/DB3 John Heyen, 6-2, 155, So., RB/DE10 Matthew McDonough, 6-0, 135,So., QB/DB11R.J. Klein, 6-1, 160, So., TE/DL12 Eric Gatto, 5-8, 135, So., QB/DB14 Zach McAndrew, 5-6, 145, Sr.,WR/DB16 Duncan Coolican, 5-7, 130, Jr.,WR/DB17 Louis Gianacopolous, 5-9, 165, Sr.,WR/DB18 Christian Simrell, 6-0, 175, Jr.,WR/DB22 Tyler Hinkley, 6-0, 225, Sr., RB/LB24 Shawn Iezzi, 5-9, 205, Jr., RB/LB33 Joe Merli, 5-9, 195, Sr., RB/DB42 Marcus Purdy, 5-9, 175, So., G/LB50 John Derenick, 5-10, 240, Jr.,OL/DL54 Zach Watters, 5-7, 230, Sr., OL/LB55 Jordan Nicholoff, 6-0, 290, Sr.,OL/DL60 Thomas Warden, 6-4, 265, Jr.,TE/LB61 John Rafferty, 6-0, 265, Sr., OL/DL62 Jared Nicholoff, 6-2, 285, Jr.,OL/DL63 Corey Yablonski, 5-8, 210, So.,OL/DL73 Steve Klassner, 5-9, 235, So.,OL/DL75 John Heffernan, 6-3, 275, So.,OL/DL78 Josh Wombacker, 5-10, 220, Jr.,OL/DL84 Patrick Hagan, 5-11, 175, Jr., WR/DB/K89 Shane Holmes, 6-3, 205, Sr.,TE/LB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – at MeyersSept. 10 – RIVERSIDESept. 17 – at Holy RedeemerSept. 24 – CARBONDALESept. 30 – at Western WayneOct. 8 – SUSQUEHANNAOct. 14 – at Mid ValleyOct. 21 – at MontroseOct. 29 – OLD FORGENov. 5 – LACKAWANNA TRAIL

SCHEDULE

Nickname: CrusadersHome field: St. Anthony’s Playground,Dunmore.Division: LFC Division 3Enrollment: 166Classification: A 2010Recap: 2-3 tied for third in Division 3; 6-6overall; 5-5 in regular season; beat Buck-tail, 37-14, before losing to Mahanoy Area,41-14, in Eastern Conference Class A play-offs.Returning all-stars: Rob Heyen, first-teamDB and second-team RB; Tyler Hinkley,first-team LB; Joe Merli, second-team RB;Jordan Nicholoff, second-team OL; JohnRafferty, second-team DL.

FACTS AND FIGURES

See HOLY CROSS, Page 37

SPECIALSECTION,S

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3 Jeremy Greenley, 6-1, 175, Jr., RB/FS

4 Matt Harris, 6-1, 180, So., TE/DE

5 Cooper Rosiak, 5-10, 160, Fr., RB/DB

7 Billy Lee, 5-6, 130, So., QB/WR/DB

8 Zack Goodrich, 5-11, 180, Jr., QB/LB

10 Matt Aten, 5-11, 205, Sr., TE/ILB

11 Jordan Wallen, 5-10, 150, Jr., RB/LB

13 Levi Bennett, 5-10, 150, Jr., WR/DB

17 Caleb Darling, 6-1, 190, Sr., QB/OLB

20 Jonathon Zedar, 5-10, 160, So., WR/DB

21 Thomas Fricke, 6-0,170, So., TE/DE

23 Marvess Rosiak, 6-2, 185, Sr., RB/DB

27 Matt Pascoe, 5-8, 150, Sr., WR/DB

28 Pete Murazzi, 6-0, 170, Jr., RB/LB

29 Liam Dougherty, 5-8, 140, Fr, WR/DB

39 Josh Symuleski, 5-10, 215, Sr., FB/LB

45 Eric Laytos, 6-3, 230, Sr., FB/DE

50 Gage Doughty, 5-10, 180, So., OL/DL

51 Jeff Crass, 6-0, 250, Sr., OL/DL

53 Matt Rynciewicz, 5-10, 185, Sr., OL/LB

54 Matt Goodrich, 5-10, 170, Jr., OL/OLB

55 Ben Lehman, 6-0, 225, Sr., OL/DE

56 Brian Kearney, 5-10, 175, So., OL/DL

58 Jared Madans, 6-0, 200, So., OL/DL

63 Jake Adcroft, 6-0, 170, So., OL/LB

64 Mark Jenkins, 6-1, 250, Sr., OL/DL

70 C.J. Bonacci, 6-2, 275, Sr., OL/DL

72 Anthony Colo, 6-2, 235, Sr., OL/DL

76 Justin Barber, 6-1, 260, Jr., OL/DL

77 Zack Walters, 6-1, 250, Jr., OL/DL

82 Tim Griffin, 5-10, 150, So., WR/DB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – at CarbondaleSept. 9 – at Lake-LehmanSept. 16 – MEYERSSept. 23 – RIVERSIDESept. 30 – at LakelandOct. 7 – MID VALLEYOct. 14 – at Old ForgeOct. 21 – SUSQUEHANNAOct. 28 – MONTROSENov. 5 – at Holy Cross

SCHEDULE

Nickname: LionsHome field: Lions Pride Stadium, Lacka-wanna Trail High School.Division: LFC Division 3Enrollment: 149Classification: A2010 Recap: 2-3 tied for third in Division3; 4-6 overall.Returning all-stars: Matt Aten, first-teamLB and second-team RB; Eric Laytos,first-team FB; Justin Barber, second-teamOL and second-team DL; Caleb Darling,second-team LB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

With nine starters returning on defense and eight on offense, Lackawanna Trail head coach Steve Jervisis looking to improve on last season’s 4-6 record.

“When I tookover twoyears agowewere1-9,” Jervis said. “Wewereveryyoung.Toget to4-6 last yearwas definitely an improvement. I feel like we’ll be improved again this year.

“We have very lofty goals; we’ll see how the season plays out.”Jervis thinks last year’s senior class laid the framework for the current team to build off.

“You definitely have to give some cred-it to those guys,” he said. “We only hadfive seniors, but they worked hard and Ibelieve they got the program going in thedirection that we want to go in. I thinkthey kind of handed the mantle down tothis group of seniors.”

Jervis is excited about how the size ofthe team has grown during his three yearas coach.

“The numbers are up which is a nicething,” he said. “We should have around50 kids this year which is almost doubleof what I had in my first year.”

On offense, senior Caleb Darling re-turns as the starter at quarterback. JuniorZach Goodrich will also see some actionat the position, according to Jervis.

“Coach Jervis has taught me real well,”Darling said. “I’m looking forward to theseason. We’ve worked hard and are readyfor it.”

Juniors Pete Murazziand Jeremy Greenleyreturn and will sharethe duties at runningback. Senior Eric Lay-tos returns as the start-er at fullback and seniorJosh Symuleski will behis backup.

Sophomore Jonath-on Zedar will be thestarter at split end. Se-nior Matt Aten returnsas the starter at tightend. Senior MarvessRosiak will return atflanker/wing back. A

pair of freshman, Cooper Rosiak andLiam Dougherty, may also see time atrunning back or wide receiver.

On the offensive line, junior Justin Bar-ber will return as a starter at left tackle,senior Mark Jenkins, a three-year starter,

returns at right tackle, senior Ben Leh-man returns at left guard, junior MattGoodrich will start at right guard, and se-nior Jeff Crass will start at center.

“We’re excited about the group,” Jervissaid. “JustinBarberhadagreat year in theweight room. He benched 340, squatted475, and he’s only going to be a junior.”

On thedefensive line,Laytos returnsasa starter along with Barber and Lehman.Crass, Jenkins and Anthony Colo are alsoexpected to contribute on the line.

Aten and Murazzi return as starters atinside linebacker, Darling is back at oneoutside linebacker spot while Matt andZach Goodrich will see time on the otherside.

Marvess Rosiak and Zedar will be thestarting cornerbacks. Greenley will bethe starting free safety.

Murazzi will be the kicker. Laytos and

ALICE STUFFLE PHOTO

Members of the Lackawanna Trail football team are, from left, first row, Jason Wagner, Marvess Rosiak, Eric Laytos, BenLehman, Jeffrey Cress, and Assistant Coach James Becchetti. Second row, Coach Steve Jervis, C.J. Bonacci, Josh Symu-leski, Michael Jenkins, Matt Aten, Caleb Darling, Matt Rynkiewicz, Anthony Colo, Matt Pascoe, and Assistant Coach AaronSlick. Third row, Cooper Rosiak, Liam Dougherty, Jon Zedar, Jeremy Greenley, Jared Madans, Billy Lee, Zack Goodrich, ZachWalters, Peter Murazzi, Matt Goodrich, Justin Barber, Brian Kearney, and Manager Shannon Jones. Fourth row, AssistantCoach Chad Gibbs, Gage Dougherty, Jordan Wallen, Thomas Fricke, Matt Harris, Jacob Adcroft, and Coach Vince McClain.Absent from photo, Coaches Jeff Stage and Steve Jervis, Sr.

Experience may equal winsBy ROBERT TOMKAVAGE Abington Journal Reporter

See TRAIL, Page 33

Darling

Jervis

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LACKAWANNA TRAIL

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Darling may share the punt-ing duties.

Jervis thinks the play ofthe veterans will determinehow big of a jump the Lionscan make in the Lackawan-na Football Conference Di-vision 3 standings.

“The nucleus of our skillkids (Laytos, Darling, Ro-siak and Aten) and the keyoffensive lineman we haveback (Barber, Lehman andJenkins) really have to stepit up for us,” Jervis said.

TRAILContinued from Page 32

ALICE STUFFLE PHOTO

Members of the Lackawanna TrailMarching Lions are, from left, firstrow, Alyssa Sohns, Katie Seigel,Colin Holmes, Mikaela Weisenfluh,Jenny Keller, Fatima Thurston,Meredith Horwatt, Lowell Phillips,and Emily Stuenzi. Second row, TimAschenbrenner, Bobby Titus, Ja-nine Strauch, Shania Kane, Cas-sandra Brown, Wynn Phillips, RuthCummings, Cecilia Strauch, MollyMattes, Taryn Maleski, AlyssaDikeman, and Kelly Hopkins. Thirdrow, Gary Weidner, Matt Huertas,Kyle Holmes, Jesse Morvan, Ri-chard Pollock, Eric Holmes, AshleyMecca, and Shea Myers. Absentfrom photo, Garrett Craig-Lucas,Seth Williams, Zak Kongvold, andOlivia and Wyatt Cooper.

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011 NORTH POCONO

706123

706 Boulevard Ave.,Dickson City, PA 18519

570-307-1888

Luzerne & Meridian St.,Scranton, PA 18505

570-558-0140

Auto Service Center

No Appointment Necessary forOil Changes or Safety Inspections!

$200 OFF10 Minute Oil Change Service

Good Luck Spartans!

loads. Ryan Sheerer could also contrib-ute to the offense as the kicker.“I think we lost a lot of kids, but we

have a lot of kids coming back that havesome experience,” Sepkowski said.“The thing is they have to be ready toplay 48 minutes, and that’s the thingthat worries me a little bit going in isthat factor of game experience, playinga complete game, and trying to learn thespeed of the game.“I think oncewe do thatwe’ll be okay.”North Pocono also has a number of

underclassmen who may see some timeon the field this season.“I think right now, in summer condi-

tioning, we have a couple sophomoresthat are coming in and catching on real-ly quick,” Sepkowski said. “There’s a kidAlex Carling (sophomore), he has greatsize, and he’s going to be a receiver/de-fensive back. We have a bunch of sopho-mores that grew up in the offseason,that are juniors now and are going tostep up - kids like Garret Fisher (RB/LB) and Tyler Schirra (OL/DL). So, Ithink we’re going to be able to answersome questions, just how quickly, we’llsee.”

JASON RIEDMILLER PHOTO

From left, front, Christine Reid, Rachael Baldelli, Allie Grudeski, Ashley Grudeski, Brittany Spitzer, Kayla Strausser, JacqueStrausser, Erica Viola, and Kaitlyn McDonough. Back, Olivia Pehanick, Shelby Aston, Carleen Troup, Jenine Sapienza, SaraMoss, and Desirae Santarsiero. Jumping, Lexie White and Sarah Quatra.

TROJANSContinued from Page 18

High school football on Friday nightsand Saturday afternoons is more than agame for many attendees, it’s an event,and providing the soundtrack for theevent each week will be the school march-ing bands.Like the football teams, the marching

bands in Lackawanna County have beenpracticing for weeks, getting their fieldshows and music ready for when the sea-son kicks off Sept. 2.“It adds to the atmosphere, the high

school football atmosphere,” Lakelandhead coach Jeff Wasilchak said of themarching bands. “It’s all part of the pro-gram. It’s not just the football team - it’sthe marching band, cheerleaders, drillteam, the community - it’s everybody.”The groups vary in size and song selec-

tion, but they all have one thing in com-mon.“We’re there to entertain the crowd, and

provide encouragement and spirit for thefootball team,” Dunmore band directorNicole Zywicki said.In order to better provide that encour-

agement, some band directors discusswhat songswill go into their routines withthe coaches.“I talk to Jeff quite a bit,” Lakeland band

director Mark Stevens said. “I’ll tell him

what we’re playing, and see if he has anyrequests.“We want the team to enjoy what

they’re listening to, so we’ll ask what theythink about certain songs.”Understanding that a stadium full of

cheering fans can give some teams the ex-tra boost to finish the night with a victory,the bands are careful when selecting thesongs for their halftime show.“We want to pick an entertaining show

for halftime so fans don’t leave and arethere for the team in the stands,” said Ste-vens.With their peers, parents, grandparents

and school faculty among the people mak-ing up the crowd each week, it can be achallenge trying to come up with a lineupthat pleases everyone, but most of thebands are confident they’ve been able todo it.“This year we picked all modern songs

(featuring songs from artists like KatyPerry, Ke$ha, Beyoncé, and Cee LoGreen), because we wanted to be able topick music everyone could enjoy,” Zyw-icki said.A crowd-pleasing halftime show that

keeps the fans in the seats, and not run-ning to the concession stand, isn’t justbeneficial to the football team.

Soundtrack key to atmosphereBy DONMcGLYNNAbington Journal Reporter

See BANDS, Page 38

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OLD FORGE

GO BLUE DEVILS!

421 Lawrence Street, Old Forge • 457-8323

Serving the Community for over 23 Years!

705963

GOODLUCKBLUEDEVILS!!Let’s Go #51!!!

Al Bilski, R. Ph.730 S.Main StreetOld Forge, PA 18518

At the intersection ofS.Main andDrakes Lane

457-3372

Four years ago, Old Forge coach Mike Schuback penciled in threesophomore offensive linemen on a team that featured skill playersthat were about to come into their own. That teamwent on towin

seven games andmake the District 2 playoffs.This year, Schubackwill do the same and he expects even better results.

“I made this statement before doubles,and I amgoing to standwith it. Ifwedonotmake the district championship game, it’sgoing to be disappointing,” said Schuback,who enters his 10th season at the helm ofhis alma mater. “We are at make or breakright now.“With the skill kids we have and the

three-year seniors we have around … eventhough theyweren’t big names for the pasttwo years,we feelwe knoweach otherwellenough, and know the other teams wellenough, that we should be successful.”

The skill players Schuback refers to arerunning backs Lou Febbo and Brian “Bub-ba” Tomasetti, wide receivers Dave ArgustandMichael Vieira, and quarterback ColinCarey.Febbo rushed for 899 yards and nine

touchdowns as a junior while playing in anoffense that put up 1,240 yards and 16touchdowns in the air. Tomasetti added209yardson just 25 carrieswhilepunchingit in twice as a sophomore.

Blue Devilsready for repeat performance

RICK NOTARI PHOTO

Old Forge’s offensive line includes, front row, Nick Nally, Paul Papi, Tyler Clark andDave Rudalavage; second row, Anthony Conforti, Anthony Trotta, Ryan Paulish,Cory Stuart and Joey Bruno.

By RICK NOTARI Sunday Dispatch Reporter

Nickname: Blue Devils

Home field: Old Forge Veterans Memorial

Stadium.

Division: LFC Division 3

Enrollment: 134

Classification: A

2010 Recap: 4-1 seconds in Division 3; 7-4

overall; 7-3 in regular season; lost to Dun-

more, 21-0, in District 2 Class A playoffs.

Returning all-stars: Dave Argust, first-team

DB, second-team WR and second-team P; Lou

Febbo, first-team RB; Matt Mancuso, first-

team QB; Anthony Trotta, second-team OL;

Corey Stuart, second-team DL.

FACTS AND FIGURES

See OLD FORGE, Page 36

PA

GE36

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Argust, a senior, caught 20 ballsfor almost 200 yards and onetouchdown last season, and Viei-ra, a junior, chipped in with fivecatches for almost 100 yards butwas also the top return man forOld Forge with 15 kickoff returnsfor 208 yards.

Carey will be the X-factor forthe Blue Devils.

Along withtaking a fewreps under cen-ter in passingsituations lastseason, thefleet-footed, 6-foot-3 seniordid run for 224yards on just 27carries whilescoring threetouchdownsout of the OldForge spreadset.

“We aren’t go-ing to be astraight I-(for-

mation) team all of the time,”Schuback said. “Carey does sucha great job spreading the field andmaking it work to our advantagewith the skill kids we have. I thinkit’s going to dictate how manykids teams are going to be able toput in the box, and that is going tomake it easier on the kids of frontthan in the past.”

The players up front for OldForge will include three sopho-mores in a rotation of six playersas the season begins for the BlueDevils. But that is not to say OldForge is totally inexperienced onthe offensive line.

Senior Anthony Trotta returnsafter starting every game at righttackle. When sophomore RyanPaulish returns from an off-seasonknee injury, Trotta may move toguard.

Seniors Anthony Conforti andCory Stuart, a converted tightend, will also be part of the line.

Paul Papi is expected to be atone guard and Tyler Clark at cen-ter with Joey Bruno and Nick Nal-ly providing depth.

“We are more adaptive upfrontthough with guys who can play abunch of positions, which is kindof unique and will work to our ad-vantage,” Schuback said.

Joey Ciuccio is expected to takeover at fullback with Jorden Sekolas his backup. Anthony DeSando,

who started the second half of theseason, is back at tight end.

Anthony Piccolini and ElijahWilson add depth at receiver withBrenden Wahl at back-up quarter-back.

Trotta, Stuart and Ciuccio, theonly returning starters in thefront eight, anchor Old Forge’s 4-4defense.

Trotta led the team with 94tackles as inside linebacker whileends Stuart and Ciuccio com-

bined for six sacks.Veterans Argust, Tomasetti and

Vieira are set to rotate at the cor-nerbacks. Sophomore Jake Ma-netti is the safety where Argustmay also see some time.

Conforti has some experienceat inside linebacker. Febbo andRyan Cadwalder are the outsidelinebackers.

DeSando and Clark appearready to take over at tackle withhelp from David Rudalavage, Bru-

no and Paulish. DeSandocould also add depth at endalong with Papi and Paul Pie-montese.

Linebacker depth couldcome from Seko, Nally, War-ren Welsh and Shane Schu-back.

Matt Mancuso hit 32 of 34extra points last season andreturns along with Argust,who averaged 31 yards as apunter.

OLD FORGEContinued from Page 35

Sept. 2 – LAKE-LEHMANSept. 9 – at GARSept. 16 – NORTHWESTSept. 23 – at HonesdaleSept. 30 – RIVERSIDEOct. 7 – at MontroseOct. 14 – LACKAWANNA TRAILOct. 21 – at Mid ValleyOct. 29 – at Holy CrossNov. 4 – SUSQUEHANNA

SCHEDULE

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.1Matt Mancuso, 5-6, 170, Jr., K3 Anthony Piccolini, 5-7, 170, Jr.,WR/DB4 Shane Schuback, 6-0, 185, So.,WR/LB5 Phil Vahey, 5-10, 165, Jr., WR/DB7 Brenden Wahl, 5-10, 165, Jr.,QB/DB8 Elijah Wilson, 6-3, 178, Jr., WR/DB10 Michael Vieira, 5-7, 150, Jr.,WR/DB11Warren Walsh, 5-8, 160, Jr.,WR/LB12 Dave Argust, 6-0, 178, Sr., WR/DB14 Colin Carey, 6-3, 185, Sr., QB/DB16 Ryan Cadwalder, 5-8, 165, Sr.,RB/LB20 Nick Vieira, 5-7, 148, Sr., RB/DB21Brian Tomasetti, 6-0, 170, Jr.,RB/DB22 Matt Trotta, 5-6, 150, So.,RB/LB23 Paul Piemontese, 5-10, 165, So.,TE/DL24 Jake Manetti, 5-10, 170, So.,QB/DB32 Joey Ciuccio, 5-11, 190, Sr.,RB/DE34 Jorden Sekol, 6-2, 205, So.,RB/LB42 Brandon Yescavage, 5-11, 165,So., RB/DB51Ryan Paulish, 6-2, 220, So.,OL/DL52 Nick Nally, 5-9, 200, Sr., OL/LB53 Cory Stuart, 6-0, 195, Sr.,OL/DE54 Tyler Clark, 5-11, 220, Jr., OL/DL55 Anthony Conforti, 5-11, 205, Sr.,OL/LB63 Anthony Trotta, 5-10. 220, Sr.,OL/LB64 Paul Papi, 6-0, 190, So., OL/DL66 Joey Bruno, 6-1, 200, So.,OL/DL74 David Rudalavage, 5-10, 200,Jr., OL/DL88 Tony DeSando, 6-0, 185, Jr.,TE/DE

ROSTER

RICK NOTARI PHOTOS

The 2011 Old Forge High School varsity cheerleaders, from left, first row, co-captains Nina Grippoand Mia Sallavanti. Second row, Nichole Burkhart, Tori Graham, and Kelly Kempa. Third row,Tatiana Zippittelli, Mary Cosentini, Carla Bellenzini, Shauna Nunes, Janelle Jones, Arianna Ar-gust, Jen Macavage, Vienna Piazza, Alyssa Kosek, Vicky Eremo, and Tiffany Dukaskus.

The Old Forge High School pom pom squad are from left to right, Gabriella Gillern, Ally Brown,Shaina Eremo, Antonia Stinson, Jenna Nalaschi and Brittany Cadwalder.

Schuback

Carey

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HOLY CROSS

www.patanddan.com

kind of get away from that.“We want to get people out of the

box. We’ll be running more of aspread offense.”

Heyen, the leading rusher,will make the move from run-ning back to quarterback.

“It’s a case of him being asenior and having the mostathletic ability and being ableto fit the bill,” Stevens said.

Matt McDonough may alsosee some time at quarterbackin some combinations.

“We want to be able tothrow the ball and still runthe ball,” Stevens said.

Hinkley returns at fullbackand Merli is the tailback.

The ground game led amidseason surge in which theCrusaders won five of sixgames with the only losscoming 28-22 to LackawannaFootball Conference Division3 champion Susquehanna.

Louie Gianacopoulos, thetop receiver, is also back. Hewill be joined at wide receiv-er by Pat Hagan, who has

some starting experience, as well asChristian Simrell and AndrewMeese.

Shane Holmes also has some expe-rience at tight end.

The offensive line returns threestarters. Tackle Jordan Nicholoff andguard John Rafferty return on theleft side. Jared Nicholoff is moving

from center to right tackle.Zach Waters could end up

at center or guard. Corey Ya-blonski is also working at thecenter spot while Tom War-ner is a possibility at guard.

Stevens said the Crusaderswill use both a 5-2 and 4-3defense.

Jordan Nicholoff returns attackle. Jared Nicholoff andJohn Derenich are the otherinterior linemen.

Rafferty returns at endwhere he will be joined byHolmes.

Hinkley is back at one line-backer. Shawn Iezzi and TomWarden will also play there.

Gianacopolous, Merli,Heyen and Hagan make up anexperienced and talented sec-ondary.

Hagan will move from freesafety to strong safety, trad-ing places with Heyen.

HOLY CROSSContinued from Page 30

Stevens

Gianacopoulos

Rafferty

PHOTO COURTESY KARIN DORMAN

Front, from left, Haley Weinberger, Christina Siracuse, Amanda Reesey, Jessica Pigga, Marisa Perella, and Andrea Kester. Back, Megan Gilroy, Lauren Strony, Rachael Fe-renchick, MaryAnn Seamon, Dana Jenkins, Olivia Mayorowski, Maura Chiumento, Natalie Osborne, and Candice Baumher. Absent from photo, Alyssa Noto, Coaches DeniseOlewnik and Ty Wilson.

SPECIA

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011 PLAYBOOK 2011

W E ’R EG R O W IN G

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football, Laytos said that being a wrestlingprospect is not going to get in the way ofhis current goals.

“I don’t try to overdo it,” said Laytos,who has heard from recruiters from smallNCAA Division I and Division II schools inboth sports. “I like to play both sports, butI don’t like them to overtake each other.”

Unless he lands in a rare opportunity totry to stay active in both, the eventualchoice can be seen from either a negativeor positive view.

“I think of them as equal, that’s the har-dest thing,” Laytos said. “But that’s alsogood because I could be happy with eitheror.”

McCarthy, Laytos and Sweeting have allbeen playing their multiple sports from theearliest ages they were offered.

Sweeting still goes to occasional out-of-town summer basketball tournaments withScranton High standouts Terry Turner andMalik Draper as part of a Scranton Boys’and Girls’ Club team he has played withfor years in various age groups.

Unlike the rest of the elite basketballplayers who will battle for league honorsthis winter, Sweeting’s summer hoop timehas some limitations. After all, he has foot-ball to get ready for, and that is the sport

where college recruiters are starting tofind him.

“As a kid, I was better in basketball, butonce I got to high school, it’s been morefootball,” Sweeting said.

While Laytos points to an increased in-terest in weightlifting as a boost in both ofhis sports, Sweeting’s quick feet and condi-tioning help him through basketball andfootball – not to mention the track seasonwhere he excels in the 400 meters whilealso doing some jumping.

“Being a receiver helps me out in basket-ball,” Sweeting said. “I’m always trying tobe in shape.”

He knows he has to be for the multiplesprints up and down the field on passroutes or for the relentless intense defensethat basketball coach Jack Lyons demandswith little chance of a break from sub-stitutions.

“He works us like we’ve never beenworked before,” Sweeting said. “His prac-tices are brutal. He makes sure your foot-work is there.”

When it comes to defense, Sweeting ad-mits he still gets more of a special feelingfrom trying to stop a high scorer in basket-ball than in trying to shut down a receiverin football.

The overall chances football has to offer,though, make fall Friday nights an excitingtime for him.

Sweeting led the Invaders in receivingyards and touchdowns with 813 and eighton 47 catches. He also led in interceptions

(five), and averages on kickoff returns(24.4) and punt returns (11.1). Sweetingeven threw for a touchdown on his onlypass of the season.

It’s enough to make a coach dream upmore ways to get the ball into Sweeting’shands.

“If we can’t get him the ball like I intendto, we’ll just have the center give him theball,” Gerek said.

ATHLETESContinued from Page 24


Joe McCarthy, Malcolm Sweeting and EricLaytos have the versatility to excel inmultiple sports.

For a few of the bands, theweekly football game is a way forthem to get ready for competi-tions of their own.

The Lackawanna Trail HighSchool marching band competesin six to seven competitions ayear, using the same routine theyperform each week on the field.

“We do the same show we do atthe games, but the show evolvesa lot,” Lackawanna Trail band di-rector Katie Bower said. “We justfinished putting together the rou-tine yesterday, and by Halloweenweekend it will be a completelydifferent show.”

The changes are all prepara-tion for Atlantic Coast Cham-pionships held in November.

Bower explained that many ofthe changes will be based onnotes they receive from the com-petitions’ judges over the courseof the season, but some of themare based on crowd response dur-ing the games, giving fans an op-portunity to and have an influen-ce on another of the school team’ssuccess this year.

BANDSContinued from Page 34

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NON-COUNTY TEAMS

Delaware Valley did not fall very far. • The Warriors, who lost just five divisional games between 2004and2008, still finished third inDivision1of theLackawannaFootballConference in2009andqualifiedfor theDistrict2-4-11ClassAAAAregional in2010.Theyslipped,however, toacombined .500record in

thosetwoseasonsat11-11.•Theprogramthat formerNorthPoconoandPennStatetightendKeithOlsommerlifted to prominence from the bottom of the conference could be back to the level established in that specialfive-year run. • “The last two years, we’ve been down,” Olsommer said. “Two years ago, we saw it coming. •“Last year, we expected to be a little better. Three one-point losses prevented that. I think we have an opportu-nity tobeback incontention.”•Olsommer isnot theonlyonewhothinks that.•TheWarriorsare regardedasthe top threat to LFC Division 1 favorite Valley View, making them the most likely contender among theconference’s six out-of-county teams. •A closer look at those schools:

DELAWARE VALLEYThe Warriors finished in a tie for fourth

in the division last year when, in additionto falling to unbeatenAbington Heights, theylet three two-touch-downleadsgetawayina35-34 loss to WestScranton, dropped a 20-19 decision to ValleyViewandwereupset,18-17, by Wallenpaupackwhentheyagaingaveupa two-touchdown leadin the regular-season fi-nale.

Junior Bryan Schor,who has been startingsince his freshman sea-son, returns at quarter-back after hitting wellover 50 percent of hispasses while throwingfor nearly 1,500 yards in2010.

“Bryan has a tremen-dous arm,” Olsommersaid. “He’s worked quitea bit to improve his footspeedandbecomeabet-ter athlete.

“He has transformed his body. He had agood offseason in the weightroom.”

Schor returns his top targets in tightend Connor Decker and wide receiversKyle Zimnik and Bobby Morley.

The Warriors also have experience upfront where two-way returnee Mark Rau-nado will move from tackle to guard withtheemergenceof 6-8, 280-poundLukeRit-ter.

Brian Whitehead is a force in the defen-sive front.

WALLENPAUPACKThe Buckhorns slipped from seven

wins in 2009 to seven losses and a last-place finish in Division 1 in 2010.

“Last year, we lost sixplayers early to season-ending injuries,” coachMark Watson said.

Tight end/defensiveend Victor Steffen, oneof those to end his sea-son early, is back.

Leading receiver WillMcLaughlin is backalong with the top tworushers, Pat Ingulli andBrendan Downey, andthe team’s top lineman,Steve Camasta.

McLaughlin is part ofa senior-dominated li-neup.

“He’s getting a lot of I-AA looks,” Wat-son said. “I would venture to say he’s bestwide receiver ever at our school.”

WESTERNWAYNEThe Wildcats return 11 full-time and

two part-time starters from a team thatwent 3-7.

“Westartedsixorsev-en sophomores and wetook our lumps,” coachAllen “Butch” Kellersaid. “Our offense didwell, but our defensecouldn’t stop anybody.”

The offense will needto replace halfback JoshHarrison, who rushedfor more than 2,000yards total in the pasttwo years.

Robbie Siclari willmake the move from all-star wide receiver tohalfback.

The defense will getsome help from the return of linebackerConnor Rosensweet, who had 40 tacklesin the first three games last season beforesufferinga tornanterior cruciate ligament

in his knee and missingthe rest of the season.

TylerStull andJosephIngaglio join Rosen-sweet among a deepgroup of linebackers.

HONESDALEThe Hornets brought

an end to their 21-game overall losingstreak with their only win last season, amidseasonvictoryoverwinlessDivision3member Montrose.

Next on the agenda isbringing an end to the17-game losing streak inLFC divisional games.TheHornetsbeatValleyView in the 2007 finalebefore back-to-back, 0-6seasons in Division 1and a 0-5 mark afterdropping to Division 2last season.

The top two returneesare both on the move.

Jamie Blockberger, acenter/defensive tacklelast season,willmove toguard and may alsomake the switch to line-backer.LinebackerNickHessling will movefrom tight end to full-back, a position he filledin at briefly last season.

Blockberger is the on-ly senior in the line.

“Up front, we’re stillyoung,” second-year

coach Jim Ludwig said.Quarterback Tim Hart also returns

from an offense that put up a season-high35 points in a loss to Carbondale in the fi-nale.

The defense allowed 46.2 points per

DV back in contentionBy TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

Olsommer

Morley

Schor

Watson

McLaughlin

Keller

Ingaglio

Stull

(Non-County LFC members)Sept. 2Susquehanna at Hanover AreaMontrose at NanticokeWestern Wayne at Wyoming AreaHonesdale at WallenpaupackDelaware Valley vs. Island Coast (Fla.) atKissimmee, Fla.Sept. 9Northwest at MontroseHanover Area at Western WayneHonesdale at Pleasant ValleyWallenpaupack at East Stroudsburg NorthDelaware Valley at East Stroudsburg SouthSept. 10Holy Redeemer at SusquehannaSept. 16Montrose at Western WayneEast Stroudsburg North at HonesdaleHazleton Area at Delaware ValleyWallenpaupack at Pocono Mountain EastSept. 17Nanticoke at SusquehannaSept. 23Western Wayne at Mid ValleyDunmore at MontroseOld Forge at HonesdaleWest Scranton at Delaware ValleyAbington Heights at WallenpaupackSept. 24Lakeland at SusquehannaSept. 30Susquehanna at CarbondaleMontrose at HonesdaleHoly Cross at Western WayneWallenpaupack at Valley ViewOct. 1Delaware Valley at Abington HeightsOct. 7Old Forge at MontroseWestern Wayne at RiversideHonesdale at DunmoreDelaware Valley at North PoconoScranton Prep at WallenpaupackOct. 8Susquehanna at Holy CrossOct. 14Carbondale at Western WayneHonesdale at RiversideValley View at Delaware ValleyWallenpaupack at West ScrantonOct. 15Montrose at SusquehannaOct. 21Susquehanna at Lackawanna TrailHoly Cross at MontroseDunmore at Western WayneLakeland at HonesdaleDelaware Valley at ScrantonNorth Pocono at WallenpaupackOct. 28Montrose at Lackawanna TrailWestern Wayne at HonesdaleScranton at WallenpaupackOct. 29Mid Valley at SusquehannaDelaware Valley at Scranton PrepNov. 4Susquehanna at Old ForgeMid Valley at MontroseLakeland at Western WayneHonesdale at CarbondaleWallenpaupack at Delaware Valley

SCHEDULE

See NON-COUNTY, Page 40

Ludwig

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Hessling

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October 15th vs. PurdueLower Level - $159 pp.Upper Level - $139 pp.Bus and Tailgating Only - $59 pp.Oct 29th vs. IllinoisLower Level - $159 pp.Upper Level - $139 pp.Bus and Tailgating Only - $59 pp.November 12th vs. NebraskaLower Level - $209 pp.Bus and Tailgating Only - $59 pp.Notre DameOvernight trip vs. Pitt Panthers inPittsburgh at Heinz FieldSeptember 24-25Lower Level - $299 pp.Upper Level - $239 pp.Includes bus, hotel (Radison Greentree), Tailgatingand a $15 voucher for a full breakfast on Sunday.2 Night Trip vs. USC in South BendOctober 20-22 $699 pp.Staying at the Quality Inn 2 miles from campus.(Visit the campus, bookstore and pep-rally)Notre Dame vs. Maryland TerrapinsMore Info Coming Soon!Notre Dame vs. Navy in Dublin, Ireland8 Day Emerald Isle Classic TourAugust 26th - September 2, 2012$2,495 pp. Call for more information.Only 4 Seats Left!NFL (All trips include the bus, game and great tailgating)Philadelphia EaglesSeptember 25th vs. Giants - $199 pp.October 2nd vs. 49ers - $189 pp.October 30th vs. Cowboys - $219 pp.November 7th vs. Bears (MNF) - $199 pp.November 27th vs. Patriots - $209 pp.December 18th vs. Jets - @199 pp.

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SUSQUEHANNAThe defending Division 3 champion

Saberswerehithardbygraduationlosses,then lost one of their top returning play-ers during the summer.

ColeMallery,whowouldhavebeen thedivision’s only returning two-way, first-team,all-star,decided to transfer toSetonCentral Catholic in Binghamton, N.Y.

The Sabers already needed to replaceDan Kempa, the divi-sion’s Offensive Playerof theYear in2010anda1,000-yard rusher ineach of the past threeseasonsasquarterback.

Sean Stanley, a sec-ond-team, all-star atwide receiver, willmove to quarterback.

“He’s a senior, but hehasn’tplayedalot,”Sus-quehanna coach DickBagnall said. “He hassprinter speed and he’sa smart kid. He exe-cutes the offense verywell.

“I have all the confidence in the worldin him.”

George Wilkes, Brandon Saddlemire,and Gage Piechocki return from a strongline.

MONTROSERussell Canevari takes over as the new

coach at Montrose, which has lost 18straight.

Fullback/linebacker John Lawson islikely to be one of thekeys if the Meteors areto show improvement.

“He’s very improvedthis year,” Canevarisaid. “He grew quite abit. He’s about 6-1, 220.

“He’s someone col-leges should be start-ing to take a look at.”

Kurt Kimsey movesfrom tight end to cen-ter, and Nick Mooregoes from center totackle inarebuiltoffen-sive line.

The first step for theMeteors will be tryingto become competi-

tive.Of their last 16 games, 12 have gone to

the Mercy Rule. They have been out-scored 490-30 in the first half of those 16games and have scored just one first-quarter touchdown during that stretch.

NON-COUNTYContinued from Page 39

Bagnall

Piechocki

Canevari

Kimsey

DELAWARE VALLEYNickname: WarriorsHome field: Delaware Valley High SchoolStadium.Division: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 724Classification: AAAA2010 Recap: 3-4, tied for fourth in Division1; 6-5 overall; 6-4 in regular season; lost inEastern Conference Class AAAA semifinalsto Easton, 39-7.Returning all-star: Bryan Schor, second-team QB.

HONESDALENickname: HornetsHome field: Honesdale High School Stadi-um.Division: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 410Classification: AAA2010 Recap: 0-5 sixth in Division 2; 1-9overall.Returning all-star: Nick Hessling, second-team LB.

MONTROSENickname: MeteorsHome field: Ambrose Mullen MemorialStadium, Montrose High School.Division: LFC Division 3Enrollment: 221Classification: AA2010 Recap: 0-5 sixth in Division 3; 0-10overall.Returning all-star: Brett Johnson, second-team DB.

SUSQUEHANNANickname: SabersHome field: William Emminger MemorialField, Susquehanna.Division: LFC Division 3Enrollment: 264 (119 from Susquehannaplus 145 from Blue Ridge in a cooperativesponsorship agreement)Classification: AA2010 Recap: 5-0 for first in Division 3; 9-2overall; 9-1 in regular season; lost to Lake-land, 20-3, in District 2 Class AA playoffs.Returning all-stars: Brandon Saddlemire,first-team OL; Sean Stanley, second-teamWR; Jesse Pruitt, second-team LB.

WALLENPAUPACKNickname: BuckhornsHome field: Wallenpaupack Area HighSchoolDivision: LFC Division 1Enrollment: 519Classification: AAAA2010 Recap: 1-6 for eighth in Division 1; 3-7overall.Returning all-star: Steve Camasta, sec-ond-team OL.

WESTERN WAYNENickname: WildcatsHome field: Sharkey Rosetti Sports Com-plex, VardenDivision: LFC Division 2Enrollment: 296Classification: AA2010 Recap: 2-3 fourth in Division 2; 3-7overall.Returning all-stars: Rob Siclari, first-teamWR and second-team DB; Joseph Ingaglio,second-team LB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

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MID VALLEY

Mid Valley suffered its first loss and faced its firstserious test earlier than expected.

As official practices were starting, the Spar-tans learned that they had lost Matt Tanner for the seasonbecause of an injury.

Tanner was returning at free safety and was scheduled tomake the move from wingback to starting quarterback.

“Losing our quarterback creates some adversity that wehave to be good enough to overcome,” coach Frank Paz-zaglia said.

Martin Walsh, who got someplaying time last season at tightend as a freshman, makes themove to quarterback.

“He just needs some season-ing,” Pazzaglia said.

Walsh will have some experi-

enced players around him as helearns to run the offense.

Antonio Russo is back at tail-back and Chris Merenich sawsome time at fullback.

Ron Tomasetti is back at onewide receiver. Chris Rebar takes

over the other spot.Center Marcus Munley and

guard Mike Reid return to theline while Matt Bukowski hassome experience at tackle.

Bukowski is one of the playerswho moved into the lineup when

the Spartans faced injuries latelast season.

“Last year, we had eight inju-ries so some kids did get a lot ofplaying time,” Pazzaglia said.

Spartans adjust earlyBy TOM ROBINSON Go Lackawanna Reporter

DON MCGLYNN PHOTO

Mid Valley’s returning defensive starters are, from left, front, Matt Tanner, Dave Urso, Chris Rebar, and Antonio Russo. Back, RonnyTomasetti, Marcus Munley, and Chris Merenich.

No. Player, Ht., Wt., Yr., Pos.2 Dave Urso, 5-6, 150, Sr., SE/DB7 Chris Rebar, 5-10, 145, Jr., RB/DB10Matt Tanner, 5-9, 150, Jr.,QB/DB11Antonio Russo, 5-9, 155, Sr.,RB/DB16Martin Walsh, 6-2, 185, So.,QB/DB22 Chris Merenich, 5-11, 196, Sr.,FB/LB24 Ryan Kenny, 5-8, 120, So.,QB/DB26 Tyler Collins, 5-10, 165, So.,RB/DB30 Tom Davis, 5-8, 180, So., RB/LB33 Josh Gorton, 5-9, 188, So.,RB/LB35Mark Seber, 6-0, 185, Jr.,TE/LB44 Austin Reese, 5-7, 145, So.,SE/DB45 Ben Bartoli, 5-10, 140, So.,RB/DB48 Jonmichael Rocco, 6-0, 170,So., TE/DB52Marcus Munley, 6-0, 260, Sr.,OL/DL55Mike Reid, 5-7, 195, Jr., OL/DL56 Joshua Tanner, 6-0, 240, So.,OL/DL58 Justin Craven, 6-0, 175, So.,OL/LB60Matt Horvath, 5-8, 175, So.,OL/DL64 Chris Kramer, 5-11, 195, Jr.,OL/DL65 Ed Kalinowski, 5-9, 160, So.,OL/LB66 Justin Kline, 5-9, 174, Fr.,OL/LB70Matt Bukowski, 6-2, 185, Jr.,OL/DL73 Justin Chaput, 5-8, 280, Jr.,OL/DL74 Chad Marushock, 6-3, 240,So., OL/DL75 Joe Palickar, 6-3, 185, So.,OL/DL79 Brian Hambley, 5-10, 205, Fr.,OL/DL80 Sean Wheeler, 5-11, 150, So.,E/DB85 Ron Tomasetti, 6-4, 195, Jr.,SE/LB89 Tyler Fiume, 5-9, 190, So.,E/LB

ROSTER

Sept. 2 – GARSept. 9 – at LakelandSept. 16 – HANOVER AREASept. 23 – WESTERN WAYNESept. 30 – at DunmoreOct. 7 – at Lackawanna TrailOct. 14 – HOLY CROSSOct. 21 – OLD FORGEOct. 29 – at SusquehannaNov. 4 – at Montrose

SCHEDULE

Nickname: Spartans

Home field: Spartan Stadium, Mid Valley Sports Complex,

Throop.

Division: LFC Division 3

Enrollment: 222

Classification: AA

2010 Recap: 2-3 tied for third in Division 3; 3-7 overall.

Returning all-stars: Ron Tomasetti, first-team TE; Marcus

Munley, second-team DL; Chris Merenich, second-team LB;

Matt Tanner, second-team DB.

FACTS AND FIGURES

See MID VALLEY, Page 42

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“From the fifth game on, we hadfive to eight guys out with inju-ries.”

There will benew faces at theother linespots.“We have a

number ofsophomoresand juniorscompeting forinterior jobs,”

Pazzaglia said.Mark Seber, Tyler Fiume and

John Michael Rocco are workingat tight end.The defensive line will be en-

tirely new.Reid is likely to land a spot

among the group also competingfor open positions on offense.Sophomores Joshua Tanner,Chris Marushock and Jason Pal-

ickar and freshmen Justin KlineandChris Hambley are in a groupthat also includes Chris Kramer,Andy Felix, Gendy Felix and Jus-tin Chaput.“We’re going to be as good as

our 16 sophomores can comearound tomake us competitive inpractice,” Pazzaglia said. “Be-causeof the injuries,wehadno in-ternal competition last seasonand that hurt us as the year wenton.”Merenich is back at inside line-

backer where he could be joinedbySeber.TomDavis, JoshGortonand Kline are also working at theposition.Munley andTomasetti are back

atoutside linebackerwheredepthis provided by Fiume, Bukowski,Justin Craven andMatt Horvath.The secondary is experi-

enced with only Tanner mis-sing. Russo and Dave Urso areback at cornerbacks and Rebaris the strong safety. Bartoli,Tyler Collins, Ryan Kenny,Sean Wheeler or Austin Reesecould also see playing time.

MID VALLEYContinued from Page 41

Pazzaglia

Junior Jay Yzkanin on guitar.

Jessica Kasper on bells andMarty Monahan on quad toms.


Mid Valley’s wind section includes, from left, Hannah Quach, Selena Olmedo, Madelaine Pegula, and Nathaniel Taber.

Members of Mid Valley’s cheerleading squad are, from left, first row, seniors Kaylyn Kovalchik, Rebec-ca Melliand, Taylor Mercado, Rebecca Ruby, Lauren Maccallum, Kari Uhranowsky, and Samantha Zilla.Second row, juniors Dominique Martino, Tara Phillips, Jamie Kuzmiak, Marissa Dzanis, Krista Berar-delli, Deanielle Priblo, Melanie Abda, and Alexandra Evanina. Third row, freshman Angelica Urso, Car-lie Berardelli, Jordan Grippi, McKenzie Runco, Kylie Berespy, and Vanessa Labert. Absent from photo,Kimberly Wall.

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011 PLAYBOOK 2011

seven of 11 pass attempts, for 168 yardsand two touchdowns in the districtchampionship game.“He’s done a great job. He played

very well last year when he came inas a sophomore,” Repshis said. “Heplayed well above and beyond what

you think of a soph-omore put in thatsituation late in theyear, in the districtsemifinal playoffgame, district finalchampionshipgame and stateplayoff game. Hehas some big-time

game experience, so we’re lookingfor very big things from him as wellthis year.”Other players competing for a start-

ing spot include: guard/defensive endDylan Berardelli, tight end/lineback-ersCaseyQuinn andBrandon Sochov-ka; running back/defensive back Co-rey Degilio, two-way linemen Mar-quis Ivey, T.J. Murray, Jon Rarrick,Dan Stevens and Ben Rarrick; run-ning back/linebackers Joe Mills,Ryan Judge andQuinnKaram; guard/linebacker Glen Hopkins; two-wayend Justin Brown; wide receiver/de-fensive backs J.C. Show, Jamie Henz-es, Sean Sanderson, Ryan Fiorillo, Co-nor Dickinson, Joe Murray and JoeCarroll; running back/defensive backAlosha Fox; fullback/linebacker JerryLangan and fullback/defensive line-man Pat Kearney.Riggi is also expected to see some

time at fullback, andPacyna atwide re-ceiver.There are also a number of newplay-

ers competing for time, includingWyoming Seminary transfer PeterHubbard, a junior who Repshis saidmay earn a spot on the offensive lineand defensive line.

ABINGTONContinued from Page 5

Repshis

“There are a lot of positions

to be filled, and what we

have are some players who

have had a great off-season,

great summer, who are ready

to compete and step in, and

have their opportunity to get

on the football field.”— Comets coach Joe Repshis

Russell Canevari, Evan Pralland Jeff Stevens have eachput in time as assistants

while waiting for their chance toeventually become a head highschool football coach.That time has come for the Lacka-

wanna Football Conference’s threenew head coaches, who are all get-ting their first shot at running a pro-gram.

The assignments comewith varying de-grees of difficulty and after apprentice-ships of various lengths.Canevari takes over the team on the

conference’s longest losing streak, Mon-trose, which has dropped 18 straight.Prall, the youngest of the new coaches, in-herits the last team standing from 2010,state-finalist Riverside. Stevens falls rightin between with a Holy Cross team thatfinished exactly at .500 in the regular sea-son and overall after making an appear-ance in the Eastern Conference playoffs.“It’s something I always wanted to be,”

said Canevari, the leading rusher whenValley Viewwon the state Class AA cham-pionship in 1992.Canevari has returned to the classroom

, moving from assistant principal to highschool social studies teacher.

“It would be a little difficult to be thehead coach and an assistant principal atthe same time,” Canevari said. “I com-pletely enjoyed my job. But maybe itwould be a little too much trying to re-build a program and trying tomaintain allthe discipline in the school at the sametime.”Prall was already a teacher at Riverside

when Harry Armstrong had a falling outwith the school board after the Vikings’championship season and resigned. He isabout to enter his fifth year as a health andphysical education teacher.“It’s something that I wanted,” Prall

said of being a head football coach. “It’sone of the reasons I’m in the field of educa-tion.”Stevens, amailman, has served as an as-

sistant coach at five schools.“I’ve thought about being a head coach

for a long time,” he said.“It has taken a lot longer than I ever

thought it would. There’s a lot more to itthan I thought therewould be, but I’ve gota great staff of guys helping me out.”Canevari spent one year as an assistant

at Wallenpaupack, working with the ju-nior high program. He was an assistantunder Tom Lucenti, Montrose’s all-timewinningest coach, for five years, workingwith running backs, defensive backs andspecial teams. He has been out of coach-ing the last five years while working as anadministrator.“One thing we’ve been stressing

through the early practices is a lot of dis-cipline,” saidCanevari,who also has expe-

rience as an assistant baseball coach atboth Wallenpaupack and Montrose. “Notnecessarily discipline as far as behavior isconcerned, but discipline in terms of play-ing your position properly in order to playteam defense or offense.”Canevari said the Meteors will use a

combinationofDelawarewing-Tandpro-Ion offense. They will work out of a basefive-man front with some 4-4 defensemixed in.Prall, an all-star wide receiver at West

Scranton and East Stroudsburg Universi-ty, spent time in training camp with theNational Football League’s Arizona Cardi-nals andNewYork Jets.Thatmakes it like-ly for the passing game to remain a bigpart of Riverside’s offensive approach.“We’re going to run a system we’re fa-

miliar with,” said Prall, who has been anassistant coach at PoconoMountain East,West Scranton and Scranton Prep.Stevens has an experienced group of

backs to work with but hopes to open upthe Holy Cross attack enough to bettertest defenses.“We faced a lot of teams with 11 guys in

the box last year,” said Stevens,who spentthe 2009 and 2010 seasons running the de-fense for the Crusaders. “We have to getpeople out of there.“We’ll be more spread out.”Stevens, who played at Tunkhannock,

has worked mostly with running backsand linebackers during his time as an as-sistant first at his alma mater, then atAbington Heights, Lackawanna Trail,Bishop O’Hara and Holy Cross.


New Riverside Vikings coach Evan Prall, right, talks with his players during the first week of practice. Prall is one of three newhead coaches in the LFC this fall.

New coaches reach goalBy TOM ROBINSONGo Lackawanna Reporter

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play at linebacker, but he is alsoone of many offensive threats re-turning from a Valley View teamthat won the Eastern ConferenceClass AAA title last year after fail-ing to reach district play.

Pat Jeffers, Liam Callejas andBrian Lalli, the top rusher, passerand receiver, all return. Jeffersran for almost 1,700 yards andCallejas passed for more than1,000.

“It’s going to be very hard tokey on one guy,” Valley Viewcoach George Howanitz said.

Delaware Valley coach KeithOlsommer is hoping to build thesame thing with junior quarter-back Bryan Schor returning forhis third season, along with histop three receivers, tight endConnor Decker and wide receiv-ers Bobby Morley and Kyle Zim-nik.

All the Warriors need in orderto develop similar balance is forJeremy Reynolds and MartinStrenk, two of last year’s topthree rushers, to emerge as ex-pected. Reynolds already has ascholarship offer from Temple.

Abington Heights has a shortlist of returning starters, butmany players from its deep pro-gram gained experience in a se-ries of comfortable wins.

Guard/defensive tackle JoeDolan, linebacker Matt Riggi anddefensive back Brandon Pacynaare the only full-time startersback.

Dante Pasqualichio waspressed into action at quarter-back late in the season and per-formed well.

The Comets enter the seasonon a14-game, regular-season win-ning streak.

Scranton is the other schoolgiven consideration as a title con-tender by some coaches.

TheKnights are looking for im-proved line play to show off their

talented skill position combina-tion, which includes Mike Mari-chak Jr., Karlon Quiller and JoeMcCarthy.

West Scranton also has the starpower while looking to fill inholes created by major gradua-tion losses from a team that wassecond in the division and theDistrict 2 Class AAA playoffs.

Fullback/linebacker De-Vaughn Chollette has a scholar-ship offer from Temple and Mal-colm Sweeting may be the topthree-way threat in the leaguewith his kick return skills addingto his prowess as a wide receiverand defensive back.

Scranton Prep, North Poconoand Wallenpaupack complete thedivision.

Scranton Prep is given achance by some to climb in thestandings after a tough debut inits move up from Division 2 to Di-vision 1 last season.

Like last season’s top two

teams, Abington Heights andWest Scranton, the team thatshared the 2009 title with theComets, North Pocono, will betrying to make up for the loss of astrong senior class.

Wallenpaupack,whichavoideda winless season in the divisionby upsetting Delaware Valley inthe finale, needs to try to make amove this season with its senior-laden roster.

DIVISION 2Lakeland has the best variety

of experienced players amongthe three small school power-houses in the division.

Alex Filarsky, a two-time, sec-ond-team, Class AA all-state de-fensive back, joins the versatileRyan Nichols.

Lakeland won the division titlewith an upset at Class A state fi-nalist Riverside last season.

Dunmore needs to overhaul al-most its entire offensive and de-

fensive fronts, but the Bucks areloaded with experience in thebackfield.

Daiquon Buckley ran for morethan 1,000 yards as a freshman,but will be sharing the tailbackspot with Austin Seamon, who isalso a strong safety.

Evan Prall takes over as thenew coach at Riverside and hasjust three starters back on eachside of the ball from the Vikings,who led the area with14 wins lastseason.

If any of the three traditionalpowers stumble, Western Waynecould be in position to make amove.

Coach Allen “Butch” Kellerwelcomes back an experiencedand talented junior class.

Robbie Siclari, one of13 full- orpart-time starters returning forthe Wildcats, makes the movefrom wide receiver to tailback.

The gap from top-to-bottommay have been reduced in the di-

vision, but Carbondale and Ho-nesdale remain likely to have dif-ficulty keeping up with the rest ofthe division.

Both teams went 1-9 overalllast seasonwithCarbondale gain-ing its only victory at the Horn-ets’ expense in the finale.

DIVISION 3Lackawanna Trail went from

1-9 in the first season under SteveJervis to 4-6 in the second season.

Many of the same players whowere part of last year’s improve-ment return this year to try tojump all the way to the top of thedivision.

A big backfield, featuring full-backEricLaytos andquarterbackCaleb Darling should make theLions tough to stop. When itcomes time to play defense, theyplay at defensive end and line-backer.

Old Forge was second last sea-son after winning the previoustwo division titles.

The Blue Devils again are alikely contender.

Leading rusher Lou Febbo isback.

Holy Cross has a veteran back-field to match Lackawanna Trail’swith the return of the Crusaders’top three rushers.

Coach Jeff Stevens takes overat Holy Cross, which played inthe Eastern Conference Class Aplayoffs a year ago.

Susquehanna lost the divi-sion’s Offensive Player of theYear, Dan Kempa, to graduation.Cole Mallery, who was scheduledto be the only returning two-way,first-team, all-star in the division,then transferred to Seton Cathol-ic Central in Binghamton, N.Y.

Mid Valley and Montrose com-plete the division.

Mid Valley’s hopes took a hit inthe preseason with the loss ofquarterbackMattTanner toan in-jury that may keep him out allseason.

Montrose also has a new coachin Russell Canevari.

The Meteors open the seasonon a 18-game losing streak.

OVERVIEWContinued from Page 3

GO LACKAWANNA FILE PHOTO

Valley View quarterback Liam Callejas is one of the Cougars’ many returning weapons.

SPECIALSECTION,S

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PLAYBOOK 2011

insights and led discussions onthe questions that remain whenScranton Orthopaedic Special-ists presented “Sports Concus-sion: Recognition, Assessment,Treatment,Management and Re-turn to Sports Criteria” at thenew medical school.Concussions are an issue in

other sports and they are likely toremain a part of football.Players getting their “bell

rung” is part of the sport’s lore.Evenwith rule changes to reducehits to and with the head, not allcan be eliminated. And, even iftheheadneverwaspart of impactwith an opponent, themovementfrom a violent hit or the head’scontact with the ground after ahit arepotential causesof concus-sions.Technology keeps improving

helmets, but they can only do somuch.Sebastianelli, Penn State’s

team physician, told a crowd ofabout 80 medical professionalsand a handful of other interestedobservers that studies will not beable to create a concussion-proofhelmet. He said concussions willstill be seen when players get hithard enough or with enoughforce.A concussion is the result of

the brainmoving inside the skull.When those hits that Sebastia-

nelli described occur, Collinssaid, “I don’t carewhathelmetweputon thehead, thebrain isgoingto move inside the skull.”The speed of the game, the

rules underwhich it is played andthe attempted reduction of blowsto the head are not all that haschanged.The treatment of one of the

scariest,mostmysterious andyetcommon injuries with which thesport deals has evolved as well.Collins, Sebastianelli andDr.P.

Christopher Metzger all spokeabout how much more cautiousmedical professionals have be-come in dealing with head inju-ries.Metzger, the Scranton/Wilkes-

Barre Yankees team doctor and asurgeon with Scranton Ortho-paedic Specialists, spent years onthe sidelines as the AbingtonHeights High School footballteamdoctor. In opening the semi-

nar, he gave examples of howmuch more restrictive doctorsand trainers have learned to be-come when considering the re-turn to play of potential concus-sion victims.“The media, and medicine in

general, has done a lot in the last10 to 15 years to really point outthe severity of what concussionscan be,” Metzger said.It is no longer enough to ask a

player how many fingers he seesalong with a few simple memoryquestions such as the date, hisage and the name of the currentpresident.An incorrect decision on the

sideline – or even early in the re-coveryprocess–canhavedanger-ous repercussions, ranging all theway toSecond ImpactSyndrome,a potentially deadly condition inwhich a lesser force can cause ad-ditional damage while the brainis not yet healed from the initialinjury.Attempts to determine that a

concussion is mild enough for anathlete to immediately return toplay are becoming a thing of thepast.“You cannotmake the diagnos-

is of whether it was a severe ormild concussion until the person

has recovered,” said Sebastianel-li, who also serves as the directorof athletic medicine at PennState.Collins said it is important for

medical professionals to avoidthe tendency of treating all con-cussions the same. He said mis-takes can be made by simply tell-ing athletes to sit out oneweekortwo weeks, for example.“This is a highly variable inju-

ry,” he said.Collins is the head of the Uni-

versity of Pittsburgh MedicalCenter’s Sports Concussion Pro-gram and a co-founder of Im-PACT Applications, a computer-ized test system used to assessconcussions. He noted that thereare some early hints about the ex-tent of the injury.“Dizziness is one symptom

that is most predictive of pro-tracted recovery,” he said. “Anathlete with on-field dizziness isalmost seven timesmore likely tohave a long recovery.”Sebastianelli said that amnesia

is a good predictor of the severityof the injury while lack of con-sciousness has not been as good.Once athletes are removed

from play, rest is often the key torecovery, again, whether a week,

two weeks or three or more areultimately neededbefore a returnis possible.Collins said anything that in-

creases the energy demand in thebrain can slow recovery.“Weightlifting, running, cogni-

tive exertion after traumamay allbe deleterious,” he said. “Justconverging your eyes in a con-cussed state is a very difficulttask.”Headache, similar to a mi-

graine, a sluggish feeling, and dif-ficulty concentrating are themost commonly reported symp-toms following a concussion.Collins, who sees about 4,000

concussion patients a year, saidvarious tests canbeused todeter-mine what type of movementsand actions are causing distress.Some patients have symptomswhen looking up and down, suchas in a classroom setting, whileothers may notice symptomswhile moving the head from sideto side.Sebastianelli said those reac-

tions make it important to restthe brain. Depending on what istriggering symptoms, that couldmean no school work, no textingornovideogames in addition to alack of training for sports.

“If you let this thing recover, itusuallywill – sometimes in a cou-ple days, sometimes in a coupleweeks, sometimes in a couplemonths,” Collins said. “The big-gest issue is preventing againstcumulative effects of the injury.”According to Collins, Pennsyl-

vania is one of the leading statesin trying to address concussionsinhigh school footballwith about500 schools using baseline test-ing. Those testing programs, in-cluding ImPACT, provide a pointof comparison once an athlete isinjured.Future studies may help deter-

mine issues such as who is moresusceptible to a concussion andwhy.For now, improvements in as-

sessing and monitoring the re-covery from a concussion canhelp put parents, coaches, train-ers and doctors in position to bet-ter protect athletes sufferingfrom head injuries.“We see different types of

symptoms due to different sys-tem involvement,” Collins said.“If there are 30 to 40 differenttypes of knee injuries, why do wethink there is one typeof injury tothe brain, the most complex or-gan in the body?”

INJURYContinued from Page 3


Penn State team physician Wayne Sebastianelli, left, and Dr. Michael Collins were the main speakers at a seminar on concussions heldJuly 29 at the Commonwealth Medical College.

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