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Berkshire High School
Badgers Line Strength Will Be Key in Turnaround By Mason Cole sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Josh DeWeese 9th season (32-48): A history teacher at the high school, DeWeese is a 1996 Berkshire graduate and important community member.
2021 Schedule
After finishing the 2020 season with a 5-4 overall record and a fourth-place ranking in the Chagrin Valley Conference, the Berkshire Badgers returned to the practice field eager to find improvement. Head coach Josh DeWeese talks about how his team is ready for a fresh start. “We’ve had some great days of practice out here,” DeWeese said. “Kids came out fresh, having no restrictions like we did last year at the moment. These guys are ready to go. It’s been a good start.” The Badgers plan to have a good running game thanks in part to an experienced offensive line. Denton Yoder, Kaige Martin, Justin Kordos, Auddia Pringle and Jeremy Bosher are only some of the seniors who will be returning to contribute to Berkshire’s offensive line. One member of the Badgers offensive line, who will be seeing a change to his role on offense, is senior Lucas Stoddard. Stoddard, who was named to the Division V all-Ohio team offensive line as a junior. Stoddard will shift from his usual offensive tackle position to a wing-back position. Teammate Jack Kuehn listed Stoddard as a player to watch. “He’s moving from left tackle to our wing spot, from in the trenches out to a skill position, so he’s been putting in a lot of work,” Kuehn said. With Stoddard moving to a skill position and the Badgers offensive line fea-
Aug. 20 @Cuyahoga Hts. Aug. 27 Fairport Sept. 3 Trinity Sept. 10 Grand Valley Sept. 17 @Independence Sept. 24 @Crestwood Oct. 1 Hawken* Oct. 8 Harvey Oct. 15 @Beachwood Oct. 22 @Cardinal *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
turing plenty of size and depth, Berkshire expects to see production in its passing offense as well as its run game. Offensively, Berkshire is expecting Kuehn to be a versatile weapon. While he can be a force in the run game, he can also produce in the passing game. Kuehn had 11 receptions for 130 yards last season. Kuehn believes that he and his teammates are in a good position. “I’m feeling pretty good, and I think the team as a whole is feeling pretty good,” Kuehn said. “We’ve got a lot of big guys up front this year, and quite a few returning starters.” With a strong offensive line and talent at running back and wide receiver, the Badgers are setting sophomore quarterback Miles Miller up for success. Miller is preparing to take over Berkshire’s offense after the graduation of former quarterback Jacob Brown. Coach DeWeese knows that his quarterback will
GO BADGERS
Stay focused and work hard!
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Thursday, August 19, 2021
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Badgers
Colors: Purple & Gold Home: Dr. William A. Reed Field Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2005 (tie)
Bosher
Brown
Kuehn
Stoddard
OHSAA: Div. V, Region 17 Playoff History: 1975, 1981, 1983, 2015, 2020 (0-5)
have big shoes to fill. “(Brown) was a 1,000-yard rusher and 1,000-yard passer, but Miles is a gamer,” DeWeese said. “He came in last year for us and he beat Cardinal High School for us in week one with an overtime touchdown. He likes to compete; he’s got a lot on his plate, but he can handle it.” In that week-one game, Miller showed his poise for the quarterback position. Then a freshman, he carried the ball five times for 31 yards and one touchdown. Berkshire hopes Miller will continue to grow into the quarterback position and led its offense to success. Defensively, Berkshire is hoping to have a balanced unit on all three levels. The Badgers defensive line will likely be the strength of a unit featuring many experienced players. DeWeese expects his teams’ edge-rush to be stellar. “On the edges, our defensive ends – Lucas Stoddard on one side, and then we had a transfer, Ethan Bryndal … he plays a good defensive end,” DeWeese said. Bryndal, a senior who came from Mentor High School, will add size to Berkshire’s defensive line, standing at 6-4, 256 pounds.
Other players who are expected to step up on defense are senior linebacker Denton Yoder; Jack Kuehn, who is shifting from the safety position to linebacker; and junior safety Josh Brown, who is a captain. With plenty of potential on offense as well, the Badgers believe they can accomplish great things. But Stoddard knows his team simply needs to focus on putting in the work. “I just want us to give everything we’ve got for all four quarters of the game,” Stoddard said. “I expect everything we’ve got for 100 percent of the game.”
OHSAA Enrollment: 158
Extra Points
Cheerleaders: Nicole Cindric, Hannah Gilbert, Alescia Gonzalez, MaKayla Gschwind, Sydney Malbrough, Mia Morey, Winnie Peters, Delaney Pinzone, Jenna Revak, Madison Rickelman, Bri Rotz, Dani Taraba, Kennedy Yalanty, Ashlee Abels
• The Badgers beat rival Cardinal twice in 2021 by scores of 27-21 and 19-0, recapturing the Kinsman Cup and overtaking the Huskies in the overall series 34-33-1 in a rivalry dating back to 1954. • This is Berkshire’s last season at Dr. William A. Reed Field as the team will move into a new school and new athletic facilities at the end of the year. • Jack Arnold coaches with his son, Brian.
2020 Season: 5-4 Coaches: Gordon Cossick (off. coordinator), Rich Klemencic (def. coordinator), Matt McDermott, Jack Arnold, Brian Arnold, Nick Burzanko, Ian Patterson, James Bosley Trainer: Todd Snyder Roster: 37 total (9 freshmen, 11 sophomores, 9 juniors, 8 seniors) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @bhsfball15 & @BHSBadgerDen
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Cardinal High School
Huskies Plan to Overcome Early Program Setbacks By Mason Cole sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Chris Perrotti 1st season: Former assistant coach with Newbury, Ledgemont, Lutheran East, Orange and Grand Valley, Perrotti takes over a program that was in flux this offseason.
The Cardinal Huskies begin their 2021 football season under strange circumstances. After the dismissal of head coach George Gresko, Cardinal promoted assistant coach Chris Perrotti to the head position. The situation has been uncomfortable, but Perrotti is excited to lead his players. “It’s a special opportunity,” Perrotti said. “It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I’m running with it. I’m excited for the opportunity.” As the Huskies get set for their season, Perrotti has prepared his team for different strategies on offense. Cardinal employed a spread passing attack during the 2020 season, but Perrotti has shifted his team’s focus toward the running game. A handful of Cardinal running backs believe will play big roles for their team. One running back who is extra motivated to make his mark on the season is senior Zach Czako. Czako, who also plays linebacker, suffered a torn ACL at the beginning of last season and was greatly missed by his teammates. Now, healthy again, Czako is prepared to help his team find success. But to be a winning football team, Czako pointed out that the Huskies need be detail-oriented. “Our focus has mainly been on the little things — making sure we have our steps right, and a lot of discipline,” Czako said. “We’re going to be a good team.”
3098 Elm Rd. Ext. NW • Cortland, OH 44410 330-638-1010 • 800-667-1898 www.markthomasford.com
2021 Schedule Aug. 20 Garfield Aug. 27 @Py Valley Sept. 3 @Fairport Sept. 10 @Hawken Sept. 17 Harvey Sept. 24 @Beachwood Oct. 1 Grand Valley* Oct. 8 @Crestwood Oct. 15 Cuyahoga Hts. Oct. 22 Berkshire *Homecoming
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
To go along with his play at running back, Perrotti was also excited to have Czako back at linebacker. “He’s just brought so much communication to the defense,” Perrotti said of Czako. “It’s fantastic to see him back out on the field.” Part of Cardinal’s plan for a strong rushing attack involves having a powerful offensive line. Two players who are viewed as anchors of the Huskies line are seniors Mike Soltis and John Avalon. Soltis was named Division VI first-team offensive line; Avalon was named an honorable mention to the team. Perrotti views his team’s offensive line as a key to success. The Huskies coach was excited to heap praise onto his senior offensive linemen. “Our offensive line is really strong,” Perrotti said. “We’ve got two seniors coming back. (Soltis) was all Ohio; (Avalon)
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Thursday, August 19, 2021
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Huskies
Colors: Red, White & Black Home: Richard A. Moss Field Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2003
Avalon
Czako
Kochy
Strever
OHSAA: Div. VI, Region 21 Playoff History: 2002, 2020 (1-2)
didn’t get the accolades, but he’s right there skill-wise. He’s a monster.” While Avalon may not have received as much recognition as his teammate, he is not letting that stop him from looking toward the upcoming season. Avalon believes his team is ready to compete at a high level. “I think we’re looking great,” Avalon said. “We’ve got a lot of seniors, a lot of good guys out there, so I think we’ll perform very well.” For offensive linemen such as Soltis and Avalon, their roles may change under Perrotti. In previous years, Cardinal’s linemen had to focus on pass protection. The 2021 Huskies will likely emphasize run blocking due to their depth at running back. Avalon explained how the team will balance its offense during the regular season. “I think we’ve transitioned a little bit more away from an air-raid type, pass offense,” Avalon said. “We still have (passing) in our offense, but we focus more on our strength, which is our running backs and our blocking.” Cardinal also hopes for great things from its defense. Perrotti emphasized
many times that linebacker is a position of strength for his team. The Huskies are hoping to see senior leadership at that position from Czako and Austin Strever. JR Kochy is expected to work hard at the defensive end position. And at cornerback, Cardinal has junior Ethan Detweiler as well as sophomore Aiden Gallagher, who started the previous season as a freshman. Cardinal has plenty of veteran leadership on both sides of the field. But before mentioning their talent or senior leadership, the Huskies want to be recognized for something else. Coach Perrotti summed it up simply. “Grit,” said Perrotti, when asked about the spirit of his team. “I grew up in West Geauga, and at the time we played Cardinal, and this has always been a gritty, tough football team. We’re going to battle. Our goal is to go into a game on a Friday night and show that we’re not quitting or giving up in any way.”
Extra Points
Perrotti is joined on his coaching staff by his dad, Randy. The two coached together at Newbury.”
OHSAA Enrollment: 127 2020 season: 2-8 Coaches: Brett Gresko (off. coordinator), Joe Shumar, Randy Perrotti, John Nagle, Rodney Paradise Trainer: Lisa Ginsburg Roster: 44 total (10 seniors, 9 juniors, 9 sophomores, 16 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: $185 Follow the Team: @chs_huskies_fb & @cardinalhuskies Cheerleaders: Sarah Skytta, Bailey Scott , Hanna Hansen, Allie Blasko, Morgan Csontos, Nicole Day, Olivia Tucholiski, Casey Kieth
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Chagrin Falls High School
Tigers Looking to Challenge for CVC Chagrin Title By Alan Kornspan sports@geaugamapleleaf.com Chagrin Falls will have a new head football coach this fall as long-time assistant coach John Scott begins his first football season as head coach. Scott takes over the program from Mark Iammarino, who retired last December as Chagrin Falls’ all-time-winningest football coach. He will lead a football program that went 5-4 in a pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
John Scott 1st season. A social studies teacher at the high school and middle school, Scott is a Solon graduate and 22-year assistant under former coach Mark Iammarino.
Up Front the Tigers are Pumped
A main strength for Chagrin Falls will be its offensive line, which will be led by seniors Nick Dalessandro and Andrew Bazzone, the coach said. Both are returning three-year starters. Dalessandro was named first-team All-Ohio in Division IV last season, and Bazzone was named to the all-district team. Dalessandro, one of the top lineman in Northeast Ohio, has recently committed to play NCAA Division I football at Lafayette College. “With other seniors up front — Wes Kaas, Peter Winkelman and Tommy Conway — being able to tell you we have five senior offensive lineman is really encouraging,” Scott said. “We feel conformable in the way they are going to lead us up front.” The offensive line will be focused on opening holes for returning junior running back Donny Hardy and protecting junior quarterback Nicholas Vinci.
2021 Schedule Aug. 20 @Kenston Aug. 27 Trinity Sept. 3 @Brookside Sept. 10 Perry Sept. 17 Orange Sept. 24 @Kirtland Oct. 1 @Lakeside Oct. 8 Edgewood Oct. 15 @West Geauga Oct. 22 Geneva* *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Hardy had an excellent 2020 sophomore football season that saw him rush for 548 yards on 66 carries for an average of 8.3 yards per carry and score seven touchdowns. Vinci, a junior, will be in his first year as starting quarterback. “He’s a good game manager, and he will do everything I ask him to do,” said Scott. “He’s got that moxie, that savviness.” As the previous defensive coordinator, Scott will take over the offense and has hired a new defensive coordinator, Brian Kelly. Similar to the offense, Chagrin Falls’ offensive line will also be strong. Senior standout offensive linemen Dalessandro and Bazzone will be anchoring the defensive line. “We have Cole Ettinger back; he was a starter for me at safety,” said Scott. “So I am real excited to have him lead the guys on the back half.”
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Tigers
Colors: Orange & Black Home: C.S. Harris Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin) Last CVC Title: 2013 (tie)
Bazzone
Dalessandro
On special teams, Scott emphasized that major strengths will be kick returner and snapper Donny Hardy and kicker/punter Andrew Kirkpatrick. “I got one of the best: Andrew Kirkpatrick, three-year starter, big-time leg,” said Scott. “Just an incredible weapon. “We get the ball inside the 30-yard line, we kick a field goal. We got the ball pinned inside the 10, he’ll bang it out of there. And kickoffs, being able to drive the ball into the end zone to allow the opposing offense to have to go 80 yards is huge. Very excited to have him back.” Donny Hardy will also provide important contributions on special teams. “Donny Hardy is going to run the rock for us,” said his coach. “He is going to be a good
Hardy
Kaas
returner, but he is also a really good snapper. “Having that combination is something I am looking forward to.” While this young team will have few returning juniors and seniors, Scott noted that they have been working very hard during the offseason. “We have more numbers in the freshman and sophomore class, so that is encouraging,” Scott said. “I am real excited for the challenge ahead, and I think our kids are going to perform well.”
Extra Points
• Chagrin Falls lost to rival West Geauga 30-22 last season. The Tigers still hold a 32-27 edge in the all time series that dates back to 1962.
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2020 (19-12) OHSAA Enrollment: 261 2020 season: 5-4 Coaches: Ken McClintock, Paul Perrine, Bryan Kelly (def. coordinator), Adam Lesko, Gabe Surgeon, Zack Lesko, Kevin Owen, Tommy Murtaugh Trainer: Anne Marenkovic Pay to play fee: None Follow the team: @ChagrinAD Roster: 50 total (10 seniors, 10 juniors, 15 sophomores, 15 freshmen) Cheerleaders: Ella Angel, Isabelle Coy, Marnie Demangone, Gillian Geber, Jane Peck, Avery Polcar, Sarah Porter, Maya Rooney, Ruby Snavely, Ali Tull, Alex Wheatly, Alyssa Zaffiro, Camille Zitney
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Chardon High School
Chardon Will Reload as Defending State Champs By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
Mitch Hewitt 11th season (80-27): A high school social studies teacher, Hewitt is a 1999 Chardon grad who has kept the Hilltopper football tradition alive.
As Chardon coaches motivated their players with standard two-a-day barbs — “Are you asleep?!” — the earth movers behind them at Memorial Field beeped in the background. It was a stark reminder of the uphill climb the Hilltoppers face, forced to play the first half of the season, in all likelihood, on the road because of field turf delays. And yet it’s hard to feel sorry for the defending state champions. These coaches, led by Mitch Hewitt, have had few changes in the 11 years Hewitt has been at the helm. Program numbers, in a sport declining at other schools, are as high as they’ve been, with 30 sophomores, 30 freshmen, 30 eighth-graders, 30 seventh-graders and loaded youth programs. And then there’s the support of parents, fans and boosters who step in when help is needed, as a brand new scoreboard visible from this day’s practice at the track attests. Chardon graduates 25 seniors from a season ago, and the team replaces most starters on both sides of the ball. “We’re not tough enough yet,” Hewitt said. “We’re not loud enough yet.” “We have a lot of kids finding out that that leadership of last year has left the building, and they have a voice now. There’s growth there that has taken place.” Chardon stays with the Wing-T offense it has run for more than 40 seasons. Senior Zoran Vujaklija and junior Alex
2021 Schedule Aug. 20 Glenville Aug. 28 @Buchtel 1 p.m. Sept. 3 Ursuline Sept. 10 Riverside Sept. 17 @Mayfield Sept. 24 Kenston Oct. 1 @New Philadelphia Oct. 8 Madison* Oct. 15 @South Oct. 22 North *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Henry have competed in camp to be the next starting quarterback. “I’ve liked being at the helm of the team,” said Vujaklija, who was dinged early with a back issue. “I feel like I’m ready for it mentally. With this team, it will be easy to overcome any adversity.” Fullback Sean Carr is the only returner with substantial experience. “(Carr) is extremely well liked by his peers,” Hewitt said. “He epitomizes a Chardon football player, a team player.” “I try to do my best for my teammates,” Carr said. “This is really an elite group right now.” Carr will likely get fewer minutes on defense. “It’s not bad,” he said, laughing, of being able to score more touchdowns this season. But Hewitt believes there are plenty in-wait who can carry the load, like Daniel Pettyjohn, Rocco Perrico, Ryan Petersen,
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Carr
Liebhardt
Brody Dotson, Blake Barker and Trey Liebhardt. A shortened training camp has the competition at halfback wide open. Wideout Nathanael Sulka and Liebhardt may take some wildcat snaps because of their explosiveness. Alex McDonald — called maybe the best tight end Chardon has had — will have a large role in the offense. McDonal is one of the true two-way players on his team. “I love playing offense because it’s a hybrid between running back and lineman,” he said. “I still get to do things like a lineman, like beat the snot out of kids, but then I get to run out for a pass sometimes.” Chardon’s offensive line isn’t deep, but Hewitt is hopeful this unit will be a strength. Senior Aidan Ischay steps into a leadership role at center; sophomore Logan Bryant is “really, really good,” Hewitt said; senior Adam Jackson is back as a starter; senior Simon Rodriguez; and Matt Organiscak and T.J. Altman round out the rotation. Sulka (Youngstown State commit) will anchor the defense at his safety position, but he’ll also be moved around where he’s needed. “He’s just a stud,” Hewitt said.
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McDonald
Sulka
Sulka is a four-year starter, and defense has been his strength. “I have to step up more and be a leader,” Sulka said. “I like to roam the field and just see everything that is going on.” The Hilltoppers’ base 3-4 principles will stay the same. Heath Fetchik and Dotson will play inside linebackers; Perrico and Peterson will play outside linebackers. Hewitt is excited to see what Jake Barker is capable of defense. Liebhardt returns as the team’s starting cornerback, joined by sophomore A.J. Bruce. “There are guys who didn’t even play last year who are stepping up and leading our drills,” Liebhardt said. Liebhardt said his expanded role on offense comes naturally: “It’s about avoiding people and scoring, and I’m excited to be in the mix and gets come carries.” Defensive linemen will be Michael Washington in the middle and Cooper Felger and McDonald on the outside. Nathan Tager, who also plays soccer, returns as the team’s placekicker and expects to be another weapon for Chardon in its title defense.
Nickname: Hilltoppers Colors: Red & Black Home: Chardon Memorial Field Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last Conference Title: 2020 OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020 (33-18) OHSAA Enrollment (Boys in 9, 10, 11): 342 2020 Season: 12-0 Coaches: Bob Francis, Frank Hall, Don Navatsyk (off. coordinator), Brian Landies (def. coordinator), Marty Mackar, Rob Vujaklija, Connor Krouse, Rick Mysyk, Nick Iacampo, J.J. Laseak, Brett Weidig, Cameron Niehus Trainer: Lindsay Williamson and Nick Outrich Roster: 68 total (20 seniors, 14 juniors, 34 sophomores) Pay to play fee: $350 Follow the Team: @topperfb, @toppernation Cheerleaders: Madison Clague, Kristina Pason, Avery Wynn, Bryanna Evan, Jillian Ziegenfuss, Maggie Slack, Brinley Szalay, Alexis Fink, McKenna Robie, Lauren Rosipko, Emma Federico, Samantha Zarzour, Hollie Straka, Hailey Green, Cadence Paul
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Hawken School
Repetition and Return to Normalcy Key for Hawks By Rich Kelly sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Brian Stephenson 3rd season (3-9): From Lima, Ohio, Stephenson is a former assistant coach at a boarding school in Virginia who graduated from Yale in 2009 where he played football.
Normalcy and consistency are two concepts often used together in the English language. They also are key components in athletics, and in a team sport like football, they play a huge role in the educational process. Nobody escaped the activities surrounding the 2020 pandemic, but many Ohio schools were able to make adjustments to get in a semblance of a regular season, leading to postseason action along the way. The Hawken Hawks were not one of the teams able to get in a full season. But as our society has adjusted to the needs to battle the virus, this preseason has allowed the Hawks, under coach Brian Stephenson and staff, to build a system that’s working well for the Division IV squad. Playing in the Chagrin Valley Conference Valley, the Hawks, with a 35-man roster at the moment, are working hard to regroup and put the 0-4 season of 2020 behind them. “We had some injuries last year,” Stephenson said. “We had to deal with the pandemic as well, both in our school and in dealing with it as it became part of other schools as well. “We’re off to a fresh start now, all is going well, and we expect to have a very good season.” The Hawks have some potent weapons on both sides of the ball, but in their spread offense, featuring a number of speedsters at skilled positions, senior quarterback Terrence Robinson II will be the main cog. He will have plenty of help. On a squad
2021 Schedule Aug. 21 @Cuy. Hts. Aug 27 Doylestown Sept. 4 @Gilmour 2 p.m. Sept. 10 Cardinal Sept. 17 @Grand Valley Sept. 24 Brooklyn* Oct. 1 @Berkshire Oct. 8 @Beachwood Oct. 15 Harvey Oct. 22 Crestwood *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
with only eight seniors, youth will be served, but it’s the seniors who will stir the pot in every direction. Those seniors — beside Robinson, who at 6-2 and 200 pounds presents a major problem for every team they play — are skilled and ready to play. Jordan Harrison (5-10, 165) is a burner who will give Robinson a big target over defenses. Joshua Lombardo, also a soccer player for Hawken, will do the placekicking. Nick Bollinger (6-0, 180) also is on the soccer team, and will provide a big foot in the punting game during the rare times the offense might stall. It won’t happen too often. Sean Hodges II (5-8, 150) supplies depth at wide receiver and in the defensive backfield. Stephenson will put players to good use both ways. Ben Elenin (5-11, 155) will be one of Robinson’s prime targets offensively; A. J. Sands (6-1, 187) will be a big part of things as a tight end and defensive lineman; and Obi Chinedu (6-1, 215) adds some needed size
Geauga County Maple Leaf
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Players to Watch
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Team Profile
Nickname: Hawks
Colors: Red & Gray Home: Walton Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2005
Gipson
Harrison
and experience on both sides. Robinson will be the focal point of the attack, throwing to Danny Grajl, Elenin, Harrison and Sands. Coming out of the backfield with speed and good hands as well will be junior Dominic Johnson. While not a giant in his early years, running behind a line with skills and some size, Johnson plans to grow with the team, looking for openings he can sneak into for long gains while hiding behind those linemen. “I want to be the guy who gets big yards and big plays when we need them,” Johnson said. “I’ve been blessed with some speed, so when I get the ball and make it to open field, my goal is to score every time I get the chance. “As a leader on the team, especially next year, I have to hold myself responsible to the other guys on the team to put out my best effort on every play. Coach teaches us to think that way, and it’s proving out to work well, and I have to do my part every play.” While only getting in four games last season, as Hawken went 0-4 overall and 0-1 in the CVC, Robinson stepped up last year, and sees this season as a building block for the younger players on his team. “My goal is to just build on what we did last year as a team,” the humble lefthander said. “I learned a lot from the older
Justice
Robinson II
guys last year despite the circumstances of the virus, and it’s my responsibility to do the same for the team this year and to keep them on schedule in learning how to play in Coach Stephenson’s system.” Making the holes for this plethora of speedsters will be a pair of large young men. Junior Louie Justice (6-1, 281) and Tyler Gibson (6-1, 298) will anchor the lines both ways. Christopher Shea will be a regular in the mix, along with Chinedu and others. A spread offense will utilize the multiple aspects of speed, going deep for Robinson’s accurate throws and making long yardage plays out of screens and sideline passes. So far in preseason workouts, Robinson has gotten the ball to his burner buddies well, and they have shown the hand integrity of catching it safely then hitting open territory to make short gains into big gains. That will be a key factor all season. On defense, Stephenson plans to play a basic 4-2-5 scheme to stop opponents. “The kids are working well with tackling on defense,” he said. “That will be big for us because although we have a few big kids on the roster, we’re not a big team overall. But I love how quick we are in both moving the ball and getting to the ball on defense. If we tackle well, we should compete well, too.”
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2012, 2020 (10-11) OHSAA Enrollment: 197 2020 season: 0-4 Coaches: Charles Woolridge (def. coordinator), Dan Walton, Ed Suggs Trainer: Sarah Royan-Robbins Roster: 34 total (8 seniors, 4 juniors, 8 sophomores, 14 freshmen) Pay to play fee: None Follow the team: @HawkenFootball
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Kenston High School
Bombers Look to Fly Despite Last Season Setbacks By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
Jeff Grubich 10th season (60-38): A health and physical education teacher at the high school, Grubich is a Chagrin Falls graduate who won a state championship with the Bombers in 2018.
2021 Schedule
In his 10th season, Jeff Grubich can stand back on a sunny August morning, during Kenston’s third day of two-a-day practices, and admire what he and his coaches have built. In one instance, literally. The field turf, a field house, the bleachers and scoreboard, all additions since Grubich started, make the Bombers proud of their program and first class in what they do. “I remember there was a hole in the press box and the roof leaked,” Grubich said, then reflected. “It doesn’t seem like 10 years. I’ll tell you that much. Not at all.” The team has rebuilt completely since its 2018 state championship, and the coronavirus hit the 3-4 Bombers particularly hard. Kenston was unsure it was going to have a season in August a season ago. Two games canceled and the inability to play after being eliminated from the playoffs make this year’s roster more inexperienced than any season before.
Offense
The Bombers will run a spread no-huddle offense that Grubich brought over from his time as an assistant at Mentor. Kenston has just nine seniors. But Grubich will lean on them all this season. Junior Nikko Georgiou returns as the team’s starting QB.
Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22
Chagrin Falls Perry @NDCL @North Lake Catholic @Chardon @Madison South Riverside @Mayfield
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Georgiou has a strong arm, his coach said, and good footwork. “He can run the ball when he needs to,” Grubich said. “He’s stepping into more of a leadership role. He knows he’s the dude this year.” Georgiou knows it, as well. “You have to lead at all times,” he said. “But I’m ready for this year. We’re just ready to work.” An up-tempo offense helps the Bombers tire out the defense, Georgiou said. Sophomore Sean Patrick will start at RB. Ben DiMarco, a junior, will serve as backup. Ryan Miller (6 feet 6 inches) is a fouryear starter who has committed to Indiana University. “He’s a blue collar guy who just shows up and the does the work every day, great hands,” Grubich said. “I’m more of a lead-by-example leader,” Miller said. “I’m not that vocal. I want to
GO BOMBERS
Stay focused and work hard!
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Bombers
Colors: Blue & White Home: Bombers Stadium Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last conference title: 2018 (tied)
Cale Doyle
Georgiou
show how everyone how it’s done.” He thinks the receiving corps is a team strength. Senior J.P. Germano was all-district as a wideout last year. Carson Gebeau is a returning starter at receiver. And freshman Ty Cordona is moving into a big offensive role. Cale Doyle is going to anchor the offensive line at the left tackle. “We’ve got some more experience,” Cale said, “and we have to protect our quarterback because without him, our team doesn’t go very far.” Garrett Uhlier is the team’s center. Cale’s brother, Sean, will also be on the line.
Defense
Braden Krupp returns as a starter and leader at linebacker. He’s converted to the inside middle. “I think we’re getting ready to go,” Krupp said. “I like to lead.” Krupp knows Kenston’s offense tends to get more attention, and he’s out to change that mindset. “We’re going to be tougher than our opponents, and we know that defense wins
Krupp
Miller
games,” he said. In the secondary, Logan Toft returns as starting corner and Germano and Gebeau join him. Kenston tried to limit two-way players on its lines. Aiden Vanderbilt and Connor Kluesner both return as starters on the defensive line. Cale Doyle is learning some defensive line at nose tackle and edge rusher. “I don’t spend too much time there, but whatever helps the team win,” Cale said. The team will play mostly a 3-4 base and a 4-2 at times. Kenston has added Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin to its non-conference schedule. Playing locals teams has been important to Grubich. Plus, it’s been tougher to find non-conference opponents since the Bombers won the state title in 2018.
Extra Points Kenston, despite non-conference scheduling difficulties after their state title, add local Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin to the its schedule. Giving the Bombers a new Geauga County rival.
OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1981, 1986, 1995, 1997, 2000, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2020 (13-11) OHSAA Enrollment (Boys in 9, 10, 11): 364 2020 season: 3-4 Coaches: Scott Anderson (Offensive Coordinator), Steve Grubich, Joe Brahler, Quorey Payne, Bob Hallen, Fred Lockinour, Mark Cuccia, Steve Teringo (Defensive Coordinator), Jim Selby, Bob Ross, Thomas Grenier, Coular Clandenning, Carmen Gianguzzo, Brad Lako, Nick Korenowski Trainer: Vivianni McKinney Roster: 60 total (10 seniors, 17 juniors, 20 sophomores, 13 freshmen) Pay to play fee: None Follow the Team: @Bomber_Football, @BomberEliteClub
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GO LIONS HUSKIES
Stay hard! Stayfocused focused and and work work hard!
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Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School
Strong Senior Class to Lead the Lions in Blue Division By Jason Baxter sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Andrew Mooney 7th season (39-25): A social studies teacher at the high school, Mooney is from Lubbock, Texas, who played football at Ohio University.
NDCL enters the 2021 season full of optimism after winning four of its final five games last season. The Lions started the season 0-3 with losses to Division IV State Runner-up Lake Catholic, Division II powerhouse Canfield, and Padua. But they then reeled off three straight wins, including a playoff win over Louisville. Their playoff run ended in a loss to Aurora, 41-22. But they would win their season finale in a weather-delayed game against Lakeside, 44-22. Head coach Andrew Mooney, now in his seventh year, returns 35 letter-winners and 16 seniors this season.
Koenig Returns to Lead Offense
NDCL’s ffense will be led by returning starting quarterback Jacob Koenig, who was an all-district performer last season, throwing for 852 yards and 11 touchdowns. “Excitement for the upcoming season is surreal,” Koenig said. “Since the end of the season, we have been coming together and putting in a lot of work. We have a strong group of seniors.” On Koenig, Mooney also said, “Jacob is the first time we have had a quarterback return as a full-time starter. He is in a position to succeed. Now we can look at the big picture with him; he has all the basics on the tool belt. We’re very excited about that. He is asking for new things everyday.” Senior running back Ashton Gotham returns for the Lions, and senior wide re-
2021 Schedule Aug. 20 South Aug. 27 Olentangy Sept. 3 Kenston Sept. 11 @Gilmour 2 p.m. Sept. 18 @Lutheran East 1 p.m. Sept. 24 @East Liverpool Oct. 1 @Walsh Oct. 8 Padua* Oct. 15 VASJ Oct. 23 @Lake Catholic *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
ceiver Will Eppich is the leading receiver. Eppich finished last season with 18 receptions and 208 yards. Senior Matt Farrell will also see time at running back. The Lions will count on Ryan Zucker at tight end, along with fellow senior Tim Mamone. NDCL’s line returns three offensive lineman: senior Bryan Taylor (center), junior Ryan Pesho (guard), and Cole Marut. All three will be counted on to lead a group light on experience but deep in depth. “We have a couple of guys coming back with experience,” Taylor said of the offensive line, “plus a couple guys who are young and getting the experience. We have a good mix of guys. We have guys fighting for spots, but we also have people to help.” “I’m excited about that,” Mooney also said, “because we’re not trying to find five guys out of three or four guys; we have seven or eight guys vying for those spots. The offensive line is where you want competition. You don’t want guys there by default,
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Lions
Colors: Blue & Gold Home: Lion Stadium Conference: North Coast League (Blue Division) Last NCL Title: 2012
Ferrell
Koenig
but (guys) that have earned the position.” Junior Gianni Spectic is a weapon for the Lions at kicker. Last season he had five of six field goals and 39 yards as an all-district kicker.
Secondary to Anchor Defense
The Lions may have one of the best secondaries in the area as they return all four starters, three of whom earned all-district recognition, led by second-team honoree senior safety Ryan Moskal. Seniors Farrell and Ryan Niska each earned honorable mention all-district. Senior Andrew Ryan and James Cipolla will be counted on in the secondary. “We’re excited on defense,” Niksa said. “Our whole secondary is returning. We have a lot of experience, and we fly around to the ball.” “The best part about bringing the whole secondary back,” their coach said, “is that usually we have guys graduate into those positions. I’m not sure we have brought all four guys back (before). “And we have other guys in the mix that would have been starters in other years. We have a lot of depth (that) will allow other guys to play on the other side of the ball.”
Niksa
Taylor
The linebacking corp will be anchored by junior Matt Urda, who earned all-district honors last season. Mooney says he’s the underclassman to watch this season. Along with junior Luke Peroni at defensive tackle, Zucker returns for the Lions at defensive end. Summing up the impact of this senior class, Farrell said, “We’re trying to leave a good impact on the younger guys so they can carry it on just like the guys ahead of us.”
Extra Points
• NDCL begins Crown Conference play this season with familiar foes in Lake Catholic, Padua, VASJ and Walsh Jesuit. The five member league is a fragmented collection of schools from the previous North Coast League. • With a fairly localized non-conference schedule, you have to consider a trip to East Liverpool and hosting Columbus-area Olentangy as outliers. The Lions will make the 93-mile trek to East Liverpool on Sept. 24. • NDCL’s most important game on the schedule will always be Lake Catholic. The Lions have lost three straight years to the Cougars. The last win for them was October 13, 2017.
OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 2003, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020 (5-9) OHSAA Enrollment: 254 2020 season: 4-4 Coaches: Augie Montz (def. coordinator), Joe Ertter, Jeffery Banker, Michael Fleeman, Ray Rockwell, Andrew Sieminski, Sam VanderVen, Jon Hassman, Dominic Liuzzo, Ben Madden, Jimmy Vanek Trainer: Mario DeMattia & Ana Varela Pay to play fee: None Roster: 50 total (15 seniors, 21 juniors, 14 sophomores) Cheerleaders: Elle Boehlefeld, Maggie Dubeansky, Taylor Frost, Hartley Heiss, Lexie Hoinski, Lia Kimball, Maddie Kish, Katie McGuinness, Margaret Ruggeri, Payton Sminchak, Belle Susel, Mary Rose Tamburrino, Mia Tomei, Contessa Wilson
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West Geauga High School
West Geauga Living in the Moment with Great Leaders By Jason Baxter sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Adam Sopkovich 4th season (15-13): A former assistant at Oberlin College and head coach at Warrensville Heights, Coach Sop is a personal trainer.
West Geauga has gotten better each of the past three years, improving from 4-6 in 2019 to 6-2 during the shortened 2020 season. Those six wins, and a “normal” season, left a lot to be desired in Chesterland. But the Wolverines will have many opportunities to rise to the occasion this year in pursuit of their first playoff berth since 2015. Head coach Adam Sopkovich, now in his fourth year, said one of the things he continues to tell the 2021 Wolverines is to live in the moment. “My expectation is to keep them in the moment,” he said. “It’s about the rep in front of you.” With an experienced, senior-heavy lineup, this year is part of the next steps for Sopkovich and his seniors. “I love my senior class,” he said. “We have five four-year letter-winners. These guys came in with me four years ago; we have become a close knit group. It’s like having 50 to 60 sons. “They have also been great leaders. They have learned so much and they’re able to coach each other now.”
Stewart, Offensive Line Return
Returning at quarterback is All-CVC and First-Team All-District performer senior Danny Stewart. He led the Wolverines offense last year with 1,208 yards (in eight games) and 13 touchdown passes. “You have to overcome adversity,” said
2021 Schedule Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22
Bay @Streetsboro @Parma @Kirtland @Edgewood Lakeside Orange @Geneva Chagrin Falls Perry
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Stewart of the lessons learned in 2020. “I said after the Chagrin game last year, when we went down 15-0 in the first 27 seconds and we came back to win the game,we learned a lot in that game about adversity and not backing down from your opponent.” One significant area the Wolverines will have to replace is running back, where workhorse Trae Zimmerman has graduated. Carries will come from a pair of juniors in Justin Artino and Travis Veleba, who will also be the backup quarterback to Stewart. A strength is Stewart’s elusiveness; he ran the ball for over 300 yards last season. Stewart’s favorite target is senior Torry Stazzone. who finished last season with 31 receptions and 490 yards. Fellow Chris Ranallo returns as another viable option for the Wolverines. Look for senior Michael Cavasinni to get time in the slot position.
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Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Wolverines Colors: Blue & White
Home: Howell Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin) Last CVC Title: 2015
Myers
Sadler
The Wolverines return four starters on the offensive line. They will be anchored on the outside by senior tackles Lucas Sadler and Lucas Gasbarrino. Gasbarrino was a First-Team All-District performer. Nate Myers will start at center, while juniors Scott Purchase and Austin Pascoe will play guard. Another weapon for the Wolverines is senior Kicker Joey DiLalla. He finished last season with 48 kicking points, including an impressive eight field goals. DiLalla will also line up at punter.
Sadler Anchors Defense
Myers is back at defensive end. He finished last season with seven sacks, and will be joined by senior Ryan Dienes at end. West Geauga will have new defensive tackles in Pascoe and senior Mario Denigris. Sadler rarely leaves the field, as he will not only start at tackle but also anchor the Wolverines defense from linebacker. Sadler and Myers combined for 20 tackles for loss last season. Sadler said of the legacy of this senior class, “We’re a family. We’re all brothers here. Not a single person who is selfish. I think that’s why we come together so well
Stazzone
Stewart
and why we have played well. We’re still getting better. “I think we’re going to be really good. I think we can have a better record than last year and make a deeper run in the playoffs. We have a lot of good leaders on the team. Our leadership is very important this year.” Ranallo and Stazzone return in the secondary. They will be joined by Velba, Cavasinni, and junior Joey Hornyak.
Extra Points
The CVC race will be an interesting part of the 2021 season with the addition of Kirtland to the Chagrin Division. “CVC is always a great conference... great coaches and great competition,” Sopkovich said. “Couple of teams have been at the top in Perry and Geneva. Chagrin is well-coached. I’m just happy to be part of the CVC. Game in and game out, you’re seeing good competition.” Added Stewart, “Going into this season, we’re a lot more equipped and prepared, unlike last season. Last year, our first real competition was our first game. (Now) we have gotten in two seven-on-sevens and two scrimmages before the first game.”
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2020 (3-9) OHSAA Enrollment: 250 2020 season: 4-4 Coaches: Adam Lowther (off. Coordinator), Scott Larrick (def. Coordinator), Lenny Gasberino, Shaq Jefferson, Rodney Leonard, Chris Kovacs Trainer: Samantha Adkins Roster: 66 total (16 seniors, 18 juniors, 18 sophomores, 14 freshmen) Pay to play fee: $195 Follow the Team: @WestGFootball, @WestGAthletics Cheerleaders: Angelina Camino, Bella Chadwick, Olivia DiStefano, Aurora Dzurko, Avery Hann, Madelyn Hann, Jenna Julian, Natalie Marotta, Skye Milite, Faith Neylon, Gina Ranallo, Bailey Rudolph, Hannah Whitmer
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