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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
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Thursday, August 22, 2019
Berkshire High School
Improved Size, Experience Should Mean More Wins By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
2019 Schedule
There’s no doubt that with all the positive things happening for Berkshire Schools, there’s a lot of pressure on the football team to turn around back-to-back 1-9 seasons. Head coach Josh DeWeese knows as much, and he knows the growing pains of the past need to translate to wins this year. “We’re not young anymore,” DeWeese said. “It’s time to make that next step.”
*Homecoming
Balance is Key Josh DeWeese 7th season (21-40): A history teacher at the high school, DeWeese is a 1996 Berkshire graduate who hopes to turn things around after two tough seasons.
The Badgers will continue with their shotgun offense from a year ago, focusing on balance between the run and the pass. QB Jake Brown returns for his junior season with a lot of experience. Brown threw for over 1,200 yards, including 14 touchdowns last year. The Badgers threw the ball about 18 times a game last season. “He made some mistakes last year, but if you look at his passing numbers and his growth from the beginning to the end of the season, he did great,” DeWeese said. “The game is starting to slow down a lot more,” Brown said. Senior Ryan Pennypacker returns as the team’s RB. Pennypacker ran for more than 700 yards last year with five touchdowns. “We expect a lot out of him, and he’s a strong runner,” DeWeese said. “He’s instinctual, and he has a burst with the ball in his hands, and he’s hard to catch with the ball in hands.”
Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Harvey Fairport Garfield @Cardinal Grand Valley* @Lutheran West @Wickliffe Hawken @Beachwood Kirtland
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
“We’re putting in a lot of hard work and trying to stay healthy,” Pennypacker said. “Last year our momentum was down. It’s a big factor to keep that up throughout the season.” DeWeese feels very strongly about three junior skill players and what they can contribute this year after sparse playing time a year ago. Chris Groudle will play in the slot. DeWeese said he finds open areas and makes plays. Blake Jenkins has strong hands and runs good routes. And Hunter Gifford will also get time. Senior Joe Barcikoski is going to be more important on offense after he recovered from an injury a season ago. There is a lot of depth on the Berkshire offensive line, with most positions having competition during August camp. “Our line is stronger and bigger than it was last year,” Pennypacker noted.
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 5
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)
Barcikoski
Brown
Pennypacker
OHSAA: Div. V, Region 17
Perrin
Playoff History: 1975, 1981, 1983, 2015 (0-4) Senior Zac Nehas will start at left tackle. Peter Brent should be starting at left guard. Junior J.J. Perrin is going to play one of the two tackle positions. DeWeese said Perrin was the hardest working Badger in the offseason, leading his teammates in the weight room. “He’s just been phenomenal. J.J. didn’t miss a workout. He won the offseason,” DeWeese said. “For me it just clicked,” Perrin said. “And I said, why not just start working? Since wrestling I’ve just been getting stuff done.” Denton Yoder expects to play on the offensive line, as well.
Line Strength on D
Berkshire always depends on two-players, and this season will be no different. The defensive line will consist mostly of the same players as on the offensive line. DeWeese thinks the line is a strength. Andy McKinney and Perrin are both favorites to start at defensive ends. Shawn Catley will play in the middle of that line. Pennypacker is learning defensive end
and linebacker. He will also do the punting. Groudle, Nehas and Evan McDermott were the early favorites to start at linebacker, with Denton Yoder and Brian Brent to get rotational snaps. Barcikoski will lead the secondary. The corners are a solid unit with Josh Tribuzzo and Blake Jenkins. There is an open competition for free safety. “I think the attitude is better than the last two years,” Barcikoski said. “We want to change things this year.”
OHSAA Enrollment: 171
Extra Points
Pay to Play Fee: None
• The team has tapped two former Berkshire assistants with decades of experience to help this season in Jack Arnold and Jerry Wayman. • Berkshire will play rival Cardinal in Week 4 after years of playing them the last week of the season. • There were three soccer players battling for the kicking positions: Lexi Boyk and Grace Lillibridge, girls soccer players, competing against Ben Wasson. • Berkshire has hired a strength coach for all of its athletics. “We’re excited to see the results of that,” DeWeese said.
2018 Season: 1-9 (0-7 CVC) Coaches: Gordon Cossick (off. coordinator), Jerry Wayman (def. coordinator), Ian Patterson, Brian Arnold, Jack Arnold, Matt McDermott, Rich Klemencic Trainer: Todd Snyder Roster: 40 total 14 seniors; 13 juniors 7 sophomores; 6 freshmen Follow the Team: @bhsfball15 & @BHSBadgerDen Cheerleaders: Kelsey Adams, Tessa Budin, Jillian Fekete, MaKayla Gschwind, Katelyn Kenny, Gloria Krause, Sydney Malbrough, Mia Morey, Monica Mraz, Winnie Peters, Jenna Revak, Bri Rotz, Megan Sherrill, Adaliah Welling
GO BADGERS
Stay focused and work hard!
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 6
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Cardinal High School
Changes Have Huskies Confident for 2019 By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
George Gresko 1st season: Gresko is a former Kenston assistant who was a fouryear starter at QB at North High School before playing for John Caroll.
The Cardinal Huskies have been a runfirst team for their entire history. But the change to the spread under new head coach George Gresko has even the offensive linemen excited. “Don’t tell him you’re excited,” Gresko told senior Rob Granny. “That’s all you told the last reporter.” “It’s new energy, new atmosphere, new era,” Granny said. “It’s exciting. It’s really a fun time.” Granny held off before it became too much. Gresko thinks both lines will be major strengths this year, which isn’t unusual for Cardinal. But with changes underway, adjustments will have to be made that these Huskies haven’t experience before.
Reinventing the Wheel
The Huskies have moved on to a spread offense that should focus on short completions and YAC, or yards after the catch. Gresko said the team isn’t done running the football, but the new offense is designed to keep both Huskies players and opposing defenses on their toes. “When you get into late October, you have to be able to run the ball,” Gresko said. “It will be fast tempo for sure.” Joey Soltis steps into the starting quarterback role his junior year. After being the backup a year ago, Gresko likes his size. Decision making is more important than arm strength in the new offense, the coach
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
Garfield @Py Valley @Crestwood Berkshire @Hawken Kirtland* @Beachwood Grand Valley Brooklyn @Wickliffe
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
said. “Decision making and knowing where you’re going to throw the ball before it really happens — I think that’s the biggest thing.” Gresko added: “The good thing with Soltis as a back-up is that coaching him has been super easy because I tell him what to do and he does it.” Mike Lucarelli, a senior, and Richie Jones will primarily carry the football early. Lucarelli is more of a speed back. And Jones is more of a power back. “Those two are tough,” Gresko said. Dario DeCaro will play slot-back and will be expected to carry the offense at times. “He’s a great route-runner,” Gresko said. “Whatever he does, it will be run through him.” “I’m excited because I feel like this offense gives us more opportunities to touch the ball,” DeCaro said. “It’s comfortable for all of us. This is what we want to play.” Casey Horner will be a receiver. Morgan Hershberger is more of a tight end
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 7
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
DeCaro
Dragolich
Granny
Peters
OHSAA: Div. VI, Region 21 Playoff History: 2002 (1-1)
at receiver. Sebastian Granito has good speed and expects to stretch the defense down the field. That leaves the offensive line, which has good size. “It was weird at first,” Granny said of the new way the offensive line will be asked to block in a spread offense. “As soon as you get to know it better, it’s easier to block this way. It’s easier to understand.” Mike Soltis will play guard. John Avalon will play center. And Gavin Williams will also join Josiah Zurick in possibly the team’s strongest unit.
Two-Way Rules the Day
Cardinal’s defense will be a form of a base 3-4. The defensive line will be all two-players, with Zurick and Granny at the defensive ends and the others rotating in the middle. Tucker Boggs was a late arrival to camp. His teammates call him Gigantor. Jones and Dominic Dragolich will play inside linebackers. “Everyone’s looking great,” Dragolich said. “Everyone’s feeling great. In my opinion, this is the best we’ve looked in a decade.”
He continued: “Everyone is getting the time they need. I feel like it’s my job to keep guys motivated. We’ve been here everyday. We’ve been grinding it out.” Seth Peters and Hershberger are going to play on the outside. “I’m excited this season, especially with the new coaches,” Peters said. “We’re working really hard.” Peters said the defense will put up a strong fight against everyone, and that the team goal was to not allow more than 20 points per game. Horner, DeCaro and Lucarelli will all play in the secondary. Gresko’s high school experience has been with larger schools, so joining the Chagrin Valley Conference and the ranks of Division VI has been an adjustment for him and his staff. But, Gresko said, “We are right where we want to be with our schedule.”
Extra Points
• The Huskies beat rival Berkshire last season for a second straight year, 30-8, to claim a 32-31-1 all-time lead in the series. The game this season has been moved from Week 10 to Week 4.
OHSAA Enrollment: 134 2018 season: 4-6 (3-4 CVC) Coaches: Shawn Richter (off. coordinator). Devyn Woods (def. coordinator), Kevin Baggett, Joe Shumar, Tom Quizninski Trainer: Lisa Ginsburg Roster: 44 total 10 seniors; 15 juniors; 10 sophomores; 9 freshmen Pay to Play Fee: $180 Follow the Team: @huskies_fb & @cardinalhuskies Cheerleaders: Rylee Fenselon, Stevie Harper, Alissa Hogue, Celina Johnson, Arianna LaDow, Lacey Portman, Ashley Rutkowski, Baily Scott, Emily Skytta, Sarah Skytta, Macy Tucker, Chloe Suddeth (team manager),
Geauga County Maple Leaf
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Thursday, August 22, 2019
Chagrin Falls High School
Record-Breaking Year Imminent for Tigers Coach By Brian Lavrich sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Mark Iammarino
25th season (175-92): A counselor at the high school, Iammarino has taken the team to 10 playoff appearances and two state championship games since arriving.
2019 Schedule
Last season, the Chagrin Falls football team started underclassmen. Now, with a season of experience and several starters back on both sides of the ball, the Tigers are looking to challenge for the Chagrin Valley Conference Chagrin Division title and a playoff spot. Coach Mark Iammarino enters his 25th season at Chagrin Falls with a much more experienced roster. But that’s not the only news, as Iammarino is one victory away from becoming the winningest coach in school history. “This has been a 25-year commitment for me,” Iammarino said. Currently, Iammarino is tied with John Piai at 175 victories. Overall, Iammarino is 175-92 at Chagrin Falls with nine CVC titles, 10 playoff appearances, three regional championships and back-to-back State Final appearances in 2009-10. “He’s a great mentor and I respect him a great deal,” Iammarino said of Piai. “He’s Chagrin Falls football through and through. Even being mentioned in the same sentence as him is an honor.” The Tigers are eyeing more accomplishments then getting their coach a milestone moment. Last year, the Tigers started out 0-5, but won four of their final five games to finish strong. Their mark of 4-6 included going 4-3 in the always-tough Chagrin Division. Chagrin Falls opened the season with state champions Kirtland and Kenston. Overall, the first five opponents on the Ti-
Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Streetsboro @Kenston Woodridge* @Harvey @Lakeside Edgewood Perry Orange @West Geauga Geneva
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
gers’ schedule went 52-11, with four qualifying for the playoffs. Leading the way this season is new QB Dawson Pierce. The junior will also start at linebacker, where he started last year and earned 66 tackles. “He’s a big athlete, he’s smart, and he’s a leader,” Iammarino said. “He has the type of attitude you want in a quarterback.” Senior Cam Owen will also play some quarterback to take some of the pressure off Pierce, since his duties will be split. Owen is also the Tigers’ star defensive back; he’s the top returning tackler with 78 tackles. Last season, Mick Lawrence provided the Tigers with production not only at running back, but in the return game. The game-breaker with top speed has graduated, but Chagrin Falls has several quality players ready to step in and run with the ball. Top running backs include senior Will
GO TIGERS HUSKIES
Stay hard! Stayfocused focused and and work work hard!
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 9
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)
Gaizutis
O’Brien
O’Brien, sophomore Bryson Blair, junior Xavier Perez and junior Cam O’Connor. O’Brien is the leading returning rusher with 201 yards and 5.2 yards per rush. Perez rushed for 156 yards and averaged 7.4 yards per rush. Perez is also the team’s leading returning pass catcher, with 24 receptions for 227 yards. Iammarino said O’Connor is probably the fastest player on the team. The offensive line will be led by senior Bryce Sellars and junior Jackson Chinnici. Sellars said the Tigers’ experience is already paying off. “It’s important,” he said. “People have been communicating better. We’re learning faster. We’re coming together better as a team.” The Tigers should have an experienced and talented group of receivers led by three-year starter Lucas Gaizutis, a senior. Senior Will Richmond, senior Adam Munday, junior Josh Norton and Perez will also see significant time at receiver. The tight ends will be junior Owen McClintock and senior Drew Zimmer. “We have a lot of really good athletes on our team,” Gaizutis said. “We have a lot of experience with our receivers and defensive backs.”
Owen
Sellars
Senior Paul Fierman will be part of a stingy secondary, along with Cam Owen and Munday. At linebacker, the Tigers will be tough with Gaizutis, Zimmer, senior Adam Melham and junior Grady Zeigler. Iammarino said Sellars is their key defensive lineman as several other players will rotate in along the front. Special teams should be a strength for the Tigers, too. Gaizutis returns as one of the top punters in the CVC. Sophomore Andrew Kirkpatrick, the new Tigers kicker, has the leg strength to consistently put the ball into the end zone on kickoffs. “We’re very excited about our kicking game,” Iammarino said.
Extra Points
• Lakeside and Edgewood have joined the Chagrin Valley Conference Chagrin Division. • The Tigers finished strong at the end of last season, winning four of their last five games against Orange, Harvey, West Geauga and Beachwood. • With the 31-0 win against West Geauga, the Tigers lead the all-time series 32-24 against their main rivals.
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 (18-11) OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 263 2018 season: 4-6 (4-3 CVC) Coaches: John Scott, Mike Salyers, John Kramer, Adam Lesko, Paul Perrine, Kevin Owen, Dominic Petrella, Ken McClintock Trainer: Anne Marenkovic Pay to play fee: None Follow the team: @ChagrinAD Roster: 45 total 15 seniors; 15 juniors 14 sophomores; 1 freshman Cheerleaders: Gillian Geber, Kate LaMonica; Mary Margaret Demangone, Isabelle Coy, Lilly Catney, Riley Firehammer, Sidney Roush, Simone Zingales, Paige Hammond, Aly Kaplansky, Kate Nelson, Emily Relyea, Ali Tull
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
GO BOMBERS
Stay focused and work hard!
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 11
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 12
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Chardon High School
Hilltoppers’ Upperclassmen Ready to Shine
Mitch Hewitt
9th season (60-25): A high school social studies teacher and 1999 Chardon grad, Hewitt has kept the Hilltopper football tradition alive and well.
By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
2019 Schedule
When a QB returns after a year of experience in the Hilltoppers’ Wing-T offense, the team has never not reached the playoffs under head coach Mitch Hewitt. That’s what senior Max Vujaklija will bring under center this season. “We expect it of ourselves,” said Vujaklija, or “V,” as his teammates call him. “We’re hoping to have a great run this year, and we expect to make the playoffs.” Vujaklija ran for more than 650 yards last season, good for second on the team. But the position can still be fragile with all of those carries. Hewitt is comfortable with his team’s depth at the other skill positions. And the depth up front on offense and defense is the most Hewitt has seen. “I mean,” Hewitt said, “we have dudes.”
*Homecoming
QB Leads the Way
D.J. Bowman expects to see a lot of the offensive carries this year. A hand injury last season limited his offensive production. But the senior still managed to turn in an All-Ohio performance at linebacker. “I feel like we have a lot of good leaders,” Bowman said. Cade McDevitt also steps into a larger role carrying the ball, and will battle for a spot on defense. James Pettijohn will carry the ball in his first season with significant varsity playing time. Pettijohn has great speed. “He will be a feature this year for us,”
Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
West Geauga @Perry Alliance Riverside* @Mayfield Brush Kenston @South Madison @North
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Hewitt said. “He’s got wiggle and natural vision.” Thomas Fowle will line up at tight end, and Lucas Semler will play WR in an offense that threw the ball just 48 times last season. Evan Ash had a strong preseason camp and should see touches on offense. Four of the five starting offensive linemen return. Nick Fay, the leader at left guard, joins T.J. Finger (LT), Dylan Friend (C), Jaret Hall (RG) and Jesse Decipeda (RT). Decipeda (6-1, 290) is a “mountain of a man,” Hewitt said. And if you are looking for a challenge in practice drills, you line up with Fay. It’s the first time in Hewitt’s nine years as head coach that a junior has been chosen to be captain. “I like coming together with the linemen and leading them into battle,” Fay said. “I like to take charge and have
GO HILLTOPPERS Stay focused and work hard!
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 13
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Hilltoppers Colors: Red & Black
Home: Chardon Memorial Field Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last Conference Title: 2018 (tied)
Bowman
Fay
someone there to push them all the way through.” “Last year we had a lot of individuals, but this year we all know what we are doing,” Finger said. “We look big,” said Hall. “I think we will be more physical up front.”
Size is Key
Defense has the chance to shine and be Chardon’s best unit on the field on Friday nights. A group of junior linebackers — Ash, Vince Ferrante and Myles Mendeszoon — will have a chance to develop great chemistry the next two seasons. Ferrante may be the best two-way player on the team, Hewitt said. “I do feel like I’m taking on a huge role this year,” Ferrante said. “And everything has been going smoothly so far.” Nathaniel Sulka, just a sophomore, will line up at linebacker sometimes and safety at others. Sulka (6-3, 190) could develop into a Div. I college player. Joey Trivisonno, Brady Toth, Keaton Ziegenfuss and Kevin Doyle round out the secondary. And then there’s the defensive line.
Trivisonno
Vujaklija
John Dinko (6-2, 210) has the type of ability to change a game. “He had moments of real success,” Hewitt said. “I’m looking forward to seeing him play his senior year like it’s his senior year.” Joe Niedhurst and Gavin Slife will also be up front. And Josh Kernc will provide depth. Zach Morrison will figure into the rotation. Ziegenfuss is last in the line of the Ziegenfuss family (Ethan and Mason) that fundamentally changed Chardon’s special teams, in addition to its contributions as athletes on the field.
Extra points
• Chardon’s coaching staff is back with additions. “I don’t lose guys, and if I do lose guys, they come back,” Hewitt said of his staff. • At a kicking camp, Keaton Ziegenfuss ranked fifth in the country among kick-offs. “It’s overlooked until you don’t have it,” Hewitt said of special teams. • Jaret Hall can bench 400 pounds. Dylan Friend and Nick Fay can squat 555 pounds.
OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018 (25-17) OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 344 2018 Season: 7-3 (6-1 WRC) Coaches: Jim Britt, Bob Francis, Frank Hall (off. coordinator), Brian Landies (def. coordinator), Marty Mackar, Chad Murawski, John Yuha, Dave Toaddy, Rob Vujaklija, Rick Mysyk, Nick Iacampo, J.J. Laseak, Don Navatsyk, Brett Weidig Trainer: Maddie Legurski Roster: 82 total 19 seniors; 24 juniors 18 sophomores; 21 freshmen Pay to play fee: $350 Follow the Team: @topperfb, @toppernation Cheerleaders: Gabbie Jeschelnig, Madi Arganti, Abby Frania, Emma Gittins, Hailey Richard, Gabby Haller, Bella Haller, Madison Clague, McKenna Haack, Brittany Ferraro, Haley Hoynes, Grace Bernot, Bryanna Evan
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Hawken High School
Young Hawks Team Keeps Aiming for Growth By Brian Lavrich sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Brian Stephenson 2nd season (0-9): From Lima, Ohio, Stephenson played football at Yale. He will call the plays.
Last season was a learning experience for the Hawken football team. This year, second-year coach Brian Stephenson is looking for the Hawks to improve. The Hawks went 0-9 last season in their first season back into the Chagrin Valley Conference. This season, the team has 23 players on the varsity squad. “For us, we’ve had major physical and mental growth, including our football IQ,” Stephenson said. “For us, the big thing is seeing growth. We have to be patient. Sixty five percent of our roster is underclassmen.” There are only four seniors on the team this season. “The kids understand,” Stephenson said. “It’s about building the foundation. Year one was about the culture. We have to take care of one another. You have to fight through adversity. Winning football games is one of the hardest things you can try to do.” The starting quarterback will be sophomore Terrence Robinson, who transferred to Hawken from University School, where he played junior varsity last season. “He has a cannon for an arm,” Stephenson said. “He has a lot of tools.” The Hawks’ leading rusher, junior Zach Miller, returns to give Robinson a good option in the backfield. Miller rushed for 450 yards last season. “He’s put in a lot of work and is a lot stronger,” Stephenson said. “He’s good in space, and one of the fastest runners on
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Trinity Newbury @Gilmour Wickliffe Cardinal @Grand Valley Richmond Hts.* @Berkshire Kirtland @Beachwood
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
the team.” Miller said he is impressed with the Hawks’ new quarterback. “He’s got a good arm,” Miller said. “It’s a different style than last year. I think, with his good arm, we can spread it out effectively with different receivers, which is good to see. We’re very comfortable with him.” Miller said the players know better what to expect now that they are in Stephenson’s second season of leadership. “Everyone’s coming into the season with a better understanding,” Miller said. “We’re more advanced then where we were last year. It’s definitely a different feel. We’re more comfortable.” Miller added that Stephenson’s weight training program has the Hawks leaner and meaner. “The returning players are faster and stronger,” Miller said. “Some of them have completely different bodies. It’s a
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 15
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Hawks
Colors: Red & Gray Home: Walton Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2005
Jared
Lindsey
completely different feel. “What we like to talk about is making practices hard, which will make games easy.” The offensive line will see many players rotating in and out, but will be led by senior William Lindsey, who is 6-foot and 275 pounds, and junior Zach Reitman. Joining them on the line will be senior Cletus Brosovich. Of Lindsey, Stephenson said: “He has improved a lot and is a great leader. When he speaks, kids listen.” And Lindsey said things are definitely more efficient this season. “Practice has run a lot smoother than last year, which helps a lot,” he said. “We’re learning more. We’ll be ready. “The team has improved, definitely. We’re a better team overall.” Junior Cooper Jared is a returning starter at receiver for the Hawks. Sophomore A.J. Sands and freshman Dominic Johnson are the other top receivers. Stephenson said Johnson is one of the most “dynamic” players on the team. Miller also said the offense should be able to put more points on the board this season.
Miller
“We’re young on offense, but I think that’s our strong point,” he said. “I’ve seen so much improvement.” The Hawken defensive front will see many faces rotating in, including Sands, freshman Tyler Gipson, Brosovich and Lindsey. Jackson Reineke, a senior, is a returning starter at linebacker who will be joined by Reitman and Miller. Stephenson added that Reineke is another key leader for the Hawks. “He gets his nose to the ball and goes,” Stephenson said. Senior defensive back Kenan Tabachnik returns; he was the Hawks’ leading tackler from last season. Freshman defensive back Chris Shea will also start.
Extra Points • Hawken moved up from Division V last season to Division IV this year. The Hawks open the season at Trinity. The Trojans went 2-8 last season. • Hawken’s once storied offense managed just 13 points per game last season while surrendering nearly 50 points per game.
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2012 (10-10) OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 224 2018 season: 0-9 Coaches: Mike Henderson (def. coordinator), Dan Walton, Ed Suggs Roster: 23 total 4 seniors; 4 juniors 8 sophomores; 7 freshmen Pay to play fee: None Follow the team: @HawkenFootball Trainer: Sarah Royan
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 16
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Kenston High School
Bombers Will Reload for Another State Title Run By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com As defending state champions, the Kenston Bombers are trying hard to block out the noise. As their coaches tell them: sustaining excellence is harder than achieving it. It’s hard to get much better than 14-1. “The expectations are the same,” says Jeff Grubich, in his eighth season as head coach. “If you’re looking at last year and what you’ve done in the past, you’re not accomplishing anything today. That’s the biggest thing.”
Keep the Status Quo Jeff Grubich 8th season (49-31): An energetic Kenston teacher, Grubich is a Chagrin Falls graduate who has kept a consistent coaching staff together.
The Bombers have two of the best skill players in the area in QB Jon Tomcufcik and RB Jack Porter. “They both had great offseasons and got even stronger and faster,” Grubich said. “They have to make everyone around them better.” In his third year starting, Tomcufcik is smart and efficient. The senior had 2,039 regular season yards to go with 18 touchdowns and just two interceptions last year. “I’ve been playing with these guys since second grade,” said Tomcufcik, who is focused on helping his younger teammates. “And we still take it one play at a time.” Porter ran for over 2,400 yards including the postseason, and had 32 touchdowns last year. The senior back has great vision and works as hard as anyone on the team.
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Black River Chagrin Falls West Geauga @North @Brush South* @Chardon Madison @Riverside Mayfield
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
“We’re just trying to bring energy every day this year,” Porter said. “It’s about keeping these guys energized every day, sharpening the knife every day in practice.” Tyler Mintz, Javion Middleton, Ryan Miller and Jonathan Abbamo are listed at the top of the wideout depth chart. Mintz is the leading returning wide receiver with about 600 yards in the regular season on 31 catches and eight touchdowns. Yet without a strong offensive line, the Bombers could not have scored more than 40 points per game last year in the team’s fast-paced spread offense. “They don’t get enough credit,” Grubich said. Three starters on that line return, with tackle George Sell as the rock on the left side. Sell is happy to give the credit to the guys who score the touchdowns.
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 17
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Bombers
Colors: Blue & White Home: Bombers Stadium Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last conference title: 2018 (tied)
Mintz
Sell
“I don’t care about that,” Sell said. “I do a lot without people seeing me. I don’t really like the attention.” Todd Gruden (RT) and Cale Doyle (C) are the two new starters. Jeremiah Jones (LG) and Justin Schroeder (RG) return as starters.
Fitting Pieces Together
Kenston lost some of its most vocal leaders and seven of 11 starters to graduation, so the defense spent early camp “trying to put a puzzle together,” said Steve Teringo, the team’s defensive coordinator. “Where are we going to put them? We’re just trying to find the best 11.” The team will run a base 3-4. Seniors Max Czech and Tim Matty will be the defensive ends. Eric Dombrowski and Connor Kratzert will rotate at nose tackle. Anthony Valocchi anchors the defense at middle linebacker with Garrett Uhlir, Alec Kolenic and Logan Vargo filling the other spots. “I think we have a lot of ability,” Vargo said. “Right after last season was over, we celebrated for two weeks. After that, it was all next season.”
Tomcufcik
OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9
Vargo
Michael Payton figures to get playing time on the DL and at LB. Mintz plays free safety as a four-year starter. Alex Castro joins him at strong safety. Mintz is the team’s truest two-way player whose value is equal on both sides of the ball. “We have a lot of young guys coming back, but I think we’ll be all right,” Mintz said. “We have a lot of leaders on the defense. We just need to get the young guys up to speed.” Middleton and Tyler Kestranek are the corners.
Extra points
OHSAA Adj. Enrollment: 366 2018 season: 14-1 (6-1 WRC) Coaches: Wally Sonnie, Bob Ross, Steve Grubich (off. coordinator), Steve Teringo (def. coordinator), Reed Cornell (def. coordinator), Brad Lako, Scott Anderson, Thomas Grenier, Kurt Gabram, Quorey Payne, Mark Cuccia, Sam Leygraaf, Bob Hallen Trainer: Vivianni McKinney Roster: 71 total 22 seniors; 12 juniors 13 sophomores; 24 freshmen
• Kenston has added a field house to its football complex. • The team adds Black River to its Week 1 schedule. Grubich said not many other teams that were the same size wanted to play Kenston. It’s a 90-minute bus ride to Sullivan, Ohio, where Black River is located. • Blake Torres will take over the kicking duties. Tomcufcik returns as the team’s punter.
e r i T y r u b New
Playoff History: 1981, 1986, 1995, 1997, 2000, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018 (12-9)
Pay to play fee: None Follow the Team: @Bomber_ Football, @BomberEliteClub Cheerleaders: Luci Blazek, Ella Bryan, Izzy Custer, Emma Edwards, Lainey Glasscock, Ciani McKinney, Kyler Phillips, Nancy Rodriguez, Sammi Stefancin, Samantha Strano, Hope Wolf
Have a GREAT SEASON Co. Bombers!
DS JOR BRAN A M L L A WE SELL
10669 Kinsman Road/Rt. 87 Newbury OH 44065 440-564-9227
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 18
Thursday, August 22, 2019
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Thursday, August 22, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 19
GO KNIGHTS
Stay focused and work hard!
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 20
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Newbury High School
Good Forecast for Newbury’s Possible Last Hurrah By Rich Kelly sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
Ryan Williams 4th season (12-18): Former Beachwood head coach, Williams tries to get Newbury to its first playoff appearance in its last season.
Over the past couple years, Black Knight teams have been competitive on the fields of athletics, and a spirit of optimism prevails again for its football program under four-year coach Ryan Williams. After taking over a program that couldn’t even finish out a season in 2015, Williams’ enthusiasm and energy have helped lead his team to a near-playoff position. Last year’s 2-8 mark is deceptive because of a tough schedule. But things look a bit better for the coming season. Schools closer to the size of the Black Knights are now on the schedule.
A New Approach
The Black Knights will run the offense out of a shotgun system. “In the past, we had to focus on a running game offensively because that is what our schedules and players dictated we do,” Williams said. He added: “We have some strong skill players back now who will allow us to do other things as well. “I think we will be a fairly balanced team offensively.” Senior Noah Arnold will handle quarterbacking duties as he did last year. Evan Arnold will provide action from his wide receiving spot. The latter Arnold is a junior, as is prime running back Julian Cicchella.
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Fairport Harding @Hawken East Technical Py Valley Carrick* Chalker @Py Valley @Grove City Christ. Windham @Vienna Mathews
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
Fresh from a junior season in which he gained respect any time he stepped on the playing surface, senior Mitch Sanders again supplies skills at tight end. He flashed moments of brilliance last year in getting open on passing routes and getting to passes, and with confidence at a higher level, he will provide Noah Arnold a solid target on those routes. The line will be anchored by junior John Tropf and senior Jacob Orms, both of whom have put in the work to cast aside their youth for skill sets on the interior. Their efforts on the defensive side of the ball will also provide problems. Senior Alex Bijelic will join in with some force on the interior lines both ways after gaining experience through tough times last season. Newcomers also will contribute a lot. Junior Luke Reed was solid in preseason, and freshman James Hammonds
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 21
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Black Knights Colors: Black & Orange
Home: Carl Munn Stadium Conference: Northeastern Athletic Conference Last conference title: None
Arnold
Brastoff
Orms
OHSAA: Div. VII, Region 25
Sanders
Playoff History: None showed a propensity to stick his nose into the action. Williams said his team’s strength will be presenting a more balanced attack.
A 5-3 Look
“Defensively, we’ll stick with what we know works for our skill sets as well, a basic 5-3 set up front,” Williams said. “We’ve got some very good players to fill those positions, and with even more competition in front of us, those skilled players will be a very solid strength for our team.” Williams thinks the team’s front eight are as strong as anybody’s they play. “I think our schedule also will be more competitive for us, as we’ve made some adjustments recently after we found out St. John High in Ashtabula can’t field a team this year. “We were going to play at home with them, but we got replacements with a game at Hawken, which is very close to us, and we also got a game in Grove City with Grove City Christian Academy. Those teams are more our size, so being competitive will help our kids grow in confidence and skills as well.”
With a 19-player roster, staying healthy will be huge, but the skills of many of these athletes are on solid ground. Should any foe think their efforts can ease up just because Newbury’s team has a couple young ladies in the mix, in seniors HannaRose Brastoff and Breaunna Thigpen, forget it. They don’t hesitate to stick their noses into the action for hard hits if needed. As the Black Knights face a possible end, pending a referendum by the voters, this bunch of students will not back down for anything. “I hope things work out to keep the schools going,” Williams said. “I really have liked it here, the parents are great, and the kids are so super to work with. But no matter what, we want to go out and be competitive every game.”
HS Boys: 52 2018 season: 2-8 (1-4 NAC) Coaches: Eric Stendelan, George O’Hamill (def. coordinator), Connor Krouse Trainer: Ashton Clarke Roster: 19 total 8 seniors; 5 juniors 3 sophomores; 3 freshmen Pay to play fee: $125 Follow the Team: @NJSHS_athletics Cheerleaders: Sage Neidbalson, Ellery Clark, Liberty Mosher, Bobbi-Jo Holden, Erin Piczer, Lucy Lubanovich, Sydney Louden, Chelsey Mann
Extra Points
• The Black Knights have special events for all of their home games in what is expected to be their final season. Sept. 13 is First Responders Night. Sept. 20 is Fall Athlete and Parent Night. Sept. 27 is Homecoming. And Oct. 25 is Newbury Night Celebration.
. o C e r i T Newbur y R BRANDS O J A M L L A WE SELL
We Support Our Black Knights!
10669 Kinsman Road/Rt. 87 Newbury OH 44065 440-564-9227
Page 22
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School
Experience, Athleticism Let Lions Focus on Improving By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com
Andrew Mooney 5th season (32-14): A social studies teacher at the high school, Mooney has installed a winning culture every season.
The Lions have 22 seniors on a team that went 7-3 a season ago. That’s the good news for head coach Andrew Mooney. Because of that, the team is ahead in its preparation for what will be a difficult schedule. “We are only looking to fill a few spots, so we’re able to concentrate on a couple things,” Mooney said. “We know what these guys can do on both sides of the ball. We’re further along than we’ve been. “We can literally pick up where we left off last year,” he added. “It’s about doing things we were already doing — but better.”
Offense
The Lions run a quick-paced spread offense that focuses on establishing the run before they take chances down the field. The Lions plan to use two quarterbacks at the start of the season in seniors Jimmy Mitchell and Jon Sharp. “Being named captain was a big honor for me,” Mitchell said. Mitchell is more athletic, as he played slot wide receiver the past two seasons. Sharp is more of a traditional quarterback in his ability to throw. Jack Robinson will play running back, where he started a season ago. “We’re mostly a running team, I would say,” Robinson said. “But then we also hit
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 1
@South @West Geauga @Columbus DeSales Canfield Bedford Padua* Benedictine @Walsh @Lake Catholic Hoban
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
home run balls down the field.” The Lions have established a rich history of tall, athletic wide receivers and tight ends under Mooney, so when he says “it’s the deepest and the biggest we’ve ever been,” this speaks volumes of the unit. “Our depth and ability has only grown,” he said. “We’ve got big, tall guys, we’ve got guys who can run, we have guys that can jump. It opens a different part of the game we’ve not been able to do.” Dave Martin expects to stretch the field at WR. He’s one of the home run guys. David Martin-Kosier, Johnny Nguyen and Adam Zakrajsek will also play the position, as will Nick Balogh. Sam Urbanski and Max Zart will play tight end. Four of the five starting offensive linemen return. Dominic Dutton, a senior, is one of those returners. He thinks the chemistry
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 23
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Lions
Colors: Blue & Gold Home: Lion Stadium Conference: North Coast League (Blue Division) Last NCL Title: 2012
Dutton
Martin
Mitchell
Robinson
OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 2003, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 (4-8)
will be strong because these Lions have played together for so long. Robert Tamburrino projects to start at left tackle; Danny Hoenigman will start at left guard “We’re usually seen as undersized because of our weight, but our physicality is the best in the area,” Dutton said. Sophomore Brian Taylor should start at center. Jeff Conforte is the projected right guard. Two juniors, Jack Legath and Josh Seibert, were also competing. “That’s been some of the best battles of camp,” Mooney said.
Defense
Seven of the eight rotational defensive linemen return from last season. Urbanski, Hoenigman, Conforte and Zart are the projected starters. Dutton is one of those senior linemen who will have a big impact, as will Nathan Slattery. Jack Robinson is the middle linebacker. Dominic Roberts also returns as a starting LB, as will Johnny Nguyen. There is experience in the secondary,
and also young players competing for playing time. “We’ve always had a very strong defense, and I think we’re going to continue that,” Mooney said. The defensive backs will be Nick Balogh, Matt Ferrell, Mitchell and Donny Gatto. James CiPolla will rotate in that unit.
Extra Points
• The Lions schedule is considerably harder than it was a year ago. The school, thrust into Division III because of competitive balance, felt this was the only way to get enough computer points to reach the playoffs. “Given we were 7-3 last year and didn’t have a shot to make the playoffs, we couldn’t shy away from competition this year,” Mooney said. • The Lions picked up some valuable athletes when some basketball players decided to play football this year. “That speaks well for our program in general, that guys want to be a part of it,” the coach said. • Gianni Spetic will be the kicker and the punter.
OHSAA Adjusted Enrollment: 306 2018 season: 7-3 (2-3 NCL) Coaches: Augie Montz (def. coordinator) , Jeffery Banker, Michael Fleeman, James Heath (cooff. coordinator), Jim Henson, Stephen Isabella, Bob Madden Trainer: Mario DeMattia Pay to play fee: None Roster: 58 total 22 seniors; 10 juniors 25 sophomores; 1 freshmen Follow the Team: @NDCL_Football & @ndclathletics Cheerleaders: Paige Bosworth, Cameryn Brandetsas, Hartley Heiss, Lauren Keep, Leah Kimball, Ella Koenig, Olivia Kozelka, Carlena Nero, Tessina Ruggeri, Julia Siupinys, Roxanne Slyman, Mary Rose Tamburrino, Daisy Tardio, Mia Tomei, Julia Tripodo, Arianna Vitale, Contessa Wilson
Page 24
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
West Geauga High School
Attitude Again Central for Wolverines Seniors By Jamie Ward jamie@geaugamapleleaf.com A new attitude is the again the focus for the Wolverines football team. This year’s senior class talks a lot about moving forward in year two of the latest regime, and changing a culture that wasn’t always positive. “Overall we have a good group of seniors,” head coach Adam Sopkovich said. “And I’m excited this year. I think we have taken a move to the positive. At times last year we didn’t act right. We’re here to teach commitment and respect of opponents.”
Adam Sopkovich 2nd season (4-6): Coach Sop spent several years as an assistant at Oberlin College. He was head coach at Warrensville Heights for one season in 2013.
Huge Needs to Be Huge
The team will run the same run-pass option offense it did a year ago with QB Riley Huge, who started all 10 games last year. He threw for 841 yards last season. Huge, who is left-handed, feels more comfortable as the team leader this year. “It’s all starting to even, and we look a lot better than last year,” Huge said. “I don’t see any weakness in our offense. We just want to know we’ve achieved our goal every day.” Many of the other skill positions have turned over, but Sopkovich is happy with the repetitions they had at the junior varsity level. “I feel very confident moving them up on the scale,” the coach said. The team was successful with a Wildcat formation last season, and Sopkovich
2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
@Chardon NDCL @Kenston Lakeside Orange* @Geneva @Harvey @Edgewood Chagrin Falls Perry
*Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted
expects to use Trae Zimmerman, a junior, again in that slash role. Junior Nick Henry at RB will be a vital part of the team’s offense. Michael Cavasinni, just a sophomore, will also shoulder the offensive load. Aidan Pitcock will be a strong receiver with good size. The offensive line returns four of its five starters and will be considered a strength. Positions were still being filled. But Luca Gasbarrino and Lucas Sadler — new to the team, from Mayfield — expect to fill roles. Tyler Moriarity is center. Zach Slapnicker will be right tackle, while Harrison Gruber plays left guard. Gruber started every single game last year. “Harrison is a very tough kid,” Sopkovich said. Lou Alesnik will rotate in at offensive line when needed. He can also play tight end.
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Page 25
Team Profile
Players to Watch
Nickname: Wolverines Colors: Blue & White
Home: Howell Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin) Last CVC Title: 2015
Alesnik
Baliker
“The line is going to push other teams around, and it all starts with our line,” Slapnicker said. “We’re going to be blowing kids off the line, and they’re not going to know what to do when they’re back-peddling and can’t catch themselves.”
Defense a Strength
The Wolverines have simplified the defense this year, and the team is excited about its possibilities. The defense expects to be the leaders on the field and in the locker room. “The good thing is, we have a little bit more depth,” Sopkovich said. “But we are conditioning for the best 11 to play on both sides of the ball.” Senior Dylan Baliker said this is the most physical defense he’s seen. “It’s a major step up,” he said. It’s a base 4-3 defense. Alesnik will be the nose guard. Sadler will also be on the defensive line. Jajuan Glover and Slapnicker will play defensive ends. “We are going to be hard to contain,” Alesnik said. Baliker will roam the middle of the field at linebacker. Josh Moriarity and Levi
Huge
Veverka
Veverka round out a very solid group. “As a senior, some of the problems we had last year were selfish people,” Veverka said. “But this year, everyone’s working for the greater good.” “Our team gets along very well,” Baliker said. “We lead by example. We grew up with each other, we respect each other.” Luke Musser joins Zimmerman at the corners. And Pitcock joins Dillon Mikulski at the safeties. Being new to the area last season, Sopkovich had a chance to experience the Chagrin Valley Conference for the first time. “I saw some great coaching last season,” Sopkovich said. “I take my cues from them.”
Extra Points
• West Geauga is the only Geauga County school that plays all the county schools similar to its size in NDCL, Kenston, Chardon and Chagrin Falls. “We beat Chardon, and Chardon was the only team to beat Kenston, so...” Sopkovich said. • Despite being a sophomore, Cavasinni was voted as an honorary captain.
OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015 (2-8) OHSAA Adjusted Enrollment: 260 boys 2018 season: 4-6 (2-4 CVC) Coaches: Adam Lowther (off. coordinator), Scott Larrick (def. coordinator), Norm Haddad, Shaq Jefferson, Rodney Leonard, Tom Shankel, Dave Kless, Frank Formichelli, Lenny Gasbarino Trainer: Samantha Adkins Roster: 60 total 16 seniors; 10 juniors 13 sophomores; 21 freshmen Pay to play fee: $195 Follow the Team: @WestGFootball, @WestGAthletics Cheerleaders: Emma Darrah, Julia Grabinski, Alexis Orth, Alyssa Morgano, Jenna Ritt, Jolee Simone, Anna Defrank, Megan Speyer, Riley Renner, Bianca Insana
Page 26
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019
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Thursday, August 22, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 27
GO LIONS HUSKIES
Stay hard! Stayfocused focused and and work work hard!
Page 28
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, August 22, 2019