Edito Letter From The Editor
Letter from the Editor
It’s that time of year! It’s time to get up early, walk the high school hallways and deal with the locker that won’t open on the first try. Yes, that’s right it’s the fall season and it’s time for some football. Ultimate Athlete is ready to bring you an action packed football issue ranking the Top 10 teams on the island, and we also have included a few sleeper teams that might surprise some people this year. With some teams moving divisions there will be a lot teams meeting for the first time this year but the level of competition will be at an all-time high. Beside the extensive coverage in Ultimate Athlete Magazine, UA insider will be visiting last year’s Long Island Championship winners, Freeport, Garden City, Half Hollow Hills West and Seaford, to see how the teams are gearing up to defend their championships. Don’t forget to visit us at www. ultimateathletemagazine.com where you will be able to read the latest issues absolutely free and have access to additional content including pictures in our UA gallery. New this year, we have expended our coverage to the New Jersey region where you can read about the high school sports in the Garden State, and be sure to look out for our college edition where you can follow many of our local area colligate sports and athletes. Now that you know what is new at UA Magazine, let us know what is going on in the world of sports at your local high school by emailing us at Info@ ultimateathletemagazine.com or by adding and messaging us though Facebook. We hope that you all have a safe and successful year.
Ultimate Athlete Magazine
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ultimateathletemagazine.com Ultimate Athlete Magazine (ISSN 1931-5295) is published 12 times a year by Ultimate Athlete, Inc., 40 Woodbine Avenue, Northport, New York 11768. All contents copyright 2009 by Ultimate Athlete, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or part of the content without the prior written consent of Ultimate Athlete, Inc. is strictly prohibited. All logos and trademarks are the properties of their respective owners. Although the writers and the publisher have exhaustively researched all sources to ensure the accuracy and the completeness of the information contained in this publication, we assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any inconsistency herein. The opinions expressed in all materials are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of Ultimate Athlete, Inc or Long Island’s Ultimate Athlete Magazine.
Volume I
FALL 2010
Conten
CO N
T EN
TS
nts
Featu Features
16 Nutrition
Fuel the Road Trip
TOP 10
18 Garden City Trojans
20 Seaford Vikings
22 Sachem North Flaming Arrows
26 North Babylon Bulldogs
30 Freeport Red Devils
34 Hills West Colts
36 William Floyd Colonials
40 Farmingdale Dalers
44 Bellport Clippers
48 Lynbrook Owls
52 Hewlett
TEAMS TO WATCH
Bulldogs
54 Elmont Spartans
58 Happauge Eagles
62 Ward Melville Patriots
64 Pro Corner
Even Better the Second Time Around
68 Sports Psychology The Secret to Team Building
70 UA Training
King of all Exercises
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Photo by Adil Borluca
Two linemen from Garden City’s dominant line work on their blocking drills for the upcoming season.
SPEED
SHUTTER
>>>
Photo by Rich Ruotolo
Sachem North’s wide receiver goes full extension and grabs the snatches the ball out of midair in one of the teams daily practices.
SPEED
SHUTTER
SHUTTER
SPEED
>>>
Freeport quarterback Isaiah Barnes lines up a pass to one of the teams many talented receivers.
Photo by Angela Datre
Compe Competition Nutrition
FUEL THE roAd TrIp
By Sandy Sarcona
R
Road trips are part of an athlete’s life. Sometimes you take a short jaunt to another high school for a game and other times you are traveling to another state for a tournament. Any time you travel it is important to plan the healthiest way to add fuel to energize your body. Without a plan, a stop at a convenience store or a fast food restaurant is the easiest and fastest way to get food when you are hungry, but the high fat, calorie dense selections may slow down your running game. A trip to the grocery store is in order to stock up on quick energy items to keep in your back pack for short excursions to your games. The following high carbohydrate, low fat snacks can come in handy before a competition or for recovery after your event: pretzels, cereal in a box or bagged, fresh fruit (apple, orange, banana or grapes), cereal bars, bagels, or crackers. On a longer road trip or when you play all day in a tournament you should have a cooler to keep items cold: water, sports drink, cheese sticks, sandwiches (peanut butter and jelly or turkey). If you need to get a full meal and you are stuck in traffic on the NJ Turnpike, then a fast food restaurant is your only choice. You can still choose foods with adequate protein and carbohydrates, but lower on the fat content.
The biggest mistake an athlete can make when traveling is to play on an empty stomach. Your muscles cannot perform without an adequate store of carbohydrate and even your brain needs fuel to think and make decisions. So, plan your food strategy before each event to get the most competitive edge.
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ULTIMATE ATHLETE MAGAZINE LONG ISLAND EDITION
etition Go For THE FoLLowING cHoIcEs MorE oFTEN
grilled chicken sandwiches plain hamburgers pizza with regular cheese or vegetable pizza broth-based soups chicken Fajita bean or chicken burrito baked potato with chili, salsa, broccoli fruit salads frozen yogurt JUICE LOW_FAT MILK OR LOW-FAT CHOCOLATE MILK
www.ultimateathletemagazine.com
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TROJAN G GARDEN CITY
TROJANS By Ken Ryan Photos by Adil Borluca
Coach Tom Flatley (26th season)
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
Garden City coach Tom Flatley, in his 26th year at the helm of one of Long Island’s most successful high school football programs, is typically low key when it comes to predictions about his team. You certainly won’t hear any Rex Ryan-like proclamations from Flatley; rather you will get low-key responses such as, “We just want them to be the best they can be.” In 2009, the best they can be was 12-0 and Long Island Class II champions. It was a magical year for Garden City, which outscored its opponents 356-28 and did not allow a touchdown until the postseason. They capped their perfect season with a 9-6 victory over North Babylon in the title game. The 2010 Trojans opened the season with a 28-0 victory over Mepham, a game in which Garden City converted four Mepham turnovers into touchdowns. There is almost chance the Trojans will be as dominant as last year. After all, they lost a quality group of defensive players to graduation, including Connor Horl, Nassau County’s top lineman. But this year’s team is still solid and the oddson favorite to win the Nassau crown. Senior Tom Gordon replaces Matt Montgomery at quarterback. He won’t be required to pass the ball a lot, not with an offensive backfield that features fullback Stephen Jahelka, one of only two returning first-team All Long Island selections. Last year, Jahelka rushed for 666 yards (6.3 yards a carry) and 13 touchdowns. He was stellar on defense as well, where he made 42 solo tackles with 33 assists and was a finalist for the Piner Award, given to the county’s best linebacker. Joining Jahelka and Gordon in the backfield is returning starter Brian Fischer, who rushed for 1,083 yards (8.3 yards a carry) and 11 touchdowns. They are the top players returning and the ones others look up to for guidance. “These kids were in leadership roles as juniors even though they weren’t captains because they accepted it,” Flatley said of the two Harvard-bound lacrosse stars. Jahelka and Fischer run behind an offensive line featuring Billy Allen (6-3, 260), John Bock
(6-2, 215) and James Wright (6-3, 235). “You make one hole and they’re gone,” Bock said. Most of the defense that recorded nine shutouts last year – and one this year – is back. Allen, Bock, Wright, Jahelka, Fischer and Gordon all contribute on defense. So does junior defensive back Mark Ellis, who is a dangerous punt returner as well. Ellis made a jarring hit on a Mepham receiver in the season opener, forcing a turnover that led to a Garden City touchdown. Garden City’s special teams are always good and well coached. In addition to Ellis, the punt returner, junior Ryan Norton is a double threat as a punter and place kicker. It was Norton’s field goal that clinched the Long Island championship for the Trojans last year, and his steady leg could be a difference maker in a close contest this year. Garden City is looking to become the first Nassau team to win back-to-back LIC’s since Bethpage in 2002-03 and the first to defend its Rutgers Cup since Hempstead from 1984-86. It will face stiff challenges from No. 2 seed Wantagh, which is hosts for homecoming Oct. 23; and Carey. It was Carey that nearly upset Garden City in last year’s playoffs, losing a 21-19 nail-biter. Garden City (12-0)
NS
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
1
TROJANS PLAYMAKERS Stephen Jahelka, 6-0, 205, Sr. FB/LB
Rushed for 666 yards and 13 touchdowns last season Brian Fisher, 6-1, 185, Sr. RB/DB
He was a 1,000-yard rusher in 2009 and scored 11 touchdowns Tom Gordon, 6-3, 200, Sr. QB/DB
First-year starting quarterback is a two-year defensive starter for the Trojans
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VIKING T SEAFORD
VIKINGS By Luis Cova Photos by Adil Borluca
Coach Rob Perpall
“High school football is not only about winning the game. You have to have to do it right. Otherwise, why do it? “It’s not my team, it’s their team,”
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
This season, the Seaford Vikings are on a mission to play hard and have fun defending their Class IV Long Island championship. The team does not get hung up on the success of their Long Island Championship (LIC) and 30-plus game winning streak. Instead, they focus on the present of enjoying their sport. Coach Rob Perpall emphasizes that high school football is not only about winning the game. You have to have to do it right. Otherwise, why do it? “It’s not my team, it’s their team,” says Perpall, who considers the Vikings to be as much of a family as they are a football team. Their tradition of winning begins way before the first practice of the season. “The expectations are to play outstanding football and doing it the right way,” says Perpall, who led his players to the LIC three years in a row. Doing things the right way means putting in the hard work and vigorous practices Seaford is known for. Even during off-season, you’ll find the Vikings in the weight room and in speed camps physically preparing themselves for the upcoming season. Eight of Seaford’s best players graduated this past school year, but Perpall knows that his younger players will rise to the occasion. “We have the personnel to do it, we now have to produce,” says Perpall. Part of the program’s success is due to the tight-knit community of Seaford. Most of the players have known each other since the Bronco youth-leagues and have developed a brotherhood. The coaching staff has been there at every level, from youth leagues to varsity. As Perpall puts it, “They are the best on the island.” Seaford coaches do not just aim to coach and win games. They also serve as mentors and help each player work on becoming a better person. Years after
graduation, former players come back to watch the games and help out during practices. This relationship has a really positive impact on the younger kids. “We need to be better tomorrow, than we were today,” says Perpall. A passion for the game and for winning is what fuels the Viking’s competitive edge. It all starts with fundamentals and what Perpall likes to call “smash mouth” football. This refers to running the ball hard and feeding the so called meat-grinder, while pounding the defense tender. The team is also equipped with surprisingly underrated quickness. They put emphasis on special-teams practice, which was made apparent by key special-teams plays in last year’s LIC. Coach Perpall realizes what these kids are going though and understands the importance of building confidence, having fun and simply enjoying the sport. “Some teams take a military approach to the sport, but we still make it a fun experience,” says Perpall. “I give the kids some time off now and then and, if we had a good practice, we will sometimes go into the gym and play some 3-on-3 basketball. Since football is a tough sport it’s a good way to learn character building.” The team’s motto is: Never quit. And, for 14 years, the Viking’s motto has proven its effectiveness among their players. “There is tremendous adversity in this game. If you don’t have the self confidence to keep going, then this game is not for you,” said Coach Perpall. “Some of my best memories are playing in high school and I want the kids to leave here with a good overall experience.”
GS
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
2
VIKINGS PLAYMAKERS Justin Buckley, senior captain (RB) 5’9” 185 lbs
The main ball carrier who will make a huge impact on offense, great attitude, honor student.
Billy Papadimas, senior captain (two way lineman) 6’1” 235 lbs. Loves to play football, smart aggressive player and a hard worker. He is an honor Society student.
Joe Kirincic senior captain (QB) 5’11” 175 lbs
Good football player, outstanding passer, very good athlete. Was a LIC starter on defense. Very good runner, could play RB, good lacrosse player, great student, wants to play football in college.
FLAMIN A SACHEM NORTH
FLAMING ARROW By Kaela Mahon Photos by Rich Ruotolo
Coach David Falco
Sachem Class of 1984 Assistant Coach for 8 years Head Coach for 8 years
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
After being ignited last year, the Flaming Arrows are absolutely on fire this season. Their physical talent and mental stamina have driven a successful preseason for the Sachem North football team. Returning from an 8-0 regular season, 10-1 after playoffs, the team is ranked No. 1 by Division I coaches for 2010. Although they came up just short of the Long Island Championship last year, they believe that this year is their year. Two-a-day sessions began in mid-August and the team headed to training camp in Fishkill, NY on August 22nd. This is the first time that a Sachem team occupies the No. 1 seed since the district split in 2005 and they plan on filling the big shoes. Sachem North drew a new notch last year taking home the most wins in one season since the program began 48 years ago. As a result, support and recognition for the team has grown with their success. The number of players has increased from 40 to 60 and they have adjusted their practices to prepare for their swelling fan base. “We have introduced loud music at certain points in practice after last year’s championship game,” said Head Coach David Falco. “There were 5,000 people in attendance and we had difficulty communicating on the field.” Coach Falco graduated from Sachem in 1984 as a three season athlete. He played under Hall of Fame Head Coach Fred Fusaro and won the Suffolk County Championship after an undefeated season his senior year. He went on to play football at Cortland State having an undefeated regular season, playing through the second round of the NCAA Championships. He
broke the receiver record and became the first player in Cortland’s history to have over 100 career receptions. His first coaching job was for the Red Dragons after graduation. He coached the team for six years while recruiting from Westchester and Long Island. He returned to the Flaming Arrows in 1995 to assist his former coach and he has never left. In 2003, he became the 4th head coach in the program’s history and he currently teaches physical education at the school. Coach Falco’s accomplishments and dedication are proved by his 24-year membership in the American Football Coaches Association. He is also the Section XI representative for the NY State High School Football Association and he sits on the executive committee. He represents Section XI for Division I and serves as one of three site directors for the NYSHSFCA Spring Combine. He is joined by Assistant Coach Joe Cannone, Defensive Coordinator David Caputo, Assistant Coach Nick Codispoti, Assistant Coach Alexander Grimm, Offensive Coordinator Michael Maratto and Assistant Coach Tom Pandolf. Five captains have been named for this season. Senior Jesse Scanna, line backer/half back and four year starter and senior Mike Andreassi, line backer/ full back and three year starter constantly made headlines last year. They each averaged about six yards per carry and added over ten tackles a piece in specific games. They play beside senior Angelo Armine, quarterback/full back and three year starter; senior Tim Lang, tight end and senior Michael McCarthy, quarterback. Another player to look out for is senior James Thompson, tight end and three year starter.
NG ARROW LONG ISLAND TOP 10
WS
3
FLAMING ARROWS PLAYMAKERS
Jesse Scanna
6’, 205 lbs. Line Backer/Running Back Scanna is a four-year starter and has been named captain for the last two years. Coach Falco stated that he is the best line backer in the county. Scanna rushed for 800 yards as a junior running back and led the team in tackles for the last three years. He is a fierce competitor.
Mike Andreasi
5’11”, 200 lbs. Line Backer/Full Back Andreasi was named captain his year after he rushed for 800+ yards as a junior and was second in tackles for the last two seasons. As a full back he is quick and powerful. Andreasi has a lacrosse scholarship to the University of Massachusetts.
Angelo Armine
5’9”, 185 lbs. Quarterback/Offensive Line Back Armine was a three-year starter on defense and a two-year starter at quarterback. He was named captain this year and is an emotional leader. Armine is a fast, explosive runner and an excellent tackler.
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FLAMING SACHEM NORTH
FLAMING ARROWS With 25 seniors on the roster, Sachem North will benefit from having an experienced team but knows that they must constantly change and improve. “We have quality returning seniors but we need to be more balanced offensively,” said Coach Falco. “We rushed for 4,000 yards in 2009, but will need to throw more this year to be successful.” Sachem North owned their No. 1 seed when they took down Bellport 30-14 in their first one-on-one scrimmage at Bellport on August 31st. Although Scanna was out with a minor injury, the players persisted and it was clear that their hard work in the preseason had already created a cohesive team. McCarthy and Armine had big plays offensively and Andreassi took control on the defensive end. Their first regular season game is on their home field at 7:00 pm on September 11th against Patchogue. Although they will take the season one game at a time, it is no doubt they look forward to meeting William Floyd on October 15th. The Flaming Arrows will enjoy home field advantage as they take on the Colonials, who defeated them in the Suffolk County championship last year. “Every game in Division I Suffolk County is a battle,” said Coach Falco. Sachem North has lit the fire on the fight.
FLAMING ARROWS PLAYMAKERS Mike McCarthy, Senior 6’2”, 210 lbs. Quarterback/Safety
Dalton Crossan, Senior
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5’9”, 180 lbs. Running Back/Defensive Back
James Thompson, Senior 6’1”, 260 lbs. Defensive Line/Tight End
BULLDO A NORTH BABYLON
BULLDOGS By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Lee Russo
Coach Terry Manning
Twenty years coaching North Babylon, six Long Island championships, Suffolk County championship last year, was in the Long Island championship last year. Last championship win was in 2004. “He is a good coach, he is an excellent coach,” Joe Martin senior fullback said. “He pushes us to be great and work hard.”
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
After a disappointing end to an almost perfect season the North Babylon varsity football team is eager to try again this season. “We have one goal to get back to the Long Island Championship and redeem ourselves from last year,” Joe Martin senior fullback/ middle linebacker said. Last year North Babylon finished first in their division. They had one of the top defenses on Long Island, won the Suffolk County championship game and had 11 wins and only one loss to Garden City in the Long Island championship. They lost 24 seniors from last year, six of them were defensive starters and five were offensive starters. “We had a really good team last year,” Terry Manning, the varsity football head coach said. “I hope this year’s team can be as tough and chipy as later year’s team.” Terry Manning has coached the North Babylon varsity football team for 20 years. “I love coaching here, I played for North Babylon and graduated from here,” Manning said. “I’m happy I was given the opportunity to come back and coach here.” Manning has six Long Island championship wins with the last one coming in 2004. “The best part about playing is playing for coach Manning,” Golden Ukonu senior offensive/defensive tackle said. “I love playing for him he tells you the truth, he is real, he never wants to lie to you.” “It is a great thing getting to work with one of the top coaches on Long Island,” Michael Morton senior offensive/ defensive lineman said. “He is a great coach he tells you what to do and you just have to get it done.” North Babylon enters the season
with a preseason ranking of number one in division two of Suffolk County. There are 14 teams in division two. “Our biggest competition in the division is everyone,” Manning said. “It is going to be tough this year. There are five or six teams that could win the division.” The first game of the season is against West Islip and it does not get any easier after that game because they face Hills West, Smithtown West and West Babylon back to back. “The first four games are going to be brutal,” Manning said. “It is not going to be easy; it is going to be a constant pounding.” North Babylon is big on tradition and is always known for their ground and pound attack. “Ninety-nine percent of the time we are going to run the ball,” Manning said. “We are going to keep punching you in the mouth until you can’t take it anymore, good smash mouth old school football.” This team would rather run the ball at you than do anything else. This year their strength is in their offensive and defensive lines. The offensive line has three starters returning and the defensive line is all returning from last year. “Our strength is most of our offensive line came back, our backfield came back and our defensive line came back,” Ukonu said. “We all went to the weight room in the off season and got a lot bigger.” During the summer, Coach Manning has his team involved with a speed trainer twice a week and has them lift weights three or four night a week. Manning tries to have a passing scrimmage five to six nights a week during the summer. Some of the players also attend the Rutgers University camp to improve their techniques and skills. “We are with them almost every day during the summer,” Manning said.
OGS
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
4
BULLDOGS PLAYMAKERS Preshod McCoy
5’10” 170lbs senior running back/corner back Three year returning starter, moved up to varsity in the 9th grade. Won starting running back position as a sophomore, had 1800 yards rushing, 21 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions last year. Is North Babylon’s super back, is on the field the whole game. He also returns punts and kickoffs. “I would like to go undefeated in Suffolk County again and just get back to the Long Island championship again,” McCoy said. “I believe it is very possible for us to do that.”
Golden Ukonu
6’3” 385lbs senior offensive tackle/defensive tackle Two year starter captain as a junior, is a great leader of the team. Division one schools giving him offers to play in college. Runs the ball with Preshod to his side because no one can get passed or around him. He is powerful on both defense and offense. “My goal for the season is to get to and win the Long Island championship,” Ukonu said.
Michael Morton
6’1” 260lbs senior offensive lineman/ defensive end/ outside linebacker Led the team in sacks last year, all pulling and trapping. Comes off the corner quick, incredible work ethic, never wants to stop working hard. He is next to Ukonu on the offensive line making an impenetrable duo on the right side. “I just want to help my team get back to the Long Island Championship,” Morton said.
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BULLDOG NORTH BABYLON
BULLDOGS “We want them to keep working hard to get better and this way we keep them out of trouble.” North Babylon started their two a day practices on Monday August 16th. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of fighting through two a days and moving kids around to get them into their right positions,” Manning said. The difference for North Babylon this year from last year is that some kids can win spots that haven’t played on varsity before. Last year they had a lot of seniors and the positions were already filled. There a few key players that already have their positions. Preshod McCoy is North Babylon’s super back. “A super back for North Babylon is the go to back; the best back on the team,” Preshod McCoy senior running/cornerback said. “North Babylon has had a lot of super backs.” McCoy is a three year starter that plays both offensive and defense and also returns kickoffs and punts. He is entering his senior year this year. He is 5’10” and weighs 170 pounds. McCoy is not only the super back for North Babylon he is also the starting cornerback on defense that had a record high 13 interceptions last year. As a running back last year he rushed for 1800 yards and had about 21 touchdowns. As a ninth grader he was moved up to the varsity team and won the starting running back position as a sophomore. “He is an outstanding athlete, a lockdown corner and he can do a lot on the field,” Manning said. “Eighty-five percent of the time we are going to give him the ball.” Another key player for North Babylon is senior Golden Ukonu. Ukonu is a two year starter at the right tackle position on offense and tackle position on defense. He is 6’3” 385 pounds. Ukonu was voted to be a captain as a junior, which is hard to do. It is rare to be voted to be the captain any year earlier then a senior. He is the leader of the team. The team listens to him and does what he says. North Babylon runs the ball to his side because no one can get past or around him. “I consider Golden to be the best offensive linemen on Long Island,” Manning said. “You better have a strong defensive player to go against him.”
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Michael Morton plays on the same side of the offensive line as Ukonu and also is the defensive end sometimes outside linebacker. Morton is 6’1” 260 pounds. He led in sacks last year. He is all pulling and trapping and comes off the corner quick. Morton and Ukonu are the leaders on the offensive line. Together they have about 20 games under their belt which will make them even stronger and impenetrable this year. “Michael has an incredible work ethic, he never turns off,” Manning said. “He is like a motor that never stops running.” Anthony Curso was a left tackle last year but this year they are moving him to left guard. He is 6’4” 265 pounds. Curso has good grades and has Ivy League schools interested in him. He also plays defensive end and plays opposite Morton. “Curso is a player that is going to bring it to you on every play,” Manning said. North Babylon has produced a long list of outstanding athletes and some have moved on to play for the NFL. Ian Smart, Rashawn Vanderpoole and Guy Roberts are players that play or played for the NFL. North Babylon is ready to start their season and try and get back to the Long Island Championship. It is looking like they have what they need to get back there. “Our goal is to not lose focus and take it one game at a time week by week and get as far as we can,” Manning said.
BULLDOGS PLAYMAKERS Anthony Curso
6’4” 265lbs left guard/defensive end Last year was a left tackle and was moved this year to left guard. He has good grades and has Ivy League schools looking at him. Plays defensive end opposite Morton. He is strong and powerful. “He is going to bring it to you on every play,” Manning said.
RED DE T FREEPORT
RED DEVILS By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Angela Datre––
Coach Russ Cellan
Russ Cellan is entering his 24th season as Freeport’s head coach. Cellan is known for being the first coach to use the spread offense. He has been in the playoffs 16 times, in the Nassau County championship 9 times, won 5 times, in the Long Island championship game 5 times and won 3 times. “It’s great working with coach Cellan he is like a father to us,” Jeff Williams said. “Sometimes he is a little intense and gets a little crazy but it’s great playing for him.”
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
There is one common theme that runs through the Freeport varsity football program and that is they are good because of hard work. “I believe we work harder than any team on Long Island and if we don’t than that is our goal,” Terrell Brown, senior starting offensive/defensive lineman said, “If we come out and lose a game then we are not working hard enough and we need to pick up the intensity and pick up the pace. That’s just what we are based on.” Last year their hard work paid off and they are hoping to do the same thing this year. Freeport is the defending Long Island Champions and are entering the season ranked number three in Nassau County’s conference one, of which they are the two time defending champions. “We always want to get to the Long Island Championship game,” Russ Cellan Freeport varsity head coach said. “We may not get there every year because things happen but it is always the goal.” Russ Cellan is entering his 24th year as Freeport’s varsity head coach. Cellan is known for being the first Long Island high school coach to use the spread offense. He started to experiment with the spread offense in 2001 and added it to his offensive plays in 2002. When he started to use it, the high school defenses did not know how to guard it and had to come up with a whole new defense just for the week they had to play them. “When we started the spread offense we were the only team using it,” Cellan said. “I got the idea from watching a Northwestern college football game. I was always looking for something different and now everyone is using it.” Cellan has brought Freeport to the playoffs 16 times, gone to the Nassau County championship game nine times,
won five times and coached them five times in the Long Island championship game and won three titles. “It’s hard playing for Coach Cellan,” said Isaiah Barnes, junior starting quarterback. “He is going to criticize, he is going to get on your case a lot but you just have to take it because he knows what he is talking about. He has been doing it for almost 30 years, so you just have to listen to coach and do your best.” “It is wonderful playing for coach Cellan,” Cephas Knighton-Ward senior offensive guard/defensive lineman said. “He is a guy that everyone respects so you give your all to him.” This year’s team is going to be significantly different than last year’s team. Last year Freeport relied on Kevin Allen to carry them. Allen had 2,000 yards rushing and 35 touchdowns. “This year we have to do more by committee,” Cellan said. “We will have more play makers, which is what Freeport football is and not one guy like last year.” Running the offense this year is junior quarterback Isaiah Barnes. This is his first year starting. He is 6’2” 190 pounds. He fits in with Cellan’s spread offense because he is able to throw the ball well and is able to run the ball. “Barnes was a backup last year,” Cellan said. “He throws the ball well, he is a quick runner and that’s a plus in the spread offense.” “My goals for the season are to be the best player I can be, leading my team and for us to end up with the championship,” Barnes said. Another player that is going to make big plays for this team is senior Terrell Brown. Brown is 6’2” 285 pounds. He plays offensive and defensive lineman and has been starting since he was a sophomore. “I believe Terrell is one of the better linemen on Long Island,” Cellan said.
EVILS
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
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RED DEVILS PLAYMAKERS Isaiah Barnes junior
Isaiah Barnes is the junior starting quarterback for Freeport. He was the back up last year and this is his first year starting at quarterback. He is 6’2” 190 pounds. He throws the ball well and is a quick runner which fits in perfectly with Cellan’s spread offense. “I love playing for Freeport,” Barnes said. “I’m so ready for the season.”
Terrell Brown senior
Terrell Brown has been the starting offensive and defensive lineman for Freeport since he was a sophomore. Brown is 6’2” 285 pounds. He was AllCounty last year. He is one of the three captains on the team this year. Brown is a powerful lineman that is hard to get around and he is a great leader on this team. “I just want to work hard every day and end up better at the end then I was at the beginning,” Brown said.
Cephas Knighton-Ward senior
Cephas Knighton-Ward is entering his second year starting as a defensive tackle and a right guard. Knighton-Ward is 6’0 280 pounds. He is another captain for this Freeport team. Knighton-Ward is a hard worker and a powerful player. “I just want to get better every day and help my team to try and bring home another championship,” Knighton-Ward said.
Jeff Williams senior
Jeff Williams has been starting since he was a sophomore at the wide receiver and outside linebacker positions. Williams is 6’2” 205 pounds. Williams is an asset to this team because he plays any position the team asks him to play. Williams can run and block. He is a leader and an athletic player. “We play Freeport football, nobody else can,” Williams said. “Nobody else can match us and if you are lined up against us I feel sorry for you.”
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RED DEVI FREEPORT
RED DEVILS
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Brown was All-County last year and is one of the three captains on the team this year. He is powerful and a leader on the field. “I’m looking forward to just playing and getting after the ball,” Brown said. Jeff Williams is also a senior and a captain for Freeport and has been starting since he was a sophomore. He is 6’2” 205 pounds and plays wide receiver and outside linebacker. He plays whatever position they need him to play and can do everything. “He does so much for us… he runs, blocks,” Cellan said, “It is like having another coach on the field.” The third captain is senior Cephas Knighton-Ward. Knighton-Ward is 6’0” 280 pounds. This is his second year starting as a defensive tackle and right guard. He is a powerful player. Knighton-Ward works hard every day and wants to continue to get stronger every game. “I’m looking forward to just getting out there and being able to play,” Knighton-Ward said. “I love the game of football.” This year replacing Kevin Allen at running back is senior Dan Olivea. “We lost Kevin Allen… that’s a great loss but we have running backs here now that work just as hard,” Brown said. “Olivea is coming back and working hard and I feel he will fill his shoes perfectly.” Olivea is 5’11” 225 pounds. He is going to get the bulk of the carries this year. Olivea has quick feet and is strong which makes him hard to take down or stop. “All the Alumni keep coming back and telling me I have to be like Allen and get my shoulders low,” Olivea said. “But I think I can do alright.” Freeport’s first game is coming against their longtime rival Baldwin on September 11th. The Freeport-Baldwin game is considered their backyard brawl because the schools are so close to each other. “The kids from Baldwin and Freeport grow up playing together and then have to play against each other in high school,” Cellan said. Another big rivalry is Farmingdale. These two teams have met in the playoffs countless times. Last year Farmingdale beat Freeport during the season, and then in the playoffs Freeport won. “Red and green do not mix… only at Christmas time,” Cellan said. Massapequa is also a rival of Freeport.
“This season is not going to be easy. There are a lot of good teams in the conference,” Cellan said, “We are just going to try and be as good as we can be. Every game is a big game so we will take it week by week.” During the offseason Cellan tries to convince his players to play another sport and if they do not play another sport he has them lifting weights. He wants them to be out competing and keeping active. At the end of May they start the seven on seven and passing scrimmages. “I’m a big believer in playing another sport,” Cellan said. “I’d rather that my players be competing then just lifting weights, the weights don’t fight back.” Freeport’s program prides itself on tradition and has a list of alumni that have carried on that tradition to the NFL. Freeport’s alumni include: D’Brickashaw Ferguson who is currently the starting left tackle for the New York Jets, Marlon Greenwood a seven year starting linebacker for the Miami Dolphins and the Houston Texans, Clifton Smith Cleveland Browns linebacker, Jerry Mackey linebacker for the Jets practice squad and Aaron Valentin wide receiver that was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. “Everything makes me proud to play for Freeport; the tradition, the legacy, the players that played before us like D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Clifton Smith, and Jerry Mackey these guys paved the way for this program to be top notch,” Terrell Brown said. “Anyone who plays for Freeport should be proud because this is where it is at.”
RED DEVILS PLAYMAKERS Dan Olivea senior
Dan Olivea is replacing Kevin Allen and will take over the bulk of the carries for this team. Olivea is 5’11” 225 pounds. He has quick feet and is powerful which makes it hard to stop him. He plays both starting running back and linebacker. “Guys want me to be like Kevin Allen but I have to be Danny Olivea,” Olivea said.
COLTS H HALF HOLLOW HILLS WEST
COLTS By Luis Cova Photos by Luis Cova
Coach Kyle Madden
“My expectations are to win. We want to have a program at Hills West that is expected to challenge for a LIC every year.”
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
This season, the Half Hollow Hills West athletic program is tough and is challenging the Colts to meet high expectations. So, how do you one-up a 12-0 season that was capped off with a Class III Long Island Championship? The answer is preparation and a desire to win. The newly promoted Division II team is a bright group, dominated by underclassmen. “We had many key players graduate,” said Head Coach Kyle Madden. “But, my expectations are to win. We want to have a program at Hills West that is expected to challenge a LIC every year.” This season, Hills West will play hardhitting teams like North Babylon, East Islip and Bellport. Without doubt, rigorous preparation will diminish the pressure. Coach Madden compares preparing his players to taming a young colt. He says, “Pressure only comes when you are not prepared. If you can’t handle the fact that we are going to prepare to win a LIC every season, you should not come to Hills West.” The Colts pride themselves in playing fundamentally-sound football. Madden says, “Every game is game plan specific. But overall, we want to be great with our base offense. For defense, the approach is to control what you can and football will take care of itself.” Long before the season commences, Hills West begins weight training in January. Madden emphasizes, “Our players are expected to be in the best possible shape for the start of the season. Having an average year is out of the question.” For championship-winning teams, good chemistry between players is crucial. According to Madden, seniors generate and enhance team chemistry. “Seniors are the most experienced and have gone through the battles. They know what to expect and must show the underclassmen the way.” Since his sophomore year, Chris Busuttil
has learned from team role-model, and Hansen Award recipient, Jevahn Cruz. Now a senior quarterback, Busuttil is manning up to guide the younger players. Expectations are soaring and Hills West must be disciplined if they want to make it to the Long Island championship. To these players, the word “young” does not does not imply inexperience. Madden is known for having underclassmen on his team. Devante McFarlane, a junior running back, played on both defense and offense last year. “We have to work harder than last year because we had a lot of seniors that left. What guides this team is will and dedication to work hard,” says McFarlane, who helps lead the team by example. Sophomore Randy Davis has faith in the goals set by his coaches. Madden describes Davis as, “An unselfish team player, always willing to get better in practice.” The Colts are getting in-shape to compete in Division II, and their hard-line athletic program should make the transition easy. Make sure to look for the Hills West Colts to mix it up with the perennial powerhouses and to make their games in Division II exciting.
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
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COLTS PLAYMAKERS
Devante McFarlane (Jr). Running back 6’1” 180lbs.
Started last year at RB and LB- expected to contribute on both sides of the ball
Chris Busuttil(Sr.) QB 6’1” 190 lbs.
Accurate passer, great knowledge of the offense.
Randy Davis (Soph) 6’ 1” 196 TE/ LB
Unselfish, team player, always willing to get better in practice.
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COLONI S WILLIAM FLOYD
COLONIALS By Ali Malito Photos By Rich Ruotolo
Coach Paul Longo
. Winner of the Division I coach of the year award for the past 8 years. . Winner of the Suffolk County coach of the year from 2005 through 2007 . Winner of the NY Giants high schoolcoach of the week award in 2008
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
Seven undefeated Division I championships; six Suffolk County championships, five undefeated; three undefeated Long Island championships; ranked #1 in the state for three consecutive years; three-time Rutgers Trophy winners – all within the last eight years. The Colonials recent history speaks for itself. Leading the William Floyd varsity team for the last 16 years, Coach Paul Longo the Division I coach of the year award for the last eight years, also winning Suffolk County coach of the year from 2005 through 2007. In 2007, he was awarded Newsday’s All-Long Island coach of the year and in 2008 he received the NY Giants high school coach of the week award. He also led the team to 42 straight wins, the most for any high school team in the history of Long Island football. With so much recent success under their belt, the Colonials have a particular challenge this season; an extremely young team with very few returning seniors. “We have 10th graders in some key positions this year,” said Coach Longo. “Our kicker, quarterback, receivers and cornerback are sophomores.” Asserting confidence, Longo explained that they have great team speed and the best player on Long Island, making them a continuous threat. Junior corner and running back, Stacey Bedell shines this season boasting 220-yards on 20 carries against Bay Shore, followed by 243-yards on 17 carries against Northport. He scored three touchdowns to give Floyd a 35-28 win over Bay Shore and had an 80-yard carry in their 40-12 win over Northport. Bedell has 4.4 speed leading the team in quickness, Floyd’s strength this season. He is being recruited by Penn State, Rutgers and Temple and according to Logo, is a great twoway player. Bedell is already being noted for The Hansen Award which is given annually to the outstanding high school football player in Suffolk County. Sophomore starting quarterback, AJ Otrano was 4-for-6 passing for 100-yards
against North Port, with one touchdown and one interception. Previously, he went 6-for9 passing for 95 yards against Bay Shore on September 11th in his first start. Luke Miller also had a great game against Bay Shore, rushing for 70 yards on 16 carries with two touchdowns. Against Northport on September 16th, Rajiv Heron made nine tackles with three sacks and Ronny Brumsey recovered two fumbles. Senior offensive guard James Walsh, a three year starter, did a great job blocking. As seems to be the theme, the team takes the season one week at a time. They look forward to facing Sachem North, the team they beat in the county finals last year. “This year they [Sachem North] have the seniors and we are very young so it is a great challenge for us to try to upset them,” said Coach Longo. “But because of our team speed and the explosiveness of Bedell, we can be dangerous.” Ranked 4th in Suffolk County on September 20th, they trail No. 1 Sachem North followed by St. Anthony’s and North Babylon. The Colonials were also ranked 7th on Long Island on September 21st, adding Garden City, Freeport and East Islip (5th on the Suffolk ranking) to the list. Coach Longo and the Colonials know that like their team, the season is young. Building team unity helps the players learn about the sport and fuse on the field. Coach Longo joked, “The lineman eat buffets together and the skill players lift and speed train together in the offseason.” With a 2-0 record thus far, 123 points for and only 40 points against, the colonials have a strong start and look to move up in the standings as the team becomes more experienced. Look out for their big homecoming game on October 16th at Sachem North High School.
IALS
LONG ISLAND TOP 10
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COLONIALS PLAYMAKERS Stacey Bedell , Junior, Corner and Running back, 5’11, 165 lbs.
Bedell has 4.4 speed. He is being recruited by Penn State, Rutgers and Temple and is a great two way player.
James Walsh, Senior, Offensive guard, 6’2, 250 lbs. Walsh is a three year starter and has done a great job blocking this year.
AJ otranto , Sophomore, Quarterback, 5’10, 165 lbs. First time starting this year and is an excellent quarterback.
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DALERS F FARMINGDALE
DALERS By Harvey Sandig Photos by Jane Bishow
Coach Buddy Krumenacker Past Performances:
Competes in Nassau (Large Schools) League I Went 6-2 in regular season in 2009 Defeated Calhoun and Syosset in the playoffs Lost to Freeport in the County Finals at Hofstra, 34-20
Outlook for 2010:
Should notch a playoff spot. Players see Freeport and Syosset as toughest competitors.
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
Farmingdale’s head football coach Buddy Krumenacker knows exactly what it will take for his club to make the Conference I playoffs this year. “We have to stay healthy,” he accentuated on more than one occasion. “We not only have a lot of players coming back, but a lot of good players coming back, but so do the other teams we face.” There are 50 players on his squad. All the starters are seniors. Fourteen teams comprise Conference I, eight of which qualify for the playoffs. Post-season is within the division, so it is likely you could face a team a second time. The winner in Nassau County then takes on the winner in Suffolk County for the Rutgers Cup. The Dalers finished 6-2 in the regular season last year, then blew out Calhoun and Syosset in the playoffs. However, they lost to Freeport, 34-20 in the County finals at Hofstra after defeating the Red Devils, 35-0, in the regular season. A graduate of the school (class of 1965), Krumenacker has coached for 42 years. “I started at Hempstead H.S. in the ‘80’s where we won five conference titles,” he bragged. At Farmingdale since 1993, his club has failed to qualify for the Final Four only once. He did not know how many County titles he’s won. The Dalers prepared for its Opening Day match with MacArthur High School by scrimmaging Garden City, Sewanaka and Malverne in late August. The squad is relying on four key players to make a run at a championship. Quarterback Sal Tuttle returns for his 2nd season as signal caller. He started playing football at age 5 with the “Hawks”, a local sandlot club. “My dad was the coach and I enjoyed having fun with my friends,” he advised. As a freshman, Tuttle played on the JV; then moved up to varsity for the playoffs. He played on special teams as a sophomore before getting the starting QB nod as a junior. He stated he can throw the ball 70 yards. He admitted to being nervous in the finals “play-
ing in front of all those people.” The youngster also plays lacrosse in the spring at the attack position. His professional goal is to be a physical trainer. “Sal’s best quality is his command of the offense,” Krumenacker asserted. “We do not run an ‘I’ formation where you just hand off -- we run a ‘spread’ so you need to understand what we’re trying to accomplish. He is an accurate passer and has a feel of what the opposition is doing. He gained over 1,000 yards last year running and passing. Over the course of the summer and pre-season, he brought the leadership qualities we were looking for and produced a year ago. He’s ready to go.” Derrick Stokes is Tuttle’s back-up, but Krumenacker was adamant that there is little drop-off in actual talent. “In virtually all scenarios, he’d be a starter,” he conceded. “He did a great job in the off-season with his weight training. He too has ‘command’ of the offense and is very effective from the wildcat position.” Carl Brescia plays linebacker and tight end. He also started playing football at 5 on the “Hawks” where his father was a coach. Last year, he was selected “All-Conference”. He takes his role as captain very seriously. “It’s my job to communicate with all the players by tapping them on the head,” he laughed. “I have to know everybody’s position, make all the defensive calls and tell the secondary what stunts they’re going into. I’m very vocal, as you can see.” An outstanding student with a 3.9 GPA, Brescia also plays lacrosse at the attack position. He is interested in a number of colleges including Marist, Stony Brook and the University of Pennsylvania. He wants to study either accounting or pre-med. The youngster can point to a definite turning point of the season -- it was Game #7. “We had struggled at the beginning and were 4-2. We had lost to Syosset on a last-second field goal and to East Meadow, 7-6, in double overtime. We were tied with
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LONG ISLAND TOP 10
8
DALERS PLAYMAKERS Sal Tuttle, Senior, 6’1” 165 lbs., QB
Started playing at the age of 5 with the “Hawks” sandlot team. Played JV in the 9th grade. Brought up to Varsity for the playoffs. Played on special teams as a sophomore. Was the starting QB as a junior. Biggest thrill: Beating Massapequa as a sophomore and junior. Has committed to attend Hofstra University next fall.
Brian Prendergast, Senior, 5’9” 170 lbs., Strong safety / slotback
Started playing at the age of 5 with the “Hawks” sandlot team. Also plays lacrosse for Farmingdale (attack position). Will be attending Towson University (MD) where he hopes to play lacrosse. Scored 7 touchdowns last year. Also played on special teams. Biggest thrill: Taking over at QB in the playoffs last year against Syosset when Tuttle got hurt and leading them to victory.
Kevin Wahl, Senior, 5’10” 185 lbs., RB / LB
Started playing at the age of 5 with the “Hawks” sandlot team. Played JV as a freshman and sophomore. Played varsity as a junior, both as a running back and back-up linebacker. Split time with another running back last year. Expected to carry the load in 2010 Calls himself an “aggressive” person. Older brother Billy played for Farmingdale. Kevin watched him play. Biggest thrill: Beating Massapequa, 35-7 and scoring 3 touchdowns himself.
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DALERS FARMINGDALE
DALERS
Uniondale, 14-14 heading into overtime; then we kicked a field goal. When they tried to score, I sacked the quarterback on first down and intercepted a pass on third. It was then we came together as a team. We had extra energy and extra enthusiasm.” He expressed disappointment on their loss of the Nassau championship game to Freeport. “They moved their running back, Kevin Allen to quarterback. He was in the wildcat position. He picked where he wanted to go. He was faster than us – we couldn’t get him.” Kevin Wahl is in his 2nd year as a running back after playing JV as a freshman and sophomore. He is expected to carry the load after splitting time with another back last year. He also plays inside linebacker. “He gained over 800 yards rushing and has great cutting ability,” his coach said. “We call him a ‘Yak yards guy’ – someone who gains yards after contact. He has the quickness to make a defender miss.” “I got involved by watching my older brother Billy play,” Wahl advised. “I was always aggressive growing up. My brother used to beat me up a lot.” Wahl felt his finest moment was when he scored three touchdowns against rival Massapequa. He had 14 for the season. He enjoys the competition and camaraderie. “We play with heart and determination. We push each other to play harder and get into each other’s faces in a good way. My goal is to finish the season right by winning the Long Island Championship.” Rodney Torruella doubles as a safety and wide receiver. “He was banged up last year, but has had a great preseason and adds strength to our secondary,” his coach praised. “He catches the ball well and is a good defender.” Brian Predergast starts at strong safety, wide receiver and plays on special teams. He scored seven touchdowns in 2009. He wants to attend Towson University and play lacrosse like he does at Farmingdale. He feels lacrosse and football go hand-in-hand. “Football helps lacrosse because of its physicality and lacrosse helps football because it builds speed,” he stressed. “Brian is great at diagnosing plays from his outside linebacker position,” Krumenacker said. “He has a real nose for the football.” His shining moment last year was not planned. “I took over at quarterback against Syosset in the playoffs when Tuttle got hurt,” he recollected. “I got help from Kevin Wahl but knew what to do. We won by a big score.” The green-and-white feel they have a strong offensive line. “Center Ryan Kelly makes the offensive line calls,” Krumenacker informed. “He has great understanding of
blocking schemes. He makes adjustments if need be.” “Brendan Terry starts at guard after starting at defensive tackle last year. He gets off the ball well, is extremely disruptive, has real good feet, can block, trap and pull.” “Guard James Schmachtenberg is the lone returning starter. He does a great job pass blocking and is someone we can run behind.” “Pat Starke started last year as a cover corner and receiver and we expect him to do the same things this year. He’s a very good receiver and pass defender.” “Mike Palmer is a 2-year starter. He did a nice job at outside linebacker last year but this year, we moved him inside. He’s a very good blitzer and had a bundle of sacks.” “Vinny Schultz missed a lot of last year with a hip injury. He will play cover corner, wide receiver and kick returner. He’s quick, can run and is a tough little kid.” Krumenacker does not view himself as a ‘one-man show.’ He described his coaching staff as “excellent”. “We’ve been together for 14 years. Pete Moore is the offensive coordinator and played here in 1965. Joe Schwarz handles the offensive and defensive lines, Tom Corcoran is the special teams’ coordinator and Rich Maniscalco handles the scout team. I handle the defense. Their roles are defined and all are extremely capable. They all work in the district and are friends with each other. They all bring what they’re supposed to.” Krumenacker does not see any “pushovers” on the road to the playoffs. ”We have to stay healthy to win. If we lose starters, we’ll be in trouble. We have depth but it’s not the same. We were voted the #1 seed in the pre-season coach’s poll which is nice, but that’s only on paper. We have to do it on the field.”
DALERS PLAYMAKERS Carl Brescia, Senior, 6’1” 205 lbs., TE / LB
Started playing at the age of 5 with the “Hawks” sandlot team. Team captain. Calls defensive signals. Very vocal on the field. Played JV as a 9th grader. Starter at linebacker as a sophomore. Was a running back, as well as a linebacker as a junior. Prefers defense. Also plays lacrosse for Farmingdale (attack position). Biggest thrill: Blowing out Uniondale, 48-7 as a sophomore. 3.9 GPA. Wants to pursue either accounting or pre-med in college. Is looking into a number of colleges including Marist and the University of PA.
CLIPPER A BELLPORT
CLIPPERS By Bob Falkenburgh Photos By Rich Ruotolo
Coach Joe Cipp
“Our goal is always to win a Long Island Championship, The fans expect us to win, and we want to win.”
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
Attention all Long Island High School varsity football teams: The 2010 Bellport High School “Junkyard Dogs” have finally been unleashed and they’re looking to kick your butts! Head Coach Joe Cipp, Jr. and his veteran laden squad still have a bitter taste in their mouths from last season’s playoff defeat to North Babylon HS and they are determined to “Rise Again in 2010” as they seek their first Long Island Championship since 2005. Their stated goal is to out-work, outhit, and out-hustle their opponents and The Dogs are determined to keep coming at you in all phases of the game. “Our goal is always to win a Long Island Championship,” stated the venerable head coach. “The fans expect us to win, and we want to win.” Coach Cipp and his hard working staff (Jeff Cipp, Joe Cipp III, Chris Bauman, Kyle Moodt, Jon Elsalam, and Gino Cruz) are no-nonsense, unrelenting workaholics that expect nothing but excellence in every drill, every snap, and every down. “We make no excuses; we work hard all year. We’re aware of our reputation; we all know what it takes to win!” exclaimed the head dog, who is know considered to be the dean of Suffolk County HS football coaches. Playing with pride, spirit, and heart are three of the most common elements that contribute to the successful traditions that have been established within the Bellport HS football program. These qualities are passed down from season to season and each generation of “Junkyard Dogs” recognizes the importance of the football program on and off the field. The championship banners and trophies are prominently displayed throughout
the campus and the community pride is tangible. From the head coach right down to the student volunteers that help the team, one thing is evident: These guys mean business. Newly appointed Bellport High School Athletic Director Robert McIntyre is excited to be on board with this top-notch crew. “I love being part of this,” he said. “There is no cutting of corners; Coach Cipp makes everyone around him work harder, work smarter, and be at their best. He is always challenging the kids.” Between the lines, The Bellport Clippers are renowned for their ferocious, smash-‘em-up defense, and their ground and pound, wear you down offense. The roster is chock full of solid, veteran two way players that are looking to take on all comers for the full 48 minutes of every game. Junior Quarterback Justin Honce leads the offense again this season after taking the team to the Suffolk County Division II semi finals last year as a sophomore. “He’s a good, smart athlete,” stated Coach Cipp. “We’ll be adding more plays, a bit more passing this season,” said the coach as the team looks to grow along with the young QB. Honce has plenty of help in the likes of a huge, hard hitting offensive line, and some quick footed tailbacks as well. Running Backs Travis Houpe, Eddie Carson, and Armand Correa are all strong, fast, and unafraid to “hit the holes.” Receiver Mike Burton and Tight Ends Rob and Kevin Schwicke are also hard working contributors as Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator Joe Cipp III (aka “Coach Sonny”) looks to open things up with some added
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LONG ISLAND TOP 10
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CLIPPERS PLAYMAKERS QB/S JUSTIN HONCE 6’3” 215 LBS. JUNIOR:
Justin is a two way threat who has the ability to scramble as well as he can fire the ball downfield. Strong, solid, and serious, Honce has added 20 lbs. to his frame during the offseason and is never afraid to “mix it up”.
RB/DB TRAVIS HOUPE 5’5” 180 LBS. SENIOR:
Travis has the rare ability to make things happen on both sides of the ball. He is a hard worker and he’s focusing on cracking the 1000 yards rushing mark this season as well as showing continued improvement on “D”.
OLB/WR MIKE BURTON 6’0” 190 LB. SENIOR:
Mike is one of the team captains and true leaders who thrives on knowing that his teammates look up to him as much as they do. Hard hitting and determined, Burton loves the pressure and expectations that come along with playing for “The Dogs”.
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CLIPPERS BELLPORT
CLIPPERS
shotgun formations this season. “We want to win the LIC this year!” exclaimed the confident QB. “This year is our year!” Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Jeff Cipp heads up a punishing unit that will come at you and keep coming at you in their swarming style all game long. His group features solid team leaders everywhere you look: Lineman Ryan Sloan and Justin Winter are huge and can really pound you; Linebackers Kevin Schwicke, Rob Schwicke, and Mike Burton are smart, savvy, and strong. These players live to play and love to pop. “We look to wear down the other team’s offense,” stated Rob Schwicke. “This may be the best team that I’ve ever played on! This year is our year!” he stated confidently. “We want to win the LIC; it starts with the coaches but it ends with the players; this could be something special,” added Rob’s twin brother Kevin. “We’re reaching for the highest goals!” he exclaimed. “The difference between winning and losing is typically five or six plays per game,” as Head Coach Cipp paraphrased legendary football man Bill Curry. “If we can have those turning points go our way, we can achieve our goals,” he added in his matter-of-fact manner. For the 2010 season, The Clippers will be looking to take advantage of these key moments in all three phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams. So, heads up, Suffolk County: The Bellport Clippers are ready to rumble. They’re motivated, well coached, really hungry, and looking to win big. Stand up, or stand aside; HERE COME THE DOGS!
CLIPPERS PLAYMAKERS ILB/FB/TE ROBERT SCHWICKE 5’10” 230 LBS. SENIOR:
Rob has been working hard to get ready for the 2010 season and desires to be known as the hardest tackler on the team. He’s a top student and a natural leader on the field, in the locker room, and in the hallways as well.
ILB/FB/TE KEVIN SCHWICKE 5’8” 210 LBS. SENIOR:
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Kevin is determined to lead his team in tackles again this season, and to win the LIC as well. He loves the coaching staff and his teammates and he continues to be one of the hardest workers on the squad as he prefers to lead by example.
OWLS T LYNBROOK
OWLS
By Domenic White Photos by Angela Datre
Head Coach Stephen LoCicero
5th Year-Lynbrook High School
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
The 2009 football season ended on a sour note for the Lynbrook Owls. Starting the season 7-0, the Owls finished 9-2, including a 41-7 loss to division rival Lawrence in the conference championship game. “It just wasn’t our night,” said senior quarterback Paul Magloire, reflecting on that night. “They were playing their best football at that time,” said senior defensive end Brandon Chaney. With the 2009 season behind them, the Owls set out to get ready for the 2010 season focused on winning a championship. “I feel that this season is sort of unfinished business,” said senior middle linebacker Michael Kozlakowski. “We had the potential to win a championship and we feel we have the potential to win one this year.” While the potential to win a championship is there for the Owls, the term “unfinished” is something Owls’ Head Coach Stephen LoCicero doesn’t want to use, but he offers a rather different opinion. “I really don’t like the term unfinished business because I look at every team different,” said LoCicero. “Last year’s senior class and team were great and while the work of this team has been great, I don’t want to compare them.” Entering this season ranked second in Nassau County’s Conference III, the Owls have a new starting backfield on the offensive side of ball which we will be fun to watch, and also a defense that returns two of the top sack
leaders in all of Nassau County. Senior quarterback Paul Magloire and senior running back Travis Locke will be looking to outrun defenses this upcoming season with their unbelievable speed and quickness. “Paul is an extremely athletic quarterback,” said LoCicero. “He is extremely powerful to take down and has a strong arm to go with it.” Locke, known for his toughness, as well as his speed, will be counted on to become a huge factor in the offense. “Travis is an extremely intelligent player,” said LoCicero. “On the field, he has incredible vision when he is running and that often leads to some great things out of him.” It is not only those traits that make Locke special to his coach, but it is his attitude towards his team game of football that makes him a sensational player. “I believe that you have to have that willingness to be great,” said Locke. “The great teams are usually the ones that win championships. The Owls’ defense will be anchored by seniors Mike Kozlakowski, Connor Daly, and Brandon Chaney. All three players carry high praise from their head coach when describing them. Daly, a middle linebacker is considered one of the most reliable players according to the coach. “Connor is a very intelligent kid,” said LoCicero. “He is a high character person and he resembles an Ivy League type of kid, in that he is extremely smart off the field, as well as on it. Kozlakowski, a defensive end/ linebacker, who led Nassau County in sacks with ten last year and was selected
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LONG ISLAND TOP 10
10 OWLS PLAYMAKERS
Paul Magloire
Sr. QB/DB 6’2” 200 lbs Magloire will be looking to scare defenses this upcoming season with his dual threat abilities as quarterback. “He is extremely athletic with an exceptional arm,” said his head coach. At 6’2”, he will be a force to be reckoned with to take down in the open field. “We got to have that no fear mentality in order to be successful this season,” said the senior.
Travis Locke
Sr. RB/DB 6’1” 190 lbs Locke is the other speedster in the backfield that will cause defenses problems this season. “He has exceptional speed and great vision,” said his head coach. Focused and determined to be the best, Locke’s attitude is something to admire. “You have to have that willingness to be great,” said the running back.
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OWLS LYNBROOK
OWLS
all conference last year is a player that holds all the keys to being a great player. “Koz is the total package,” said his coach. “He has the size, speed, and strength to line up with anybody on the field.” It is also his defensive intensity that he carries that makes a dominant player on the field. “I just like to hit,” said the senior end. “I see the ball, and hit the ball. It’s that simple.” Brandon Chaney, another defensive end, was second in Nassau County in sacks, trailing only his teammate Kozlakowski by one, with nine sacks last year. An All-County player last season, Chaney brings the energy to an already stout defense. “Bandon Chaney’s motor never stops running,” said his coach. “He is a player that you can never stop going. He is truly the energy of the defense.” With his energy and intensity intact on defense, Chaney carries a motto that he brings to the field everyday. “I own the edge,” said Chaney. “I protect the outside and my job is to make sure nobody gets to the outside on me.” These five players represent the type of players LoCicero has always wanted in his program. “They have matured and evolved into great leaders,” said the head coach. “Most importantly, they have remained to the program.” Although they all represent great leadership, there are no captains on this years’ Owls’ team. “I believe we have 70 leaders on this team,” said LoCicero. “Each player leads in its own way.” It is with the installing of leadership by the coaching staff as well as the concept of family that has the Owls’ gunning for a championship this year. “Family is my number one thing around here,” said the coach. “We want to create a bond and build a strong team. We need everybody to work for each other.” With family as well as focus, speed, size, and strength in the Owls’ favor this season, this team will be a mighty test for whoever
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faces them. “We have toughness and swagger this year that we were missing last year that I believe will make us better this year,” said Magloire. With those missing elements, the Owls feel a championship is in their sights. “We have an eye on the prize this year,” said Daly. “We are just going to take one game at a time,” said Magloire. Game one begins September 7.
OWLS PLAYMAKERS Mike Kozlakowski
Sr. RB/DE/LB 6’3” 235 lbs One of the top defensive players in Nassau County last season, Kozlakowski will be looking to repeat his performance of ten sacks, which led Nassau County last year. “He is the entire package,” said LoCicero. “He has size, speed, and strength.” Kozlakowski feels last year should have been a championship season and he is entering this season hoping to help the Owls reach that championship goal. “There’s no funny business this year,” said the senior. “This season, I feel we have everything we need to win a championship.”
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BULLDO J HEWLETT
BULLDOGS
By Ken Ryan Photos by Angela Datre
Jay Iaquinta, the veteran football coach at Hewlett, likes to say that it is not how you start, but how you finish that is important. But he may want to make an exception to that mantra after his Bulldogs opened the 2010 season with a 43-7 thrashing of Manhasset. Hewlett enters the 2010 season ranked third in Nassau Conference III behind Lawrence and Lynbrook, which both finished with nine wins a year ago. But the Bulldogs may be a team to reckon with after rushing for 436 yards in the victory over Manhasset. Mark Rizzo led the way with 185 yards on six carries, including two long touchdown runs. Sam Martorella added 92 yards on eight carries. The offensive line was led by guard Niv Sultan (6-4, 253), a bona fide Division I prospect who’s being looked at by the likes of Syracuse and UConn, as well as Ivy League schools. Sultan is a defensive line prospect who is just beginning to realize his potential. “He’s raw but he has so many physical tools,” Iaquinta said, noting that Sultan runs a 4.8 40yard dash and has a vertical leap of 32 inches. “I brought him to some [college prospect] combines and he put up some fantastic numbers. He understands leverage and the ability to play with strength. Niv is a very good athlete that just needs to learn and understand the nuances of the game.” Sultan can move so well for a 6-4, 253-pounder that the coach has moved him to middle linebacker on defense. “He runs well,
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
OGS
TEAMS TO WATCH
is smart and can make all the calls needed,” Iaquinta said. Sultan loves the new role, saying, “I would be able to take more of a leadership role on the field and be involved in every play. I should really have a standout year. For my size I am quick and fast. I react well and know tendencies because I watch film.” Defensively, Hewlett move from a five-man front to a 4-3 to take advantage of Sultan’s speed. Alex Kahn, the senior quarterback. is a run-pass threat in the team’s spread offense. Rizzo, a versatile athlete, will be a standout on both sides of the ball.
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SPARTA T ELMONT
SPARTANS By Dan Holzhauer Photos by Bruce Feeley
The Elmont Spartans have not long been considered a Long Island football powerhouse. But the team that once flew under the radar has now reached the playoffs in six consecutive years and is one season removed from a Nassau County Championship. There is no doubt that the Elmont game is already circled on every team’s schedule, and in 2010 the Spartans will showcase Jaquan Smith, one of the best runners on Long Island. “He’s the best kid I’ve coached in 25 years,” says Head Coach Jay Hegi, who is in his 9th year in charge of the team. “He’s a legit 4.3 kid. He’s getting recruited by Rutgers pretty heavily and I’m hoping that all works out for the kid. It’d be a pretty nice dream for the kid, for us and our program.” The Spartans have several players that can put the ball in the end zone on any given play, but none of them are as big of a home run threat as Smith. Last year, as a junior, he led the team in rushing yards, and this year he could get consideration for the Thorpe Award, which is given to the best football player in Nassau County. The 5’8” Smith is also a star for the Elmont track & field team where he was a state qualifier in the 100 meter dash. The team is also excited about their tall, big-armed quarterback Qusarn Caldwell. The 6’1” Caldwell is just a junior, but he’s already taken a leadership role on a talented Elmont team. Caldwell’s
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
arm should help spread the field and prevent opposing teams from filling the box in an attempt to contain Smith. Hegi says, “We love the kid. He’s a real good athlete. A rare quarterback we’ve had here with height and speed, and he can throw the ball. He’s a junior and a great kid.” Smith and Caldwell will lead the Spartan’s pro slot style offense, which will have a lot of weapons and is expected to put up plenty of points. “We’ve got some really good skill kids. Charlie Dimoh is a really good athlete. We’ve got some really good skill kids in Kevin and Kyle Johnson,” says Hegi. “We’re real good with skill kids. We think that we’ve got a chance to do some damage this year.” With plenty of skill to go around, it will be up to a young and inexperienced group of linemen to come together and propel the Spartans to the playoffs for the seventh straight year. The anchor of the o-line will be center Mike Estinville. The 6’2” junior will provide much needed size and leadership. “I’ve got to get the huddle down and make sure everyone knows where they are blocking. It’s just a rebuilding process from last year,” says Estinville. “I’ve got to put in the work. Just go in the weight room and tell everybody to get in there and keep working hard.” Many of the skill players on offense will have to work twice as hard. Most of them will be playing ironman
ANS football. Caldwell will play safety and Smith, Dimoh and the Johnsons will make up the team’s crew of linebackers. “Our offense is looking great this year. Our defense, we call it ‘no yards.’ Our defense is unstoppable,” says Smith. But even with talent on both sides of the ball, Elmont will have their work cut out for them in the always competitive Nassau Conference II. The Spartans will kick off their season at home against John F. Kennedy, Wantagh and Calhoun over their first four games. Then they must go on the road to face off against division stalwarts Garden City and Carey. “We’ve got a good coaching staff that’s going to help us right now,” says Smith. “We just look at it. Our coaches tell us to watch film and prepare for them. Then we just go out there and play... we watch a lot of film.” The road will not be easy for the Elmont Spartans, but the team has the tools to compete with every team in the conference. The team has good chemistry, with a lot of the players growing up and playing football together their whole lives. But the key words on everybody’s lips at El-
TEAMS TO WATCH
mont High School are ‘hard work.’ Dimoh says, “Our offense can put up good numbers this year. We have the potential to beat a lot of teams. We’ve just got to keep working. Every play we are going to keep going harder and harder whistle to whistle.”
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EAGLES W EAGLES
HAUPPAUGE
By Harvey Sandig Photos by Bruce Feeley
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
When asked how he thought his football team would do this year, head coach Joe Patrovich hesitated. “We have a lot of unknowns,” he admitted. “All of our starters graduated except for two.” There are 39 players on his squad, 17 of which are seniors. The club responded well to his teachings by defeating Harborfields, 28-14, in its opener. The star of the show was senior tailback Mike Ortolani, who tallied 3 touchdowns and rushed for 175 yards. He was feted in Newsday on its highlight page. If you expected him to be a gridiron giant, he is not, as he’s only 5’9” and 165 lbs. “I began playing when I was five with kids in my neighborhood,” he advised. “In fact, ten of us have been together since that time and I live across the street from Brendan Ehlinger (the Eagles’ quarterback)! We’re all close both on and off the field.” Small size notwithstanding, Ortolani overcame obstacles not to his making. “I had slanted feet growing up,” he unabashedly admitted. “Doctors told me I would never be an athlete. That got me mad. When I heard that, I wanted to prove them wrong.” Ortolani played JV as a freshman and a half-year as a sophomore; then was promoted to varsity. Last year, he only played defensive back. As a speedy runner, the team uses him in the wildcat position, which is a formation where the ball is snapped directly to the running back from the shotgun while the quarterback splits out wide. Just 2:39 into the game, Ortolani darted down the sidelines, 27 yards to paydirt. With 1:42 remaining in the 1st quarter, his 25-yard dash up the middle put Hauppauge farther in front, 13-0. Harborfields scored in the 2nd quarter
and Ehlinger’s poor snap over their punter’s head put their opponent in business close to the goal line. It was here the game turned -- the defense held fast and did not allow Harborfields to score. “Even though they were in our red zone, we didn’t fall apart,” Patrovich declared. “We didn’t let them get ahead of us.” Any thought of their opponent getting back into the contest was quashed when, on the opening 2nd-half kickoff, Ortolani sprinted 40 yards to the one whereupon halfback Anthony BrodySantos punched it in. Ortolani scored on the 2-point conversion to widen his club’s edge to 21-7. Hauppauge got its final touchdown when Chanse Melendez tallied on a 27-yard scamper.You can’t win without a good defense and one of the Eagles’ leaders is 3-year starter Anthony Martello, the only player who made varsity as a sophomore. “He goes both ways at defensive end and offensive guard,” his coach said. “He’s 6’1½”, 220 lbs, extremely strong and is also on the wrestling team.” Martello started at age 7. “I love contact and winning,” he admitted. “I was hungry to play.” He praised his teammates’ work near the goal line which sparked the victory. “We had faith in each other. Our defense was getting sacks. We kept our heads up, were resilient and answered the call. We kept the heat on them and ended up on top.” To Martello, the win against Harborfields was “sweet revenge.” “We didn’t play them last year, so it was the first time we faced them since they eliminated us in the 2008 playoffs. That loss left me angry.” He also stressed the total turnaround in fortune when Patrovich arrived in 2008. “He changed our program from a disorganized one to playoff-bound.” Possessors of a 6-2 regular season record in 2009 in Conference III, the Eagles de-
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TEAMS TO WATCH
feated Comsewogue and Sayville in the playoffs before losing to Half Hollow Hills West in the County finals at Stony Brook. This was a long way from the moribund 2007 season when they were winless at 0-8. Patrovich took over the following fall and installed a different philosophy and attitude. The club responded by going 6-2 and qualifying for post-season play. Patrovich brought an outstanding track record to Hauppauge as he won two County titles with Levittown Division over a 7-year stretch in the ‘80’s and County titles in 1991, 1992 and 2002 over a 20-year span as the head coach at Islip. His 2002 club won the Rutgers Cup – the overall Long Island championship. He also coaches wrestling at Islip and is a member of the Suffolk County Hall of Fame. “When I got there, I saw we had a lot of good athletes who had won titles in other sports,” he asserted. “I wanted to make football important. We reorganized the club and installed a tougher work ethic. We became more physical by working out in the weight room three nights a week beginning in January. I wanted to develop a winning attitude.” He also got much support from all concerned. “The athletic department has been unbelievably
cooperative. The community has done a lot for the program, fundraising, serving the kids breakfast and lunch. They sold t-shirts and financed an Awards Dinner. In my mind, we have a booster club that rivals no other.” Their field leader is southpaw quarterback Brendan Ehlinger, who’s described as a “solid runner and someone who throws the ball well.” He’s also on the wrestling team.
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EAGLES EAGLES
HAUPPAUGE
“I believe I can lead by example and get the job done,” he effused. “We use lots of formations, but I find it pretty easy. I pay attention.” His biggest thrill was making the County finals last year -- he called is a “great experience.” He was happy with his performance on Opening Day. “Our wildcat worked well with Mike so we kept at it. We ran the ball and holes opened up. Our offensive line blocked really well and the defense made stops.” Other stalwarts on the squad include Anthony Brody-Santos, Chanse Melendez, Frank Prass, Charles Lloyd, Dom Respoli and Vance Wernet. “Brody-Santos is a running back and safety,” Patrovich advised. “He is 6’1”, 195 lbs. and a very fast, athletic individual who can both catch and run. He is also on the basketball team. Melendez at 6’, 185 lbs. is a multi-purpose player and a very athletic running back and linebacker.” “Respoli is a 6’1”, 205 lb. defensive end and offensive tackle. His strong point is his quickness. Prass at 5’10”, 235 lbs. doubles as the starting nose guard and offensive center. We’re counting on him to anchor the offensive line.” “Lloyd at 6’3”, 215 lbs. takes over at
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left tackle. He’s an extremely hard worker who made himself into a football player. Wernet at 6’3”, 175 lbs. is our ‘go to’ receiver. He also plays defensive back and is on the wrestling team.” In the pre-season coach’s poll, Hauppauge was seeded 10th out of 14. Patrovich feels the success of his squad rests solely on how his inexperienced juniors from 2009 now perform as starters in 2010. He is very optimistic. “Our strength is to run the ball and use multiple formations based upon the talent we have. We have team speed and high motivation. The test is, ‘are we going to battle on every down?’ We have lots of questions, to be sure. I expect things to be tough.” For one night though, they got the job done, though it wasn’t pretty. “We made a handful of mistakes in the first half but were resilient,” the head coach concluded. “That’s the main thing.” Ortolani was confident and summed up his teammates’ feelings. “Don’t let the hype go to your head,” he advised. “We can only go forward, not backward. Think positive all the time. Together, there’s nothing we can’t handle.”
PATRIO G WARD MELVILLE
PATRIOTS By Kaela Mahon Photos by Rich Ruotolo
Green. Green field, green uniforms, even the coaches were wearing green – and it created the greenhouse effect. It was only preseason practice, but there was an authentic, fresh energy on the Ward Melville football field and it was re-radiated in all directions. Just as the athletes have gained seniority throughout the years; the previous assistant coach, Rob Neugebauer, has taken rank as head coach this year. Everyone involved in the program is excited and prepared. It could be the Patriots time to shine. Coach Neugebauer founded his love for the game as a Sayville Golden Flash, but joined the Ward Melville green and gold last year as a coach. After graduating from high school, he played for C.W. Post and became the assistant coach at the university after he graduated college. After three years coaching a Division III college, he took a job at Longwood and has now settled in at Ward Melville. He is joined by offensive coordinator Mike Hoppey, running back and line back coach Ed Munoz and offensive
FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2010
line coach Chris Pugliese. This seasoned team of coaches has helped develop the skills of their tops players. Look out for Pat O’hae their senior quarterback, Zach Zannone, senior running back and Mike Corrie, senior defenseman. “It was a smooth transition since Coach Neugebauer was our assistant last year,” said O’hae. “We already feel committed and confident about this year; it is great to feel like we are starting something new.” Although the Patriots ended last season with a record of 2-6, the coaching staff and new fitness center at the school have brought life to the program. With no attempt to reinvent the wheel, the team will rely on their hard work and high energy to start the season strong. The work ethic that was displayed during preseason made it obvious that the players are dedicated and certain of getting wins. The team was captain-less as preseason came to a close and coach Neugebauer said, “I want the players to know, just because someone is not named captain does not mean that their job as a leader comes to an end.” The players bonded and built team morale by putting together a car
OTS wash and having two team barbeques over the summer. They also met for training to jumpstart the new program. “We have been in the weight room four times a week with the staff, said Zannone. “Our first game is away at Commack on the first day of school [September 7th]. It will set the tone for the season.” The Patriots are known for their success in lacrosse and the supportive town has created a large, spirited fan base. Many of the football athletes finished their lacrosse season in the spring, used the gym to stay in shape over the summer, and now hope to use their confidence and agility on the football field this fall. The number of athletes participating in football grew exponentially this year. Although there may be a problem getting the ball to every kid on the team, each athlete will play their own unique and crucial part in this season’s experience. The program now has a website for parents and fans to help build a following for football. This season’s schedule and roster are available and game changes and
TEAMS TO WATCH
players of the week will be readily updated throughout the season. “Every game is important and my philosophy is that ‘no game is more important than the one we are playing right now’,” said Coach Neugebauer. “We will take it one game at a time.”
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PRO C PRO CORNER
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By Joe Pietaro Photos by Luis Cova Last April was like a month-long Christmas morning for New York baseball fans. After the long wait for new ballparks for the Yankees and Mets, two retro-styled millionaire playgrounds arose from what were temporary construction sites in the Bronx and Queens, respectively. Through 81 home dates each, both clubs (and their fans) grew accustomed to their new surroundings. There were praises aplenty and even a few complaints, but for the most part, both were overwhelmingly successful. Perhaps the most glorious attribute that both stadiums paid to the game was the ‘Back To The Future’ look they share. This incarnation of The Stadium is more similar to the original 1923 ‘House That Ruth Built’ than the mid1970s renovated version. The Gate 4 entrance evokes memories of yesteryear with the Indiana limestone exterior and the façade is back in full form surrounding the roof from the interior. Because Fred Wilpon grew up in Brooklyn a die-hard Dodgers fan, the Mets owner had his new stadium pick up where the wrecking ball left off in 1961 at Ebbetts Field. The famous rotunda was back and it’s interior was dedicated to Jackie Robinson, one of the standouts from ‘Dem Bums.’ That was the story of last summer, and one that extended into the fall and another World Series championships for the Bombers. Of all
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people, New Yorkers may be the most difficult to please. So what would be done for an encore? Perhaps the biggest complaint about Citi Field was that it was more of a tribute to the Brooklyn Dodgers than the Mets. The organization listened and made some modifications and additions during the offseason. Added were more Mets colors, banners and photos all throughout the stadium. The Mets Hall of Fame opened in April and is like a mini Cooperstown, Mets style.
CORNE Paying homage to the home team was never a problem at any incarceration of Yankee Stadium. This latest version is perhaps the most worthy in that aspect. The fact that ownership never had any intention of selling the naming rights to the highest corporate bidder proves that in itself. Although the majority has lauded the new digs, there are some purists that will always long for the original. “Give me Shea Stadium any day,” said Bellmore resident Todd Kutil, 50, who was taking in a Mets game with his three
teenage sons, Brett, Patrick and Timmy. “That was the first ballpark I ever went to as a kid and it was fine by me.” His boys have no problem with Citi Field, especially as they waited in line at its famous ‘Shake Shack.’ “This is a great place to watch a game,” 17-year-old Brett commented. “Shea was okay, but having a brand new stadium is much better. And adding more Mets memorabilia here was the right idea.”
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PRO C PRO CORNER
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As far as changes this year at Yankee Stadium, they didn’t need to do much except add World Series champion banner number 27. Bomber fans already loved the place the way it was and that has transcended into the second time around. “This is the best place in baseball to go to a game,” said Brooklyn’s Joe Perricone, who has never been anything but a Yankees fan in his 41 years on earth. “We all love the original Yankee Stadium, but they have brought along a lot of the history across the street with them.” When asked about some of the highlights of the new Stadium, Perricone didn’t hesitate. “Monument Park and the façade,” he said. For fans like Perricone and the Kutils – or at least the younger generation for the latter – the calendar has read December 25th all summer long two consecutive years and counting.
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“The Secret to Team Building”
Tom Ferraro, Ph.D. Carly Schwartz (Hobart and William Smith College) In press for Ultimate Athlete Magazine August 23, 2010 All rights reserved
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Establishing the essence of a team falls on the shoulders of the coach. It takes great skill and character to achieve team cohesion. Players often tend to grandstand, get jealous, demand attention or get lazy. And these problems don’t go away until they are addressed. Lack of team cohesion can easily destroy a season. So exactly how does one build a team into a fully functioning smooth running unit? This article addresses this issue.
“Team building is an art that all couches need to learn.”
W Coaching Staff:
We can learn much by studying the great coaches. Vince Lombardi was known for his toughness. Woody Hayes of Ohio State focused on preparation. Doc Counsilman, the famed Indiana University Swim coach, was known for his compassion and deep commitment to his swimmers. And UCLA’s John Wooden was a master teacher who was also strict and built character in his players. They were trained in politeness so well that they would leave the locker room spotless after every practice. He did this to teach them respect for their fellow man. The coach sets the tone and he or she alone is the one who will build a strong team. All great coaches are exceptional people with great passion, love of sport and integrity. But that is not all one needs to build a team.
“A coaches core values must be communicated to his team clearly and often.”
Problems and Threats to Team Cohesion: Despite the coaches’ best efforts to establish discipline, enthusiasm and core values things often go wrong. This produces frustration and anxiety in the coaching staff. Here are a few of the ways things go south.
..
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Interpersonal issues like jealousy envy and cliques Lack of effort and laziness personal problems cause distraction Splitting of loyalties between coaching staff
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Injury, Slumps
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A player’s
TS Psy “Team rituals like dinners of pre-game talks bond the team together.”
T W
The Team Legacy, Tradition and History: Another factor in team building relates to its legacy. Players must be allowed to see the team’s history and its achievements. Go into the Yankee locker room and you will see trophies, banners and photos of past champions. The tradition of a team can serve to inspire, direct and motivate a team. A coach can encourage hustle during practice but visual reminders of what the team has done and what you expect is a subtle and effective way to keep the message in front of them at all times. It is yet another way to build team cohesion.
T Team Rituals:
There are many ways that a team can bond. We call this the team rituals and it includes team dinners, scavenger hunts, pre-game talks, team prayers, halftime talks and post game talks. Al Pacino captured the essence of an inspirational pre-game speech in the film Any Given Sunday. Al Pacino as Coach “Tony D’Amato gave an impassioned speech minutes before game time and rousing them to battle for ‘every inch.’ When a coach can speak from the heart like this it will bond the team. . The team captain is another important role. Every team has a captain who guides and inspires the team. They lead by example and the captain is usually the player that is admired the most by others but who does not produce jealousy. And if the team captain fails to be a selfless leader, the team will suffer. Other team rituals include pre-game dinners, and other bonding experiences on and off the field. While each team uses team rituals the unique way in which they do is critical in order to maintain a positive team dynamic. Research in the military shows that bonding is best in small groups of 3 – 6 men each and this strategy is now being used in college football. Teams are sent away to boot camp to instill trust and group bonding.
What to Do to Build a Team: When you look to answers it is easy to see that a key ingredient that cures this issue is open communication. Coach Coughlin of the NY Giants turned his tenure around when he put into effect ‘The President’s Counsel’ where his top players had a chance to air grievances with him. Communication takes time but it’s worth it in the end. Every great coach does two things well. They spell out their rules and expectations clearly and say what needed to be said. And they also are able to listen to what players have to say. Great coaches talk openly and with respect and they listen carefully to their players.
Team building is a great art. It is one of the unchartered and under researched areas in sport but one that is key to winning. The intensity of team sports is unmatched. You can have peak moments nearly every game. But the problems inherent in team life are huge as well. Clear rules, solid values, team rituals and open communication are the pillars of great coaching. Best of luck with the season and enjoy it all. Bio; Dr Tom Ferraro is a noted Sport Psychologist based on Long Island who works with has worked with teams and individual athletes for twenty years. Carly Schwartz is a sport psychology intern attending William Smith College. They can be reached at (516) 248-7189 or at drtferraro@aol.com
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Bange Power Points
BencH Press King of all exercises By Paul Mastronardi
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How much does he bench? One of the most common questions that is asked when referring to a players strength level. The bench press is one of the most efficient upper body exercises, mainly because it is a compound exercise that involves multiple joints and multiple muscle groups. When performed as part of a well organized strength training program, using proper form, the bench press has great benefits. The NFL combines have incorporated the bench press test into their testing protocols (225lbs.for as many repetitions as possible). In 2002, the American Football Coaches Association appointed a task force comprised of high school and college football coaches to establish a nationwide system of standardized athletic tests for high school football players. The National Athletic Testing System (NATS) was born. One of the components of the NATS test is the bench press. In the NATS test, each player is asked to bench press 185 lbs. for as many repetitions as possible. In this months power points I will discuss the various components of the bench press, body position, lifting technique (form) and proper safety protocols
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griP: Grip spacing is an individual preference that largely depends upon structure and musculature, I recommend a slightly wider that shoulder width grip. Use the knurling on the bar as a reference point when locating the grip position. The width grip on the bar will determine what muscle groups will be emphasized while performing the lift. A narrow grip requires greater triceps and deltoid involvement, while a wider grip will require more pectoral involvement. The reason for this is when the grip is wider it requires the elbows to flare (abduction), thus placing the emphasis on the pectorals. For maximum efficiency the elbows should be slightly adducted to allow near equal distribution among the involved muscle groups with the least emphasis placed on the triceps since this is the smallest muscle involved and it will be the first to get fatigued. When actually gripping the bar, rap the thumbs around the bar this will provide the highest degree of safety.
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20
UlTiMaTe aTHleTe MagaZine LONG ISLAND EDITION
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ed up >>>>
TecHniQUe (forM) After assuming a stable compact position on the bench, feet positioned correctly, and taking a proper grip, the lifter is ready for the bar to be taken off the rack. With complete control lower the bar to a position across the midline of the chest. During the negative (eccentric) phase of the lift emphasize complete control over the bar which is crucially important. If the bar is lower too fast the weight will
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build inertia and it will make the lift less efficient (100 lbs lowered too fast will equal 140 lbs when it reaches the chest), thus producing fewer repetitions. By lowering the bar too quickly it will also add stress to the connective tissue and expose the lifter to injury. The weight should be lowered to a point that is at the midline of the chest or one inch below (point of emphasis; do not let the bar hit the sternum this can lead to serious injury). The elbows are tucked in toward the latisimus so
that the triceps come into contact with the lats. When raising the weight positive (concentric) phase, the bar should travel in a slight arc that begins at the midline of the chest and travels to a point where the bar is over the upper chest upon completion of the repetition. During the raising stage of the lift the elbows should begin to flare outwards(abduction) utilizing side deltoid strength and maintaining upward movement of the pectorals and triceps.
safeTY: Never bench press alone
i ii iii iV V Vi Vii Viii
Always have a spotter
Spotter must pay full attention to the lifter at all times Spotter use an over-under two hand grip when spotting the bar
Communicate to the lifter so he is ready to receive the barbell Do not arch or bridge when doing the bench press Do not bounce the bar off the chest (this may lead to serious injury or death) Stay away from 1 rep single repetitions, this can lead to injury.
final PoinT The NATS test is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to evaluating talent. Just like the SATS are used for college admission, the students grades and performance over their high school careers are vitally important in evaluating a students ability to perform college level academics. A football players performance on film is the most important indicator when evaluating a football prospect.
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