Maple Leaf High School Football Preview 2017

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August 25, 2016

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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August 25, 2016

BERKSHIRE HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Badgers Colors: Purple & Gold Home: Dr. William A. Reed Field Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2005 (tie) OHSAA: Div. V, Region 17 Playoff History: 1975, 1981, 1983, 2015 (0-4) HS Boys: 170 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 181 2016 Season: 5-5 (4-3 CVC) Coaches: Ron Brown (def. coordinator), Tom Hinkle, Rich Klemencic, Justin Young, Gordon Cossick, Brad Wadsworth Trainer: Mario DeMattia Roster: 43 total - 7 seniors; 11 juniors; 12 sophomores; 13 freshmen Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @bhsfball15 Players to Watch: Richie Klemencic, Jr. RB/LB (6-0, 210); Spencer Price, Jr. QB/CB (5-10, 149); Griffin Urban, Jr. RB/DE (6-1, 174); Jared Hinkle, Sr. RB/DE (5-11, 180) Cheerleaders: Lauren Evans, Jillian Fekete, Bella Jones, Hayley Kumher, Katrina Ostrander, Melanie Rakoczy

@Harvey Grand Valley Garfield @Fairport Kirtland @Hawken @Richmond Hts Cuyahoga Hts* Independence @Cardinal

NEW BERKSHIRE FACES WANT TO SURPRISE OPPONENTS

By Jamie Ward Berkshire will rely on a few seniors and plenty of underclassmen as it tries to continue a winning tradition under head coach Josh DeWeese. There were some struggles in the early dog days of August. But being prepared for Week 1 was the main goal.

“We came out on fire, and then we had a lull,” said DeWeese, a Berkshire graduate starting his fifth season. “But we’ve been pushing forward through it and working pretty hard.”

There are six seniors on the team, although Jacob Hanson, the team’s experienced kicker, is a soccer player.

Many Faces on Offense

2017 Schedule Aug. 25 Sep. 1 Sep. 8 Sep. 15 Sep. 22 Sep. 28 (Thur.)

Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 * Homecoming

Badgers to Grow Up Quickly with Few Seniors

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DeWeese will take over play-calling duties during games. It’s a role he’s comfortable in, having installed his own playbook four seasons ago.

Berkshire has been known for its feature back under DeWeese, but this season there are at least five Badgers who are trying to make their mark at running back.

“We are proud to not have a feature back because we want to spread it

out, move it around and keep people fresh,” DeWeese said. That’s mostly because the Badgers have so many two-way players.

The group varies in speed and size. Jared Hinkle, Griffin Urban, James Lorenzo, Ryan Pennypacker and Richie Klemencic will alternate carries in the team’s three RB positions.

The team’s offensive concepts, though, will stay the same.

Spencer Price, a junior, will take over as quarterback. Price started with the junior varsity team last season.

Jacob Young, now a junior, had 21 catches for 344 yards a season ago.

Junior Ky Bowman is looking for a breakout season. And senior Hunter Geber will play the slot.

The offensive line had a lot of competition early in camp. The Badgers do not have the same size up front as they have had in years past — the same experience.

“We are smaller this year,” said Urban, who’s excited for the chance to carry the ball on offense.

Zac Nehas will return as the team’s center. The rest of the offensive line spots are up in the air, the coach said.

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No Rest for the Weary Berkshire will play its guys both ways, as roster numbers are slightly down this season.

But the team’s defense, a 4-4, returns three of its lead tacklers in Urban, Lorenzo and Klemencic. There are five total returning starters.

Urban and Hinkle are the defensive ends. Lorenzo and Klemencic are linebackers, and Geber is the team’s safety.

Geber is embracing his leadership role. And he enjoys the safety position because of the vantage point it gives him on defense.

“I need to lead the young kids,” he said. “I think that the family aspect of this team has already been hitting. (I think) it took a little bit longer last season.” “(Lorenzo) always finds the ball,” DeWeese said.

“He’s always at the ball.”

Young and Bowman are going to play the corner positions, making Berkshire’s secondary one of the most experienced units on the team.

Hanson provides the Badgers with a rare weapon for a small school, an experienced kicker who has long yard range and is able to pin opponents deep on kickoffs.

Hanson may also take over the punting duties this year.

“Each year he’s been stronger and stronger,” DeWeese said.

Cardinal is never far from the minds of Berkshire players, even during the second week of practice in

“I think that the family aspect of this team has already been hitting.”

- Hunter Geber

Coach Josh DeWeese

August. Senior Mason Lustig was a Husky last season, but he joins a new school with a new position this year.

He was still getting used to his new role. “I mean, it’s my first year here, so it’s a lot different,” he said. “I hope they are starting to look up to me. It’s getting a lot better.”

“The hate for Cardinal is real,” said Geber, laughing, then admitting to having friends on the Cardinal team.

5th season (19-22) A history teacher at the high school, DeWeese is a 1996 Berkshire graduate.

Extra Points • The Badgers are paced by Blake Jenkins (3.9 GPA), Chris Groudle (3.9), Peter Brent (3.714) and Griffin Urban and (3.637) in the classroom.

• The Badgers were feast or famine on defense a year ago. They allowed just 9.2 points per game in wins and 47 points per game in losses.

• The Badgers rivalry with the Cardinal Huskies is tied 31-31-1 over the 63 years it has been played.

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August 25, 2016

CARDINAL HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Huskies Colors: Red, White & Black Home: Richard A. Moss Field Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2003 OHSAA: Div. VI, Region 21 Playoff History: 2002 (1-1) HS Boys: 152 OHSAA Adj. Enrollment: 155 2016 season: 4-6 (3-4 CVC) Coaches: Kevin Baggett, Jim Gonczy, Jim Soltis, Troy Sullivan Trainer: Lisa Ginsburg Roster: 28 total - 9 seniors; 7 juniors; 9 sophomores; 3 freshmen Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @huskies_fb and @cardinalhuskies Players to Watch: Matt Carney, Jr. QB/DB (6-1, 175); Trey Shirkey, Jr. RB/LB (61, 215); Cam Klepper, Sr. RB/DL (510, 170); Hayden Cummins, Sr. OL/DL (6-2, 205); Robbie Mulh, Sr. TE/DB (6-2, 200) Cheerleaders: Sarah Hogue, Marina Cooper, Rhianna Hamburg, Jillian Hunt, Sarah Shahan, Hanna Traggiai, Terryan Metheny, Katlyn Light, Lacey Portman, Ashley Rutkowski, Avery Volpe, Erika Ellis, Alissa Hogue, Emily Skytta, Chauna Limbeck

2017 SCHEDULE Aug. 25 Garfield Sep. 1 @Py Valley Sep. 8 Grand Valley Sep. 15 Independence Sep. 22 Cuyahoga Hts Sep. 29 @Fairport Oct. 6 Kirtland* Oct. 13 @Hawken Oct. 20 @Richmond Hts Oct. 27 Berkshire *Homecoming

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Experience Returns in Huskies Junior and Senior Classes A DIVISION CHANGE, PROMISING NEWCOMERS, SIX HOME GAMES AND NO P2P FEES ARE POSITIVES

By Jamie Ward This offseason, an incredible thing happened. The Cardinal community raised enough funds to cover the payto-participate fees. It reverses a trend that first hit Cardinal hard 10 years ago when these fees were raised to over $400. But the price this season was set to double before that fundraiser.

“Our season is already a success,” head coach Eric Cardinal said. “This community has come together tremendously.”

Friday Nights have always been an important part of the community. Now there is work to do for the young men who will wear red, white and black on the football field.

Plenty of underclassmen had plenty of snaps last season, and while the team did graduate seven letterwinners, there are 13 returning. Most important could be a talented set of juniors at the skill positions.

Key Junior Starters Return Junior Matt Carney started all 10 games last year, and with that experience under his belt, his maturity and physical growth make for exciting possibilities.

“It’s a lot easier being a year older,” Carney said. “There’s more respect, I guess. I think we’re a lot smoother this year already than we were in Week 1 of last year.”

Junior Trey Shirkey rushed for 800 yards last season despite missing some action due to injury. Shirkey relishes the chance to be a feature back, and realizes it will help his teammates.

“If the defenses we play are going to key on me, we have guys stepping up,” he said. “And they’ll be running for touchdowns.”

Junior Jacob Gotham, a fullback like Shirkey in the team’s Wing-T offense that has added the pistol the past couple seasons, will also carry some of the load.

But Cardinal runs lots of guys in their schemes, so don’t be surprised if

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Brice Hogue, Tyson Sinclair, Robbie Much, Cam Klepper and newcomer Luke Times don’t excel from the halfback and wing positions.

The offensive line graduated three seniors, but that line should receive a real boost from senior Hayden Cummins, who continues his transition from tight end to guard this year.

“It’s been great, and it’s interesting to coach the kids a little bit,” Cummins said. “I think (the leadership) will help me put people in better positions.”

Seniors Andrew Bolton and Dave Braun and sophomore Josiah Zurick should be in the offensive line mix, along with Carl Scribben and Robbie Granny.

Junior Crossland Robinson could have a breakout season from the tight end position in an offense that doesn’t throw the ball much. And senior Eric Proch has looked good at split end in summer workouts, Cardinal said.

Two-Way Players a Must Cardinal, like many programs, continues to experience low roster numbers, so the team’s best athletes always play both ways. The Huskies will run a Base 40 defense for the second season in a row.

On the defensive line, Cummins and Bolton are good-sized ends, while Cam Klepper, a senior leader, is an undersized nose tackle who uses his quickness to disrupt opposing offenses.

Klepper, through his hard work, has developed into a key part of the Cardinal season.

“Honestly, I’m a little nervous,” he said during practice. “I’m just not used to it, I guess.” He said he wants these

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“If the defenses we play are going to key on me, we have guys stepping up.”

- Trey Shirkey Huskies to work together and be more like a family.

The linebackers will be senior Robbie Mulh and Gotham and Shirkey on the inside. Hogue, Sinclair and Robinson are competing for the outside spots.

Porch and Carney return as the team’s starting cornerbacks. Sophomores Michael Lucarelly and Casey Horner will play in the secondary.

Timas will play safety.

The Cardinal seniors — and there are eight this year — tend to be the team’s engine every year, and that’s how their coach likes it.

“When you sit around and talk about the glory days and all that Bruce Springsteen stuff, you’re going to be talking largely about your senior year,” coach Cardinal said. “The last time you did this, the last time you touched the ball. You better own this team. Because if you don’t, somebody else will.”

Coach Eric Cardinal 18th season (94-78) A social studies teacher at the high school, Cardinal wears shorts on the sidelines regardless of weather.

Carney

Cummins

Klepper

Shirkey

Extra Points • It was the Peters family that was instrumental in making sure Huskies athletes did not have pay-to-play fees this year, coach Cardinal said.

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August 25, 2016

CHAGRIN FALLS HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Tigers Colors: Orange & Black Home: C.S. Harris Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin) Last CVC Title: 2013 (tie) OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 14 Playoff History: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 (18-11) HS Boys: 271 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 274 2016 season: 4-6 (4-3 CVC) Coaches: John Scott, Paul Perrine, Gerry Stueber, Mike Salyers, Bryan Kover, Adam Lesko, John Kramer, Kevin Owen Trainer: Anne Algier Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @ChagrinAD Roster: 58 total - 18 seniors; 13 juniors; 15 sophomores; 12 freshmen Players to Watch: Christoph Sontich, Sr., QB/LB (6-4, 235); Sam Gaizutis, Sr. LB (5-9, 180); Patrick Holland, Sr. RB/DB (510, 190); Mick Lawrence, Sr. RB/DB (510, 190); Cade Salyers, Sr. LB (5-9, 170) Cheerleaders: Devon Blanks, Sabrina Boral, Paige Hammond, Niah Johnson, Kara Lustig, Nadia McGinnis, Camryn Safenovitz, Aubrey Tutkovics, Chandler Wood, Marley Vidmar, Jillian Zaffiro, Emmerson Zimmerman, Sophie Zitney

2017 Schedule 8/25 Kirtland 9/1 @Kenston 9/8 @Woodridge 9/15 @Wickliffe 9/22 Orange 9/28 (Thur.) Perry 10/6 @Beachwood 10/13 Geneva* 10/20 Harvey 10/27 @West Geauga *Homecoming

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Tigers Hope for a Return Trip to Playoffs A GOOD NON-CONFERENCE START COULD PROPEL CHAGRIN FALLS TO GOOD THINGS

By Brian Lavrich Last season the Chagrin Falls football team got off to a rough start as the Tigers lost their first four games against a brutal non-conference schedule.

The Tigers rebounded for coach Mark Iammarino (166-181), who will be in his 23rd season leading Chagrin Falls, by winning four of their final six games to finish 4-6 and 4-3 in the Chagrin Valley Conference. However, they know the difference between getting back into the playoffs or falling short will be based on how well they do in their non-conference games.

The Tigers open the season against Kirtland (11-2 in 2016) then take on former CVC rival Kenston (2-8) before facing Woodridge (11-1). It’s important the Tigers win at least one, if not two, of those games if they want to make the playoffs.

A Dangerous Offense Offensively, the Tigers look dangerous. Senior quarterback Christoph

Sontich (6-foot-4, 235 pounds) played well last season after taking over later in the year. He completed 63 percent of his passes for 594 yards and five touchdowns in four games. Sontich also rushed for 171 yards and four more touchdowns.

“I feel a lot more confident with the offense,” Sontich said. “And we have a lot of experienced backs and experienced linemen.”

Iammarino said Sontich should have no trouble hitting the ground running this season.

“He started at linebacker last year,” Iammarino said. “He continued to improve.

He was successful when given the opportunity. He’s worked hard physically and mentally.”

The Tigers have two dangerous runners in senior Patrick Holland and junior Mick Lawrence. Holland led the Tigers with 733 yards rushing on 5.7 yards per carry and nine touchdowns while Lawrence had 344 yards on 6.6 yards per rush and three scores.

Lawrence also led the Tigers with 31 catches for 457 yards (14.7 yards per catch) and seven more touchdowns.

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Both are very dangerous and have great speed.

Lawrence and Holland will both return kicks and punts as well.

“We’re excited about our return game,” Iammarino said. “Pat and Mick have both returned kicks for touchdowns. We feel like it’s an offensive play.”

The offensive line is very experienced as Iammarino will start five seniors. Included in that group are interior linemen Cam Lucas (5-11, 200), Nick Streicher (6-1, 240) and Connor Lewis (5-11, 220) along with tackle John Gardner (6-1, 225) and Nick DiFiore (6-4, 225). DiFiore will mainly play tight end on offense, but is a key blocker. Also in the mix for playing time will be fellow seniors Jake Fritz and John Holle.

“I like it,” Iammarino said. “We have eight senior veterans primarily in the mix. They have mastered most of the playbook. They’re used to it and that’s a huge benefit.”

A Strong Front 7 The strength of the defense will be the front seven, which will be senior laden as well. The Tigers will have plenty of experience at linebacker where leading tacklers and seniors Sam Gaizutis and Cade Salyers both return.

“I think experience is definitely a big strength,” Gaizutis said. “And I think we’ll have a really quick defensive line. That will be a big part of our defense.”

Gaizutis led the Tigers with 111 tackles last season and Salyers was

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“I think experience is definitely a big strength.”

- Sam Gaizutis second with 74. Sontich will be in a unique situation playing both quarterback and linebacker as Iammarino tries to take advantage of his size and speed.

“I’m willing to do whatever I can to help the team win,” Sontich said.

Gaizutis is glad to see Sontich still playing linebacker.

“He’s such a big kid,” Gaizutis said.

“You have to take advantage of him.

He’s an athlete and he has good endurance.”

Fellow seniors Cole Newbauer and Mac Magyaros also return as experienced linebackers.

DiFiore had 52 tackles and three sacks at defensive end last year and will start again along with Lucas.

Joining them will be senior Joe Zimmerman, Gardner and Holle.

“We’re not as big as we’ve been, but we’re faster and quicker,” Iammarino said. “And we return a lot of linebackers. It’s a veteran group.”

The defensive backfield is where the Tigers will be inexperienced, which opens the door for new players like senior Enrique Mares. Iammarino added that both Lawrence and Holland will play some defensive back as well.

Coach Mark Iammarino 22nd season (166-81) A counselor at the high school, Iammarino has taken the team to 10 playoff appearances.

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CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Hilltoppers Colors: Red & Black Home: Chardon Memorial Field Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last Conference Title: 2016 OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 (25-16) HS Boys: 355 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 361 2016 Season: 11-1 (7-0 WRC) Coaches: Jim Britt, Bob Francis, Brian Landies (def. coordinator), Marty Mackar, Chad Murawski, Don Navatsyk (off. coordinator), John Yuha, Bill Overton, Dave Toaddy, Rob Vujaklija, J.J. Laseak Trainer: Hannah Kopack Pay to Play Fee: $350 Follow the Team: @topperfb, @toppernation Roster: 61 total - 26 seniors; 19 juniors; 16 sophomores Players to Watch: Chase Kline, Sr. RB/LB (6-3, 225); Dylan Hemly, Sr. QB/LB (5-10, 187); Cameron Niehus, Sr. OL/DL (5-11, 240); Mason Ziegenfuss, Sr. RB/DB (6-2, 195) Cheerleaders: Kaitlin Altman, Kelley Bolden, Sydni Biello, Clara Kalis, Hayley Deshetler, Cassidy McBride, Allie Malloy, Jeanine Calvert, Morgan Richard

2017 Schedule Aug. 25 West Geauga Sep. 1 St. Joseph Cath.

Sep. 8 Canfield Sep. 15 Riverside* Sep. 22 Mayfield Sep. 29 @Madison Oct. 6 South Oct. 13 @Brush Oct. 20 Kenston Oct. 27 @North *Homecoming

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New Hilltoppers Eager to Maintain Tradition CHARDON HOPES TALENT CAN MAKE UP FOR A LACK OF EXPERIENCE

By Jamie Ward

A New QB is in Town

Chardon starts the season with a lot of questions after running off to a 10-0 regular season last year. They’ve lost most of their starters. But the group that steps in has had success at every level they’ve played.

Seven years under head coach Mitch Hewitt, the Hilltoppers pride themselves on being able to reload because of the youth programs they have built.

From the very beginning, Chardon football players run the same Wing-T offense.

“We’d like to think,” Hewitt said of whether his new players will be varsity ready quickly. “But there’s still no substitute (for varsity playing time). People like to look at JV, and JV means something, don’t get me wrong.”

Last year’s Chardon junior varsity team was 10-0.

“This is a senior class that’s rated for an opportunity,” Hewitt said. “Now, they’re unproven. But they’ve won, and they have players. It’s finally their time.”

The Hilltopper offense largely depends on the quarterback’s ability to run the football. Senior Dylan Hemly and junior Andrew Kobuszewski competed in preseason camp, and as of the second week, no clear player had taken the lead.

Hemly is “tough as nails,” Hewitt said, and a natural leader.

Kobuszewski has “more wiggle, more speed.”

“I think we’re impressing a lot of the coaches, honestly,” Hemly said. “We’re having a good time.

These have been my guys since we were in 7th grade, and I just want to lead them.”

Junior Jon McKnight, senior Mason Ziegenfuss and senior Chase Kline are likely to be the team’s opening night backfield.

Kline, a standout LB who committed to Michigan State in the offseason, hasn’t played offense for a few years.

But his sheer size makes him a formidable fullback. Brandon Frania and Jimmy Cicero, both seniors, are both

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ready on the depth chart.

Physically, Kline is superior to most opponents. But the transition is a mental one.

“It’s a lot different because your body gets a lot more wear and tear so you have to take care of yourself more,” Kline said. “But it’s going to be exciting because I’ll be able to show my athleticism a little bit, and it will be fun to score a little bit.”

Senior Jake Niehus will likely be the team’s target downfield when they throw the football.

The offensive line, big and powerful, will be anchored by senior Cameron Niehus, the team’s starting center. Senior Jared Barker will move into the left tackle position. Senior Ryan Smiddy will be the right tackle.

Some of the other offensive line positions were still in competition.

“There were a lot of good guys who taught me a lot last year,” Cam Niehus said. “I’m excited to lead the new guys and show them how to really rock it.”

All Eyes on Kline There is a lot of excitement around Kline, who will play OLB. The team also returns Ziegenfuss, McKnight and Hemly as starters. But the other stat stuffers from the defense, save Kline, have graduated.

Ziegenfuss said he wants to make sure his senior team lives up to his brother’s (Ethan) expectations. Mason wore Ethan’s jersey at an early practice.

Hewitt anticipates his defensive unit will be smaller this year, allowing for a more aggressive attack with

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“ … in this town, we love our football.”

- Dylan Hemly

slants on the defensive line and blitzes from the linebackers.

The team’s defensive will convert to a 3-4 at times.

Wade Novak and Sam Eldridge will be part of that defensive line.

Austin Arnold and Louie Monaco will also see time on the line.

How this team faces adversity after winning its first 11 games last season could be a storyline to follow. But seven home games in front of huge crowds, especially when the weather is nice in late summer, will be a good way to start.

“Our rosters may change every year, but in this town, we love our football,” Hemly said. “Our expectations won’t change, and we don’t want them to change.”

Coach Mitch Hewitt 7th season (47-20) A high school teacher and Chardon graduate, Hewitt keeps the Toppers strong football tradition alive.

Hemly

Kline

Niehus

Ziegenfuss

Extra Points • Chardon will play a Canadian high school from Ontario for the second straight season in Week 2.

• The Hilltoppers will try and reach the playoffs for a fourth straight season and move down a division, from III to IV, because of the OHSAA’s new competitive balance rules.

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August 25, 2016

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GO HAWKS! Big Game Capital, LLC, 40 East Washington Street, Suite 1, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 • 440-893-7529

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August 25, 2016

HAWKEN HIGH SCHOOL TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Hawks Colors: Red & Gray Home: Walton Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Valley) Last CVC Title: 2005 OHSAA: Div. VI, Region 13 Playoff History: 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2012 (1010) HS Boys: 191 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 212 2016 season: 2-8 (2-5 CVC) Coaches: Gar y Moses, Dan Walton, Shawn McGregor, Joey Marabito, Pat Horsburgh, Ben Austin, John Christie Roster: 20 total - 6 seniors; 5 juniors; 6 sophomores; 3 freshmen Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the team: @HawkenFootball Players to Watch: Nick Canitia, Sr. SE/DB (5-11, 160); T.J. Perusek, Sr. QB/DB (6-1, 180); Will Rowley, Sr. SB/LB (510, 180); Evan Ditchman, Jr. RB/LB (5-11, 170); Zach Elenin, Sr. OL/LB (6-0, 180) Cheerleaders: None

2017 Schedule 8/25 @Trinity 9/1 Lutheran West 9/9 (Sat.) @Gilmour 9/15 @Cuy Hts 9/22 @Richmond Hts 9/28 (Thur.) Berkshire 10/6 @Independence 10/13 Cardinal* 10/20 Fairport 10/27 @Kirtland *Homecoming

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Roster at Record Low for Walton’s Final Season STAYING HEALTHY WILL BE KEY WITH 20 KIDS IN THE PROGRAM

By Jamie Ward A lot of uncertainty surrounds the Hawken Hawks football program with just 20 kids on the roster in grades nine through 12. That’s half what head coach Cliff Walton had just a few years ago, which would have never included inexperienced freshman players.

“Those days are long since passed,” Walton said, admitting sport specialization and a worry about concussions have impacted the program. “Tough times.”

And after 40 years of coaching high school football, Walton is also certain that this will be his last season, having announced it before his second week of preseason camp.

This season will be a challenge. But with six seniors and about half of its returning starters, the Hawks, if healthy, could still be in a position to have success season.

Hawks Again Spread Wings on Offense T.J. Perusek will take over Hawken’s offense at QB after playing in three games a year ago. Perusek has

a strong right arm, a 4.0 GPA and a system that could unleash his potential during his senior year.

“As long as everyone is fully committed, it’s going to be a good season,” Perusek said. “That’s the one nice thing: since we’re really close in the locker room, we know we have everyone’s backs.”

He will also play strong safety.

The team will shuffle players around to fill other spots, but junior Evan Ditchman seems in line to get carries behind Purusek in the backfield.

Seniors Will Rowley and Nick Canitia will be weapons on offense, as will split-ends Kenan Tabachnick and Nate Grossman, neither of whom started last year.

Canitia has the team’s fastest 40 time at 4.66 seconds.

The offensive line is a strength, as four returning starters anchor the group. Zach Elenin, the right guard, is expected to lead.

“I can’t think of anything better to get you prepared,” Elenin said of the lack of depth on the line. “You really get to know your position well and

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your team. Constant reps is the best way to get better.”

Erick Willis-Jordan is the left guard, Jonathan Kutash is the center, Elenin is the right guard, Will Lindsey, who bench presses 255 pounds, is the right tackle, and Cletus Brosovich is the left tackle.

Matt Blum and Nate Bryan are key reserves to start the season on offense.

No Rest For the Weary Players like Canitia, a senior, are going to be integral parts of both offense and defense for an entire game. But Canitia points out it’s been like that at Hawken for the past few seasons.

“We all played every down last season,” he said.

“We never come off the field, all of us. The first couple of weeks are rough because you have to be in shape, and it’s hot out.”

Canitia and Perusek will play safety, joined by Grossman and Tabachnik at the corners. While none of those secondary players started last season, all the team’s linebackers return.

Led by Elenin and Rowley, WillisJordan and Ditchman make for a very strong unit.

“We’re working hard,” Rowley said. “The challenge is if we get an injury, there aren’t too many guys to fill spots. But on defense we are strong, with a lot of returning guys and a lot of guys who have won awards.”

Lindsey and Kutash return as starters to the defensive line and will

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“Being an underdog isn’t always a bad thing.”

- T.J. Perusek be joined by Bryan in the team’s 3-4 defensive scheme. Cletus Brosovich and Jackson Reineke are both sophomores who may get a chance to play on defense.

Walton stresses that while there may be 20 players on the roster, he only considers about 14 of them to be varsity-ready. The Hawks have three freshmen who will be suiting on Friday Nights.

They still returns 11 letterwinners to a CVC Valley conference that also has seen declining numbers in many of its teams.

And as Perusek points out, uphill climbs make for motivating storylines.

“You come out of the locker room and you use it as motivation against larger teams,” he said. “Being an underdog isn’t always a bad thing.”

Coach Cliff Walton 37th season (233-141-1) A physical education teacher at Hawken, Walton has 40 years of high school coaching experience. This is his last season.

Canitia

Elenin

Perusek

Rowley

Extra Points • Walton has had many superlatives throughout his 40-plus years of coaching, including 233 wins. In 1987, Hawken was the state runner up, and his Hawken teams have reached the playoffs 10 times.

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August 25, 2016

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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August 25, 2016

KENSTON HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Bombers Colors: Blue & White Home: Bombers Stadium Conference: Western Reserve Conference Last Conference Title: 2014 OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1981, 1986, 1995, 1997, 2000, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014 (7-9) HS Boys: 385 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 381 2016 season: 2-8 (1-6 WRC) Coaches: Wally Sonnie, Bob Ross, Steve Grubich (off. coordinator), Steve Teringo (def. coordinator), Reed Cornell (def. coordinator), Brad Lako, Scott Anderson, George Gresko, Thomas Greinier, Joe Shumar, Quorey Payne Trainer: Vivianni McKinney Roster: 78 total - 13 seniors; 16 juniors; 25 sophomores; 24 freshmen Pay to play fee: None Follow the Team: @Bomber_Football, @BomberEliteClub Players to Watch: Alex Robarge, Jr. OL (64, 315); Sam Leygraaf, Jr. LB (5-10, 190); Connor Kure, Sr. DL (5-11, 210); Branson Stanley, Jr. WR (6-1, 160); Austin Safko, Sr. WR (6-0, 200) Cheerleaders: Libby Kumnick, Issy Billock, Teeny Hill, Emily Walker, Olivia Heysek, Shalia Campbell, Sunde Merrill, Mykaya Montgomery, Eymani Middleton, Abby Edwards

2017 Schedule Aug. 25 @Streetsboro Sep. 1 Chagrin Falls Sep. 8 West Geauga Sep. 15 @North Sep. 22 Brush* Sep. 28 (Thur.) @Mayfield Oct. 6 @Riverside Oct. 13 Madison Oct. 20 @Chardon Oct. 27 South *Homecoming

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Bombers Eager to Get Back to Winning Ways STILL YOUNG, KENSTON RETURNS TO A MORE FAMILIAR NON-CONFERENCE SCHEDULE IN ITS BID FOR WINNING RECORD

By Jamie Ward Not that head coach Jeff Grubich ever thought it would be easy. But when he took his Kenston football program to the playoffs in his first three seasons — the first time that had happened in school history — you’d be right to say he didn’t expect to be 3-7 and 2-8 in the next two.

Now in his sixth season, Grubich has learned a lot about being a head coach and how to stay positive.

“You stay the course,” he said at the team’s second day of August practice.

“You have three winning seasons, then you have a bad year because of injuries. But you keep coaching, and you have to stay positive and trust the process.”

The team returns 17 letterwinners and 13 starting players on the both sides of the ball. Strengths are the linebackers and receiving core. Weaknesses include youth and a lack of depth.

Still, there is a sense of urgency, as shown by a quick meeting in between drills.

“Like I said, relentless effort,” Grubich told his team, voice rising.

“Don’t waste our time — don’t waste it. Two hours we’re out here trying to make you better. If it’s not important to you, get the heck out!”

An Offense Built Toward Passing Two quarterbacks entered the preseason competing to run the Bombers’ spread no-huddle offense. Senior Jimmy Burg took most of the snaps last season. Sophomore Jon Tomcufcik has no varsity experience but has been impressive in workouts.

Sophomore running backs Jack Porter and Alex Castro should see most of the carries from the backfield.

And the Bombers have a stable of receivers to catch passes, including junior Branson Stanley, who flirted with the QB position last season but projects to be a playmaker on the outside. Stanley had 29 catches for 333 yards last year.

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“It feels good that we are coming together as a family,” Stanley said. “It’s a lifestyle. If you don’t make it a lifestyle, you can’t be here.”

Senior Kee-Shaun Merrill, who led the team with 445 yards on 27 catches last season, also returns.

Austin Safko and Tyler Mintz will be the other two wideouts in a four-person spread.

Alex Robarge, a junior, anchors the offensive line. Senior Zach Czech, junior Brandon Schroeder, senior Patrick Vanderbilt and sophomore George Sell project as the other starters on the line.

A Switch to a 3-4 on Defense Connor Kure was the team’s leading tackler last season with 70. The senior returns to anchor the defensive line.

The team returns an entire linebacker unit with at least one year of varsity experience, three juniors and a sophomore, which is why the Bombers are switching to a 3-4 defensive base.

Sam Leygraaf, Joe Staudenbauer, Matt Iklodi and Logan Vargo expect to start at the linebacking spots.

“The guys are putting in a lot of hard work, and I like the attitude and effort so far,” said Leygraaf, a junior.

“It’s a big responsibility to lead the other guys, to help them out. But we have more experience now.”

Merrill, Stanley, Mintz and Nick Dombrowski will all be in the mix in the secondary.

Kenston is still young, but more experienced. Grubich thinks hard

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“You have to put (last season) behind you, and come in every day and try to get past it. You come in each week and put the last week behind you.”

- Austin Safko

Coach Jeff Grubich 6th season (27-28) An energetic Kenston teacher, Grubich is a Chagrin Falls graduate and was a longtime assistant at Mentor.

work in the weight room and a good combination of size and speed will lead to more success on the field.

Extra Points • The Bombers bring Chagrin Falls and West Geauga, old CVC rivals, back to their schedule in Weeks 2 and 3. Grubich is a Chagrin Falls graduate.

“Thank God, man,” he said. “It’s so refreshing. Long bus rides have hurt us the last two years.”

• Kenston moved from Division II to Division III — “where we belong,” Grubich said.

• Last year, the Bomber offense was stagnant and not nearly as fast as Grubich would like to see. The team averaged 18 points per game.

• “This is the hardest we’ve worked in the four years I’ve been here,” said senior Austin Safko.

Leygraaf

Robarge

Safko

Stanley

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August 25, 2016

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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August 25, 2016

NEWBURY HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Black Knights Colors: Black & Orange Home: Carl Munn Stadium Conference: Nor theastern Athletic Conference Last conference title: None OHSAA: Div. VII, Region 25 Playoff History: None HS Boys: 63 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 68 2016 season: 6-4 (3-2 NAC) Coaches: Don Smith (def. coordinator), George O’Hamill (off. coordinator), Brock Jones Roster: 25 total - 7 seniors; 9 juniors; 7 sophomores; 2 freshmen Pay to Play Fee: $125 Follow the Team: @NJSHS_athletics Players to Watch: Johnny Chambers, Sr. QB/LB (6-1, 185); Jaden Cicchella, Sr. FB/DE (6-1, 190); Alex Lampert, Sr. RB/LB (5-9, 170); Jared Gray, Sr. OT/DT (6-2, 230) Cheerleaders: Liesel Fenstermaker, Baylee Clark, Brittany Whelchel, Becca Harrison, Sam Alldredge, Elle Clark, Jenny Drabek, Jacy Drabek, Abby Harvey and Sydney Louden

2017 Schedule 8/25 @Fairport 9/1 St. John 9/8 Horizon Science 9/15 @Edgewood 9/22 Newton Falls 9/29 @Grand Valley 10/6 Chalker 10/13 Windham* 10/20 @Py Valley 10/27 @Mathews *Homecoming

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Newbury Wants More After Total Program Turnaround ONCE UNTHINKABLE, THE BLACK KNIGHTS EXPECT PLAYOFFS IN 2017 AND HAVE TEAM TO DO IT

By Jamie Ward

Shotgun Single Wing

From a suspended season to six wins, the Newbury turnaround last season was an incredible story to anyone who had watched the program the past 10 seasons.

Head coach Ryan Williams said the right things when he took over the program last year. But so had all of his predecessors. Behind a community and district that supports football, though, Newbury turned in a 6-4 season and finished 10th in its region, just two spots from the playoffs.

Even when you watch a roster of 24 players practice though, that underdog mentality still drives a team that must replace key players.

“It’s really encouraging,” said senior Jared Gray. “It makes me think we can keep our program going for that many more years in the future.”

“It’s actually so motivational,” said senior Johnny Chambers. “For the older guys, it means so much. It’s like these kids actually want to play and be a part of something special.”

Coach Williams’ view of his offense is simple. That is why the switch of Chambers, a 1,000-yard rusher, to QB last season was key to the Black Knights’ success.

“Being the athlete that he is, he could play anywhere and be fine,” Williams said. “But being where we’re at, you want to get your best kid on almost every play.”

Chambers will again start at QB, taking snaps in the Black Knights’ shotgun single-wing offense, where he often keeps the ball, often hands it off, and rarely throws it.

Two new running backs have very large cleats to fill. Senior Alex Lampert, who almost didn’t play high school football but became an All-Ohio LB last season, and Anthony Harley, both move into that position.

Jaden Cicchella, a senior, moves into the fullback position.

Gray is going to help lead an offensive line with senior Mike Weston that is also full of three new faces: juniors Jake Koller and Ryan Mansfield and

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freshman Jon Tropf.

Two more juniors Tino Johnson, who will also play varsity soccer, and Noah Parsons, will start at receivers.

And sophomore Mitch Sanders will play tight end.

Defensive Line Most Improved Unit The Black Knights know most of their small-school opponents are in very similar spots and run the football most of the time. So the team will continue the 5-3 base it switched midway through last season.

With this, the five men up front are the engine that will drive the unit.

Cicchella and Weston will line up as ends. Sanders and Gray will be in the middle with junior Dylan Hamilton at the nose tackle.

“We want to get as many guys as close to the line of scrimmage as possible,” Williams said.

Lampert is the team’s middle linebacker who was an first team All-Ohio last year. Lampert grew up playing football but stopped after the 8th grade. He always loved defense.

“You can be most aggressive on that side of the field,” he said.

Harley and Chambers are the other linebackers, and Johnson projects to play safety. Sophomore Caleb Hill and Parsons are going to play corner.

Sophomores Cameron Hill and Jacob Orms should see some time on defense.

Staying healthy will be key to the Black Knights’ season, as the team learned in 2015, when injuries forced the team to cancel its season during Week 7. And a third of this year’s play-

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“For the older guys, it means so much.

It’s like these kids actually want to play and be a part of something special.”

- Johnny Chambers ers are still new to football.

That’s why when August camp ends for the team, they put their practice pants away for the season. The team does not practice full-go once the season starts.

“We want our kids to play Friday night instead of Tuesday afternoon,” Williams said. “We work on timing and drills, but we don’t tackle.”

“We’re not as big as we were last year,” said Gray. “But we have a lot more speed and a lot more skill. I’ve not really been that much of a leader, but it’s more of a multi-friendship and a brothership than leadership.”

Coach Ryan Williams 2nd season (6-4) Having increased roster size and posted a winning record, Williams is ready for the next step.

Chambers

Cicchella

Gray

Lampert

Extra Points • Newbury adds Fairport, Edgewood and Newton Falls to its schedule, teams that could really bolster the Black Knights computer points and chances to make the playoffs if they can win.

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August 25, 2016

NOTRE DAME-CATHEDRAL LATIN HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Lions Colors: Blue & Gold Home: Lion Stadium Conference: North Coast League (Blue Division) Last NCL Title: 2012 OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 2003, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 (3-7) HS Boys: 246 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 330 2016 season: 9-4 (3-2 NCL) Follow the Team: @NDCL_Football Coaches: August Montz (def. Coordinator), Jeff Banker, Lebeen Beggiani, Joe Ertter, Mike Fleeman, James Heath, Stephen Zbiegien, Sean Dockery, Mike Wheeler Trainer: Austin Koshik Pay to Play Fee: None Roster: 52 total - 16 seniors; 14 juniors; 22 sophomores Cheerleaders: Claire Bouffard, Graciela Damato, Cassidy Kline, Ella Koenig, Noreen Liggett, Kerington Loiczly, Shaun Lynch, Kylie Priggins, Mary Grace Raddell, Kaitlin Ribinskas, Tessina Ruggeri, Roxanne Slyman, Julia Tripodo, Arianna Vitale, Giovanna Vitale

2017 Schedule Aug. 25 @South Sep. 1 @West Geauga Sep. 8 University Sep. 15 Clev. Cen. Catholic Sep. 22 Cleveland Hts Sep. 29 Benedictine* Oct. 6 @Walsh Oct. 13 @Lake Catholic Oct. 20 Hoban Oct. 27 Padua *Homecoming

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Playoffs No Longer Enough for NDCL Expectations DESPITE GRADUATION, NDCL RELOADS AS ONE OF THE TOP TEAMS IN THE AREA

By Jamie Ward A season after NDCL won two playoff games and almost its entire region, the Lions carry themselves with confidence in year three under head coach Andrew Mooney.

These 16 seniors all began their varsity careers under Mooney, so the expectations are well understood by this talented class.

“Everyone underneath understands what’s going on,” the coach said.

“The schemes are embedded, and the offseason has gone the way it should. Everything is understood.”

A Run-Heavy Approach Mooney is an offensive-minded coach who calls the plays himself. The team runs a fast-paced no-huddle offense, but Mooney still prefers to run the ball out of those formations.

With junior Kyle Medves as the feature back and guys like Manni Malone and Josh Peroni also in the

mix for carries, the Lions feel confident in their stable of backs. But combined, those three had fewer than 20 carries a year ago.

That leaves senior Charles Forbes as the biggest returning playmaker. Forbes ran for 536 yards a year ago, and threw the ball for 602 yards more.

Mooney thinks the team will throw the ball more this season with the senior signal-caller.

That’s because the team’s three tight ends are the best in NE Ohio, Mooney said. Seniors Brian Carney and Zach Zienka and junior Anthony Rabil are big targets down the middle of the field.

“It’s a little scary to be a senior,” Zienka said. “But as long as we score touchdowns and win ballgames, that’s our goal.”

Junior Alec Roberts is the team’s leading returning receiver with five catches last year for 182 yards. Matt Tuohey and Ryan Nash are seniors who play WR. And sophomores Nick

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Ball and Jimmy Mitchell will also see reps at the position.

“I try to lead every day by working hard,” Tuohey said. “You can feel the excitement this year. And I just want to be a big playmaker — any play I can make throughout the game that can change the game.”

With so many targets down field, Mooney is confident the Lions can up the pace on offense again. Last season, with new guys at new positions, the team huddled more than in the past.

Aidan MacDonald returns as the team’s starting left tackle on the offensive line. Danny Zucker is the center.

Also Ryan Thomas and Austin Craver, both seniors, are set to step into spots on the line.

Strength in Defense Mooney admits he wants a dominant defense and lets defensive coaches pick their best 11 before he thinks about his offense. That’s because the Lions defense was dominant a year ago, posting two shut-outs and holding an opponent under 7 points three other times.

“We know that our defense is going to make or break our season,” he said.

Peroni will be one of those defensive leaders in the secondary.

“Our practices have been really energetic,” the senior said. “This year we want it more than last year.

We got the taste last year in the playoffs, and we just want more of that.”

Malone led the team in tackles

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“We got the taste last year in the playoffs, and we just want more than that.”

- Josh Peroni last year from the defensive line with 79. He’s excited about his role on offense, but at heart he’s a defensive player.

“Oh my gosh, I’ve been waiting for my senior year for a long time,” he said. “And this is our year to do it. I now have control of my team — I can say it’s mine.”

Matt Arko will be another key defender from the LB position. He had 33 tackles a year ago.

Senior Gabe Brkic returns as probably the best kicker in the area. Brkic is a weapon that Mooney has that very few high school coaches will have.

Extra Points • West Geauga is added to the team’s schedule in Week 2. The relationship between these two schools has been strong, and it should make for a strong rivalry.

• The Lions move from Division IV to Division III because of the OHSAA competitive balance rules. It’s not something Mooney thinks a lot about because he can’t change it.

Andrew Mooney 3rd season (16-8) A social studies teacher at the high school, Mooney has installed a winning culture quickly.

Malone

Peroni

Tuohey

Zienka

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August 25, 2016

WEST GEAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

TEAM PROFILE Nickname: Wolverines Colors: Blue & White Home: Howell Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin) Last CVC Title: 2015 OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015 (2-8) HS Boys: 256 OHSAA Adj Enrollment: 266 2016 season: 6-4 (5-2 CVC) Coaches: Eric Stendalen (def. coordinator), Matt Bloom, Rob Trhlin, Nick Iacampo, Bob Leppla, Jeff Throck Morton Matt Bloom Trainer: Kyle Baer Pay to Play Fee: $195 Roster: 57 total - 21 seniors; 20 juniors; 16 sophomores Follow the Team: @WestGFootball, @WestGAthletics Cheerleaders: Jillian Alioto, Sami Ange, Aliyah Arnold, Allison Bisker, Maggie Carmigiano, Kylie Czikray, Katie Darrah, Emily DiBiase, Alyssa Fioritto, Amanda Force, Angelina Fornaro, Ty Gamiere, Sarah Graber, Calie Huge, Mirielle Korting, Nicolette Mormino, Mikeyla Parker, Alex Paros, Samantha Paros, Tara Ritt, Julia Sassano, Nicole Savage, Gianna Wagner

2017 Schedule Aug. 25 @Chardon Sep. 1 NDCL Sep. 8 @Kenston Sep. 15 @Geneva Sep. 22 @Harvey Sep. 28 Beachwood Oct. 6 Orange* Oct. 13 @Wickliffe Oct. 20 Perry Oct. 27 Chagrin Falls *Homecoming

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Wolverines Start New Era with Strong Seniors PLAYERS WILL LEARN A NEW SYSTEM UNDER A NEW HEAD COACH

By Jamie Ward Brian Craemer is no stranger to Geauga County or the Chagrin Valley Conference. The 2004 Berkshire graduate coached at Newbury, NDCL and Kenston as an assistant before leading Harvey the past two seasons.

He is now teaching at West Geauga High School, replacing longtime staple Lou Cirino, a West Geauga institution who left for Strongsville in the offseason.

“It’s been good,” Craemer said. “I’ve been blessed to have a lot of parents, and the administrative team, that have made this transition as easy as possible.”

The team was implementing a new offense and defense in the preseason.

Craemer said he is happy with the progress over the past four months.

The players were making the adjustment.

A New System on Offense The Wolverines want to run a nohuddle shotgun offense but still focus

on running the football and controlling the game clock. The team will run multiple formations and packages.

Craemer admires the offense his rival Mark Iammarino has run at Chagrin Falls, and will implement some of those motion principles.

Jax Shenkel, a senior, returns as the starting QB. Shenkel threw for over 1,0 0 0 yards last season and 10 touchdowns as the team’s everygame starter. He also ran for seven.

Shenkel will have a chance to run the football this year in the team’s spread offense.

“Experience is definitely the best teacher,” Shenkel said of his comfort level this season. “You know everything to expect.”

“He’s going to do great things in this offense,” Craemer said.

Senior Michael Osters will be the team’s feature back. He said the team is working hard in the preseason.

“I’m just looking to help my team, whether it’s catching the ball, or blocking,” Osters said. “We pass a lot, we

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run a lot. I’m looking forward to it.”

Senior Christian Dibra also returns as a starting runningback.

Frank DiPaola (8 catches for 175 yards and 1 touchdown last season) will be the team’s tight end again this season.

A.J. Coneglio and Klevi Rybak are the team’s wide receivers.

The offensive line will be anchored by senior Nathaniel “Big Cat” Grabinski at center. Matt and Shaun Podojil, Joe Camino and Noah Ickes also return to the line. Craemer thinks this line has a lot of talent.

Returning Starters a Strength Last season, the Wolverine defense was its strong point. The unit held opponents to seven points or less four times, and only gave up an average of 17 points per game.

A strong core return on defense, led by juniors Gino Fornaro, Matt Stewart, Michael Lyman and Bobby Jakubs.

The team’s base will be a 4-3.

“We came into this season openminded with the chance to change things up,” said Stewart, the team’s starting middle linebacker. “We are looking forward to this year because we have a lot of guys coming back.

We all work hard, and we’re all friends. So it’s good this team has bonded.”

Ickes will start on both lines.

“We have experience from last year because so many of us are returning starters,” Ickes said. “We all have good chemistry together.”

Stewart thinks the defense will be a

Page 33

“Experience is definitely the best teacher.”

- Jax Shenkel team strength.

Gabe Molnar and Matt Podojil are the team’s starting defensive ends.

Anthony Leonard and David Kless are both seniors in the center of the defensive line.

The secondary will be led by Lyman and include Drew Bennett, Preston Melkerson and Tyler Hackelman.

Coach Brian Craemer 1st season Craemer is a Berkshire graduate who now teaches at West Geauga High School. He spent the last two seasons at Harvey.

Extra Points • West G has added two Geauga County schools to its non-conference schedule in Kenston (Week 3) and NDCL (Week 2). “That will be fun,” Craemer said. The Wolverines now play the four biggest Geauga County high schools this season.

• After a long losing streak, the Wolverines have beaten Chagrin Falls the last two seasons — a streak that means a lot to West Geauga.

• Because of the OHSAA competitive balance rules, the Wolverines drop to Division IV, Region 13.

• Nathanial Grabinski and Jax Shenkel pace the Wolverines the classroom with 4.4 grade point averages.

Matt Steward, Bobby Jakubs and Michael Osters are all over 4.0, as well.

Ickes

Osters

Shenkel

Stewart

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August 25, 2016

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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