Football Fever 2025

We ’ re back for the 13th installment of Football Fever, the award-winning annual high school football preseason preview by the Williamsport SunGazette. Its most recent honor was a top 10 special section award in its circulation category for 2024 by the Associated Press Sports Editors.

This year ’ s edition again features in-depth looks at all 17 teams, plus players to watch this upcoming season for each team.

Also included in the magazine is how South Williamsport’s football team is reducing concussions and head-related injuries thanks to using SAFR helmets. In addition, Chris Masse breaks down the best games to watch every single week this football season.

We are also pleased to continue End Zone Extra this fall, which will run inside the Sun-Gazette every Friday during the season and preview each weekend’s action.

DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

Football helmets from South Williamsport are shown on the cover South used SAFR helmet covers, as shown in the foreground, last year to help reduce concussions and head injuries.

FEATURES

4 BEST OF THE BEST:

Thereʼs plenty of talent within the area in football this year From talented receivers and running backs to outstanding lineman, and ball-hawk safeties and cornerbacks A look at this yearʼs preseason Sun-Gazette all-star team.

11

HELMET SAFETY:

Thereʼs no way to completely eliminate concussions in the sport of football. But there are ways you can reduce them and

TEAM PREVIEWS

help protect players. South Williamsport and coach Chris Eiswerth are doing just that after using SAFR helmet covers last year, which helped reduce concussions during the season.

64 MUST-SEE FOOTBALL:

What games this year are ones fans need to get out and see? A look at the top games each week from around the area for 2025.

Copyright © 2025 by The Williamsport Sun-Gazette, a division of Ogden Newspapers, Inc

All rights reserved No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or through any information or retrieval system, without permission from the publisher

ISBN: 978-0-615-67312-7

Publisher John Leeser

General manager Anthony Segraves

Advertising sales manager John Leeser

Editor Jon Gerardi

Editorial managers Karen Vibert-Kennedy Mike Maneval

Production manager Chuck Smith

Sports staff Chris Masse

Design editor Timothy R Wertz Jr

Photography Dave Kennedy

Williamsport Sun-Gazette 252 W. Fourth St. Williamsport, PA 17701 570-326-1551 ext. 1123

TB By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

he 2024 area football season became quite a memorable one. Muncy reached the Class A state semifinals for the first time, Warrior Run also made history, advancing to its first district championship and Muncy running back Austin Johnson topped 3,000 yards while earning Pennsylvania Player of the Year honors. There were so many seniors who made impressive marks in their final seasons and the Sun-Gazette all-star team reflected that, most of its first teams being seniors That opens the door for a lot of other players this season to try and make big splashes. Time will tell how the season plays out but the following are some excit-

ing players to keep an eye on as 17 area teams try to create some lasting memories.

SUN-GAZETTE PRESEASON ALL-STAR TEAM OFFENSE

JAMES KEIFER, WARRIOR RUN (QUARTERBACK)

No returning quarterback threw for more yards or touchdowns than Keifer who flourished as a first-time starter last fall. The senior leader threw for 1,962 yards and 22 touchdowns while completing 54.9% of his passes. Keifer finished second among area quarterbacks in yards last year and was tied for second in touchdown passes A three-sport standout,

Keifer threw at least one touchdown pass in 11 of 13 games, helping Warrior Run reach its first district championship. He added three interceptions as a defensive back.

CHRISTIAN BANKS, MONTOURSVILLE (RUNNING BACK)

A first-team HAC-II all-star at running back and linebacker, Banks is the area’s top returning rusher after going for 1,308 yards and 14 touchdowns last season. The senior runs angry and has a potent blend of power and burst. That helped him top 100 yards seven times and 90 yards eight times A four-year starter, Banks has run for nearly all of his 2,216 career yards the past two seasons He is just as strong defensively and averaged 6 7 tackles a year ago with 19 tackles for loss

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Warrior Runʼs James Keifer throws against Loyalsock during a game last fall. Keifer was named the first-team quarterback on the Sun-Gazetteʼs preseason all-star team.

DOLAN HARMAN, LOYALSOCK (RUNNING BACK)

Unfortunately, Harman suffered a torn ACL last month He still, however, is going to try and play Harman is coming off a fantastic junior season in which he ran for 1,291 yards and 14 touchdowns. A workhorse back who never tired, Harman averaged five yards per carry, went over 100 yards seven times and over 90 yards in nine straight games. Building off a breakout sophomore campaign gained more than 70 yards in all 11 games, scoring in nine of them He also was a receiving threat, catching nine passes for 103 yards and a touchdown

BAILEY GARDNER, CANTON (RUNNING BACK)

Like Banks and Harman, Gardner is a punishing runner who also can get away from defenders after bowling them over Most of his freshman season was erased by an injury, but Gardner came back strong last fall, producing 638 yards and 12 touchdowns. Gardner averaged 6.3 yards per carry and added two touchdown catches. The junior running back gained at least 79 yards four times and gouged Class AAAA Athens for 111 and three touchdowns, also nearly returning a kickoff for a score that afternoon

LUKE KREGER, N.P.-MANSFIELD (WIDE RECEIVER)

After excelling in his first varsity season as a sophomore, Kreger went to the next level and earned all-state honors last fall while delivering one of the best seasons in program history Kreger caught 60 passes for 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns The senior led District 4 in yards during the regular season and finished second among area receivers in catches. A consistent producer, Kreger totaled five 100yard games and had at least 80 yards seven times. He has 88 catches for 1,727 yards and

18 touchdowns the past two years

MONTY FISHER, MILTON (WIDE RECEIVER)

One of the district’s most dynamic threats, Fisher is the only District 4 active player with more than 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving. He primarily played

wide receiver last season and became the first Milton player of the 2000s to reach 50 passes and go over 800 yards. Fisher finished with 52 catches for 837 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 16.1 yards per catch. He added 235 rushing yards for 1,072 total yards. Fisher caught multiple passes in every game, had three 100yard contests and enters the

year with 1,425 receiving yards, as well as 1,029 rushing

JAYLEN WALKER, LEWISBURG (WIDE RECEIVER)

Playing in a run-heavy offense, Walker still shined and put together an impressive sophomore campaign. After coming on strong late in the

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Montoursvilleʼs Noah Rakestraw (75) and Christian Banks (0) both were named to the SunGazette preseason football all-star team this year.

2023 season, Walker built upon that success, going for a team-high 24 catches, 575 yards and six touchdowns. Highlighting his big-play ability, Walker scored every four times he caught the ball and averaged 24 yards per catch. He also caught touchdowns in three straight games at one point and generated four catches, 122 yards and three touchdowns against Bloomsburg.

LINCOLN MILLER, MONTGOMERY (TIGHT END)

Miller likely will play mostly in the backfield this year, but he spent some time at tight end last year and his versatility allows Montgomery to implement him as a tight end, running back or Hback Miller played a key role in Montgomery’s huge turnaround, catching 12 passes for 147 yards and two touchdowns He also was an effective blocker when lined up at fullback, while adding 250 yards with three rushing touchdowns Miller’s performance helped him earn second-team NTL-II tight end

JACKSON ALBRIGHT, WARRIOR RUN (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN)

A two-way force along both lines, Albright could easily be a first-team defensive lineman as well. He was first-team HAC-III on each side of the ball as a sophomore and helped Warrior Run average more than 30 points and 300 yards per game. He also helped the offense produce a 1,000-yard quarterback, rusher and receiver. Albright has come light years the last few years after not playing football until eighth grade and added 11 tackles for loss a year ago, including four in a playoff win at Loyalsock.

LAYNE GINGERY, MONTGOMERY (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN)

At the heart of Montgomery’s six-win improvement last year was a physical offensive line. Gingery helped fuel that unit and earned first-team NTL-II honors along the way. The senior has made an impact each season at Montgomery, progressing each time Last fall, Gingery helped Montgomery average 29 points and 314 yards per game The Raiders featured a punishing running game Gingery played a crucial role in helping Coy Bryson finish third among area rushers

NOAH RAKESTRAW, MONTOURSVILLE (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN)

Another two-way threat, Rakestraw was at the center of Montoursville’s success along both lines. He was second team offensive and defensive lineman following a breakthrough season. Montoursville featured one of the area’s more balanced offenses and Rakestraw helped that happen, opening up holes in the running game and providing quality pass protection He also shined at defensive end, generating 4 1/2 sacks, averaging

5.8 tackles per game and making 12 tackles for loss

BRADY NEENAN, WILLIAMSPORT (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN)

A four-year starter, Neenan has made steady improvement each season and now helps set the tone for an experienced, bigger line than the past three years. Neenan played a vital role in Williamsport capturing its first district championship since 2016 as the offense came alive late in the season to turn things around following a five-game los-

Loyalsockʼs

ing streak. Neenan helped two running backs go over 500 yards and three quarterbacks combine for 1,517 passing yards

NIXON LAMPER, MUNCY (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN)

Inserted into the starting lineup as a freshman, Lamper has surged ever since and put together a dominant sophomore campaign. Lamper helped Muncy reach the state semifinals and his bulldozing blocking helped the team produce a 3,000yard rusher, 1,500-yard rusher and 1,200yard passer. Lamper provides Muncy a powerful presence up front and earned first team NTL-II honors as both an offensive and defensive lineman last year He highlighted his defensive success with 3 ½ sacks at Montgomery.

ALEXIS MCROBERTS, CANTON (KICKER)

The area’s all-time leading female

kicker in points, McRoberts earned allstate honors as a junior last fall. It was just her second season kicking, driving home how impressive her ascension has been. McRoberts has a big leg and kicked three field goals last season, including a 35-yarder. She also made all but three of her 41 extra-point tries In two seasons, McRoberts has produced 82 points

DEFENSE

JEREMIAH JOHNSON, LOYALSOCK (DEFENSIVE LINEMAN)

Another powerful player who earned first-team HAC-III honors on both lines, Johnson helps anchor both Loyalsock units A four-year starter on both sides, Johnson is one of the area’s strongest players and has the quickness to match. Though frequently doubled teamed, Johnson averaged nearly six tackles per game, including 13 for loss. Outstanding against

the run or rushing the passer, Johnson added six sacks and two fumble recoveries In his first three years, Johnson has 172 tackles and 37 for loss. He had tackles for loss in nine of 11 games last fall.

JERRY BARTON, HUGHESVILLE (DEFENSIVE LINEMAN)

Starting Week 4, Barton exploded onto the area scene and became one of the area’s premier linemen as a sophomore. After no sacks in his first three contests, Barton went off and finished second among area players with nine, doing so in a six-game span An effective blocker as well, Barton produced three two-sack games and also helped Hughesville slow the run, averaging 5 4 tackles per game Barton made eight tackles for loss and came up big against Muncy, adding two more sacks as the Spartans rallied for a dramatic win.

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Jeremiah Johnson (51) was a force on defense last year and he earned first-team honors on the Sun-Gazette preseason all-star team this year for those efforts.

Jersey Shoreʼs Bo Sechrist (5) tackles a runner from Shamokin during a game last year. Sechrist was an outstanding defensive player and earned all-star honors on defense for the Sun-Gazette preseason all-star team.

KINGSTON FISHER, MONTOURSVILLE (DEFENSIVE LINEMAN)

Fisher was another breakout performer, taking a big step forward following a promising sophomore season two years ago. Fisher combined with Noah Rakestraw to give Montoursville an excellent edge tandem. He led the team with five sacks, as well as 10 tackles for loss. An athletic, 6-foot-4 presence, Fisher helped set the tone for the season in the opener at Wellsboro, intercepting a pass and returning a fumble for a touchdown. He also excelled along the offensive line.

LUKE THOMPSON, JERSEY SHORE (DEFENSIVE LINEMAN)

After stepping up as a sophomore, Thompson blossomed as a junior a year ago and helped Jersey Shore's defense again rank among the area leaders in yards allowed. Thompson led the team with 6 ½ sacks and could continue becoming an explosive presence off the edge this season. Thompson produced 42 quarterback hurries as well, consistently disrupting opposing passing games. He also recovered two fumbles, averaged five tackles per game and made 14 tackles for a loss. A second-team HAC-I tight end, Thompson averaged 15 yards per catch.

BO SECHRIST, JERSEY SHORE (LINEBACKER)

There’s that name again The family tradition keeps going strong at linebacker where Bo earned second team Class AAAA all-state honors for a second straight year. Sechrist made 123 tackles, including 76 solos, and averaged 10.3 tackles per game. He produced at least 10 tackles in eight of 12 games and was again outstanding in the postseason, totaling 20 tackles in two games. Sechrist is as much a threat rushing the passer as he is dropping into coverage and he has 258 tackles the last two years, as well as 26 for loss.

CHASE FOWLER, HUGHESVILLE (LINEBACKER)

Hughesville has continued cranking out quality linebackers over the years and Fowler is yet another one The senior leader had a big season last fall, earning HAC-III first-team honors after making 115 tackles and averaging 10.5 per game. Fowler had 60 solo tackles and nine for loss. He has good range sideline-to-sideline and broke up three passes, while forcing a fumble. Fowler topped 10 tackles six times and came up big in that Muncy comeback victory, finishing with 16 tackles.

KOLE CORMAN, CENTRAL MOUNTAIN (LINEBACKER)

Corman showed promise as a freshman, then really busted free last season, developing into one of the area’s top playmakers. A first-team HAC-I all-star, Corman led Central Mountain with 105 tackles, averaging 10 1/2 per game and adding 6 1/2 for loss. Playing against a loaded schedule, Corman set the school record for tackles in a game (21) and then nearly topped it in the season finale against Jersey Shore with 20 more. Corman forced a fumble and topped 10 tackles five times.

ANTHONY MANLEY, WILLIAMSPORT (LINEBACKER)

Like Corman, Manley surged as a sophomore and played a major role in Williamsport winning the district title, leading the area with 155 tackles. Manley and Lucas Naughton formed a dynamic linebacking tandem and Manley averaged 12.9 tackles per game. Voted as a team captain entering his junior season, Manley made at least seven tackles in Williamsport’s first 12 games and topped 10 in five straight at one point. His production also helped Williamsport shutout three opponents, including in the district final.

TRACE FURMAN, MONTGOMERY (DEFENSIVE BACK)

Furman was the only underclassman last winter to be named to the SunGazette’s first team in the secondary That’s with good reason as Furman topped 100 tackles and intercepted four passes, returning one for a touchdown Also lining up at linebacker occasionally, Furman played a critical role in Montgomery leading the area in yards allowed per game for the first time in the 2000s

He made 104 tackles and averaged nearly 10 per game. Furman will be a three-year starter this fall and his versatility allows Montgomery to utilize him in a lot of different ways.

JALIL COATES, LOYALSOCK (DEFENSIVE BACK)

Coates intercepted two passes which does not jump off the page, but that is because quarterbacks often avoided “Coates Island.” The first-team HAC-III cornerback often had teams looking the other way for passing game production as he developed into a lock-down cover man. Highlighting that, Coates intercepted two passes in his first three games before opponents started going away from him. Coates also averaged 4.5 tackles per game and intercepted two passes A three-way threat, Coates led Loyalsock in catches, yards and also returned a punt for a touchdown.

COHEN ZEHCHMAN, WARRIOR RUN (DEFENSIVE BACK)

A first-team HAC-III safety, Zechman helped quarterback a strong secondary, providing strong run support and breaking up five passes A three-year starter, Zechman made 71 tackles, including 50 solos. He came up especially big in the playoffs when Warrior Run held Loyal-

sock to 169 total passing yards and forced five turnovers. Zechman is another threeway weapon and caught 20 passes, including two for touchdowns.

CONNOR ANSTADT, HUGEHSVILLE (DEFENSIVE BACK)

Another first-team HAC-III all-star, Anstadt effectively can play either cornerback or safety, giving the Spartans some valued diversity. As a sophomore last fall, Anstadt intercepted a pass, broke up six others and finished among the team’s leading tacklers with 81. That included 47 solo tackles and four for loss. Anstadt topped 10 tackles three times and also forced a fumble, while recovering another He made a career-high 12 tackles in a double overtime comeback win against Warrior Run.

GAVIN BARROWS, MUNCY (PUNTER)

Muncy did not have to punt a lot last season, but Barrows certainly was effective when called upon. Barrows earned first-team NTL-II honors and did a nice job flipping field position with his kicks He also placed them well and was able to force multiple teams to have to start drives inside their own 20-yard line Barrows also played a key role in the secondary as the Indians captured the District 4 Class A championship.

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Montgomeryʼs Trace Furman is a preseason Sun-Gazette all-star at defensive back.

South Williamsportʼs football helmets are shown in the locker room This past season, South Williamsport used SAFR helmet covers to help reduce concussions and head injuries and the Mounties will be wearing them once again for the 2025 season.

B By y J JOON N G GEERRAARRDDI I jgerardi@sungazette.com

To the common fan, things looked a tad different last year for South Williamsport’s football team. No, the Mounties didn’t implement a new defensive scheme or a revolutionary offense. The play by South Williamsport was what fans are used to: talented, well-executed and competitive.

And well, a lot of running the ball under coach Chris Eiswerth

But what looked slightly different were what South Williamsport’s players were wearing. Specifically, the helmets

Last year, South Williamsport’s school district and coach Eiswerth decided to take a step further to help with safety by getting SAFR helmet covers for the team. The football helmet covers

are similar to a Guardian Cap, but are instead a plastic shell that helps reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries from external blunt force during games SAFR Scientifically Advanced Force Reduction helmet covers simply slide over an existing helmet.

“We offered it to the kids and a lot of the kids accepted it. I’m always in support of anything that we can do for the safety of the game and the youngsters,” Eiswerth said “I always offer it up to them If they want to wear them, our school district purchased them for the kids. I think it’s a great support system.”

Head safety and concussion awareness has grown exponentially over the last decade in football at all levels

From youth through high school, college to the NFL, organizations are doing what they can to help limit and reduce concussions that players suffer. And, at the youth and high school level,

it’s just as important.

Guardian Caps were thrown into the spotlight last summer with NFL teams and some college teams implementing and wearing them The large, softshelled pads that are placed over a helmet offer protection and reduce the risk of concussions. Eiswerth was aware of them, and mentioned it to his athletic director Brett Herbst last offseason. Those were great for practices, Eiswerth said, but what about game play?

“The Guardian Caps are fine, we can wear them for practice, but I said (to Herbst) what about games?” Eiswerth said.

The longtime Mountie coach was watching last year’s Big 33 Classic game and saw an ad during the game for the SAFR cap That’s what caught Eiswerth’s eyes and led him to getting the caps for his team.

“It’s a replica of what your helmet

DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

looks like,” Eiswerth said. “Our helmets are blue, it’s like an Alabama replica. We put the number and white stripe on them and then the kids have them It weighs like two ounces ”

In 2017, SAFR conducted a three-year study with a Pennsylvania university and found that concussive impacts were reduced by 72% In 2021, a Virginia Tech helmet lab study showed that by adding a SAFR helmet cover to a five-star helmet, there was a 77% improvement in risk of concussion versus the helmet score alone

And in 2024, a two-year high school study showed that wearing a SAFR helmet cover in game decreased the rate of concussion by 48% compared to those who did not where the rate increased by 34%

According to SAFR, there’s more than 3.8 million sports-related concussions each year in the United States.

“It gives them a little additional head support,” Eiswerth said. “We wanted to be proactive. Safety is important and a lot of parents, if they have a youngster who’s tentative about playing, we can talk to them and say ‘hey, we’ve gone the extra mile to try and make this work for your youngster.’”

Eiswerth has been coaching football for 30 years and has seen his share of helmet improvements since his first years coaching in the 1990s. And, with those improvements, has come a focus on safety.

“All the way back to when I was in Pop Warner, I remember participating and the old Riddell helmets and they had a small square pad that lined the helmet,” Eiswerth said “The next craze was the BIKE helmet, it had an air chamber ”

But while helmets improved and got better over the last few decades, it wasn’t until recently that an emphasis on concussion protocols became more commonplace

“It wasn’t like it is today,” Eiswerth said regarding concussions. “Now the trainers, they run a protocol system When I started in August, the trainer will come and we’ll get a time, she’ll take what is an impact test and she gets information on everybody on the team that’s participating,” Eiswerth said “If they get a head injury, a blow to the head where they have to be taken out of the game or practice, they have to be removed from practice She can take and put them into concussion protocol ”

“It just kind of enhanced the awareness. I think the awareness and the overall system is much better today,” Eiswerth added “When I started we did mostly taping and different things, the trainers now are in charge and do a great job of getting the kids back on the field safely ”

DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

A SAFR helmet cover is shown on a South Williamsport helmet.

While South Williamsport was one of the only teams in District 4 last fall to wear SAFR helmet covers, Eiswerth hopes it brings awareness to more school districts and possibly a boost in helmet covers this year and in the coming seasons

“I think to be honest we kind of are at the cutting edge of this. We talked about

it, myself and our AD and the superintendent Eric Briggs, let’s kind of do this. We thought it was the best possible way to attack this and be a little more proactive,” Eiswerth said “It’s not a rule, it’s not implemented. I don’t think many other schools that we played had the SAFR caps. I do know that some of the Guardian Caps have been around

awhile ”

That includes Troy, which has worn Guardian Caps at practices recently According to Herbst, the purchase of the caps was initially $9,000, most of which was covered through private donations. Herbst, Briggs and Eiswerth all felt it was a purchase that was needed and when SAFR was chosen and brought to

the school board, South Williamsport approved it unanimously.

“I think it’s in process. They’re going to continue to research and see what they come up with,” Eiswerth said of developments and improvements in concussion safety. “Any time we can be proactive with youngsters, I think it’s a great system ”

ADDRESSING THE ISSUE

As noted, the rise of CTE and concussions has been at the forefront in recent years, especially at the NFL level. But CTE isn’t an NFL-only problem The neurodegenerative disease didn’t begin in the NFL. Rather it’s from years and years of repeated trauma to the head and brain.

Pop warner Junior high Junior varsity High school football College football Each level adds from the previous in terms of helmet hits, no matter how hard players attempt to avoid it

“CTE didn’t start in the NFL It’s years and years of getting hit that add up over time. The fact you can reduce force every day, you can reduce concussions nothing prevents concussions makes it not just safer today, but safer later in life,” SAFR co-founder and CEO John Zeglinski said.

Zeglinski played football from seventh grade through college and even played semi-pro football for a while. He knows the effects it can have and why the safety of a product like SAFR is so key for youth

DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

A SAFR helmet cover (center) is shown on a South Williamsport helmet. The SAFR helmet covers help reduce conussions and head injuries

players.

“A lot of guys who have done that, guys in the NFL, have played since they were kids too Some guys get it, but reduction of force is definitely a positive,” Zeglinski said.

SAFR’s helmet covers have gone through a lot of testing the past few years, and it’s had outstanding results for safety for the game of football. Virginia Tech has a helmet lab and SAFR reduced their risk of concussions by as much as 77% compared to just a helmet alone.

“Some of the hits, they put the helmet on a head form and do tests,” Zeglinski said.

The test helmets scored a four and anything under a 10 is considered a five-star helmet SAFR conducted 320 tests over the following three days and shells were put onto the helmets All of those helmets were into the low twos, and one was a one.

“Now they’re even safer,” Zeglinski said.

That type of study and concussion reduction benefit is what drew South Williamsport and coach Eiswerth to the product and helped make the game safer.

“I try to relay that message to parents. It’s not just about concussions That’s a by-product of it You want to reduce force,” Zeglinski said of the SAFR helmet covers.

Zeglinski noted that the testing speaks for itself regarding reducing concussions. Tests at Virginia Tech, Penn State and North Carolina have all shown the same results

“The science doesn’t lie and no one’s ever said it doesn’t work. We know it works and it makes the game safe,” Zeglinski said “I’ve been passionate about this for years and we’re making a difference in football.”

WHITESEL STAINED GLASS

DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

A SAFR helmet cover is shown on one of South Williamsportʼs helmets.

S

E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E c cmmaassssee@@ssuunnggaazzeettttee..ccoom m

Williamsport captured its first District 2-4 6A championship since 2016 last fall. But the Millionaires are not thinking about the past.

Honestly, they are not thinking too far ahead either. It’s more a short-term focus as the season approaches Therein lies the key to achieving similar success in 2025.

“We all feel the responsibility of, ‘What are we going to do next?'” Williamsport coach Mike Pearson said “That’s what is most important, doing what’s next. That’s is key to the program for me every year.”

Williamsport is eager to find out what is next and is confident that it could be exciting. That feeling was born from a dedicated offseason as so many vigorously attended workouts, pounded the weights and competed at various camps and/or 7-on-7s. Pearson anticipates possibly having a roster size around 70 players and likes what he is seeing from newcomers to veterans

“It’s been an awesome summer so far,” he said. “The turnout has been really good and it’s been very enjoyable working with the kids ”

Williamsport has often been identified through players at the so-called skill positions: quarterback, running back and wide receiver This year, however, the foundation for success could be laid by an experi-

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Wyoming Valley West

Aug. 29 Hazleton

Sept. 5 Central Mountain

Sept. 12 at Shikellamy

Sept. 19 at Selinsgrove

Sept. 26 Jersey Shore

Oct. 3 Shamokin

Oct. 10 at Berwick

Oct. 17 Hollidaysburg

Oct. 24 at Wilkes-Barre

enced offensive line. It’s not just that Williamsport has returning starters but that it is anchored by two players who have started since they were freshman.

Senior Brady Neenan is a four-year starter and junior Cordoza Minor a threeyear starter. Neenan was a second-team HAC-I selection and Minor an honorable mention Kaleb Way, Owen Newcomer and junior captain Jaxson Thompson also are returning starters. Thompson is one of several players who has displayed super leadership throughout the offseason

Providing valuable depth are players like Christopher Terrano, Kayden Flook, Landon Long and junior captain Anthony Manley

“It’s a real nice foundation to build off of. A lot of these kids have grown up since their freshman year Now they are junior

and seniors, and that is really encouraging,” Pearson said. “A lot of years we were freshmen and sophomores up front. It’s been really nice to see them grow. We’re really happy to see what they are becoming ” Minor has flashed some terrific speed, including sub-40-yard dash times, so he could also be used to provide depth to a new-look backfield as well. Leading rushers Kahyear Whaley and Jamel Bailey graduated, leaving a void there but the Millionaires of some exciting options including versatile Giovanni White

“Giovanni White is just a clutch player in everything he does,” Pearson said. “He plays with a lot of heart.”

Josef Walker is a player to keep an eye on as is Brayden Ungard who shined on the soccer field before moving to football in the offseason, bringing along a lot of speed He also put together a strong track and field season last spring

It likely will be either Zion Hughes or Tevin Williams handing the ball off at quarterback. Both had multiple starts there last season and both also showed good receiving qualities, so whoever does not line up under center could be a starting receiver

Hughes and Williams both threw for 277 yards and combined for seven touchdowns at quarterback last fall. They also produced 17 receptions and have a strong bond, one strengthened last winter when each started on the basketball team

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

“Zion has been a great leader His classmates and teammates elected him a captain and it’s been great seeing him step into that leadership role,” Pearson said “He and Tevin get along really well and are a nice tandem. Tevin is an amazing athlete and the kids enjoy being around him. He and Zion seem to be on the same page.”

So does junior Trey Damschroder who is the team’s leading receiver and who also is a well-rounded, well-respected teammate Damschroder has excelled on and off the field and will be complemented by players like Kason Ulmer, a 6-foot-5 junior with speed Hughes, Williams, Damschroder and Ulmer also likely will play key roles in the secondary. Many of the linemen who will make an offensive impact also will solidify the defensive line. That includes Minor who was a first-team HAC-I allstar at defensive end.

Williamsport is potentially loaded at linebacker where Lucas Naughton and Anthony Manley return following stellar seasons. Both were among the area’s leading tacklers, combining for 299 Manley led the area in total tackles and Naughton was close behind

Naughton suffered a late-season shoulder injury which wiped out his baseball season, but he is recovered and ready to roll. Having those two coming off big seasons and having another year of experience could provide the defense quite a boost.

Overcoming injuries is nothing new to Williamsport. The Millionaires were ravaged by them last fall after starting the season 4-0 They took a short-handed group to Class

2024 RESULTS (7-6)

Williamsport 33, Wyoming Valley West 0

Williamsport 23, Hazleton 6

Williamsport 36, Central Mountain 17

Williamsport 20, Shikellamy 0

Williamsport 20, Selinsgrove 21

Williamsport 13, Jersey Shore 52

Williamsport 16, Shamokin 28

Williamsport 14, Berwick 37

Williamsport 26, Hollidaysburg 30

Williamsport 34, Wilkes-Barre 20

District 2-4 Class 6A semifinals

Williamsport 15, Hazleton 6 Championship

Williamsport 14, Wilkes-Barre 0

PIAA Class 6A playoffs

Williamsport 14, State College 75

5A state semifinalist Hollidaysburg in Week 9 and led until the final minute, a game which turned their season around. From there, Williamsport won its next three games and allowed just six points in two playoff contests as it captured the district championship.

It was a road featured with twists and turns as Williamsport opened 4-0 before losing five straight. The Millionaires than put themselves back on course and became just the second Williamsport squad since 1995 to taste district gold.

The lesson the returning players learned from that experience means as much now as the championship banner does.

“The Hollidaysburg game was a real eye-opener for me It showed if you have a little faith and work hard, good things will happen. You just let it play out and whatever happens, is going to happen,” Pearson said. “Every school is going to have graduation and injuries; every school has challenges We’re not alone and unique, so we just have to play hard.”

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Trey Damschroder, WR/DB: The teamʼs top returning receiver from last season, Damschroder finished second on Williamsport with 28 catches and could take another big leap forward as a junior this fall Damschroder can stretch the field and also help solidify Williamsportʼs secondary. After seeing some varsity time as a freshman, Damschroder emerged as a versatile threat along Kyreek Bradshaw, averaging nearly 10 yards per catch and scoring twice. He caught three or more passes six times and opened his season with a career-high 81 yards in a 33-0 win against Wyoming Valley West.

Anthony Manley, LB/RB: As a sophomore last year, Manley was in on more tackles than any area player, totaling 155 and averaging 12 9 per game A first-time starter, Manley made rapid progress throughout the season and piled up 20 tackles in the district championship win at Wilkes-Barre He made at least seven tackles in each of Williamsportʼs first 11 games and topped 10 in five straight at one point. Manley played a vital role in the Millionaires shutting out three opponents and will be looked at for both his production and leadership this fall.

Cardoza Minor, DL/OL: Another player who made massive strides as a sophomore, Minor brings plenty of leadership up front, having started since his freshman year along the offensive line He also was an anchor up front defensively last season, collecting three sacks and nine tackles for loss Minor played one of his best high school games against Selinsgrove when he produced eight tackles, three for loss, and two sacks He added another sack in the district final and had tackles for loss in seven games

Giovanni White, WR/RB/DB: White could be Williamsportʼs most versatile player and likely will again line up all over the field, both in the backfield, out wide and/or in the slot Also a quality returner on special teams, White has big-play potential, something he showed in a Week 3 win at Central Mountain when he ran for 109 yards and a touchdown, while setting up another score with a long punt return White also is one of the areaʼs premier defensive backs and gives Williamsport an experienced weapon on both sides of the ball

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

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By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

ontoursville took a big step forward last season. The Warriors made a three-win improvement, won a playoff game for the first time since 2021 and gave eventual state semifinalist Danville a scare in the District 4 Class AAA semifinals

This is a program with a rich tradition, so Montoursville expects more. Still, it was a good bounce back and could serve as a launching pad as the Warriors try winning their first championship since 2019. Better yet, many of the players who helped Montoursville climb the ladder last season are back and eager to try and move a few rungs higher.

“For a lot of these kids, it had been a while since our last playoff win. It was important to set that tone going into the offseason,” Montoursville coach Joe Hanna said. “There were some really good teams in the district last year and to get that win at home and then go and

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22—Wellsboro

Aug. 29 at Milton

Sept. 5—Danville

Sept. 12 Mifflinburg

Sept. 19—at Mount Carmel

Sept. 26 Central Columbia

Oct 3—at Central Mountain

Oct. 10 Southern Columbia

Oct 17—at Lewisburg

Oct. 24 at Loyalsock

compete with Danville was big for the kids to see what’s out there and what we’re capable of doing, if we keep putting in the work.”

That message reverberated throughout the offseason and players hit both the weights and field hard. Numbers were good throughout the spring and summer, highlighting the team’s desire to return to district title contending status.

“The kids have higher expectations

this year,” Hanna said. “The expectation at Montoursville for a long time has been to compete for district championships That hasn’t happened the last few years, but the kids know there are reasons for that and we are excited with the group that we have. We have a good mix of upperclassmen and sophomores and things have been going really well.”

One of those sophomores is quarterback Elijah Eck who showed his promise late last season. Eck became the starter in Week 10 and channeled his inner-Tom Brady in the district quarterfinals against Mifflinburg, helping Montoursville erase a 14-point deficit and win a 28-27 thriller while also leading a 99yard scoring drive.

Getting experience is big, but earning it in the Bridge Game against Loyalsock and in two playoff contests could be especially valuable. That goes double for a player who possesses a big arm and has the mind to match it.

“Last year was a learning experience for Elijah That’s a position you just don’t

jump into; it’s a position you have to mature into and take live bullets in a varsity game and he was able to get that,” Hanna said. “He did really well this summer and he shows a lot of maturity for his age. The kids gravitate toward him and he’s a good leader. We’re excited about him and a lot of the other guys returning ”

That excitement is especially high when looking at the backfield. There, Montoursville possesses a potent thunder and lightning combination. Christian Banks ran for 1,308 yards and has led Montoursville in rushing the past two seasons, running both through and by defenders Junior Hayden Harvey adds a bit of dash to Banks’s smash and ran for 633 yards Both play big roles at linebacker as well, so having each take some offensive load off the other is important as well.

“Any time you can have more than one guy in the backfield, it causes problems for a defense,” Hanna said “You look at today’s game and every NFL team and college team is looking at having more than one player carry the ball a lot because it can be such a taxing position.”

Montoursville also could be able to spread the ball out through its passing game. While leading receiver Michael Reeder graduated, there are plenty of options at receiver, including Carlos Tira, James Williams, KJ Moore, Brayden Burkett, Jay Houseknecht and Brody Alexander, all players who made big catches at different times last season.

Like Eck, Burkett, Houseknecht and Alexander are sophomores, so that trio has been

2024 RESULTS (6-6)

Montoursville 47, Wellsboro 7

Montoursville 20, Milton 0

Montoursville 20, Danville 44

Montoursville 27, Mifflinburg 20

Montoursville 17, Mount Carmel 41

Montoursville 49, Central Columbia 0

Montoursville 44, Central Mountain 7

Montoursville 16, Southern Columbia 19

Montoursville 19, Lewisburg 22

Montoursville 7, Loyalsock 21

District 4 Class AAA quarterfinals

Montoursville 28, Mifflinburg 27

Semifinals

Montoursville 10, Danville 35

playing together throughout their football lives. That adds a vital chemistry element to the mix which could help as well

Montoursville is less experienced up front but has an excellent building block in Noah Rakestraw, who shined on both sides of the ball last fall. Ditto Kingston Fisher, although he likely will be moving to tight end, providing Montoursville both a strong blocker on the edge as well as an enticing target with him standing 6-foot-4 Hunter Shaffer also had a strong season up front for one of the area’s top offenses last season. Jacob Schon also could play a key role From there, it is a competition with several sophomores showing promise and battling for the spots

It is a similar story at multiple position groups offensively and defensively. That could prove beneficial both in practices and during games with players being pushed on a daily basis.

“I think we’ll have some good depth and good competition,” Hanna said. “Kids won’t be able to grow complacent and I think that will help us become a better team.”

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Christian Banks, RB/LB: A first-team Sun-Gazette all-star at running back and first-team HAC-II selection at linebacker, Banks has started all four years at Montoursville and become quite an all-around player. He ran for 1,308 yards last season but we will dive more into his rushing skills when we get to the preseason all-star team He is equally strong at linebacker, averaging 6.7 tackles per game and often disrupting both the running and passing games He made a team-high 19 tackles for loss, adding an interception and fumble recovery

Kingston Fisher, DL/TE/OL: Following a quality sophomore season, Fisher really burst onto the scene last year, becoming an outstanding defensive end who helped spark a tough defense Fisher led Montoursville with five sacks and also made 10 tackles for loss. Quick and strong, Fisher also intercepted a pass and returned a fumble for a touchdown against Wellsboro The three-year starter made an enormous play against Mifflinburg in districts, blocking a kick in a one-point win. He could move to tight end this season and give the Warriors an added dimension there

Hayden Harvey, RB/LB: He received immediate playing time as a freshman and Harvey parlayed that into a terrific sophomore season, providing Montoursville big lifts offensively and defensively A shifty runner, Harvey complemented Banksʼs bruising running, adding 633 yards and five touchdowns, while averaging nearly eight yards per carry Harvey also was among the teamʼs leading tacklers, averaging 7 2 per game Harvey is a sound tackler with good range and forced two fumbles, recovered two more and added 1 1/2 sacks.

Noah Rakestraw, DL/OL: Another excellent twoway lineman, Rakestrawʼs offensive prowess will be focused upon on the preseason all-star team. But he is equally strong up front defensively The senior leader averaged 5 8 tackles per game, made 12 tackles for loss and was second on the team with 4 1/2 sacks Rakestraw made tackles for loss in eight of his 12 games and was a force against Milton in a 20-0 Week 2 win There Rakestraw made nine tackles, including five

and added two tackles for loss He produced three more tackles for loss the following week

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

n inexperienced Loyalsock team overcame injuries and a demanding schedule last year, producing a 12th straight winning season (6-5) and securing a 13th straight district playoff berth.

Considering the obstacles, it was a pretty impressive year But at Loyalsock, teams aim for the stars every season. The names change but little else does. So, while the Lancers accomplished a lot last fall, they also want a lot more this time around

“Every year the players change and all the other pieces adjust. but the expectations remain the same,” Loyalsock coach Justin Van Fleet said “We keep trying to make our way forward The kids are hoping to make their mark and be one of the teams that gets talked about years from now.”

That has shined through during the offseason Van Fleet said the offseason program has been as strong as any in his 13 seasons as coach, saluting strength and con-

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Mifflinburg

Aug. 29 Southern Columbia

Sept. 5 at Hughesville

Sept. 12 Midd-West

Sept. 19 at Bloomsburg

Sept. 26 Lewisburg

Oct. 3—Warrior Run

Oct. 10 at Danville

Oct. 17—at Shamokin

Oct. 24 Montoursville

ditioning coach Ken Hampe Numbers hovering around 50 were the norm, an especially positive sign when football participation has been dropping nationally the previous few years

“We’re excited for the opportunity and guys are hungry to repeat the successes that we had last year. The losses were not what we traditionally had, but the kids had a very strong season with as much as we had lost from the previous season,” Van Fleet

said. “We were really proud of our efforts and it’s a situation where it’s a springboard into this year where the kids want to achieve the things that previous teams had. They have goals to do a lot more ”

They also have a deep roster to pursue those goals with depth at nearly every position group The only negative and it’s a big one from the offseason was standout running back Dolan Harman tearing his ACL Entering camp, Harman was still hoping to play some this season, similar to what some players have done in the past, including Wellsboro running back Nick Tremper who led the Hornets in rushing during a 2015 District 4 Class A championship season

Harman topped 1,200 yards last season, so if he cannot go there will be a gaping void. Still, football is a team game and a strong offensive line as well as some rising running backs who help alleviate losing such an excellent player.

If Harman cannot play, look for junior Cayden Sones to possibly get the lion’s share of carries. Even before Harman’s injury, Sones was expected to play a big role, combining speed and power. Quarterback

Danny Dowell put in a strong offseason and also is a dual threat who can get down the field quick, so he could be utilized for his legs as much as his arm Nick Avalos and Matt Rickard also had playing time at quarterback last season, Avalos starting two varsity games, so Loyalsock looks especially deep under center.

Whoever is handling the ball will have a lot of big friends helping them move forward. Senior Jeremiah Johnson is a four-year starter and one of the district’s top linemen on both sides of the ball TJ King and Connor Tallman both are returning from injuries and both are big, strong, physical players with ample experience. King missed last season and Tallman tore his ACL in Week 4 while playing at Hughesville but both could be anchors as could be returning starters Wyatt Emerick, Landon Beighey and Jordan Walker. Add in tight end Josh Meacham and a host of promising young players and Loyalsock could have the power in the trenches to match its speed in the backfield and on the edge

“I usually feel comfortable if we can count on six or seven linemen coming into the season and right now, we’re around eight or nine who we feel good with, “ Van Fleet said. “So, that’s a good situation with our line developing ”

There also is an exciting situation at receiver where Jalil Coates returns following a breakout sophomore season. Coates is a big-play threat on both sides of the ball and could also get some carries as Loyalsock looks to maximize his playmaking ability. He has received an offer from Lock Haven and also

2024 RESULTS (6-5)

Loyalsock 28, Mifflinburg 27

Loyalsock 0, Southern Columbia 47

Loyalsock 30, Hughesville 3

Loyalsock 54, Midd-West 6

Loyalsock 20, Bloomsburg 13

Loyalsock 13, Lewisburg 27

Loyalsock 24, Warrior Run 23

Loyalsock 3, Danville 28

Loyalsock 7, Shamokin 48

Loyalsock 21, Montoursville 7

District 4 Class AAA quarterfinals

Loyalsock 7, Warrior Run 21

is one of the district’s premier cornerbacks

“Jalil has gotten a lot bigger and faster. He’s committed himself entirely, so we’re really excited for him,” Van Fleet said. “Jalil is a guy who has transformed himself from last year to this year. I’m looking forward to seeing him compete to see what the fruits of his labor are after the work he’s put in "

That excitement spreads to fellow receivers like Nahmir Thomas, Ivan Baker, CJ Taylor, Andrew Walter and Quaz’heir Day. Thomas could be poised for a breakout season, Baker performed well in the slot last year and Taylor has increased his speed to complement his blocking and possession ability.

All those players likely will also fill vital secondary roles defensively. Coates and Thomas form a nice cornerback tandem and Day and Walter also have performed well there Baker, Dowell, Richard and Avalos all are quality safeties That unit played especially well at 7-on-7s this past summer and the ability to put Coates and Thomas on an island could provide and especially strong boost for the front seven.

Jalil Coates, WR/DB: One of the areaʼs premier cover cornerbacks, Coates blanketed receivers last season He intercepted two passes but a big reason that total was not higher was because opponents often shied away from going after Coates He added 4 5 tackles per game and also is an excellent receiver who led Loyalsock with 26 catches for 461 yards and three touchdowns Coates caught two passes for 91 yards and a score on a game-winning drive against Warrior Run and added a punt return touchdown against MiddWest

Danny Dowell, QB/DB: Starting at quarterback for the first time, Dowell was making a run at a 1,000-yard season before an injury sidelined him for three games The senior showed what he can do when healthy early in the season, torching Hughesville for 227 yards after throwing for 161 against Mifflinburg in the season opener Dowell also threw two touchdowns at Montoursville, helping Loyalsock win the Bridge Trophy for a third straight season. Dowell can do damage in all facets and returned a kickoff 89 yards for a score against Mifflinburg

Dolan Harman, RB/LB: One of the districtʼs top running backs last season, Harman ran for 1,291 yards, 14 touchdowns and averaged 5.0 yards per carry. He was one of the busiest backs around but never tired, often doing some of his best running late in games after battering defenses for more than three quarters Harman scored in nine of his 11 games and went over 100 yards seven times He also caught a touchdown, averaging more than 11 yards per catch. His status is up in the air after suffering a torn ACL in the offseason but Harman is quite a difference-maker when he is on the field

Deryk

Dolan

Jeremiah Johnson, DL/OL: The only debate when it came to Johnson and the preseason all-star team was whether to place him on the defensive or offensive line. Either spot, he excels. For the record, we put him on defense and you can read about his play there when looking over that team Johnson, a four-year starter, has developed into one of the districtʼs best two-way linemen and was a first-team HAC-III selection at both spots He also holds one of the most crucial keys to Loyalsockʼs running game and is tough to move up front.

J S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

ersey Shore holds lofty goals again this season. But these days it’s not so much about pursuing championships as it is savoring the moment

Players only get four cracks at most at enjoying the high school football experience, so might as well enjoy the ride. That is the goal as a hard-working group hopes a dedicated offseason effort makes for fun times this fall.

“We’re just excited for what the season can be We’re excited for practices and enjoying the process,” Jersey Shore coach Tom Gravish said. “Enjoy the process. “We enjoyed the Pitt (camp) experience, the summer experience, the games and we want to take it all in.”

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 Dallas

Aug. 29 at Delaware Valley

Sept. 5 at Selinsgrove

Sept. 12 at Shamokin

Sept. 19 Shikellamy

Sept. 26 at Williamsport

Oct. 3—Hollidaysburg

Oct. 10 Penn Wood

Oct. 17—at Scranton Prep

Oct. 24 Central Mountain

That Pittsburgh camp was a 7-on-7 and a Big Man camp, one of several in which both the skill players and line excelled Equally important, those experiences strengthened team chemistry. So, although the Bulldogs graduated some fabulous players last summer, they also feature a potentially deep, close-knit roster.

Jersey Shore’s motto is “Tradition Never Graduates,” so the Bulldogs will again try living those words a year after going 8-4 against a grueling schedule and coming within two points of winning a sixth district championship in seven years.

“Everyone is excited. It’s kind of a cliche, but every team has its own personality, and all have been good in different ways,” Gravish said. “The seniors are showing great leadership, and we like our youth and that they got a chance to play last year as freshmen and sophomores They’re progressing nicely They all bring a wealth of skills and possess a lot of excitement at a younger level ”

Sophomore quarterback Nolen Pauling is part of that potentially explosive younger group and excelled at the JV level last season. Pauling also some time in big games against teams like Scranton Prep and combines mobility with a big arm. Carson Watkins and Luke Ryan also are in the mix at quarterback, although both are more likely to slide in at wide receiver

Watkins and Ryan could form a potent receiving tandem and both had games with 90 or more yards last season. Keep an eye on Luke Thompson, too. He was a second-team tight end last season and could line up there or at wide receiver and provide added depth. Another two players to watch out for include sophomore Carter Rhinehart and Conner Yingling

The backfield looks strong with Bo Sechrist coming off a breakout season there The two-time all-state linebacker led the team in rushing touchdowns and can be a battering ram as both a runner and blocker. Sophomore Zeke Sechrist will move from the offensive line and also could play a key role. Ditto Conner Winters, Kash Herritt, Cayden Cummings, Jayce Fetzer, Aiden Platts all who have good offseasons Winters also is a quality receiver and could be used in a variety of ways

“We have some players who have their own types of strengths,”

Gravish said “We really like what we have and what we think they’re going to progress into.”

Gravish feels a similar way about the offensive line. While that unit graduated some all-stars, the cupboard is far from bare. Mason Larson is a two-year starter and Brayden Swales started multiple games last season. Talyn Lopes and Isaac Shirey also received playing time and Braiden Raeborne, Nate Thompson and Drake Jacobs. All have made good strides throughout the offseason and all seem eager to make their mark

“The linemen like working with each other,” Gravish said “They have great attitudes just like everyone on the team does ”

All those players also could make a defensive impact for a unit which perennially has ranked among the area’s best over the last 11 years Cummings is a versatile threat who could play nose tackle, defensive end or linebacker. Thompson and Zeke Sechrist form a power defensive end combination and both were firstteam HAC-I all-stars a year ago, finishing among the area’s sack leaders.

Bo Sechrist has earned all-state honors in both his seasons starting at linebacker and Jersey Shore has a lot of exciting options to place beside him in its 5-2 defense. Pauling started as a freshman at safety and brings experience there as do Watkins and Ryan. Add in the several others in that receiving group who also double as defensive backs and the recipe for success could be simmering

A year ago, Jersey Shore put together a terrific season, losing just one game and that one was a heartbreaker That does not ensure varsity success but it shows that the potential is there if those younger

2024 RESULTS (8-4)

Jersey Shore 28, Dallas 21

Jersey Shore 14, Delaware Valley 10

Jersey Shore 55, Selinsgrove 21

Jersey Shore 28, Shamokin 30

Jersey Shore 63, Shikellamy 13

Jersey Shore 52, Williamsport 13

Jersey Shore 25, Hollidaysburg 27

Jersey Shore 42, Penn Wood 8

Jersey Shore 19, Scranton Prep 17

Jersey Shore 67, Central Mountain 21

District 4 Class AAAA semifinals

Jersey Shore 48, Selinsgrove 7 Championship

Jersey Shore 27, Shamokin 28 (OT)

players continue progressing.

“The sophomores did an incredible job in JV last year. What I like about our JVs is that of that freshmen group which had around 20-21 players, I’m pretty certain that 15 of them played in at least nine varsity games,” Gravish said. “That’s probably the highest amount of freshmen we’ve had get some time of varsity experience That’s why those sophomores come in with some confidence We’ve told them a lot of people might not know their names yet, but if they keep working and hustling, then they’ll learn their names fast.”

For so long, however, it has been about the collective at Jersey Shore, so the Bulldogs are focused more on team goals than individual ones Playing as one has helped them win seven district championships and play in 10 since 2013. Time will tell how this season plays out, but a strong foundation is in place

That includes Gravish saying his preseason attendance was as good as it has ever been. The effort, chemistry and desire are all there.

Each season is like a puzzle. The pieces are there and now it’s a matter of Jersey Shore putting them all in place

PASSER AT CM IN YDS TD

Elijah Jordan 274 158 9 2,401 28

R USHER AT YDS TD

Elijah Jordan 185 801 8

Bo Sechrist 108 604 13

Brodie Herr 114 592 7

Nolen Pauling 31 256 4

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Evan Snyder 64 1,099 15

Paul Hale 56 799 6

Carson Watkins 14 187 1

Luke Ryan 9 161 1

Trent Severino 9 83 3

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nolen Pauling, QB/DB: Like Elijah Jordan last year, Pauling provides Jersey Shore quite a dualthreat at quarterback The freshman flashed his skills in back-up duty last year while also excelling while starting in the secondary Pauling has a big arm and also can dart past and around defenders, ripping off 95 yards and two touchdowns in just his third high school game last fall against Selinsgrove. Pauling threw well during the JV season when he was the teamʼs starter and was a vital part of the defenseʼs success, averaging more than five tackles per game

Bo Sechrist, LB/RB: A two-time all-state linebacker, Sechrist is one of the districtʼs best and more can be read about his play there on the preseason all-star team For now, letʼs focus on how smoothly Sechrist settled into the backfield a year ago. A hard-running fullback, Sechrist rumbled for 604 yards and a team-high 13 touchdowns, averaging 5 6 yards per carry He also is an excellent blocker who helped two others top 600 yards Sechrist has good hands out of the backfield and caught a 35-yard touchdown in districts

Luke Thompson, DL/TE: Thompson stepped up as a sophomore in a tough situation and continued coming on strong last season, leading Jersey Shore with 6 1/2 sacks Fast and strong off the edge, Thompson combines with Zeke Sechrist to provide the Bulldogs an excellent pass rushing duo. He added 42 quarterback hurries and recovered two fumbles A three-year starter, Thompson averaged five tackles per game and made 14 tackles for loss He also caught a touchdown and averaged 15 yards per reception

Carson Watkins, WR/DB: Jersey Shore traditionally has cranked out excellent receivers with Evan Snyder and Paul Hale continuing the tradition last year Watkins and Luke Ryan could be two of the net in line Watkins has flashed his potential the past two seasons and had a big game in a Week 2 win against Selinsgrove, catching five passes for 91 yards and a touchdown He is another versatile threat on a team filled with them and also can play quarterback or lineup in the backfield Watkins likely could play a key role in the secondary, too

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

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By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

outh Williamsport players did not just pump iron when summer workouts began last June. They moved it, too Literally.

Those players carried the weights from the high school to the Rommelt Building and now have an expanded weight room More important, that more cavernous room has been filled with Mountie players throughout the summer A year after featuring just four seniors and starting mostly freshmen and sophomores, the Mounties have grown literally and figuratively.

So, for a program which has reached districts for 13 straight seasons, the exciting also is growing.

“We’re really excited because the kids are totally different and they’ve had a year of growth,” South coach Chris Eiswerth said. “They’re bigger physically and they’ve been growing for a year They have experience now, and are approaching things like they’ve been there.”

That is a 180-degree turn from last year Entering that 2024 season, South was replacing nearly all its starters from the previous year’s Class A state semifinalist. It was as young a team as Eiswerth has fielded in his 16 seasons at his alma mater. Through it all, South again improved as the season continued,

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22—at Athens

Aug. 29 at Canton

Sept. 5—Troy

Sept. 12 at Milton

Sept. 19—Wyalusing

Sept. 26 Cowanesque Valley

Oct. 3—at Sayre

Oct. 10 at Muncy

Oct 17—Montgomery

Oct. 24 Northwest

rallied from a 1-3 start and reached districts again, playing against eventual Class AA state champion Troy in the quarterfinals.

It was a grueling schedule, including two games against Troy and another against Class A state semifinalist Muncy. The benefit now is that so many returning players have been through the fire They have competed against some of the state’s best players and were able to keep moving forward no matter the challenges they faced last fall

“They’re all bigger, they’re stronger, they’re faster and they’re more mature emotionally,” Eiswerth said. “They’re working hard They have built some muscle and have working on speed, so all those things are positives.”

South has long featured a powerful

running game and that could be the case again this season with sophomores Cade Lusk and Eli White both topping 500 yards as freshmen a year ago. Incoming freshman Garrett Lorson is another player to watch, someone who could make an immediate impact after working out with Lusk and White throughout the offseason.

“The more guys we can get the ball too and make it more diverse, the more of a problem we become with our Wing-T system,” Eiswerth said. “That’s what we’ve done in the past, and when you have three, four or five guys who can run it, and then have a wide receiver out there, that gives them a lot to think about.”

Sophomore Cole Gerber will move from receiver to quarterback. The 6-foot-3 lefthander put together a dominant pitching season last spring and could help the passing game keep teams off-balance despite record-breaking receiver Dylan Scheller having graduated. Caleb Johnson, Sawyer Fry and Ethan Gardner are all receivers who could emerge this season and South will have another weapon in tight end Neeko Bowen after he started as a freshman last year

Since Eiswerth has been there, South has used strong line play as the foundation for its success. That unit is a work in progress but the potential to impose its will is there.

Center Eli Harvey is back after starting as a freshman as is guard Kamdyn Bubb

who also immediately started as a freshman Senior Cadden Smith provides experience and sophomore Kasim Davenport is another player to watch, especially after shining defensively during his debut season.

There are few secrets when it comes to South’s offense. This is a smash-mouth unit, so it will be looking to establish the run every game Some may say it’s a simple approach, but when executed well it has proven both a powerful and successful approach, one which has helped generate two district championships, six district finals appearances and six league titles since 2012.

“We concentrate on pounding the iron and getting faster and more agile, and on building fundamental skills that we live on,” Eiswerth said “It’s keeping things simple to where we just try to be in better condition and mentally and emotionally tough. That’s been a great recipe for us in this little town. That’s always our goal, just trying to improve every week.”

The defense showed that improvement last season, coming up with big stops late in close wins against Wyalusing, Cowanesque Valley and Northwest Davenport helped anchor the defensive line and Smith made a huge play which helped swing the momentum in a season-opening win against Class AAAA Athens. Harvey and Bubb have impressed Eiswerth with their offseason work, so they also could make crucial contributions up front

Lusk, White and Colton Paulhamus return at linebacker and Lorson also could play a vital role there The secondary also should

2024 RESULTS (5-6)

South Williamsport 26, Athens 13

South Williamsport 8, Canton 17

South Williamsport 7, Troy 43

South Williamsport 21, Milton 22

South Williamsport 21, Wyalusing 19

South Williamsport 23, Cowanesque 19

South Williamsport 55, Sayre 7

South Williamsport 21, Muncy 49

South Williamsport 14, Montgomery 42

South Williamsport 21, Northwest 14

District 4 Class A quarterfinals

South Williamsport 27, Troy 63

be fairly experienced with Johnson, Gardner and Fry all starting at some point a year ago

All those players are pushing each other these days. Before the Mounties head to Athens for the season opener, those daily competitions are what help make the team better. The goal is taking that weight room and/or practice success to the field come Friday nights.

“We want to see how the kids have improved and what steps they have taken and if the kids have made 1 1/2 years progress. We tell them that if they can take that step to making 1 1/2 years progress instead of just one, that’s when you really start to come on,” Eiswerth said. “It’s about trying to teach these young guys about hard work and teammate work and brotherhood and how you deal with stress and helping one another It’s a pretty in-depth thing.”

Eiswerth likens each new season to making a stew. He likes the ingredients South possesses Now it’s a matter of mixing them all together in the pot to produce a gourmet meal Do so and South will continue enhancing its program’s strong tradition.

Tadd Lusk 169 75 12

R USHER AT YDS TD

Cade Lusk 131 620 9

Eli White 90 548 5

Tadd Lusk 66 483 12

Jayden Hamm 60 239 1

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Dylan Scheller 9 1,018 5

Eli White 5 67 0

Cade Lusk 4 33 0

2025 FOOTBALL P LAY ERS TO WATCH

Kasim Davenport, DL/OL: One of several freshmen who made immediate impacts last season, Davenport produced sacks in each of his first two high school games Although injuries cost him some games, Davenport still finished with three sacks and made 50 tackles, while also blocking a kick Davenport helps provide the defensive line a strong foundation and could become one of the areaʼs best if he builds off his strong debut season. He also came up big in a 21-14 win against Northwest with another sack

Caleb Johnson, DB/WR: One of many young players who stepped up in a big way last year, Johnson intercepted two passes, including one in the end zone to end a Canton scoring threat in Week 2. Johnson has a nose for the football and also recovered two fumbles as he made steady progress throughout the year With Dylan Scheller graduating following a 1,000-yard season, there will be a receiving void and Johnson is one of the players who could help fill it, possessing quality hands and speed

Cade Lusk, RB/DB: The latest in a line of Lusk players to excel at South, Cade follows the family blueprint and is a hard-nosed, versatile player As a freshman, Lusk led the team in rushing despite not becoming one of the primary ball-carriers until Week 5, rushing for 620 yards and nine touchdowns. He topped 80 yards three times and gouged Wyalusing for a career-high 145 yards and a touchdown in a season-changing 2119 win Lusk also has a nose for the ball at linebacker, recovering four fumbles and making four tackles for loss

Eli White, RB/DB: Like Lusk, White flourished as a freshman starting in both the backfield and at linebacker White ran for 548 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 6 1 yards per carry The sophomore adds a big-play threat to the backfield and closed his season with a 103-yard performance against Class AA state champion Troy. White made 40 tackles as well, recovering a fumble and helping South win four of its last six regular-season games to reach districts for a 13th straight season

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

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By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

Muncy reached the Class A state semifinals and Warrior Run the District 4 Class AA championship But it was Hughesville who captured the fictional Tri-Town championship. Doing so could provide a big boost as the new season approaches.

Rallying to beat Warrior Run in double overtime and overcoming a 13-point, late fourth-quarter deficit against Muncy, Hughesville won its final three regular-season games a year ago That surged helped Hughesville produce its first winning season since 2015. Knowing it beat two teams who then won a combined five playoff games shined a light on what Hughesville achieved in 2024 and where it could go in 2025 if it builds off that success

“Beating Warrior Run and beating Muncy was big for us with both going pretty deep into playoffs. That gives us a little bit of bragging rights and some fuel to the fire,” Hughesville coach Howard Rainey said. “All the younger kids have been at everything throughout the offseason and that’s a good thing They are dedicated and want to continue everything ”

It was not just that Hughesville went 6-5, but how it did so which also carries importance.

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 Montgomery

Aug 29—at Towanda

Sept. 5 Loyalsock

Sept 12—Lewisburg

Sept. 19 at Midd-West

Sept 26—Mount Carmel

Oct. 3 at Bloomsburg

Oct 10—at Warrior Run

Oct. 17 Wyalusing

Oct. 24 at Muncy

In addition to overcoming second-half deficits against Warrior Run and Muncy, the Spartans also made a late stand to preserve a 14-7 win against Montgomery. Those were the kind of games they had let slip away in previous years despite reaching districts in 2022 and 2023

Seeing is believing and Hughesville seeing that kind of success in big moments helped it clear a big hurdle last season. Now, the Spartans would like to keep soaring higher.

“The players coming to all the workouts are excited and the coaches are excited,” Rainey said “We’re looking forward to seeing what we can do ”

Hughesville may utilize a different offensive approach this season while trying to achieve its desired results The Spartans have been a more pass-oriented offense the last few years, including last fall when Blake Davis made a run at 2,000 yards and receiver Conor Knight topped 1,000 yards But with some good size up front and not as much experience on the edge and at quarterback, the Spartans may try establishing the run more

Aiding that transition, Hughesville has scaled back its calls up front The hope is that a more simplistic approach helps generate more powerful results

“We’ve been more 60/40 in terms of passing and rushing in the past and I think we’ll be more even this year,” Rainey said. “We changed some of our line calls, so that it’s much easier for them. Before they had a lot more to think about and I think this will help things go a little more smooth.”

The Spartans took some graduation hits up front but return a quality nucleus. Hunter Whipple is a three-year starter and both Cameron Walker and Jakob Charles played well up front last fall. Ditto Jerry Barton who also is a defensive standout.

Who will line up under center had not been decided entering camp but it will likely either be Connor Anstadt or Nick Stubbs. Both saw some time last season and both are versatile

SUN-GAZETTE

athletes. What that means is that whoever does not win the quarterback job likely will be utilized as a receiver and still helping the passing game in that way. This also will be the first time since 2021 that an underclassman will be starting at quarterback

“We will still utilize them both as a key part of our offense for sure,” Rainey said “What we like is we have two and three years to work with them ”

Rainey also is excited about his running back room Senior Jed Abernatha is one of the team’s fastest players and has the ability to turn a short gain into a long run, He also has evolved as a runner and has good hands, giving Hughesville a valuable weapon after its leading rusher and receiver graduated.

“Abernatha can be a huge running back He’s big, fast and one of our strongest players,” Rainey said “Now he’s learned that he can run over you, too If he can get a head of steam he has a chance to break some big ones ”

Chase Fowler and Chase Schrawder also could see a lot of carries. Fowler is a receiving threat and could play H-Back, a fullback/tight end role. Beyond that, there are several young, promising players competing for time.

It is a similar story with the receivers, although Carson Stackhouse helps give that group a strong foundation. He had a big game against Class AAA district finalist Lewisburg a year ago and is the team’s top returner in both catches and yards

Barton, Charles and Walker are all part of a defensive line which could help set the defensive tone Barton burst onto the scene as a sophomore, finishing among the area’s sack leaders. Alfonzo Smith is another player to watch, showing good burst when coming off the line.

2024 RESULTS (6-5)

Hughesville 14, Montgomery 7

Hughesville 42, Towanda 6

Hughesville 3, Loyalsock 30

Hughesville 20, Lewisburg 39

Hughesville 57, Midd-West 0

Hughesville 21, Mount Carmel 42

Hughesville 7, Bloomsburg 39

Hughesville 32, Warrior Run 29 (2 OT)

Hughesville 24, Wyalusing 7

Hughesville 28, Muncy 27

District 4 Class AA quarterfinals

Hughesville 0, Southern Columbia 39

Hughesville has featured an excelling linebacking group the past few years and that could remain the same this season. Fowler is coming off a terrific season and Shrawder has big goals after making a strong impact last year He also provides Hughesville a physical, hard-nosed presence

Anstadt was a first-team HAC-III strong safety and often played nickel back and/or linebacker last season. His versatility could help again this year with Anstadt likely playing safety and/or cornerback Sophomore Levi Green could make a big contribution to the secondary, showing his potential in a Week 2 win against Towanda when he returned an interception for a touchdown. Stubbs also could play a key role in the secondary and freshman Julian Smith looks like a player who could make an immediate impact in his debut season

Keegan Smith developed into one of the district’s top kickers and, despite his graduation, Hughesville still may have a special teams X-factor as Michael Fuller takes over Rainey has been impressed by Fuller’s range and booming kicks during the offseason and his contributions could loom large like Smith’s did a year ago when he delivered a game-winning field goal against Warrior Run and game-winning extra point against Muncy

Blake Davis 250 101 13 1,592 22 R USHER AT YDS TD

Luke Stutzman 138 521 4

Jed Abernatha 64 313 1

Blake Davis 47 175 1

Chase Shrawder 30 133 0

RECEIVER REC YDS TD Conor Knight 67 1,007 12

C. Stackhouse 18 261 2

Connor Anstadt 7 161 1

Brenden Fisher 6 92 2

2 200225 5 F FOOO

AYYEERRS S T TO O W WAATTCCH H

Jed Abernetha, RB/DL: The teamʼs leading returning rusher from last season, Abernatha has the ability to turn a short gain into a long run He averaged nearly five years per carry as a junior, gaining 313 yards, while both rushing for and catching touchdowns His size and speed also give Abernatha the ability to line up all over the field Conversely, it also enables him to play off the edge or at linebacker The senior made 40 tackles last season and forced a critical fumble in a season-opening win at Montgomery

Jerry Barton, DL/OL: As a sophomore last fall, Barton became one of the areaʼs biggest breakout performers He finished among the district leaders with nine sacks, collecting them all over his final eight games That included three two-sack performances Barton also made 59 tackles and totaled eight tackles for loss. He plays a vital role up front offensively, as well In his first varsity action there, Barton produced 19 pancake blocks as Hughesville came on strong and won its last three regular-season games.

Chase Fowler, LB/RB: A first-team HAC-III selection at outside linebacker, Fowler helped provide Hughesville one of the areaʼs premier linebacking units He now is the top returning tackler from that group after averaging 10.5 per game and generating 115. Fowler flies around the field and is tough against both the run and the pass He broke up three passes, forced a fumble, recovered another and made nine tackles for loss. Fowler also could see an expanded offensive role after running for a score last fall

Carson Stackhouse, WR/DB: Connor Knight took the baton from Aiden Barlett and put together one of the best receiving seasons in program history last year. Now, Stackhouse looks like he could be the next in line to put up big numbers Rainey said multiple times last season that Stackhouse reminded him of a younger Knight and he finished second on the team in catches

The senior caught 18 passes for 261 yards and topped 100 yards against District 4 Class AAA runner-up Lewisburg Look for Stackhouse to play a bigger role in the secondary as well.

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

Central Mountain graduated nearly all its starters from the 2023 team. Then the 2024 squad suffered several costly injuries soon after the season opened And the Wildcats faced a Murderer’s Row of opponents, including a state champion, three district champions and five district finalists

So, yes Central Mountain went 0-10 but there was success beneath that record. For openers, most of the starters were underclassmen who now have ample experience entering 2025 The Wildcats also are boosted by a strong incoming freshman class and 73 players total signed up this summer.

Then there is one key intangible This team is mighty motivated Central Mountain remembers the tough times last year, but they are hoping those made them stronger and are eager to experience good times this season. Time will tell how that

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Mifflin County

Aug. 29 Bloomsburg

Sept. 5—at Williamsport

Sept. 12 Selinsgrove

Sept. 19—Shamokin

Sept. 26 at Shikellamy

Oct. 3—Montoursville

Oct. 10 Mount Carmel

Oct. 17—at Troy

Oct. 24 at Jersey Shore

goes, but the Wildcats believe and that provides a good foundation.

“All the guys that got work as underclassmen last year have a chip on their shoulder They have put in a lot of time since January, whether it’s lifting or speed training or throwing the ball as much as they can or coming in before school and catching 75 balls before they to

go class,” Central Mountain coach Travis Thompson said. “It’s super exciting for me to see the commitment and drive that these guys have It’s fueling their fire ”

That is crucial because the schedule is the same as last year, just with the locations flipped. This time around, however, Central Mountain has much more experience. There was a steep learning curve for all those new starters last season, several freshmen and sophomores Now, they have grown up and Central Mountain is much further ahead this preseason.

Between the increased numbers, the returning contributors and exciting prospects, Central Mountain believes it has the right recipe to cook up some victories and make an upward move

“We have so many returning guys back, plus we have some guys coming back from injury who didn’t get to shine in their junior seasons and, hopefully, have some breakout senior years,” Thompson said. “It’s nice to see the confidence they have We’re looking at some of the fresh-

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

men from last year and they have blossomed into young men and they still have three years to grow and improve ”

That is exciting as is Central Mountain’s strength centering upon its offensive and defensive lives Football success often starts up front and the Wildcats are optimistic that experience, size and desire will set the tone for the entire roster Evan Hardy, Hayes Henry, Todd Caris and Nick Lose and Jacob Rembold all return up front. Rembold could move to tight end as a junior this fall and allow Central Mountain to operate some double tight formations which allow him to get into space

“The biggest thing we have coming back is a solid line core,” Thompson said. “We feel like that could really be a strength of ours and that is key.”

Those linemen and tight ends can lead the way for what could be a strong running game. Dalton McDermott started strong last year before suffering an injury and returns as does Kole Corman and Kai Fravel. All three are hardnosed runners. Put them together with a potentially surging line and Central Mountain could have the right formula to wear on opposing defenses

There is an open battle for the quarterback job but whoever earns it this preseason will have some exciting receivers with whom to work Again, that includes players

2024 RESULTS (0-10)

Central Mountain 6, Mifflin County 42

Central Mountain 7, Bloomsburg 41

Central Mountain 17, Williamsport 36

Central Mountain 13, Selinsgrove 41

Central Mountain 0, Shamokin 76

Central Mountain 7, Montoursville 44

Central Mountain 20, Mount Carmel 49

Central Mountain 10, Troy 62

Central Mountain 21, Jersey Shore 67

who were expected to play big roles last season before injuries, but who are healthy again and ready to make up for lost time. Mario Serafini has excellent hands and can be used in the slot or on the outside. Ricky Rohrbach is back strong following an injury and can stretch the field while 6foot-6 Calen Hunter can do damage deep, over the middle and/or in the red zone. Mason Masorti is another player to watch after making a nice defensive impact last season

Speaking of the defense, Central Mountain could possess some quality depth Joining the offensive linemen who were mentioned earlier, Gage Tressler made big strides at nose guard last season and will help ignite things up front Kai Fravel was slowed by injury last season but all those restrictions are off and he could be a game-changer coming off the edge, whether lining up as a defensive end or at outside linebacker.

The Wildcats are especially strong at linebacker with Kole Corman coming off a monster season in which he earned first-team HAC-I honors.

Isaiah Maldonado 72 40 5 374 2

R USHER AT YDS TD

Jake Weaver 121 535 3

Kade Corman 43 212 0

Hunter Hoy 27 181 2

Cooper Bottorf 29 160 2

Isaiah Maldonado 39 145 1

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Jase Seitzer 14 290 3

Gavin Haverly 15 119 1

Bryce Brungard 7 48 0

2 200225 5 F FOOOOTTBBAALLL L P PLLAAYYEERRS S T TO O W WAATTCCH H

Todd Caris, OL/DL: Karis immediately was inserted into the starting lineup as a freshman last fall and made steady progress. So, while he remains young in terms of being a sophomore, Karis has valuable experience He also is a powerful blocker and provides the interior defensive line a good centerpiece Caris led all Wildcat linemen in tackles last season and especially stood out against Mount Carmel when he frequently knifed into the backfield and made three tackles for loss

Kole Corman, RB/LB: Coming off an impressive freshman season, Corman developed into one of the areaʼs best linebackers The junior anchored the defense and made 105 tackles, averaging 10 5 per game Corman seemingly improved each game and highlighted his season with a program-record 21 tackles against Shikellamy Corman nearly broke that record in the season finale against Jersey Shore when he produced 20 tackles Equally impressive, 21 of those tackles in those two games were solos. Corman also made 6 ½ tackles for loss, collected 1 1/2 sacks, forced a fumble and ran for 212 yards.

Kai Fravel, RB/LB: Thompson is really excited about what Fravel might do this season He played in eight games last year but Fravel was still working back from an injury, so Central Mountain was careful how it used him Now, Fravel is back to 100% and Central Mountain is eager to unleash him. A 6-foot-2, 220-pounder who runs a sub-five second 40, Fravel can wreak havoc off the edge and disrupt opposing offenses He also could use those qualities to make an offensive impact as a diverse weapon

Dalton McDermott, RB/LB: McDermott ran for a teamhigh 76 yards in Central Mountainʼs first two games a year ago, but primarily played defense from there due to injury The 5-10, 190-pounder is a physical runner with good burst and could be poised for a big breakout season He already has shown what he can do defensively and is part of a strong linebacking unit. McDermott was second on the team in tackles last year, averaging seven per game That included a 17-tackle performance against Shikellamy. He also made at least six tackles in all but three of his starts

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

ll the players performed their tasks well, but the Lewisburg offense certainly revolved around Jeremiah Davis last fall. And for good reason.

Davis put together the best season any Lewisburg running back ever has, running for a record 2,177 yards and 29 touchdowns The Green Dragons went 10-2, captured their first league title since 2010 and reached their first district championship since that same season.

Davis and a host of excellent linemen graduated, but Lewisburg believes it can continue its offensive success in 2025 How it achieves that, however, may look a lot different.

Players like Davis do not come around a lot, but Lewisburg retains an exciting core of playmakers and could give defenses problems with its balance as well as with how it spreads the ball around

“I feel like this year it will be harder for defensive coaches to figure out who’s the guy. Jaylen (Walker) is our biggest threat, but we have a bunch of different guys who can make plays,” Lewisburg coach Eric Wicks said “We’re going to be a different looking team, but we’ll still be able to put points on the board ”

The first change comes at quarterback

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Line Mountain

Aug. 29 Shikellamy

Sept. 5 at Bloomsburg

Sept. 12 at Hughesville

Sept. 19 Warrior Run

Sept. 26 at Loyalsock

Oct. 3 at Midd-West

Oct. 10 Shamokin

Oct. 17 Montoursville

Oct. 24—at Mifflinburg

where junior Xavier Carter takes over A starting safety last season, Carter has a strong arm and can stretch defenses He also was the JV starting quarterback and sees the field well, combining his skill set with a sharp mind.

“He’s a baseball kid who pitches and he can make the big boy throws down the field,” Wicks said “He’s also very accurate and we have a lot of players who can catch the ball and make plays for us.”

That includes Walker who has shined since his freshman season. The junior wide receiver led the team in catches and yards last year, doing so in a run-heavy offense Nick Coleman also enjoyed a quality season at receiver and forms a strong, experienced tandem with Walker

Sophomore Drake Osunde has impressed Lewisburg coaches throughout the offseason, combining size and speed Mateo Cardello missed some time with injuries last year but also could be poised for a strong season and Owen Fellon started as a freshman at tight end a year ago, catching a 76-yard touchdown against Warrior Run.

“Jaylen did some really impressive things in 7-on-7s and is able to beat double teams, especially since we can move him around in different formations,” Wicks said. “We feel like we have a lot of guys who can help make that receiving core special. We have some big targets, too, who we can throw the ball to and that will certainly help us ”

And, while, Lewisburg has the ingredients to produce a dangerous passing game, do not think it is getting away from the run. Dane Shuey is a hard-nosed, toughrunning 215-pound junior who could wear on defenses as each game progresses. Ethan Long could fit that mold as well, while freshman Sean Perez could make an immediate impact He is young, but Perez is an explosive player who could provide some lightning to Shuey and Long’s thunder.

The offensive line also will be trying to showcase some power after developing into one of the district’s premier units last season Three starters graduated, but fouryear starter Garrett Glathar and returning

starter Matteo Casale provide excellent building blocks up front A year ago, they helped Lewisburg wear down opponents on a regular basis as the Green Dragons came within a few minutes of reaching the state quarterfinals

Lucas Cassidy and Elijah Carter also played large roles in the success, performing well in reserve roles. Wyatt Noble was expected to play a key role last season but tore his Achilles. He returns healthy this season and provides Lewisburg another versatile, physical weapon. Lewisburg is not experienced or as big as last season, but showcased its potential when it finished third at the Joe Moore Offensive Line Camp

“We have a lot of players who are really cerebral,” Wicks said “We did really well at the Joe Moore camp and had a lot of good coaches working with them and pointing things out and that all they learned should help them a lot going into the season ”

All the previously mentioned linemen also likely will factor into the defensive line mix. Ke-jaun Simms was a good playmaker when called upon a year ago and also will help spark that unit. Lewisburg took its biggest defensive hit at linebacker where standouts Quin Michaels, Sean Field, both four-year starters, and Tyler Downs all graduated. Helping fill that void will be players like David Bozella, a tough, downhill player who made a nice impact last fall Ditto Owen Fellon who will likely move from outside linebacker to the inside to complement Bozella Mitchell Lorenz and Ethan Long also received a lot of playing time last season and should benefit from that experi-

2024 RESULTS (10-2)

Lewisburg 26, Line Mountain 23

Lewisburg 30, Shikellamy 0

Lewisburg 42, Bloomsburg 10

Lewisburg 39, Hughesville 20

Lewisburg 24, Warrior Run 0

Lewisburg 27, Loyalsock 13

Lewisburg 41, Midd-West 7

Lewisburg 12, Shamokin 17

Lewisburg 22, Montoursville 19

Lewisburg 49, Mifflinburg 28

District 4 Class AAA semifinals

Lewisburg 39, Mount Carmel 7 Championship

Lewisburg 24, Danville 28

ence while giving Lewisburg two more reliable playmakers

“All those guys played a lot because of how the season went We were able to get them all good time out there,” Wicks said. “Because they got that experience, it gives us a nice foundation and they know what is expected ”

Contrasting the linebacking unit replacing its starters, the secondary returns most of its 2024 group. Coleman, Carter and Cardello all started and helped Lewisburg finish among area leaders in points allowed Walker also could factor into the mix as will Jett Jamison and Ethan Long, a potential hybrid linebacker/defensive back type. Perez will be in that picture, too, and Lewisburg could have the depth to complement its experience

“I feel like we have good versatility there, it’s just working schemes and understanding concepts,” Wicks said. “The seniors did it so well last year, so we’re banking on relying on those concepts we learned and the kids talking to coaching ”

Lewisburg must replace a special teams weapon in Cohen Hoover.

Chase Wenrich 55 131 2 RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Jaylen Walker 24 575 6

Nick Coleman 22 216 0

Owen Felton 7 133 1

Mateo Cardello 4 36 0

2 200225 5 F FOOOOTTBBAAL

Xavier Carter, QB/DB: Carter has been waiting in the wings at quarterback the past two seasons and could get his shot this season after performing well in a backup roll the previous fall Carter already has established himself in the secondary and was a valuable safety for one of the areaʼs top units a year ago. Carter is one of the teamʼs top returning tacklers and intercepted a pass in a 24-0 win against Warrior Run. He came up big in the District 4 Class AAA semifinals as well, forcing two fumbles in a 39-7 win against Mount Carmel Carter made 10 solo tackles in a comeback win against Montoursville as well

Nick Coleman, WR/DB: Coleman was another big piece to the secondaryʼs success last year and broke up four passes The cornerback provides quality coverage and 27 of his 31 tackles were solos He also could be a Swiss Army Knife player offensively Coleman has seen time in the backfield and at wide receiver his first three seasons The senior enjoyed his best campaign a year ago, catching 22 passes for 216 yards. As a sophomore two years ago, Coleman also ripped off a long touchdown run against Bloomsburg

Garrett Glathar, OL/DL: Lewisburg took some big graduation hits up front, so Glathar will play a large role on both lines He and Matteo Casale are the lone returning starters along the offensive line and both provide strong building blocks. Glathar is a four-year starter who immediately worked his way into the starting lineup as a freshman He has been a key factor in Lewisburg increasing its total by four games in each of the last two seasons Glathar could see more defensive action this year after making nine tackles as a junior.

Jaylen Walker, WR/DB: Another player who immediately stepped in as a freshman, Walker played a massive role in Lewisburg surging down the stretch during his freshman year two years ago He parlayed late-season 2023 success into more consistent success as a sophomore, leading Lewisburg with 24 catches for 575 yards and six touchdowns. Walker topped 60 yards five times and could be used more defensively this season At one point last season, Walker caught touchdowns in three straight games

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By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

Montgomery named Joel Knoebel its new football coach on March 21 The next day, the former Southern Columbia assistant started his selling job

Knoebel made the rounds at school on a regular basis, getting to know the players, their teachers and the administration He contacted every assistant coach, crossed every T, dotted every I

That created a quality buy-in and Montgomery quickly started attacking the offseason, eager to build off last year’s seven-win season, its best since 2000 The goal now is to make sure that success was not an aberration, but the norm.

It’s about winning, but also about creating an identity

“We want to establish a program We want to be a defined defense and a defined offense,” Knoebel said. “We want to have something that we’re known for The 3-5 defense, the Wing-T offense, tough athletic play and hard-nosed kids. We have great kids and we’re excited to get to work.”

Hard work helped Montgomery turn a massive corner last season as it made a sixwin improvement and finished second in the NTL-II. The Red Raiders also reached the District 4 Class A playoffs for the first

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Hughesville

Aug 29—at Warrior Run

Sept. 5 Sayre

Sept 12—at Wyalusing

Sept. 19 Canton

Sept. 26 at Muncy

Oct. 3 Northwest

Oct. 10 Holy Redeemer

Oct. 17 at South Williamsport

Oct. 24 Cowanesque Valley

time since 2021, winning seven of their final eight regular season games

A strong core returns from that team and the town is starting to buzz again. All are big developments for a program which is hoping to achieve some big things going forward What the Raiders hope now is that they can turn the buzz into a roar.

“These are a great kids and we think they can compete with anyone on the field. They have to keep that belief and keep that strong until we get them going this season,” Knoebel said. “We’ve got to get people in the seats. I think you have to have a strong sense of belief in the community and that filters to the players and can be powerful ”

Montgomery looked like a powerful unit following an 0-2 start with its lone loss in the next eight weeks coming against Class A state semifinalist Muncy. The Red Raiders shut out two opponents and avenged six losses from the previous year Some excellent players graduated but the majority of the starters remain, in addition to some exciting newcomers and/or freshmen

Senior quarterback Parker Persing will run the offense for a fourth straight season and made enormous strides last season. Lincoln Miller, Cameron Woltz, Josh Knoebel, Austin Luckenbill and Trace Furman all are players who could see carries in a run-oriented offense which often spreads the ball around and keeps opponents guessing. All are physical players and Knoebel played at Southern as a freshman last year while the other four received valuable playing time at Montgomery, providing the backfield quality depth.

All those players also could be receiving threats since running backs often are among the leading pass catchers in Wing-T offenses. Logan Joy could become a strong outside threat, while both Ethan Tupper and Mason Bryson bring experience at tight end.

Making the offense go will be a physical and experienced offensive line. Layne Gingery, Connor Jarrett and Ethan Hugar all are returning starters from a line which

helped Montgomery finish among the area leaders in rushing yards Sophomore Evan Hugar also received ample experience and Abe Childs has put together a super offseason. Rylee Wilson also is a player to watch up front Add in Caleb Parkyn and Garrett Ulrich and Montgomery has a nice blend of strength, experience and potential along both the offensive and defensive lines.

What Knoebel likes most about the line about the team in general is the toughness the players have displayed

“These are very physical kids. They’re straight up tough kids,” Knoebel said. “There is a lot of brute strength and they are all tough, scrappy kids.”

That is the case at linebacker as well where Woltz sets the tone for a stingy unit after topping 100 tackles as a sophomore He and Furman were both first-team NTL-II all-stars with Furman playing a hybrid strong safety/linebacker role. Tupper also had a big season and is a fouryear contributor who led the team with five sacks last fall. Luckenbill will be in the linebacker/secondary mix and played a lot a year ago. There also are several young players who could make positive impacts either at linebacker or in the defensive backfield as players push each other on a daily basis.

Childs is a big player who could make a name for himself as a lineman this fall He already did so as a kicker last season, drilling a 35-yard field goal and converting 36 of 42 extra points. That provides Montgomery a special teams weapon as well.

He was one of so many Raiders who helped the team ascend to some lofty heights in 2024. Still, though, Montgomery has not reached the summit. That is the goal for a program which has never won a district

2024 RESULTS (7-4)

Montgomery 7, Hughesville 14

Montgomery 7, Warrior Run 25

Montgomery 55, Sayre 21

Montgomery 28, Wyalusing 3

Montgomery 19, Canton 16

Montgomery 7, Muncy 31

Montgomery 45, Northwest 8

Montgomery 55, Holy Redeemer 0

Montgomery 42, South Williamsport 14

Montgomery 36, Cowanesque Valley 0

District 4 Class A semifinals

Montgomery 19, Line Mountain 49

championship and which last played for one in 2017

There are several opponents trying to block that climb, including Muncy and Line Mountain, which brings back most of the starters from a team which defeated Montgomery in the district semifinals. But before it can think big, Montgomery is tackling the smaller goals and trying to grow each day

What Knoebel learned from his selling job last spring is that Montgomery students love working, whatever aspect of life they are attacking Nobody knows how the season will play out, but knowing he has a team which will keep grinding no matter what has Knoebel especially excited as the team’s first game at Hughesville beckons.

“The student body work ethic is to be commended at Montgomery These kids straight up work They work in the class room, work lifting, work speed training, they work jobs and they all do it so well,” Knoebel said “I have not been exposed to a group that works as hard and is as dedicated as they are. The results show.

“It’s going to be good times at Montgomery academically and athletically for years to come, and I’m glad I get to come over and work with these guys ”

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Trace Furman, DB/RB: A first-team NTL and Sun-Gazette all-star as a sophomore last fall, Furman is back to help fuel a defense made massive strides. Furman is athletic and versatile, able to line up at safety or linebacker and he made 104 tackles last season, averaging nearly 10 0 per game Furman intercepted four passes, returning one for a touchdown Equally valuable offensively, Furman finished second on the team in rushing and receiving. He totaled 128 yards against Northwest, both rushing for and catching touchdowns

Layne Gingery, OL/DL: The offensive line formed the foundation from where Montgomeryʼs resurgence was formed last year and Gingery was an anchor upon that unit A first-team NTL all-star, Gingery often helped Montgomery impose its will as it established a strong running game A four-year contributor, Gingery has improved each season and helped Montgomery average 29 points and 314 yards per game a year ago That included 223 yards per game on the ground Gingery also could play a key role defensively.

Connor Jarrett, OL/DL: Speaking of defense, Jarrett has performed well up front there since his freshman year two seasons ago. His forced fumble late against Northwest led to the game-winning touchdown that season and he continued surging last fall, earning second team NTL honors. The defensive tackle produced 2 1/2 sacks and was a big help in Montgomery slowing opposing running games. He also complemented Gingery up front offensively and earned all-star recognition there as well

Cameron Woltz, LB/RB: Like Furman, Woltz made a huge impact as a sophomore last season and led Montgomery in tackles. Woltz made 117 tackles, including 5 1/2 for loss He also intercepted a pass and added 1 1/2 sacks Woltz was all over the field in a 28-3 win against Wyalusing, making a career-high 20 tackles, including 12 solos. He also provides the offensive backfield depth, running for 279 yards and averaging 8 7 yards per carry Woltz ran for a career-high 86 yards in a season-changing 55-21 win at Sayre

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

Wide receiver Sam Hall and running back Eli Butler earned all-state honors last season. Their successful seasons continued a Warrior Run tradition of producing super skill position players.

Three of the area’s top 10 career reception leaders during the 2000s are from Warrior Run and different quarterbacks have piled up some impressive numbers, too But, unlike in years past, Warrior Run’s biggest strength this season could be up front

The Defenders are big, strong and experienced there. The offensive line asserted itself and, collectively, enjoyed one of its best seasons in recent memory last fall when Warrior Run reached its first district championship Those linemen may be even better this season.

“The biggest thing with our team is our line We pretty much have our entire line back and it’s the biggest we’ve had at Warrior Run in my time here, maybe the biggest in its history,” Warrior Run coach Derrick Zechman said. “If we can keep everyone healthy, our line is going to be the strong point of our team.”

Zechman, his staff and the players have led a massive resurgence at Warrior Run the past three seasons. The team has made

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Muncy

Aug. 29—Montgomery

Sept. 5 at Midd-West

Sept 12—Bloomsburg

Sept. 19 at Lewisburg

Sept 26—North Penn-Mansfield

Oct. 3 at Loyalsock

Oct 10—Hughesville

Oct. 17 Central Columbia

Oct 24—at Milton

two three-win and a two-win improvement each time, climbing a rung up the District 4 Class AAA and AA playoff ladder each time. The Defenders reached the Class AA final last season, tying a program record with eight wins and winning two road playoff games.

James Keifer is back at quarterback, but Hall, Butler and running back Colby LeBarron all graduated What Warrior Run lost in the backfield and at receiver, however, could be negated by the guys up front Juniors Jackson Albright and Garrett Williams both were first-team HAC-III allstars last season and Kaleb Nicholas is a four-year starter Cayden Robinson played a lot as a freshman last fall and Tyler

Shiposh made an impact as a freshman two years ago before missing his sophomore season with an injury.

Four of those linemen are 270 pounds or more, so the Defenders have a powerful blend of muscle and experience Depth is a concern but those linemen have the potential to help the skill players settle in as they gain more experience.

“We’re ahead on the line from where we were last year, even in summer practices, so I feel like that will be a strength of ours,” Zechman said “They’re all working hard ”

So are their teammates Warrior Run has gone from snapping a 19-game losing streak three years ago to making history last season and coming within a victory of a district championship While some excellent players graduated, the expectations remain high

Warrior Run has climbed a key hurdle the last two seasons. The culture has gone from doubting what it could do to expecting to flourish Younger players have seen firsthand how things have changed and are eager to both continue displaying the work ethic and to show what they can do on the big stage.

“Doing what we have the last few years has definitely helped. Confidence-wise, the kids that are returning, from being in a district championship game and having won three playoff games the last two years, are believing in what we can do,” Zechman

said “It started two years ago when we went on the road and got that win against Mifflinburg and got to the semifinals and continued last year The kids returning are excited and the expectations they have are definitely different than what they used to be ”

As is the case along the line, having Keifer back at quarterback helps make those expectations realistic. As a first-time starter last season, Keifer made a run at 2,000 yards He smoothly operated the offense and stayed poised no matter the situation. That played a large role in Warrior Run winning consecutive road playoff games.

Having another year to develop should only help Keifer grow He also has chemistry with returning seniors Cohen Zechman and Tyler Ulrich as well, something which further provides a boost.

“James is looking really good. Last week was the best I’ve of seen him throwing the ball,” Zechman said. “That year of experience could pay big dividends He’s steady. He’s been through a lot of pressure games in baseball, basketball and football and he gives you that constant which is good ”

Butler and LeBarron provided a strong running duo last season, and leave a big void but Warrior Run has promising rushers like Denyn Beachel and Max Fogelman could be a versatile weapon helping both in the backfield and as a receiver

Zechman and Ulrich are quality receivers an also could see some carries Liam Moore will play a vital role in the passing game as well. Hall finished his high school career second on the area list for career catches, so it will take a collective effort to replace the production he provided. The good news is Warrior Run has enough experi-

2024 RESULTS (8-5)

Warrior Run 28, Muncy 21

Warrior Run 35, Montgomery 7

Warrior Run 53, Midd-West 0

Warrior Run 38, Bloomsburg 24

Warrior Run 0, Lewisburg 24

Warrior Run 70, N P -Mansfield 24

Warrior Run 23, Loyalsock 24

Warrior Run 39, Hughesville 32 (2 OT)

Warrior Run 30, Central Columbia 12

Warrior Run 13, Milton 20

District 4 Class AA Quarterfinals

Warrior Run 21, Loyalsock 7 Semifinals

Warrior Run 42, Towanda 20 Championship

Warrior Run 14, Troy 59

ence and potential that it may just do that

The linemen mentioned before also will be vital to the defense’s success with Albright, especially, coming off a big season. Beachel helps anchor a new-look linebacking unit following a breakout sophomore campaign Fogelman also likely will play a large role there. Ulrich shined at linebacker last season and could be used as a hybrid linebacker/strong safety if necessary.

Keep an eye on Chase Wirnsberger and Bryson Weigel, prospects who also could make big impacts at linebacker. Zechman helps set the tone for a younger secondary with Moore and Johnny Caswell also settling into the mix

Warrior Run graduated a special teams weapon in Gavin Hunter but has an exciting prospect in Braden Beachel Zechman has been impressed with Beachel’s range on both field goal tries and kickoffs. Braego Cieslukowski also could be in that special teams mix.

Together, Defenders old and new are hoping to keep this program ascending

2025 FOOTBALL P LAY ERS TO WATCH

Jackson Albright, DL/OL: More can be read about Albrightʼs excellent offensive line play in the preseason all-star team, so the focus will here be upon his defense Albright became a stalwart up front and was quite a difference-maker as the season progressed. The junior defensive tackle made 10 tackles for loss in his last six games and was a force against Loyalsock in a 21-7 district playoff win There, Albright collected a sack, four tackles for loss and made 11 tackles, including nine solos. It was the second straight game Albright made nine solo tackles after doing so against Milton

James Keifer, QB/DB: Like Albright, Keifer made a massive offensive impact last fall and that can be read about in the preseason all-star team. But Keifer also shined defensively and was part of a strong secondary Keifer intercepted three passes and came up big in the playoffs, intercepting two That included a game-changer against Loyalsock when Keiferʼs end zone interception both snuffed out a potential go-ahead touchdown and ignited a go-ahead drive Keifer also broke up eight passes and returned a pick 73 yards for an interception against North Penn-Mansfield

Tyler Ulrich, WR/LB: Ulrich took his sophomore year off after an impressive freshman season but returned with a vengeance last season The senior earned firstteam HAC-III all-star honors at outside linebacker, providing a strong defense another weapon. Ulrich made 75 tackles, including 60 solos and 14 for loss He had 10 tackles against Class AA state champion Troy and also made a critical fourth-and-1 stop which turned the game around in a 28-21 win against Class A state semifinalist Muncy. Look for Ulrich to play a vital offensive role, too, after catching 13 passes and two touchdowns

Garrett Williams, OL/DL: Like Albright, Williams burst onto the scene as a sophomore last fall and was a big part of the lineʼs success on both sides of the ball A first team HAC-III offensive lineman, Williams helped the team have a 1,000-yard passer, rusher and receiver He was equally strong on defense, securing second team honors. Williams helped stymie the run and made 43 tackles, including 30 solos Williams also had two sacks and made tackles for loss in six different games as he continued

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

Canton put together one of the more dominant runs in program history from 20182023, capturing two district championships, three league titles and reaching two Class A state semifinals.

But this is a small public school, so things can go in cycles The depth which was on those championship teams is not what it was, but the youth and junior high programs look fairly dominant All that is a long way of saying, the future is bright at Canton. The present could be as well, but with smaller numbers and a young roster, staying healthy and growing up quick will be imperative

“If we can improve throughout the season, that’s all you can ask for,” Canton coach Tyler Sechrist said “It is what it is We’re a real small school and had a good run and we just don’t have the depth that we were used to having. We have some kids working hard, and we’re excited to see where we can go ”

Canton fought similar challenges a year ago and started 5-4 before losing its regular

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 Northwest

Aug. 29 South Williamsport

Sept. 5 at Athens

Sept. 13 at North-Penn Mansfield

Sept. 19 at Montgomery

Sept. 26—Towanda

Oct. 3 at Wyalusing

Oct. 10—at Wellsboro

Oct. 18 at Sayre

Oct. 24—Troy

season finale to Class AA state champion Troy and in the district semifinals to state semifinalist Muncy The results were not what Canton wanted in those games, but the returning players competing against two of the state’s top teams could prove beneficial going into this season

Iron sharpens iron, so going through that late-season gauntlet could provide some shine as the Warriors look to stay in the playoff hunt

“With the schedule we had and playing Troy and Muncy, I think that could help us

grow,” Sechrist said “Those were great teams and we’re hoping that playing them can make us better for this season.”

Canton is most experienced up front and has to find a way to replace quarterback Ben Fitch who produced more than 2,000 yards of offense last fall Rylan Wesneski and freshman Owen Moore are competing for that job with Wesneski receiving some playing time there a year ago. Wesneski is a more traditional style quarterback and Moore more of an option threat. Canton has utilized both styles over the years, including in its Final Four year of 2022 when four different quarterbacks were used depending on how it wanted to attack the defense.

That could be the case again with both getting time at quarterback and/or in the backfield and wide receiver. Whoever is at quarterback will have two quality options when handing the ball off Bailey Gardner is coming off an impressive sophomore season and led the team in rushing yards and touchdowns Burgess is an excellent linebacker who could be poised for a strong rushing season, giving Canton a quality blocker in the backfield as well.

The experience Canton has up front could help ignite that offense. While the offensive unit is young, in general, it always is nice to have some anchors up front to set

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

a tone. Canton could have just that with Isaiah Colton, Jake Pepper and Elijah Kilmer either starting Kilmer was hurt early in the season but showed promise before that.

Junior Blane Wesneski also saw time, so Canton could have the right players, with promising freshmen also in the mix, who help unlock the offense’s potential.

“We have more experience on the line than at the skill positions and we’re looking at them to help make us go,” Sechrist said.

Canton graduated its top three receivers from last season, but Ryder Route and Monte Whitehead are two players waiting in the wings who can make an immediate contribution Moore and/or Rylan Wesneski also likely will play large roles as will tight end Aiden Petrowski when Canton goes to a tight endbased offense

The aforementioned linemen all likely will play key roles on the defensive end up front. Junior Uriah Talada has looked good throughout the offseason and there are several promising freshmen in the mix, showing good size. They just need the experience at this point

Gardner and Burgess help provide Canton a strong linebacking tandem, both finishing among the team’s leading tacklers a year ago A wildcard in the mix is Marcus Solomon. A junior, Solomon and his family have moved from Miami and he could the 5-foot-11 outside linebacker was part of an eight-win team last year If he can make a smooth transition, Solomon could provide Canton a versatile weapon on both sides of the ball

A potentially strong linebacking unit will be backed up by a second-

2024 RESULTS (5-6)

Canton 42, Northwest 6

Canton 17, South Williamsport 8

Canton 42, Athens 48

Canton 51, N P -Mansfield 40

Canton 16, Montgomery 19

Canton 14, Towanda 40

Canton 28, Wyalusing 54

Canton 46, Wellsboro 34

Canton 55, Sayre 13

Canton 20, Troy 61

District 4 Class A semifinals

Canton 14, Muncy 56

ary which includes players like Rylan Wesneski, Whitehead, Route and Garrett Rathbun among others Canton has a fabulous X-factor when it comes to special teams. Three-year starter Alexis McRoberts earned all-state honors a year ago She is the area’s all-time points leader among females and drilled three field goals, including a 35-yarder, while going 38 of 40 on extra points In a Week 2 win at South Williamsport, McRoberts played soccer in the morning at Montoursville, helping her team win there, before arriving at South by halftime and kicking a second half field goal and extra point which were crucial in Canton winning, 178

There is a lot of excitement growing about the future with a large freshmen class in place and the junior high and youth programs surging But players like McRoberts and the other returning starters, show that the present could be bright, too.

“We’re excited to build them up and get those (younger) guys some experience,” Sechrist. “We just want them to give it all they can and we hope to keep building ”

LEADERS

PASSER AT CM IN YDS TD Ben Fitch 157 90 8 1,485 17

R USHER AT YDS TD

Bailey Gardner 102 638 12 Ben Fitch 138 593 9

Holden Ward 34 196 3

Aydin Holcomb 31 103 2

Dawson Burgess 19 70 1

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Aydin Holcomb 48 753 7

Holden Ward 21 394 6

Zack Colton 11 167 2

Ben Fitch 5 89 1

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dawson Burgess, LB/RB: A three-year starting linebacker, Sechrist is one of the teamʼs top returning tacklers and also made a big impact as a sophomore when Canton started the season 8-0 Burgess is a player with good speed and range, playing both the run and pass well He has intercepted three passes the last two seasons, returning one for a touchdown at Wellsboro Burgess added a sack and could see an expanded offensive role this season Outside of Bailey Gardner, no returning Canton player carried the ball more times than Burgess did last year, totaling 70 yards and a touchdown

Isaiah Colton, OL/DL: Colton will be one of the players Canton leans on up front on both sides of the ball An honorable mention lineman on the NTL-I allstar team, Colton provides both experience and strength. He was part of a unit which helped Canton navigate injuries last season, and the offense produced two 500-yard rushers and a 1,400-yard passer. Colton also likely will play a massive role along the defensive line as Canton tries to improve its run defense He also can get after the passer

Bailey Gardner, RB/LB: One of the areaʼs more versatile weapons, Gardner enjoyed an excellent breakout sophomore campaign Gardner led the team in rushing and finished among the areaʼs top 10 rushers and scorers during the regular season, rushing for 638 yards and totaling 14 touchdowns. Gardner ran for a career-high 111 yards and three touchdowns against Athens and also caught two scores The junior linebacker also is a defensive staple and was one of the teamʼs top tacklers Gardner added a clutch interception which helped produce an exciting road win at South Williamsport

Rylan Wesneski, QB/WR/DB: Canton has long achieved success because its players can do so many different things and Wesneski fits that mold, doing damage as a passer, rusher and receiver at different stages during his football journey Wesneski could take over at quarterback this fall and provide the Warriors their usual dual-threat options He also brings experience to the secondary and intercepted a pass which played a key role in Canton defeating South.

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

Milton took a simplistic approach when generating its offseason motto.

“Back to Basics ” It’s short and sweet, but tells the whole story.

Milton overcame all kinds of injuries and adversity last season to win four games and reach the District 4 Class AAA playoffs To build off that success, the Black Panthers are focusing on keeping things simple Execute all the small things well and big things could follow

“Our message this offseason was blocking and tackling,” Milton coach Matt Wilson said. “Do those two things and you keep yourself in ball games.”

One sure does Along those lines, Milton has focused on building its defense. It’s about putting the players in the best positions they can to help the team and focusing on the fundamentals. The of-

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 Shikellamy

Aug. 29 Montoursville

Sept. 5 at Southern Columbia

Sept. 12—South Williamsport

Sept. 19 at Danville

Sept. 26—at Mifflinubrg

Oct. 3 Central Columbia

Oct. 10—at Midd-West

Oct. 17 at Mount Carmel

Oct 24—Warrior Run

fense had some big nights last fall and if that success is coupled with a surging defense, Milton could get where it wants to go.

“Defensively, we’re going to be a lot more sound,” Wilson said “I think we’ll be a better team defensively.”

Looking to set the tone up front will be linemen like Alex Krall, Gage Nixon, Darren Bentley and Blaze Kozicki among others. Milton also has a nice mix of younger players, so there should be a healthy competition along both the defensive and offensive lines

Milton could be especially strong at linebacker where having a healthy Brady Wolfe is a massive positive. Wolfe tore his ACL in Week 3 but still played late in the year and performed well. Fully recovered now, he combines with fellow senior Jaeden Canelo to give Milton a strong outside tandem Sophomore Schuyler Humphrey made a big impact as a freshman and solidifies the inside after making 7 1/2 tackles for loss in his debut season.

Monty Fisher is one of the area’s top all-around athletes and will help anchor the secondary at safety He is a hybridtype player who also can line up at linebacker when needed. Milton is excited

SUN-GAZETTE

about senior cornerback Cole Rhodes and he will help provide the secondary both experience and speed.

Fisher and Rhodes will be essential parts of Milton’s offensive attack as well Fisher is one of only three area players in the 2000s to top 1,000 career rushing and receiving yards and the first to do so as an underclassman. Fisher finished among the area’s top five in receiving yards and catches last year and also ran for 235 yards

Defenses likely will be doing all they can to negate a player who has topped 1,000 total yards in consecutive seasons and that is why Rhodes’s development is so key. He has impressed coaches throughout the offseason and his wide-range of skills makes him an excellent complement to Fisher, one Milton also can implement in the backfield and/or as a receiver

“Cole had a phenomenal track season in the 100 and the 4 by 100 and is a super athlete We want to get the ball in his hands as much as possible,” Wilson said “I’ve coached Cole for four years and he has the talent and has made strides and I think the track season helped his confidence. We figure teams are going to focus on Monty because of what he did last year, so if you have can have a 1-2 punch, that’s a great thing ”

Locke will help at tight end and Milton has some exciting freshmen players who could see immediate time, including Jensen Souder and Jacori Brown. Both are freshmen but played well in junior high and seem to be adapting to high school football well if the offseason is any indication Really, that is the case with all the promising freshmen Milton has across the board

“They’re very athletic, just very young. But they understand foot-

2024 RESULTS (4-7)

Milton 20, Shikellamy 17 (OT)

Milton 0, Montoursville 20

Milton 7, Southern Columbia 49

Milton 22, South Williamsport 21

Milton 0, Danville 49

Milton 8, Mifflinburg 42

Milton 36, Central Columbia 42 (2 OT)

Milton 27, Midd-West 0

Milton 28, Mount Carmel 48

Milton 20, Warrior Run 13

District 4 Class AAA quarterfinals

Milton 26, Mount Carmel 55

ball, and they know what it takes to win,” Wilson said. “They are grinding in the weight room and catching footballs before and after practice. I can see them doing some great things if they keep working the next four years.”

Canelo could help spark the running game, showing his promise when he subbed for an injured Chris Doyle last year and had a big game against Mount Carmel Humphrey also could be one of the team’s primary ball-carriers

Who will be handing the ball off will be determined during preseason practices Izayah Minium and Chase Lytle started last year, but Minium graduated and Lytle is focusing on wrestling That makes it a two-way competition between sophomore Tavarion Marcinak and freshman Kamryn Wilson Both have shown promise at 7-on-7 camps and both have different sets of skills which could help the team

Milton faces a demanding schedule as it did last year in the rugged HAC-II. But through all the tough opponents and costly injuries last year, the Panthers showed tremendous resilience. The Black Panthers rallied in the fourth quarter to produce dramatic road wins at Shikellamy, South Williamsport and Warrior Run.

Izayah Minium 140 59 10 858 11 R USHER AT YDS TD

Chris Doyle 124 616 7

Monty Fisher 61 235 0

Jaeden Canelo 65 208 1

Chase Lytle 41 101 2

Izayah Minium 40 100 2

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Monty Fisher 52 837 8

Lucas Ditty 24 475 7

Brady Wolfe 3 21 0

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jaeden Canelo, RB/LB: Likely to be one of the teamʼs primary ball-carriers this season, Canelo also provides an excellent building block defensively A good outside linebacker, Canelo averaged 5.5 tackles per game last season and was among team leaders with 10 1/2 for loss. He is Miltonʼs second-leading returning tackler and 1 1/2 sacks Canelo has a knack for making big plays and forced three fumbles as well. Offensively, the senior ran for 208 yards and a touchdown He played his best game in Week 8 against Mount Carmel, running for 94 yards and a touchdown.

Monty Fisher, WR/DB: Few area players have been as versatile as Fisher over the last three seasons. Driving home that point, he has topped both 1,000 career rushing and receiving yards More on his receiving prowess can be read on the preseason all-star team, but Fisher ran for 235 yards last season and topped 350 yards as both a freshman and sophomore He also intercepted a pass last season and was second on the team with 11 pass break-ups. Rounding out his all-around arsenal, Fisher has returned two punts and a kickoff for touchdowns during his high school career

Alex Krall, OL/DL: The offensive lineʼs anchor, Krall returns at center after helping Milton make massive offensive strides late last season. His experience and strength are big for a team hoping to build off the positives it generated in 2024 Krall is a big part of what makes the offense go

“Heʼs the coach out on the field for us. Heʼs usually telling the other linemen what they have to do,” Wilson said “That is huge him returning The center-quarterback exchange is crucial and itʼs great having that veteran to help keep everyone together ”

Brady Wolfe, LB/TE: An impact player since his freshman season, Wolfe was second on the team in tackles for loss and second in overall tackles He also is the teamʼs leading returner in both categories Wolfe was an honorable mention HAC-III all-star at outside linebacker, and 12 1/2 tackles for loss in just seven games since his season was cut short due to an ACL injury Wolfe came back strong following that injury and made 10 1/2 tackles for loss in his final five games, including 2 1/2 against Mount Carmel in districts. Healthy again, Wolfe could be quite a difference-maker

Good Luck in 2025! Good Luck in 2025!

TUES-FRI 9:30-4:30 • SAT 9:30-2:30

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

ew coach. New staff. New system

Same Muncy goals. A lot has changed since Muncy captured the District 4 Class A championship, reached the state semifinals for the first time and tied a program record with 12 wins last November. Chris Persing replaced coach Sean Tetreault, the majority of the starters graduated and the new staff started implementing new offensive and defensive systems

But Muncy is still thinking big. This is a program which has played in every district championship since 2018 and in all but one since 2016. It has faced all sorts of player overturn situations before. It’s a large set of challenges but Muncy is hoping that it can merge old and new to sustain the program’s success and remain a serious title contender

“It’s the next group’s turn to carve out own their piece of history, and kind of carve out their own legacy and continue that trend that has been established by Sean and the coaching staff and the players over the last 10 years,” Persing said. “You want it be a program thing where you know you’re going to lose great players every year, but there are guys who have learned from the classes before them and are ready to step up and keep it going ”

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22—Warrior Run

Aug. 29 at Wellsboro

Sept. 5—at Cowanesque Valley

Sept. 12 at Northwest

Sept. 20—Sayre

Sept. 26 Montgomery

Oct 3—at North Penn-Mansfield

Oct. 10 South Williamsport

Oct 17—at Athens

Oct. 24 Hughesville

Persing helped make that happen when he coached the baseball team from 20002014 and again from 2017-2023 During that time the Indians captured four district championships and reached a state championship as well as three Final Fours. He also has taught at Muncy throughout the 2000s and was both an offensive and defensive coordinator with the football team for 13 years

So, while Persing is a new coach this season, there also is familiarity with both the players and the program. That helps as does having some valuable returning starters from last year’s squad as well as exciting prospects eager to make their mark.

Muncy understands that it graduated some of the top players in program history, including record-setting running back Austin Johnson, two-time all-state lineman Ken Hampe, dynamic all-state running back Landyn Wommer and all-state cornerback/quarterback Stiles Eyer Still, the focus is not on what Muncy lost but what it has

Persing has been happy with the attendance and effort he has witnessed throughout the offseason. Now, all the current players would like to continue showing that Muncy can continue going strong even after graduating a decorated class, something other Indians squads have done over the previous decade

“We lost some great players, there’s no denying that But we’ve lost great players in the past and still had success,” Persing said “They want to prove that even though we lost great players, we can still be successful That’s the goal of a program every year.”

Muncy will try sustaining that success while installing a new-look offense Based on its personnel strengths, Muncy is opting for more of a spread lead after being a smash-mouth team the last decade Andrew Walters, Bryson Barrows and freshman Noah Weikle will be competing to run that offense at quarterback. Whoever does not earn that job likely will be utilized either at running back or wide receiver, adding depth at those positions. Part of Muncy’s reasoning for diversifying its of-

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

fense is because it has a plethora of options at receiver, including Nate Rogers, Carter Feigles, Gavin Barrows and Roman Maiorana, among others.

“It suits us for what we have,” Persing said “We can utilize the field in a little bit of a different way and spread the field a little and spread the ball some.”

But that doesn’t mean, Muncy is abandoning its running game Think of the offense Danville has run the past five years when it has featured an explosive passing game but still also had a 1,000-yard rusher each time

Looking at Class A, Line Mountain runs a similar style of offense There will be more passing this season, but the running game will still be a crucial element

Players like Layken Harris, Wes Somits and Jaxson Thomas all could help spark that running game, as well as Kynton Fish. Harris, a sophomore, has added bulk and speed since last season and enters the season at 195 pounds, looking like a player who could be poised to burst onto the scene.

The foundation for Muncy’s success over the years has been up front. And while Hampe graduated, there remains a strong core from a unit which often overwhelmed opponents last season, especially during the playoffs. Nixon Lamper, Nick Delany and Evan Trostle are three-year starters and Jackson Guardini excelled as a freshman last fall when called upon Dom Sutton, Parker Peterman and Kyler Fish also could play key roles as Muncy tries producing quality depth.

“We have three really good guys to build it around and we can bring others around and that

2024 RESULTS (12-3)

Muncy 21, Warrior Run 28

Muncy 49, Wellsboro 0

Muncy 45, Cowanesque Valley 25

Muncy 61, Northwest 0

Muncy 41, Montgomery 7

Muncy 59, N P -Mansfield 20

Muncy 49, South Williamsport 21

Muncy 63, Athens 26

Muncy 27, Hughesville 28

District 4 Class A semifinals

Muncy 56, Canton 14 Championship

Muncy 42, Line Mountain 6

PIAA Class A tournament

Muncy 47, Lackwanna Trail 46 Quarterfinals

Muncy 41, Delone Catholic 17 Semifinals

Muncy 6, Bishop Guilfoyle 21

always helps,” Persing said ” All three of have been good leaders and at all the sessions. They are doing a really good job at leading the rest of the linemen ”

All those linemen mentioned could play key defensive roles, too, with Delany returning at linebacker. He is the lone starter back on that unit, but Walters, Harris, Fish, Somits, Thomas and Drew Ryder all are battling for playing time and could give the Indians good depth at a position they often have flourished at Keep an eye on Nasir Miller up front as well. He had some big playoff games and could become a force if he builds off that success and continues developing

The secondary could be strong again with Feigles, Rogers, Dominic Guardini and Gavin Barrows all having starting experience Guardini moved from linebacker to safety last season and shined during the playoffs as did Rogers. Maiorana and Weikle also could play big roles

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nick Delany, OL/TE: Delany made a smooth transition from tight end to offensive line last year, earning first-team NTL honors and helping provide super blocking for one of the stateʼs best Class A offenses Delany also excelled at linebacker, earning second-team NTL recognition, while being one of the teamʼs top tacklers. Delany is a three-year starter who also made strong contributions on both ends as a freshman. He provided punishing run blocking last season and has a nice blend of strength and speed, something which also helps him defensively.

Carter Feigles, DB/WR: Another player who saw the field quickly as a freshman, Feigles is a three-year starter in the secondary. He has come up with not just big plays these past two seasons, but also timely ones, including a game-sealing interception against Warrior Run in his first varsity start. The senior cornerback has seven interceptions the last two years and returned one for a touchdown against Northwest a year ago. Feigles also could see a lot of time at wide receiver, catching four touchdowns the previous two years That included three as a sophomore

Nixon Lamper, OL/DL: Yet another player who wasted no time making a big contribution, Lamper is a three-year starting lineman who was a force at times on both sides of the ball last year A first-team NTL all-star on both sides, Lamper led the team in sacks and took over the Old Shoe Game against Montgomery, producing 3 1/2 before adding another against Line Mountain in the district final Lamperʼs blocking up front was critical to the running game being so successful last fall as Muncy featured both 3,000-yard and 1,500-yard backs

Nate Rogers, WR/DB: Despite missing a large portion of the season with injury, Rogers returned for the postseason and came up huge, helping the Indians reach the Final 4 The three-year starting defensive back intercepted two passes in the quarterfinal win against Delone Cathlolic and added another a week later against eventual state champion Bishop Guilfoyle Rogers is a three-way threat, catching a game-winning two-point pass as a freshman against South Williamsport before returning two kickoffs for touchdowns last year as a sophomore

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n average, Bucktail graduates 30 students a year. Doing the math, approximately 15 are boys, meaning four grades together equals 60. That’s certainly not a lot from which to build a football team, but year after year Bucktail makes it work.

Roughly a third of the male students play football, highlighting theirs and the community’s passion for the sport. Bucktail is the state’s smallest public school which does not co-op for football but every season players fight on against the odds, representing their school well, regardless of what the record says

“When about a third of the kids are

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 at Cameron County

Aug. 29 at Renaissance Academy

Sept. 5 at Moniteau

Sept. 12 Coudersport

Sept. 19 at Smethport

Sept. 27 at Otto-Eldred

Oct. 3 Keystone

Oct. 10 Cameron County

Oct. 17 at Coudersport

Oct. 24—CMVT

playing football, that’s really kind of a beautiful thing,” Bucktail coach Kevin Ransom said “We just try and keep things in perspective at Bucktail. We want to win as much as any other program does, but we recognize that success comes in different ways ”

That is why despite last year’s 0-8 record, Bucktail still produced some impressive achievements. The Bucks win because they continue to not just play, but play hard

“I’m coaching at my alma mater where I had a wonderful experience and fought the same fight I fought in the mid 90s and I love it,” Ransom said. “I love every bit of it ”

He also loves that Bucktail could have one of its larger rosters this season. Offseason turnout was strong and Ransom thinks he could have 23 or 24 players suited up coming opening night If anything else that will make practices smoother since Bucktail will actually be able to go 11-on-11 at times, a luxury most schools take for granted.

Bucktail returns a quality group of last year’s young squad but has a massive void at quarterback where Brody

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Pentz became the first player in program history to produce consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons It could be Pentz’s younger brother Corbin who takes the reins, likely competing with Stephen Heiser for the job. Pentz already is taller than Brody and played well in junior high. Ransom is excited about his potential, but also understands the junior high to varsity football leap is a big one.

Heiser saw some action at quarterback last season and also is a good runner and receiver. Whoever does not start at quarterback certainly will be utilized in other ways Jaden Intallura could assume a major backfield role and Teagan Stone is back at receiver following a strong freshman campaign Bucktail is also excited about the arrival of Sam Mansfield who impressed during the offseason and who could add another dimension to the offense.

Bucktail’s success likely will be built up front. Three starters return from that group which did a nice job creating space for Brody Pentz last year. That includes standout Evan Ransom, a four-year starter who has improved every season and who has the ability to overwhelm defenders up front

Jayden Barnes is a threeyear starter who also has made steady progress and will be an anchor up front

“He is as good a kid as you’ll ever meet He’s such a coachable kid. There’s not a coach who wouldn’t want a kid like

2024 RESULTS (0-8)

Bucktail 6, Sheffield 38

Bucktail 20, Coudersport 42

Bucktail 22, Otto-Eldred 48

Bucktail 20, Smethport 46

Bucktail 8, Union/AC Valley 35

Bucktail 14, Cameron County 41

Bucktail 8, Sheffield 36

Bucktail 6, CMVT 36

Jayden Barnes on their team,” Ransom said “If I ask him to do anything he’s going to try his best to do it.”

Tight end Aidan Ditty possesses similar strong intangibles. Ditty was primarily a blocker last season, but did average 29 yards per catch and seems poised to break out as a receiver He’s another senior leader Kevin Ransom is excited Bucktail has to help it lay a strong foundation

“Aidan is one of those kids who would play center if you asked him, too. He’s a super smart kid and he’s a great player to have around,” Ransom said “He just competes and competes and in smallschool football, that’s what you want You want someone who is going to grind like that and we’re going to lean on him a lot this year.”

All those players mentioned will also play critical defensive roles Bucktail also will be boosted by a freshman class which is coming off an excellent junior high season Obviously, that does not guarantee varsity success, but it does mean the players have experienced winning.

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Stephen Heiser, RB/QB/LB: Hesier was the teamʼs second-leading rusher last year Granted, all-state athlete Brody Pentz handled the ball most of the time, but Heiser still showed what a versatile threat he can be Heiser will be competing for the quarterback position, but will certainly be utilized in a lot of other ways if he Bucktail goes with Corbin Pentz there He completed all three pass attempts last season, throwing for a touchdown He also is the teamʼs leading returning receiver, hauling in 11 passes and two scores

Jaden Intallura, RB/LB: Intallura could become the teamʼs primary ball-carrier this season and is the latest in a long line of successful Intalluraʼs to have played at Bucktail He will likely be a factor in the passing game as well after catching five passes for 70 yards That versatility has become a staple of Bucktail running backs over the years and Intallura looks like another one who could be a dual threat He also will help solidify the linebacking unit after starter there last season.

Evan Ransom, OL/DL: A four-year starter and team leader, Ransom is one of the premier linemen in District 4 Class A The senior has played a major role in Bucktail producing 1,000-yard rushers the past two seasons and has the ability to impose his will on defenders and wear them down as the game progresses Ransom is strong, has quick feet and pulls well, helping anchor the line the past few years He also will play a key role defensively up front Ransom has all-area potential if he continues progressing

Teagan Stone, WR/DB: Coach Kevin Ransom was excited about Stoneʼs arrival as a freshman last season and Stone did not disappoint, being one of the teamʼs top receivers before suffering an injury. Stone has good speed and can make things happen in space and/or after the catch He was leading the team in receptions last year before his injury, catching eight passes for 146 yards and two touchdowns Stone also could get some carries and provide a special teams boost. He opened his high school career last August, catching a touchdown in his first game

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

Matt Hildebrand witnessed a welcome sight often this past offseason.

Lots of players.

Wellsboro put together a dominant run from 2013-19, but its numbers saw a steady decline following that, hitting 24 at one point Two years ago, the program featured just one senior. This season, Wellsboro’s coach has 50 players who have signed up and most have been grinding throughout the offseason

The numbers are nice, but it is who is wearing those numbers which has Hildebrand and the staff especially excited. That goes double after a young team made some big strides last season.

“We have the biggest team I’ve had in 12 years as head coach They’re doing the right things and kids are pushing each other and we have a lot of sophomores who played a lot as freshmen last year,” Hildebrand said “That year of maturity makes a difference.”

It helps, too, that those young, returning players performed so much better as they gained more experience last fall

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22—at Montoursville

Aug. 29 Muncy

Sept. 5—at Wyalusing

Sept. 12 Towanda

Sept. 19—at Cowanesque Valley

Sept. 26 Athens

Oct 3—at Troy

Oct. 10 Canton

Oct 17—Northwest

Oct. 24 at North Penn-Mansfield

Wellsboro displayed massive growth offensively, scoring 20 or more points in five of its last six games, producing a 1,000yard passer, as well as a 1,000-yard rusher and scoring 86 points in two wins.

The Hornets averaged 32.3 points in their final three games, coming within two points of closing on a two-game winning streak. All those were positive developments for a team which could make a run at earning a District 4 Class AA playoff berth.

“We had so many young kids playing football last season. Getting that game experience was huge and they’ve come

back and have been competing hard and playing well,” Hildebrand said. “I feel like we’re getting back to some normalcy. We had that year with one senior and now we’re getting to more normalcy and have seven or eight seniors this season and there are big classes beneath them, so we’re excited.”

Quarterback Griffin Morral generated a lot of excitement last year, excelling throughout the season’s second half and topping 1,000 yards. He also threw a touchdown pass in all but one game and was especially strong in Wellsboro’s last three games.

Unlike last season, Morral now has high school experience under his belt. With workhorse 1,000-yard running back Ryder Bowen having graduated, Morral’s development comes at a great time as the Hornets may be able to spread the ball around more this season

“You could see the progression and Griffin adapting to the speed of the game. The game was slowing down as year went on,” Hildebrand said “You see this year through 7-on-7, the anticipation of where the throws need to be and identifying defenses His maturity has shined a lot throughout the summer in competitions and with the workouts and prac-

tices and things like that. He’s really taking the helm as far as being a leader on the team.”

Morral will be flanked by some quality weapons including the Mascho brothers, Marek and Max. Marek finished among the area’s top 10 in catches last season and is a four-year starter. Max missed last season with an injury but is healthy again and played well during the summer Kody Enck will likely start in the backfield but also is an excellent receiver who became quite a threat late in the season

Dylan Kopp could also get a lot of carries after primarily being a blocking back last season Max Mascho also will be in the mix Bowen carried the offense for long stretches the past two seasons, so Wellsboro is trying to fill that void in the aggregate rather than with just one person

“We don’t have a Ryder Bowen this year, but as a coach I look at every year and am willing to change what we do offensively based on the personnel we have,” Hildebrand said “This year, we have some guys we can spread the ball out to, so I think we’ll throw it more than we have the last few years ”

Paving the way for those players will be a fairly experienced line, featuring three returning starters Jacob Thurstin missed his junior year with an injury but can be a gamechanger at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds Hayden Stevens and Izaya Campbell also are stalwarts of up front, each a three-year

2024 RESULTS (2-8)

Wellsboro 7, Montoursville 47

Wellsboro 0, Muncy 49

Wellsboro 0, Wyalusing 13

Wellsboro 16, Towanda 36

Wellsboro 40, Cowanesque Valley 8

Wellsboro 13, Athens 21

Wellsboro 20, Troy 50

Wellsboro 34, Canton 46

Welsboro 46, Northwest 0

Wellsboro 27, N P -Mansfield 28

starter Lance Starkweather played a lot as a freshman last fall and is one of several promising you players who can provide depth on both the offensive and defensive lines Speaking of defense, Levi Champaign excelled up front a year ago as a sophomore and could help fuel that unit Jordan Hines also enjoyed a successful sophomore season up front and both Enck and Reed Richardson surged at linebacker

Marek Mascho can play cornerback, safety or outside linebacker, while Max also possesses similar versatility

What Wellsboro is especially encouraged by is the depth it is building on both sides of the ball Smaller numbers the last few years meant the starters rarely left the field as they played in all three phases That should change this fall with players being interchangeable at times and some being able to go just one way at times

That is a major step forward because Wellsboro was in a lot of games these past three years but has often run out of gas Increased numbers and a determined mindset have the Hornets eager to change that

PASSER AT CM IN YDS TD

Griffin Morral 170 87 15 1,112 15

R USHER AT YDS TD

Ryder Bowen 195 1,059 9

Griffin morral 63 120 2

Kody Enck 21 58 1

RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Marek Mascho 33 380 5

Kody Enck 16 325 4

Jonathan Carl 14 268 5

Ryder Bowen 15 87 1

Cole Knapp 8 50 0

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Levi Champaign, OL/DL: One of several younger players who stepped up and made massive strides throughout the season, Champaign earned NTL-I honorable mention honors along both offensive and defensive lines and could help anchor both units this season Champaign helped Wellsboro feature both a 1,000-yard passer and rusher, while finishing second on the team in tackles He led the team in tackles in a 46-0 win against Northwest, adding a sack that night. Champaign is the teamʼs top returning tackler, averaging 5.1 per game last season.

Kody Enck, LB/RB: A versatile weapon, Enck was a key factor in all aspects last season and could emerge as one of the teamʼs premier playmakers He was one of four players who caught at least 15 passes, finishing with 16 for 325 yards and four touchdowns. A big-play threat, Enck averaged more than 20 yards per catch and offered a potential glimpse of things to come in the season finale against North Penn-Mansfield There, Enck caught seven passes for 143 yards and a touchdown The linebacker also was third on the team in tackles, averaging nearly five per game.

Marek Mascho, WR/DB: A four-year starter and captain as a junior last year, Mascho is one of the teamʼs most valuable players and does a bit of everything He finished among the areaʼs top 10 leaders in receptions, hauling in 33 passes for 380 yards and five touchdowns. Mascho caught passes in all 10 games, producing five catches for 99 yards and two touchdowns against Canton He also is one of the NTLʼs premier defensive backs, intercepting four passes a year ago A quality special teamer as well, Mascho averaged 20 5 yards per kick return and 10.5 yards per punt return.

Grifin Morral, QB/DB: What a season the freshman had a year ago, making tremendous progress as he gained more experience Morral topped 1,000 yards, throwing for 1,112 yards and 15 touchdowns He was among the areaʼs most productive quarterbacks in the seasonʼs second half and threw at least one touchdown pass in all 10 starts He threw for 261 yards and four touchdowns against Canton before closing the year with a 221-yard effort against North Penn-Mansfield Morral also has some speed, adding 120 yards rushing with two touchdowns.

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette com

ames are not literally won during the offseason, but the work there sure can help pave the way toward victory So can the mindset that a dedicated group of players generate as they try turning those countless hours grinding into Friday Night Light wins.

All are reasons North Penn-Mansfield coach Jed Wright, his staff and the players are feeling optimistic as the 2025 season approaches The Panthers ended their season on a high last fall, edging rival Wellsboro, 28-27 The 2025 work started soon after as they try and use that victory as a launching pad.

North Penn-Mansfield finished last year 3-7 and is seeking its first winning season since 2018 Everyone associated with this team feels like it can be the one that restores the luster to one of the area’s most successful small-school program’s during the 21st century’s first two decades.

“Our group feels like they put a lot of work in during the offseason and are motivated,” Wright said “Our commitment, our effort and

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug 22—Wyalusing

Aug. 29 at Sayre

Sept. 5 Towanda

Sept. 13 at Canton

Sept. 19 Athens

Sept. 26 at Warrior Run

Oct. 3 Muncy

Oct. 10 at Troy

Oct. 17 at Cowanesque Valley

Oct. 24—Wellsboro

our attitude feel a little stronger than the last couple years Everyone is feeling like we can turn that into a few more wins than the last few seasons.”

Like most high school teams, North PennMansfield graduated some good players, but it also retains a quality core The Panthers were a few plays from going 5-5 last year, losing close home games against Canton and Cowanesque Valley. When that season ended following the Wellsboro victory, the returners quickly turned

the page It became about turning those close losses into defeats and overtaking some of the other teams who won by wider margins It was about hitting the weights, doing speed training and attending various camps to improve It was about taking a big step forward

No one knows how this season will play out, but North Penn-Mansfield will not have to look back at its offseason and wonder what if? The Panthers certainly have done all they can to put themselves in position to succeed this season.

“I think our expectations are pretty high. I say that not really just focusing on wins and losses,” Wright said. “There are certain things that you need to be a good football team. Whether you were 10-0 or 0-10 the year before, you need a group that buys in and a group of high-effort players. That definitely feels good that we’ve taken another leap forward in those types of things.”

North Penn-Mansfield must replace last year’s quarterback Cooper Shaw which is not an easy task considering he totaled more than 2,200 yards. Still, the Panthers are excited about the potential Bradley Brooks, sophomore Noah Musser and freshman Peyton Green are showing. The two who do not take the quarterback position likely will be used in other areas

to try and boost the offense

The new starter also will have one of the district’s best wide receivers with which to work Luke Kreger returns after earning Class AA all-state honors and leading the area in receiving yards with 1,188 and 10 touchdowns. Colton Pellett will complement Kreger following a promising sophomore campaign and North Penn-Mansfield will do what it can to get Kreger as many touches as possible while also trying to use opponents’ strategies against them.

“Luke is a great player and we have to try and be creative in how we get him the ball and try to get him some easy touches,” Wright said “The attention he requires from a defense, whether getting double teamed or guys following him, we have to use that to get a numbers advantage that makes things a little easier for an offense.”

North Penn-Mansfield will try and create some advantages through its backfield as well Sudan Benner showed some explosive flashes as a freshman and Jeremiah Lawrence is another player who could do some damage. Kreger also could see some touches after carrying the ball 14 times a year ago

Helping lead the way will be a fairly experienced line which returns four players with full-time experience. Injuries prevented that unit from playing together as a whole throughout last season, but the time each player earned should help in the growing process Bryce Route, Kyle Earley started four combined games before injuries, while Conner Lewis played both guard and tackle. Ian Snyder returns at center for a third season and Skyler Everetts made multiple starts at tackle

Most of those players also will play vital roles along the defensive line, although Everetts may move to linebacker. Route, Earley and Snyder are versatile players as well and North Penn-Mansfield can use them inside or outside

Kreger will help anchor the second-

2024 RESULTS (3-7)

North Penn-Mansfield 12, Wyalusing 37

North Penn-Mansfield 35, Sayre 0

North Penn-Mansfield 6, Towanda 21

North Penn-Mansfield 40, Canton 51

North Penn-Mansfield 16, Athens 14

North Penn-Mansfield 24, Warrior Run 70

North Penn-Mansfield 20, Muncy 59

North Penn-Mansfield 13, Troy 56

North Penn-Mansfield 15, Cowanesque 23

North Penn-Mansfield 28, Wellsboro 27

ary after intercepting multiple passes in consecutive seasons. Benner, Lawrence and Musser also are in the mix, but there will be a lot of competition for those secondary spots

North Penn-Mansfield could possess a special teams weapon in Brody Grinnell. A year ago, Grinnell kicked for the first time and flourished as the season progressed, connecting on a 37-yard field goal and missing just one extra point in 15 attempts

Grinnell going 4 for 4 on his extra point tries against Wellsboro played a massive role in the Panthers closing the season with that 28-27 victory. More important than the win itself was the feeling it generated entering the offseason Winning can become an addictive feeling and North Penn-Mansfield quickly showed that it was determined to feel it more when the offseason arrived.

Now it looks forward to take the field and try and see what the fruits of their labor produce

“Having positive momentum is a good thing and you want it on your side Even having a good last moment of the season makes the kids a little hungrier in January and February,” Wright said. “You want to keep trying to replicate that feeling more throughout the season and hopefully get it to start the season off I think we’re capable, but we also have some tough opponents early on that won’t make it easy but we’re hoping we can start well and keep the momentum going.”

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Luke Kreger, WR/DB: Kreger earned all-state honors last fall and produced one of the best seasons in program history The senior receiver caught 60 passes for 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns, leading the area in yards Kreger had two of the best individual games of the 2000s by any area receiver with his 264-yard performance against Canton and 278yard effort against Warrior Run two weeks later, both placing him among the top 5 this century in singlegame yards Kreger also has four interceptions the past two seasons and has caught 88 passes in two years as a starter

Colton Pellett, WR/DB: Pellett wasted little time showing what he can do a year ago. In the teamʼs season opener at Wyalusing, Pellett returned a kickoff 84 yards for a touchdown He went on to finish second on the team in catches and now has the experience to match his speed That could be an exciting combination

“Heʼs really coming into his own He has a lot of experience going from a sophomore to a junior and has matured,” Wright said “That experience is a game changer. Heʼs a fast, athletic kid.”

Ian Snyder, OL/LB: The teamʼs most experienced lineman, Snyder will be starting at center for a third consecutive year. He is a difference-maker on both sides of the ball and is the teamʼs leading returning tackler after averaging 5 3 last season Snyder made 10 tackles against Wyalusing and added a sack a week later in a 35-0 win against Sayre His maturity at such a vital offensive position is a big plus entering the year

“Just having someone that you are comfortable with there is a great feeling,” Wright said “He had a great offseason in the weight room, too.”

Skyler Everetts,

OL/DL/LB: Injuries limited him to six games, but Everett provided a nice boost when healthy. He helped the offense produce some big games and also averaged 3 7 tackles per game Everetts may move to linebacker and has a good blend of experience, strength and range

“He really worked hard this offseason and changed himself,” Wright said “Weʼre excited to see the hard work pay off ”

S E A S O N S N A P S H O T

B By y C CHHRRIIS S M MAASSSSE E cmasse@sungazette.com

The 2000s were unkind to Cowanesque Valley throughout the first 21 seasons. During that time, the Indians never won more than three games in a season.

Now, one of the state’s smaller schools has started putting together some strong seasons on a regular basis CV has won at least four games three times in the last four seasons, reaching the District 4 Class AAA playoffs (as a co-op with Williamson) in 2021 twice and nearly doing so again last year. The Indians won four games a season ago and was a few plays from reaching the Class AA playoffs

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22 Towanda

Aug. 29 at Wyalusing

Sept. 5 Muncy

Sept. 12 Sayre

Sept. 19—Wellsboro

Sept. 26 at South Williamsport

Oct. 4—at CMVT

Oct. 10 at Northwest

Oct. 17—vs. N.P.-Mansfield

Oct. 24 at Montgomery

after moving down a classification

The goal now is keeping the new trend going strong despite graduating some ex-

cellent players from last year’s team. Just last season, CV faced a similar situation with several of those seniors playing new positions This is a resourceful program which makes the most of its numbers, usually between 20-30, and will look to do so again.

“Most of the juniors we have coming back are used to the game action and the speed of the game,” CV coach Jacob Lane said “Nothing will change on that front The positive is that they are bigger, stronger and faster now ”

Another positive is that CV’s general mindset has dramatically changed the last few years. Years of taking lumps also took a mental toll on CV as one mistake often snowballed into more. The last few years have seen a reverse That especially

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

shined through last year when the Indians held their ground and pulled together, instead of breaking apart, when times grew tough

Lane has seen every indication to keep him confident that a similar mentality will permeate the locker room this season. The Indians will certainly face a lot of challenges, but have the group eager to embrace them

“We might be down at halftime and guys like Luke (Sottolano) and Kegan (Lane) would say, ‘Let’s keep rolling, anything can happen,'” Lane said. “If we were up at halftime, they were saying it’s not over and to stay locked in I think we’re in good position with having the right kids to kind of step up and lead the team and keeping that positive attitude and work ethic.”

Sottolano and Lane form a strong foundation with them being four and three-year starters. Sottolano has excelled along both lines the last three seasons, helping the offense flourish and the defense take big steps forward. One of the NTL’s biggest linemen, Sottolano also has quick feet and has done a nice job pushing his teammates with CV featuring a 1,000-yard rusher and 1,000-yard passer in consecutive seasons

Stevie Olsen is coming off an excellent season and Justin Schaar is healthy again after being injured the last two seasons. Those three form a strong nucleus for both the offensive and defensive lines while others compete for the remaining starting positions.

2024 RESULTS (4-6)

Cowanesque 6, Towanda 24

Cowanesque 0, Wyalusing 37

Cowanesque 25, Muncy 45

Cowanesque 50, Sayre 21

Cowanesque 8, Wellsboro 40

Cowanesque 19, South Williamsport 23

Cowanesque 29, CMVT 24

Cowanesque 43, Northwest 22

Cowanesque 23, N.P.-Mansfield 15

Cowanesque 0, Montgomery 36

“We’re hoping Stevie builds off what he did and that he and Luke bring a lot of excitement to the line,” Lane said. “Both are good wrestlers, so they bring that competitiveness to the field. Justin got some time as a freshman and missed his sophomore year, but he’s gotten a lot bigger, a lot faster and a lot stronger.”

CV must replace 1,000-yard quarterback Graham Hess but has quality options in Levi Stahli and Graham Hess. Stahli played well as a tight end/H-back last year and both he and Mack, who saw some time under center, are dual threats.

Lane is a hard-nosed fullback who will get some carries and also help lead the way for the tailback. Dave Hess is one of the NTL’s most versatile players and will see a lot of time in the backfield, while also sparking the passing game after leading CV in both rushing and receiving

Keep an eye on Christian Perdomo as well. The sophomore flashed his potential against Class A state semifinalist Muncy when he ran for 88 yards on nine carries.

AT YDS TD Graham Hess 92 561 7 Dave Hess 84 460 4

Kegan Lane 20 176 1

C. Perdomo 9 88 0 RECEIVER REC YDS TD

Dave Hess 20 590 4

Jeavon Eick 20 325 5

Levi Stahli 14 168 0

Kegan Lane 10 121 0

Gavin Churchill 10 89 0

2025 FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dave Hess, RB/DB: A Swiss Army Knife-type player, Hess does a little bit of everything He already has topped 1,000 career rushing yards and is just 109 from going over 1,000 receiving yards If he joins that 1,000-1,000-yard club, Hess will become only the second area player to reach it as an underclassman during the 2000s. Hess led CV in both rushing and receiving last year and totaled 1,009 yards. He was a force in a win at Sayre, topping 100 yards rushing and receiving as well as scoring four touchdowns.

Kegan Lane, RB/LB: Like Hess, Lane is a threeyear starting junior who has made a big impact since first taking the high school field Lane has gone over 200 tackles in his first two years and led the team a year ago, averaging 10 5 per game Lane can play outside or inside linebacker and is a captain as a junior He has started every game the past two seasons and added two sacks, along with an interception Lane also forced a fumble, recovered two more and collected two sacks. A good fullback as well, Lane ran for a score and caught 10 passes.

Stevie Olson, OL/DL: Olsen is yet another CV player who immediately made his mark as a freshman Olsen did so last year, earning NTL-II all-star honors along the defensive line Olsen led the team with four sacks and also totaled 52 yards on two fumble returns A hard worker, Olsen was a difference-maker on both lines and also averaged nearly four tackles a game, while opening up lanes for linebackers to swarm ballcarriers

Luke Sottolano, OL/DL Speaking of strong linemen, Sottolano was a first-team league selection on the offensive line and second-team defensive selection. A four-year starter, the 270-pounder can effectively drive defenders off the line and help a diverse offense flourish His play up front has helped CV finish among the areaʼs yardage leaders in consecutive seasons He also sparks the defensive line and is a good run stuffer who averaged 3 7 tackles a year ago while recovering a fumble

EEvery week provides a new opportunity. Sure, every team has long-term goals and every squad dreams of reaching the ultimate destination the state championship. I was going to say the location there, which is Cumberland Valley High School, but since the PIAA refuses to put the final at a prestigious location I went with just “state championship.”

I mean, seriously, teams put all this time and work in, sacrifice so much, and the PIAA rewards them with a trip to a high school? Come on, let’s do better But I digress

My original point is that each game is one to cherish. Each one is a new opportunity to create memories which can last a lifetime The long-term goals should not be forgotten, but enjoying the ride is the most important part. Because high school players only get four years at most, each experience under those Friday Night Lights becomes special.

With that in mind, here are the top games to watch each week as players across the area try leaving their mark and owning the moments which come their way.

WEEK 1

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t W Waarrrriioor r R Ruun n a at t M Muunnccyy: This has been quite a battle the past two seasons with the home team winning thrilling seven-point contests each time. Two years ago, Muncy held off a late Warrior Run rally and last season, the Defenders erased a seven-point fourth-quarter deficit and won, 28-21. Muncy teams made history last season, Muncy reaching its first Class A state semifinal and Warrior Run its first district championship Several of the headliners from those teams have graduated but quality groups remain and this should make for a fun

Muncy and Warrior Run once again square off in a Week 1 showdown, this year playing at Muncy.

Williamsport, shown playing against Central Mountain,

trilogy.

: A night after the Muncy-Warrior Run showdown last fall, two other rivals put together a great game with Hughesville making a last-minute, red-zone stop and edging Montgomery, 14-7. It was an encouraging performance for both teams as each went on to achieve their most success this decade This is the sixth straight year Montgomery and Hughesville are opening up against each other and the road team is 3-2 if you want an interesting stat thrown in.

WEEK 2

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t H Haazzlleettoon n a at t W Wiilllliiaammssppoorrtt: : This will be the third time Hazleton and Williamsport have played the past two seasons The Millionaires won two hard-fought games last season, including, 15-6 in the District 2-4 Class 6A semifinals. These long-time rivals have played every season in the 2000s except 2020 and two of the last three contests have been decided by 12 points. Like the Week 2 match-up was last year, it again could be a playoff preview

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d S Soouutth h W Wiilllliiaammssppoorrt t a at t C Caannttoonn: : This has quietly become a good rivalry since 2018 with South and

Jersey Shore brings its lightning-quick offense to Selinsgrove for a Week 3 game between

who are more than familiar with one another over the last decade. Canton colliding four times in the District 4 Class A semifinals. South is Class AA now, so this will be the only time South and Canton play. The road team has won the last three contests and all have been exciting contests, the widest margin of victory being nine points.

WEEK 3

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t J Jeerrsseey y S Shhoorre e a at t S Seelliinnss-g grroovvee: : No two District 4 teams have played each more since 2013 than these two perennial Class AAAA contenders have collided twice each, including in the playoffs, every year since 2013 with the exception of 2020. Before Shamokin captured last year’s district crown, Jersey Shore and Selinsgrove had won a combined 11 consecutive Class AAA and AAAA championships.

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d D Daannvviilllle e a at t M Moonn-t toouurrssvviillllee: : Danville and Montoursville have not met in the playoffs as much as Jersey Shore and Selinsgrove over that same span, but they sure have met a lot there. Five times, to be exact, since 2016 Danville rallied from a 10-point deficit to beat Montoursville in last year’s District 4 Class AAA semifinals en route to a fifth straight championship The Warriors are seeking their first win against Danville since 2020 as they start a run of three straight games against district title contenders.

Loyalsock coach Justin Van Fleet and the Lancers head to Bloomsburg in a must-watch Week 5 game.

WEEK 4

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t J Jeerrsseey y S Shhoorre e a at t S Shhaammookkiinn: : Shamokin became the first team to sweep a season series against Jersey Shore since 2017 last fall, rallying for a dramatic, controversial 28-27 overtime championship win last season The Indians also snapped Jersey Shore’s 42game unbeaten streak in Week 4, overcoming a 14-point deficit and winning, 30-28. The Indians return nearly everyone from that squad, so this will be one of Jersey Shore’s toughest games in a season filled with them

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d M Miifffflliinnbbuurrg g a at t M Moonn-t toouurrssvviillllee: : Speaking of teams who played thrillers last year, Montoursville took two contests from the Wildcats by eight combined points, fighting back from seven and 14-point deficits both times. Montoursville put together a go-ahead, 98yard game-winning drive to edge Mifflinburg in the district semifinals Now Mifflinburg is out for revenge and brings back nearly every starter from a squad that surged down the stretch. This is another Week 4, District 4 heavyweight clash.

WEEK 5

b buurrgg: : This was an exciting game at Kenneth Robbins Stadium last year as Loyalsock rallied from seven down in the third quarter and won 20-13. Bloomsburg returns most of its starters and could be one of the district’s more improved teams this season. That makes for a potentially exciting rematch between teams fighting for Class AA playoff berths

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d W Waarrr

b buurrgg: : A year ago, both teams entered this

contest 4-0 before Lewisburg put on a defensive clinic and won, 24-0. Each team went on to reach their respective district championship and they combined for 18 victories. While some explosive players from each squad graduated, both retain good foundations There may also be several more passes than in last year’s contest which was defined by the running game

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Muncy. Montgomery. The Old Shoe Game. Itʼs must-see football for Week 6 of the regular season.

WEEK 6

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t M Moonnttggoommeerry y a at t M Muunnccyy: : This could be one of the more exciting Old Shoe Games in a long time. Montgomery last captured The Old Shoe in 2017 with a dramatic, last-minute comeback It also has not won at Muncy in the 2000s. Montgomery, however, brings back most of last year’s starters, while Muncy is replacing most of its Still, the Indians have been in similar situations and continued thriving. Both look like District 4 title contenders, so don’t be shocked if this is just Round 1 in a tworound fight.

Jersey Shore landed the knockout blow in the first game with Williamsport in more than 50 years last fall The scene shifts to Millionaire Stadium this time and Williamsport will be eager to try and exact revenge. While both teams potentially will have strong offenses, each also could be fueled by their defenses. Jersey Shore has lost two state playoff games at Williamsport, so the Millionaires are hoping that their field can continue to be its Kryptonite

WEEK 7

soocckk: : After Loyalsock marched 91 yards on two plays and stunned Warrior Run, 24-23 on its home field last year, the Defenders exacted revenge in the district quarterfinals. There the Defenders erased a seven-point halftime deficit, scored 14 fourth-quarter points and won, 21-7, defeating the Lancers for the first time since 2005 This will the fifth game between these HAC-III rivals in three seasons with them colliding in consecutive playoffs.

Th

: The Bulldogs were a yard from handing Hollidaysburg its first loss last season before a last-second fumble at the 1-yard line dashed those hopes. It was a game between teams who were a combined 11-1 and it more than lived up to the pregame hype

WEEK 8

a at t M Muunnccyy: : This has long been one of Lycoming County’s premier small-school rivalries with each team controlling the series at different times. Two years ago, Muncy won an overtime thriller against South before the Mounties returned there

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

four weeks later and captured the district championship en route to reaching the state semifinals. Muncy won at South last, but for this rematch, the teams look much more evenly matched

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d H Huugghheessvviilllle e a at t W Waarr-r riioor r R Ruunn: : Speaking of evenly matched, Hughesville and Warrior Run certainly were last year Both teams took turns erasing second half deficits before Keegan Smith kicked a go-ahead field goal and Braden Fisher made a dramatic tackle at the 1-yard line as Hughesville prevailed, 32-29 in double overtime The last three games in this series have been decided in the closing seconds and/or overtime, so this should be a fun one.

WEEK 9

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t M Moonnttoouurrssvviilllle e a at t L Leewwiissbbuurrgg: : Six times since 2009, these two have squared off in the playoffs, including two years ago when the Green Dragons won in the Class AAA district quarterfinals. Close games are the norms in this series. Just look at the last two years. Before Lewisburg won the playoff rematch, Montoursville rallied in the final minute and again in the first overtime to win 21-14 in double overtime. Lewisburg erased a 10-point deficit last season and won 22-19 at Memorial Stadium It would be surprising if the latest installment was not also riveting.

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d M Moonnttggoommeerry y a at t S Soouutth h W Wiilllliiaammssppoorrtt: : Montgomery snapped a 14game losing streak against South in dominant fashion last year, winning 42-14 while taking second in the NTL-II. That league championship race feels wide open this year and the rematch could have big title implications Both squads return most of the starters from their teams last year. Both are physical teams as well, so there will likely be a lot of sore players when this one is over

WEEK 10

T Thhe e M Maaiin n E Evveennt t M Moonnttoouurrssvviilllle e a at t L Looyy-a allssoocckk: : There was a time when Montoursville and Loyalsock started swapping Battle for the Bridge Games and no one held a clear advantage. But a lot has changed these past nine years. First, Montoursville won six straight Bridge Games before Loyalsock responded and won the last three The Lancers repeatedly made key stops deep in their own territory and won 21-7 last year. Montoursville has had a long time to think about that and, no doubt, is itching for another chance. Buckle up.

T Thhe e U Unnddeerrccaarrd d H Huugghheessvviilllle e a at t M Muunnccyy: : This series also has had flipped with Hughesville dominating it from 2001-17 before Muncy won five straight It looked

Loyalsock will look to top Montoursville once again this year in the annual Battle for the Bridge Game in Week 10.

like the streak would continue last fall when Muncy built a 13-point lead with less than six minutes remaining Instead, Hughesville stormed back and won, 2827. The year before it was Muncy erasing

an eight-point deficit in the last six minutes and winning 28-22. The moral of the story is that no lead is safe in this rivalry contest

185-POUND BENCH PRESS

Name SCHOOL REPS

Hunter Whipple Hughesville 17

Shane Frey Bloomsburg 14

Tyler Shiposh Warrior Run 14

Hayden Stevens Wellsboro 12

Cayden Sones Loyalsock 11

Eli Rojas Shikellamy 11

Cameron Woltz Montgomery 11

Krue Wheadon Bloomsburg 11

Joshua Knoebel Montgomery 11

Maddox Hoover Shikellamy 10

Christian Pazzaglia Troy 10

Brady Wolfe Milton 10

Jeavon Eick Cowanesque Valley 10

225-POUND BENCH PRESS

Name SCHOOL REPS

Talon Piatt Southern Columbia 22

Bo Sechrist Jersey Shore 20

Jeremiah Johnson Loyalsock 20

Monty Fisher Milton 18

Kael Millard Troy 17

Brody Rebuck Shikellamy 16

Zeke Sechrist Jersey Shore 15

Talyn Lope Jersey Shore 15

Bryce Brumbach Shikellamy 14

Noah Rakestraw Montoursville 14

Elijah Harvey South Williamsport 14

John Quinton Southern Columbia 14

Brendan Gilliland Troy 13

Kaleb Nicholas Warrior Run 13

Seth Feldmeier Troy 12

BROAD JUMP

Name SCHOOL DISTANCE

Landen Murray Mifflinburg 10-4

Cole Rhodes Milton 9-11

Andy Hermansen North Penn 9-6

Maddox Hoover Shikellamy 9-5

Brayden Andrews Southern Columbia 9-5

Julius Serrano Bloomsburg 9-5

Brody Rebuck Shikellamy 9-4

Mason Smith Troy 9-3

Jalil Coates Loyalsock 9-3

Monty Fisher Milton 9-1

Grady Garcia Southern Columbia 9-1

Nahmir Thomas Loyalsock 9-1

Dylan Parrish Mifflinburg 9-1

Chad Martin Mifflinburg 9-0

VERTICAL JUMP

Landen Murray Mifflinburg 39”

Quazheir Day Loyalsock 35”

Mason Smith Troy 35”

Nahmir Thomas Loyalsock

THE ALMANAC

Sept 5 at Executive Education

Sept 12 Danville

Sept 19 Southern Columbia

Sept. 26 at Montoursville

Oct 3 at Milton

Oct 10 Mifflinburg

Oct 17 at Warrior Run

Oct 24 at Bloomsburg

CMVT

Aug 22 at Shenandoah Valley

Aug. 30 Morrisville

Sept 6 Montrose

Sept 13 at Renaissance Academy

Sept 20 at Holy Cross

Sept 27 Jenkintown

Oct 4 Cowanesque Valley

Oct. 10 at Hanover

Oct 18 Holy Redeemer

Oct 24 at Bucktail

DANVILLE

Aug 22 Bloomsburg

Aug 29 Mifflinburg

Sept 5 at Montoursville

Sept. 12 at Central Columbia

Sept 19 Milton

Sept 26 at Southern Columbia

Oct 3 at Mount Carmel

Oct 10 Loyalsock

Oct 17 Shikellamy

Oct. 24 at Selinsgrove

LINE MOUNTAIN

Aug. 22 Lewisburg

Aug 29 Newport

Sept 5 at Juniata

Sept 12 Halifax

Sept 19 at Upper Dauphin

Sept 26 Steelton-Highspire

Oct 4 at Middletown

Oct 10 at James Buchanan

2000s AREA CAREER LEADERS

Oct. 17 Camp Hill

Oct 24 at Susquenita

MIDD-WEST

Aug 22 at Central Columbia

Aug 29 at Hamburg

Sept 5 Warrior Run

Sept 12

Oct. 17 Midd-West

Oct 24 Lewisburg

MOUNT CARMEL

Aug 22 North Schuylkill

Aug. 29 at Central Columbia

Sept 5 Mifflinburg

Sept 12 at Southern Columbia

Sept 19 Montoursville

Sept 26 at Hughesville

Oct. 3 Danville

Oct 10 at Central Mountain

Oct 17 Milton

Oct 24 at Shamokin

NORTHWEST

Aug 22 at Canton

Aug. 29 Athens

Sept 5 Lake-Lehman

Sept 12 Muncy

Sept 20 at New Hope-Solebury

Sept 26 Sayre

Oct. 3 at Montgomery

Oct 10 Cowanesque Valley

Oct 17 at Wellsboro

Oct 24 at South Williamsport

SAYRE

Aug. 22 Troy

Aug 29 N P -Mansfield

Sept. 5 at Montgomery

Sept 12 at Cowanesque Valley

Sept 20 at Muncy

Sept. 26 at Northwest

Oct 3 South Williamsport

Oct 10 at Towanda

Oct. 17 Canton

Oct 24 Athens

SELINSGROVE

Aug 22 at Juniata

Aug 29 Twin Valley

Sept 5 Jersey Shore

Sept 12 at Central Mountain

Sept 19 Williamsport

Sept 26 at Shamokin

Oct 3 Shikellamy

Oct 10 Hollidaysburg

Oct 17 at Berwick

Oct 24 Danville

SHAMOKIN

Aug. 22 at Pottsville

Aug 29 Lake-Lehman

Sept 5 at Shikellamy

Sept. 12 Jersey Shore

Sept 19 at Central Mountain

Sept 26 Selinsgrove

Oct. 3 at Williamsport

Oct 10 at Lewisburg

Oct 17 Loyalsock

Oct. 24 Mount Carmel

SHIKELLAMY

Aug 22 at Milton

Aug. 29 at Lewisburg

Sept 5 Shamokin

Sept. 12 Williamport

Sept 19 at Jersey Shore

Sept. 26 Central Mountain

Oct 3 Selinsgrove

Oct. 10 at Bloomsburg

Oct 17 at Danville

Oct. 24 Southern Columbia

SOUTHERN COL.

Aug 22 Wyomissing

Aug. 29 at Loyalsock

Sept 5 Milton

Sept. 12 Mount Carmel

Sept 19 at Central Columbia

Sept. 26 Danville

Oct 3 at Mifflinburg

Oct 10 at Montoursville

Oct 17 Bloomsburg

Oct 24 at Shikellamy

TOWANDA

Aug 22 at Cowanesque Valley

Aug. 29 Hughesville

Sept 5 at N P -Mansfield

2000s AREA CAREER LEADERS

Sept. 12 at Wellsboro

Sept 19 Troy

Sept 26 at Canton

Oct. 3 Athens

Oct 10 Sayre

Oct 17 Tunkhannock

Oct. 24 at Wyalusing

TROY

Aug 22 at Sayre

Aug 30 at Waverly (N Y )

Sept 5 at South Williamsport

Sept 12 at Athens

Sept 19 at Towanda

Sept 26 Wyalusing

Oct 3 Wellsboro

Oct 10 N P -Mansfield

Oct 17 Central Mountain

Oct 24 at Canton

WYALUSING

Aug 22 at N P -Mansfield

Aug. 29 Cowanesque Valley

Sept 5 Wellsboro

Sept 12 Montgomery

Sept. 19 at South Williamsport

Sept 26 at Troy

Oct 3 Canton

Oct. 10 at Athens

Oct 17 at Hughesville

Oct 24 Towanda

T HE ALMANAC: YEAR-BY-YEAR LEADERS