Fall 2007 Preview

[DrewVT6]

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Check out the Livingston County News Fall Preview in stores today!

[UNCTarheels]

Livonia's Corey Brizzee Punishes Foes

By Chris Metcalf
sports@livingstonnews.com

LIVONIA — Corey Brizzee doesn’t just want to hit you when he tackles you
— he wants to absolutely punish you.
The 5-10, 210-pound senior linebacker led the entire LCAA with 149
tackles and three sacks a year ago.
This year Brizzee will be counted on more than ever as Livonia attempts
to make a run at the rugged LCAA Division I crown which features
perennial power Hornell, physical Bath, and underdog HF-L.
Brizzee isn’t just about defense either.
He is one of Section V’s top fullbacks. Last year he rushed for a
team-high 574 yards on 107 carries (5.4 avg) with six touchdowns.
“Corey did it all for us last year — he barely left the field,” said
Livonia coach Steve Girolmo. “I’ll give you an example. Last year in one
of our games, Corey ran down the quarterback from one sideline to the
other, and when he tackled him, the quarterback sort of kneed him in the
chest and knocked the wind out of Corey. He rolled over and said ‘Coach,
can I come out for just one play?’ I said ‘No, get back in there.’ To
make a long story short, he went back in there and made the next two
tackles in a row to force a punt. That’s how valuable he is to our team.”
Brizzee remembers that play well.
“It was the first game of the season against Bolivar-Richburg,” said
Brizzee. “Coach knew I wasn’t really hurt — just tired. Coach knows how
to motivate me and if he needs me in there to help the team, that’s fine
by me.”
Brizzee knows his presence will be needed this season as his team of
Bulldogs are a very young group which features six sophomores and 10
juniors.
“It’s on me to be the leader out there so I have to perform up to the
expectations,” said Brizzee. “I would rather have it my shoulders. We
are very young and we have a lot of players who have never played
varsity before so it’s on me to go out there and set an example.”
Brizzee says he gets his passion to hit hard from watching Ray Lewis, of
the Baltimore Ravens.
“I’ve been watching him for years and the way he plays defense with so
much intensity,” said Brizzee. “I try and take that out on the field and
play with the same intensity and passion. If I could showboat after
making a tackle — I probably would, but you can’t so I won’t. My
personality is a little Hollywood, somewhat wild and energetic.”
Although he will probably get the majority of the carries, Brizzee would
just as much block than run the football on offense.
“I still consider myself a blocking first type back,” said Brizzee. “I
still have to do my part and that’s block. I would rather block for
(halfback) Terry (Matthews) then run.”
Just how good is Brizzee?
Coach Girolmo, owner of three sectional titles during his 21-year
coaching stint, says he could be the best two-way player he’s ever had.
“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching plenty of talented two-way players —
but Corey is probably the best of them all,” said Girolmo. “He’s as good
as we’ve ever had here, at least in my tenure.”
Brizzee knows if Livonia is going to make a run at the Class B bracket
it’s going to take a total team effort.
“We are a young team — and we have a lot of work to do,” said Brizzee.
“East Rochester/Gananda is tough and so is Hornell, so those are two
tough games right off the bat. If we can come through those two games
OK, that will sort of set the tone for the rest of the season.”
Brizzee is also a fantastic student who maintains a high 90’s average.
He is hoping to study pre-med next fall and also play football in college.

[UNCTarheels]

Schiedel, Cal-Mum seek redemption

By Chris Metcalf
sports@livingstonnews.com


CALEDONIA — Last football season is something Nate Schiedel doesn’t
really want to talk about.
That’s when Schiedel and the Cal-Mum football team struggled to a 4-4
season, ending it on a downer — losing to Letchworth in the Class C
quarterfinals.
It was a frustrating season for the Red Raiders, who lost to Hornell, Le
Roy and Letchworth twice.
Letchworth had never beaten Cal-Mum before in their 33-year history, but
they beat the Red Raiders not once, but twice in 2006.
But Cal-Mum was certainly far from a pushover. Of their four losses,
only one of those was one-sided.
The Red Raiders lost to Le Roy 13-12 and Letchworth 12-6 in OT and 6-0.
But now, Schiedel, a senior, is primed and ready — and last season is
not going to happen again, not on his watch.
“Last year was tough — really, really tough,” said Schiedel, a 6-foot-2,
190 pound linebacker/fullback. “But we’re a different team this year.
Everyone is good with one another. It wasn’t like that last year. We
have a better chemistry now.”
Schiedel, who is a two-time All-American wrestler, rushed for a
team-high 699 yards on 108 carries (6.5 avg) a year ago.
He feels this year’s Red Raiders are mentally tougher than last year’s
team.
“We are a pretty well-rounded bunch,” said Schiedel. “We have some tough
kids that don’t let the little things bother them. Last year we let too
many things bother us.”
Head coach Mike Monacelli, who is entering his 19th season as head
coach, earning the Red Raiders four state championships in his tenure,
also feels much better about this year’s make-up.
“Our team chemistry has been much better and the kids are showing a
great attitude,” said Monacelli, who owns a 152-37 career record. “This
year’s junior and senior class are closer. Our senior leadership this
year is great. Last year we had some close game disappointments and
maybe we didn’t do things as well as we would have liked. I think this
year’s team brings a little something different to the table.”
Schiedel will anchor the Red Raiders’ defense from his middle linebacker
spot.
Last year he led his team in tackles with 92 stops.
He should get plenty of help on defense with several returning letter
winners including seniors James Sickles (linebacker), Nick Nothnagle
(cornerback) Mike Tomasso (safety), Nate Anastasi (defensive tackle),
Tim Sullivan (defensive end) and juniors Tom Gordon (defensive tackle)
and Brian Sinclair (defensive end).
Newcomers Jeremy Wilson (free safety), Jon Marozzi (defensive tackle)
and Dave Fox (linebacker) will also help the Red Raiders defense this
season.
“I think our defense is going to be tough,” said Schiedel. “We have some
good senior leadership on that side of the ball and we’re hungry to shut
teams down.”
The Red Raiders’ offense should also be a force.
Schiedel is a horse at fullback and he should get rushing help with
several backers including tailbacks Jon Marozzi and Jeremy Wilson, who
both were standouts on an undefeated JV team a year ago.
The flankers will be Sullivan and Sickles.
“We have some talent in the backfield and our offensive line isn’t that
big but they are tough up front and they can do the job,” said Schiedel.
Senior Steve Lauffer will get the nod at the quarterback position.
Last year Lauffer was 15-of-44 passing for 230 yards and one TD.
Although his numbers were far from impressive a year ago, Schiedel feels
Lauffer is poised for a huge year at the helm.
“Steve’s stepped up a lot since last year and he’s really worked on his
game,” said Schiedel. “He put a lot of summer work in and we are all
confident he will do a great job.”
Monacelli also has confidence in Lauffer.
“We are looking to Steve as our ‘trigger puller’ for our offense —
everything runs through his hands and he has had a very good preseason,”
said Monacelli. “He was named small school MVP at the St. John Fisher
Passing Tournament over the summer.”
But if Cal-Mum wants a shot at the rugged Class C title, which includes
Le Roy, Oakfield-Alabama, Pembroke and Avon, ultimately they will need
Schiedel at his best.
Monacelli feels Schiedel is up for the task.
“I’ve never had an All-American wrestler playing for me and he plays
like he wants to be an All-American football player too,” said
Monacelli. “He’s respected by his peers, and not aloof because of his
accomplishments on the mat. He really likes football and his teammates.”
Schiedel says it’s time to gain back something that’s been missing the
last few years — respect.
“I think the last few years we’ve lost a little respect around here,”
said Schiedel. “We want to get that back.”

[UNCTarheels]

Le Roy’s dynamic duo,best of friends

By Chris Metcalf
sports@livingstonnews.com

LE ROY — John Whiting and Brady Bonacquisti have a bond that goes far
beyond the football field.
It just happens to be the football gridiron that the two do their most
damage together on.
Best of friends since the early days, it’s now up to the senior
classmates to get Le Roy’s football program back to the state finals — a
game both have dreamed of playing in since they played ‘Backyard
Football’ together at Warner Park.
“We’ve talked about it a few times,” said Bonacquisti, a 5-foot-8,
195-pound linebacker/fullback. “But we know you can’t win the state
title if you don’t win the sectional title first. We won’t overlook
anybody and we will take it one game at a time.”
Last year the Knights did win the Class C title as they ousted a feisty
Letchworth team in the finals.
But the Knights were taken out of the state tournament the next game
when they lost a heartbreaking 13-12 state quarterfinal game to Falconer
(Sec. VI).
It was a game that Brady doesn’t remember much, thanks to a first half
concussion.
“It sort of sucked, I wish I could have been in there,” said Brady. “But
I was a little out of it.”
It was obvious that LeRoy wasn’t the same team when Brady went out of
the game.
“I don’t even want to talk about that game — it’s in the past — but we
will use it to motivate us down the road,” said Brady. “This is a new
year, and we have some great team chemistry.”
A big part of that chemical equation is the 6-foot-1, 265-pound Whiting,
a two-way lineman that is entering his fourth year as a Le Roy starter.
Last year Whiting, along with classmate Marcus Epps (6-foot-3, 290 lbs),
helped the Knights’ offense gain over 2,700 yards on the ground.
“That’s kind of what we do around here — run the football effectively,
and it’s up to the lineman to make that happen,” said Whiting. “We have
some big guys up front. We still have plenty of athletes, that we could
do different things, but we just love to pound the running game.”
Last year Bonacquisti had a banner year at fullback running behind that
big front as he rushed for 586 yards on 114 carries (5.2 avg) with a
team-leading 16 TD’s.
The Knights’ defense was also led by the ‘Dynamic Duo’ as Bonacquisti
posted a team-leading 84 tackles (40 solo), 13 for a loss, three forced
fumbles, three fumble recoveries and three interceptions. He was named
MVP of the Class C title game.
Whiting also had a big year on defense, despite being double teamed most
of the time. He recorded 62 tackles (28 solo), 10 for a loss, and forced
three fumbles.
“We like to hit on defense,” said Bonacquisti. “If you don’t like to
hit, you probably won’t play on this defense.”
The team chemistry is what Whiting also likes about this team.
“We have great team chemistry,” said Whiting. “The entire team is like
family. We do everything together and try and motivate one another.”
As close as the team is, it’s the relationship of Whiting and
Bonacquisti that is the closest.
“We know each other very well,” said Whiting. “And that kind of helps us
out on the field, we always know what the other is doing and thinking.”
Le Roy will need great team chemistry this fall, especially with a
tougher path this fall including defending Class D sectional champion
and state finalist Oakfield-Alabama now up in class.
Class C also features Cal-Mum, Avon and Pembroke.
“We wouldn’t want it any other way,” said Bonacquisti. “If you want to
be the best, you have to beat the best. We know we have a tough road
ahead. We’ll prepare for it, and we’ll be ready.”
Whiting says the Le Roy tradition will also help the end of the season run.
“The Le Roy tradition is something I grew up with,” said Whiting. “There
are a ton of people behind us. It’s great to know you have an entire
community behind you. And when it’s sectional time, we don’t only play
for our team, we play for the entire Le Roy community.”

[UNCTarheels]

Division I

Livonia Bulldogs

Coach- Steve Girolmo, 21st season (104-68-2) Last year- 3-4 (Lost to Hornell in Class B first round) Key Returners- Corey Brizzee (Sr., FB/LB); Dan Schuster (Sr., OL/LB); Rory Coughlin (Sr., OL/LB); Terry Matthews (Sr., RB/DB); Matt Girolmo (Jr., QB/ DB); Todd Lemen (Sr., OL/DL); Justin Becker (Jr., OL/DL); Rob Lippa (Sr., OL/DL); Clint Richards (Sr., OL/DL).
Top Newcomers- Brandon Braun (Jr., OL/LB); Jeff Wester (Soph., RB/DB); Tim Loucks (Jr., OL/DL); Jake Mastasio (Jr., SE/DB); Bob Schuster (Soph., RB/DB); Kevin Bischoping (Jr., OL/DE); Todd Calvert (Soph., OL/DL); Marv Stefko (Jr., SE/DB); Ryan Metz (Jr., RB/LB); Mike Suess (Jr., TE/LB) Nick Schroeder (Jr., TE/LB).
Coach’s Quote- “Overall we are very young and inexperienced. I think we need to get our nose bloody before we’ll find out where we have the potential to finish. It’ll be easy to get bloody with our schedule. I think we’ll learn quickly, but with a young group, it’s important to treat the season as a long race, with the finish line far away.”
LCN Notes- What coach Girolmo is trying to say with his above quote is that his schedule could be the toughest in the entire LCAA with non-league games coming against East Rochester/Gananda and Penn Yan.
Brizzee is as good a player as there is in the entire LCAA, probably the best two-way player Livonia has ever had. Last year he led the entire conference in tackles with 149 stops and three sacks. He will get the ball 20 times a game from his fullback spot. Last year he rushed for 574 yards on 107 carries (5.36 avg). When he’s not running the ball, Brizzee will be blocking for halfback Matthews, a senior, who ran the ball limited times a year ago. The 6-4 junior Girolmo will be the signal caller at QB. He has a very good arm and can also make good decisions in the Bulldogs’ patented wishbone attack. He can also run the ball very well evidence from his two long TD’s during a recent scrimmage against Victor, Le Roy and Franklin. His line won’t have much size but Becker, Lippa, Loucks, Coughlin, Bischoping, Lemen, and Schuster have plenty of Bulldog heart. Schuster is out with an injury and will return by midseason. This team will work and get better as the season goes on, but with rugged ER-Gananda and Hornell for their first two games, a fast start might not happen.

Dansville Mustangs

Coach- Mike McMullin, 21st
Last Year- 3-4 (Did not qualify for sectionals) Key Returners- Tyler Koch (E/DB); Matt Schuster (E/DB); Justin Briggs (OL/OLB); Josh Sick (OL/DL); Jake Lawrence (OL/LB); Austin Lewter (E/DB); Matt Newcomb (OL/DL); Mark Fox (OL/DL); Mike Belanger (RB/LB); Tyler Ruane (E/LB); Josh Snyder (OL/DL); Josh Mitchell (E/DB) Top Newcomers- Garrett Hoag (QB/DB); Brandon Doyle (RB/DB); Curtis Bennett (OL/LB); Colton Green (E/LB); Nick Cassata (RB/LB); Rhyan Farmer (OL/DL); Adam Kelly (OL/DL); Joe Macchirella (E/DB); Caleb Perry (RB/LB); Ian O’Brien (OL/DL).
Coach’s Quote- “The team has a good attitude and works hard. Staying healthy will be a big key to our season.”
LCN Notes- Last year the Mustangs won their first two games before dropping four of their next five to miss out on the sectionals. Plenty of talented players from last year have graduated including all-league selections Tyler Rauber and Sean Edwards. The top returning player is the senior Koch, an explosive wideout who led the LCAA in receiving yards with 588 on 29 receptions (20 avg). He also led the Mustangs with
14 TD’s and 20 PAT kicks. He accounted for 106 points, which broke the Dansville school-record. Koch will get the ball from sophomore QB Hoag, a talented player who will need a little game day experience early on.
Schuster, Briggs, Sick, Lawrence, Newcomb, Fox and Snyder all return to the interior line and they will need to have a solid year to give Hoag some time to throw the ball. Dansville plays a tough schedule too as they travel to defending state champion Geneva along with Class B powers Hornell and Bath. Those are three rugged and physical games.

Bath Rams

Coach- Wayne Carroll, 21st season (110-65).
Last year- 6-2 (Lost to East Rochester In Class B quarters) Key Returners- T.C. Carroll (Soph., LB); Cody Hutcheson (Jr., DB); Andre McCloud (Jr., TB); Jake Kuver (Jr., QB); Nick Carroll (Fresh., S); Sam Musso (Jr., DE); Craig Chissom (Sr., OT); Dustin Reeves (Sr.; C); Tyler McCloud (Sr., TE); Jordan Nichols (Sr., WR); Eric Argentieri (Sr., LB); Danny Herrick (Jr., DE); Justin Seager (Jr., NG); Brett Havens (Sr., FB); A.J. Cupp (Sr., OG); David Spices (Sr.); Andy Nesbitt (Jr.).
Top Newcomers- Dylan Bennett (Soph., DE); Mark Bart (Soph., DT); Ben Chissom (Jr., OT) Matt Whedbee (Jr., DB); Scott Andrews (Jr., FB); Jake Weldy (Soph., DT); Dave Harris (Sr., WR); Brad York (Sr., PK); Luke Burns (Soph., WR); Blaine Erway (Jr., WR); Drew Seager (Soph., C); Martin Kilsdonk (Fresh., DT).
Coach’s Quote- “We have to stay healthy this year, last year we got beat up. We have to get tougher on defense if we are going to win.”
LCN Notes- The junior McCloud (5-7, 154) returns to lead the offense with 894 yards last year and 15 TD’s. McCloud’s east-west ability could be amongst the best in the area. He has the ability to turn a 5-yard loss into a 50-yard TD run. The senior Havens (5-11, 186) is a great blocking back and can also put up some yards as he did a year ago (393 yards). Junior quarterback Kuver (6-0, 150) showed signs of brilliance a year ago. Sophomore linebacker T.C. Carroll (5-11, 200) returns for his third year as a starter with 116 tackles. Look for his toughness and leadership to be taken to another level this fall. The junior Hutcheson (5-9, 173) is also back for his third season with 84 tackles. He will contribute on both sides of the ball so look for a big season out of Hutcheson. The senior Argentieri (5-11, 200) had a big year in 2006 when he recorded 58 tackles, making the All-LCAA team. On offense he will move to left guard to help the offensive line out. Although losing top two-way lineman Bryant Madigan will hurt plenty, this team will be as physical as they come and look for the Rams to make a play for the top trophy in Class B.

Hornell Raiders

Coach- Gene Mastin, 24th season (169-53-3) Last year- 9-1 (LCAA D-I champs; Class B finalists) Key Returners- David Zapata (Sr. RB, 5-8, 175); D.J. Schwartz (Sr. QB, S, 6-2, 210); Ryne Hunt (Sr. DB, E, 5-11, 180); Anthony Acor (Sr. DB, RB, 5-9, 155); Mike Gibson (Sr. OT, DT, 6-4, 270); Eric Davidson (Sr.
TE, DE, 6-4, 235); Nate Nichols (Sr. LB, C, 6-0, 225); Tim McHale (Sr.
FB/LB, 6-0, 180); Brett Maiello (Sr. DB/E, 5-8, 140).
Top Newcomers- Fran Matacale (Jr. G/LB, 5-10, 215); James Rugur (Jr.
G/DE, 5-9, 185).
Coach’s Quote- “We lost a lot of great players to graduation, but there is a good deal of talent still here. There is a lot of inexperience, but that will take care of itself over the course of the season.”
LCN Notes- Hornell was a sectional finalist last football season but lost their big showdown to eventual Class B state champion Geneva. This year’s Red Raiders got blasted by the graduation bug as two-way studs Sam Austin, Dan Bassage, and Chris Koehler have all moved on. Replacing those three horses won’t be easy. The best running back in the LCAA is the senior Zapata who last year rushed 269 times for 2,106 yards (8 avg) while scoring 34 TD’s and accounting for 208 of Hornell’s 348 total points. He has produced 4,007 career yards. The senior Schwartz will move from his wideout position from a year ago to QB. Last year Schwartz led Hornell with 14 catches for 252 yards (18 avg). He is Hornell’s most versatile athlete and he should produce a solid year at the helm. His main target might be the senior Davidson. Expect Hornell’s defense to bend a bit more this year with several players with little experience.
But this team will have enough with Zapata and Schwartz to make a run at the LCAA crown and Class B hardware.

Way-Co Golden Eagles

Coach- Jim Brownell, 3rd season (6-10)
Last year- 3-4 (Did not qualify for sectionals) Key Returners- Jon Weldy (Sr., RB/LB); Bob Merlau (Sr., OL/DL, 5’11, 265); Greg Koch (Sr., OL/LB, 6’0, 215); Top Newcomers- Caleb Ethridge (OB/DB); Dane St. George (RS/LB); Scott Stephens (OL/DL).
Coach’s Quote- “Although this year’s team returns few starters from last year, the team has showed promise with overall speed and talent.”
LCN Notes- This year’s version of the Golden Eagles’ football team is one that is in a serious rebuilding stage. Replacing two-way monster Ira Langhorn will be a difficult task. Last year Langhorn accounted for 970 yards rushing and 70 points. On defense he was second in tackles with 80. Those numbers will be tough to replace. The senior Weldy returns after putting up nearly 500 yards a year ago. His number will be called a lot. Weldy’s grit and determination is going to be desperately needed.
This team has a ton of question marks but one thing’s for sure — a victory over visiting Mynderse Friday night would do the Golden Eagles wonders for their confidence. If they don’t beat Mynderse, there’s a decent chance they might not win one.

[UNCTarheels]

HF-L Cougars

Coach- Dan Hoyt (1st season)
Key Returners- Jason Beaumont (Sr., QB), Paul Schirmer (Sr., WR); Zach Jonas (Sr., OL/DL); Zach Whyte (RB), John Santana (Jr., RB); Jon Mansfield (Sr., OL/DL), Mike Tichenor (Sr., WR/DB).
Top Newcomers- Dan Budynas (Jr., RB), Mike David, Andy Fahy, JR O'Flynn.
Coach’s Quote- “A hardworking group that is looking forward to competing against some of the best teams in Section V.”
LCN Notes- Coach Hoyt takes over for longtime HF-L football coach Bill Donegan. Hoyt was Donegan’s assistant so he knows the system very well.
Look for Hoyt’s first season to be a success as top athletes Beaumont, Schirmer and Whyte all return. Last year Schirmer led the Cougars in receiving with 249 yards on 15 catches while Whyte was second in rushing
374 yards on 60 carries. The senior Beaumont will be the QB. At 6-4, 210 pounds, this kid has the physical gifts of a great arm. “He’s got a cannon,” said coach Hoyt. The Beaumont to Schirmer connection could be fun to watch this fall. Look for junior Santana and newcomer Budynas to get a few carries as well. The team’s top lineman are seniors Jonas and Mansfield, both horses up front for Hoyt’s barn. The senior Tichenor should be back from his injury soon. Hoyt’s first season will be a real test he says. “Livingston Conference football is unbelievable,” said Hoyt. “Hornell is always tough, Bath is up and coming and they are big and physical and Livonia is well-coached. Don’t count out Dansville, they gave us everything we had last year. There are no easy ones in the LCAA.”


Metcalf Predictions- 1) Hornell; 2) HF-L; 3) Bath; 4) Livonia; 5) Dansville; 6) Way-Co

[UNCTarheels]

Division II

Avon Braves

Coach- Andy Englert, 10th season (40-39)
Last year- 5-4 (Lost to Oakfield-Alabama in Class DD finals)
Key Returners- Jordan Fuentes (Sr., OL/DL, 5’11 274); Ashton Jock (Sr.,
OL/DT, 5’11, 283); Ryan O’May (Sr., OL/DT, 5’11, 270); Marcus Mazurowski
(Sr., OL/LB, 5’9 220); Max Barrett (Jr., QB/DB, 6’2 163); Ryan Lincourt
(Sr., RB/LB, 5’8 181); Geoff Pumputis (Sr., WR/CB, 5’9 143); Rob Csapo
(Sr., WR/DB, 6’3, 181); Morgan Gunther (Sr., TE/DE, 6’0 181); Andrew
Hayes (Sr., RB/LB, 5’9, 158); Chad Tubbs (Sr., RB/LB, 5’11, 207); Brent
Grzenda (Sr., WR/FS, 5’11 140); Josh Ernisse (Sr., RB/CB, 5’8 155); Sean
Donegan (Sr., WR/CB, 5’10 128).
Top Newcomers- Garrett Kesel (Soph., WR/DB, 5’11, 168); John Housel
(Jr., WR/DE, 6’3, 180); Eric Hendrick (Jr., RB/LB, 5’7, 168); Steve
Schrader (Jr., OT/DT, 6’2 340); Scott Sutherland (Sr., RB/LB. 5’8, 155).
Coach’s Quote- “We have good numbers but very inexperienced at the
varsity level in some positions. Depth at the line will be a concern. We
need to stay healthy and keep improving each week. In D-II, you can look
at Le Roy and Cal-Mum to have another solid year.”
LCN Notes- The Braves are moving back up to Class C after making the
Class D title game a year ago. Several key players return including a
huge offensive line that features seniors Fuentes (274 lbs), Jock (283
lbs), O’May (270 lbs), Mazurowski (220 lbs) and junior Schrader (340
lbs). O’May is out with an injury but is expected back in a few weeks.
The bread and butter to this Braves’ offense will be the up front
lineman. The benefit of this outstanding blocking will be junior QB
Barrett, who throws the ball very well. His main targets will be
Pumputis, Csapo and Kesel. The running game will feature the senior
Lincourt, who is a capable backer who can break a long one at any time
but likes to put the shoulder down.

Cal-Mum Red Raiders

Coach- Mike Monacelli, 21st season (152-37)
Last year- 4-4 (Lost to Letchworth in Class C quarters)
Key Returners- Tom Gordon (Jr., OG/DT); James Sickles (Sr., HB/LB);
Steve Lauffer (Sr., QB); Mike Tomasso (Sr., OG/SS); Nick Nothnagle (Sr.,
CB/SE); Nata Anastasi (Sr., OL/DL); Nate Schiedel (Sr., FB/LB); Brian
Sinclair (Jr., TE/DE); Tim Sullivan (Sr., FB/DE).
Top Newcomers- Jeremy Wilson (Jr., HB/FS); Jon Marozzi (Jr., HB/DT);
Dave Fox (Jr., HB/LB).
Coach’s Quote- “We’re not very big but we will try to scare people with
our quickness. Last year we had some close game disappointments.”
LCN Notes- Schiedel will anchor the Red Raiders’ defense from his middle
linebacker. Last year he led his team in tackles with 102 stops. He
should get plenty of help on defense with several returning letter
winners including seniors James Sickles (linebacker), Nick Nothnagle
(cornerback) Mike Tomasso (safety), Nate Anastasi (defensive tackle),
Tim Sullivan (defensive end) and juniors Tom Gordon (defensive tackle)
and Brian Sinclair (defensive end). “I think our defense is going to be
tough,” said Schiedel. “We have some good senior leadership on that side
of the ball and we’re hungry to shut teams down.” The Red Raiders’
offense should also be tough. Schiedel is a horse at fullback and he
should get rushing help with several backers including tailbacks Jon
Marozzi and Jeremy Wilson, who both were standouts on an undefeated JV
team a year ago. The flankers will be Sullivan and Sickles. “We have
some talent in the backfield and our offensive line isn’t that big but
they are tough up front and they can do the job,” said Schiedel. Senior
Steve Lauffer will get the nod at the quarterback position. His
off-season work has elevated his game to another level.

Le Roy Knights

Coach- Brian Moran, 21st season (147-41-2)
Last year- 9-2 (Class C sectionals champs; lost in state quarterfinals)
Key Returners- John Whiting (Sr., OL/DL, 50 tackles, 6’1, 265); Brady
Bonacquisti (Sr., RB/LB, 14 touchdowns, 5’9, 195); Marcus Epps (Sr.,
OL/DL, 40 tackles, 6’3, 290); Ian Humphrey (Sr., RB/LB, 13 touchdowns,
5’7, 160); Mike Humphrey (Jr., WR/DB, 5’10, 160); Charles Brandes (Sr.,
DL, 17 tackles, 6’0, 325); Travis Fenstermaker (Jr., QB/CB, 5’8, 180);
Greg Elmore (Sr., TE/LB, 5’10, 215).
Top Newcomers- Andrew Alexander (WR); Chris Locke (C); Travis Pangrazio
(LB); Jordan Holly (TE).
LCN Notes- The loss of Mark Bennetti will hurt, especially the
leadership, but the Knights return their core of “studs” with seniors
Whiting, Bonacquisti, Ian Humphrey and Epps, along with juniors Mike
Humphrey and Fenstermaker. On offense, the Knights could possess the
best right side offensive line in the entire state with Whiting and
Epps. Whiting is a four year varsity starter while Epps will be a three
year starter. Tailback Ian Humphrey will get plenty of looks while the
tough yards will come by fullback Bonacquisti. Humphrey has big time
talent and can cut on a dime. Fenstermaker is a better thrower than
Bennetti so his arm could be another dimension to the Knights’ usual
smash mouth game. On defense, Bonacquisti is the playmaker from his
middle linebacker spot. Running against the front four will be no easy
chore with Whiting, Epps and the senior Brandes leading the way. This
team will definitely make a run at the Class C sectional title but a
tough schedule that includes Batavia (Aug. 31), Avon (Sept. 28), at
Cal-Mum (Oct. 5) and at Hornell (Oct. 12) could make things difficult to
stay healthy.

Letchworth Indians

Coach- Tim McMullen, 6th season (19-20)
Last year- 7-3 (Lost in Class C title game)
Key Returners- Kyle Bacon (Sr., WR/RB/DB, 5’9, 145); Ron Konka (Sr.,
FB/LB, 6’0, 180); Adam Luczak (Jr., TE/DE, 6’2, 205); Travis Tones (Jr.,
QB/DB, 6’3, 185); Mike Nevinger (Jr., RB/LB, 5’6, 145).
Top Newcomers- Taylor Lamitina (Sr., OL/DL, 5’10, 210); Evan Sylor (Jr.,
OL/LB, 5’11, 165); Mike Zintel (Sr. RB/LB, 6’1, 165).
Coach’s Quote- “Inexperience on the front line will be a challenge for
us this year. We are returning only one linemen from last year’s squad
and only two starting backs. As the year progresses we should be
competitive.”
LCN Notes- This squad shocked Section V a year ago as they made it all
the way to the Class C title game before falling to Le Roy. The Indians
also did something they had never done in 33 years — beat Cal-Mum — and
they did it twice. Gone are big names like Buttles, Barber, Hendrickson
and Fagan. Buttles moved on to Division IAA Maine. The senior Bacon
returns as the top wideout while classmate Konka will get some tough
yard carries as will junior Nevinger, a tough kid by nature evidence
from his state wrestling title from a year ago. The junior Tones
(6-foot-3) has good size at quarterback and he will need to lead this
team from the helm. Don’t expect this team to win seven games this year
but with McMullen coaching anything is possible.

Wellsville Lions

Coach- Larry Peacock, 4th season (6-22)
Last year- 1-7 (Did not qualify for sectionals)
Key Returners- James Cain (Sr., 5-11, 235, OL/DL); Tom Hennessy (Jr.,
5-10, 160, QB/S); Austin Raykovitz (Jr., 6-0, 170, WR/DE); Dan Butler
(Sr., 6-0, 225, OL/LB); Brian Dibble (Sr., 5-10, 200, C/LB); Mike Hills
(Jr., 5-9, 285, TB/DE); Tom Kasprcyzk (Jr., 6-1, 240 OL/DL); Judson
Scutt (Sr., 5-11, 150, QB/DB); Tyler Seamans (Sr., 5-9, 135), HB/TB).
Top Newcomers- Stan Hewlett (Sr, 5-10, 175, TB/FS); Brian Munkes (Sr.,
6-2, 170, WR/DB); Todd Moyer (Jr., 6-1, 185, RB); Brian Depew (Soph.,
6-0, 180, RB); Zac Roberts (Soph., 5-11, 160, RB).
Coach’s Quote- “Our off-season training has increased dramatically, our
numbers are better than ever, and the attitude has changed.”
LCN Notes- The Wellsville wins haven’t been coming in bunches of late
but the numbers are growing steadily as coach Peacock expects 50 players
in his program this fall, which will allow the Lions to play some JV
ball as well. The Lions have posted four consecutive losing seasons, so
they are hoping this is the year they get above the .500 mark. Three of
Wellsville’s losses a year ago were blowouts including Cal-Mum, 57-8,
and twice to LeRoy, 46-0 and 45-0. Coach Peacock will look for
leadership from junior quarterback Hennessy, and senior lineman Cain and
senior linebacker Butler. The Lions’ backfield on offense will consist
of Hills, Hewlett, Moyer, Depew and Roberts. This team could win two
games, but one of those won’t come against either Le Roy, Cal-Mum or Avon.

[UNCTarheels]

Canisteo-Greenwood
Redskins

Coach- Jamie Freeland, 3rd season (10-8)
Last year- 3-5 (Lost in Class D first round).
Key Returners- Mike Quinlan (Sr., QB); Brett Marlatt (Sr., RB); Matt
Mills (Sr., RB); Brandon Wallace (Sr., WR); Brandon Lenard (Jr., WR);
Craig Amidon (Jr., LB); Brandon Harrison (Jr., LB).
Top Newcomers- Zach Canne (Soph., LB).
Coach’s Quote- “We’ve been progressing pretty well and have pretty much
everything we need in place. We’ve implemented new things into the
offense and the defense is starting to come around. So now it’s all
about sharpening our skills and getting to where we want to be heading
into our first game against Bath. We really need to get some work on our
lines. Both our offensive and defensive lines are going to be key for us
this year, more so than in the past. We are going to be somewhat
undersized, but our kids are hard workers and fighters. That’s going to
be our big investment over the next two weeks, tweaking and adjusting
those lines. We were a very young team last year, with several
sophomores and freshmen seeing significant playing time. We still are
young with only four seniors, but we have more experience than a year ago.”
LCN Notes- The Redskins lost some key players, including
quarterback/tight end Joey Chase and offensive/defensive lineman Jamie
Dineen. Quinlan will be the new signal caller and he will have a very
youthful, and inexperienced offensive line, in front of him. Look for
Marlatt and Mills to make a few yards while Quinlan will be throwing to
wideouts Wallace and Lenard. Junior Amidon is a tough kid and will play
aggressive at linebacker, along with classmate Harrison and newcomer
sophomore Canne. The Redskins will be playing a Class C schedule for the
first time in school history.


Metcalf Predictions- 1) Le Roy; 2) Cal-Mum; 3) Avon; 4)
Canisteo-Greenwood; 5) Letchworth; 6) Wellsville

[UNCTarheels]

Division III

York Golden Knights

Coach- Dan Caraher, 22nd season (109-79-4)
Last year- 3-6 (Lost to Avon in the Class D quarters).
Key Returners- Ryan Shero (Sr., FB/LB); Vic Messana (Sr., QB/DB); Jon
Hann (Sr., OL/DL); Marlos Norman (Sr., OL/DL).
Top Newcomers- Mike Santucci (Jr., RB/LB); Nick Teed (Sr., TE/LB); Corey
Rees (Sr., RB/DB).
Coach’s Quote- “Our experienced players will have to perform well and
help the young players early. We don’t have too much depth, only 24
players.”
LCN Notes- Last year’s York football squad had a rollercoaster type of
season, one in which saw them beat D-III champion Bolivar-Richburg but
also saw them drop games to both Cuba-Rushford and arch-rival Geneseo.
Gone are a trio of solid players in Mike Hodge, Tony Messana and Josh
Josyln. But Tony’s brother Vic, a junior, returns at the helm after
taking over the QB spot at midseason. Last year Vic was 18-of-37 passing
for 300 yards and two TD’s. He will be handing off plenty to senior
Shero, a 250-pound load at fullback. Last year Shero rushed for 648
yards on 120 carries (5.4 avg). The junior Santucci only had a handful
of carries a year ago after coming up from JV’s. A solid offensive line
should help the running game as seniors Norman, Hann and Teed each have
good size up front. Coach Caraher’s squad will have an early challenge
as they travel to Avon Friday night in crossover action.

Bolivar-Richburg Wolverines

Coach- Dave Baron, 7th season (24-19)
Last year- 5-3 (LCAA D-III champs)
Key Returners- Kam Konert (QB, 6-1, 210); Anthony Poole (RB/WR, 5-9,
165); Kris Childs (LB, 6-2, 215); Matt Appleby (RB/LB, 5-7, 148); Justin
Taylor (LB, 6-1, 227); Paul Golish (C, 6-1, 240); Mike Edmund (G, 5-11,
215).
Top Newcomers- Nate Shively (WR, 5-9, 145); James Barnum (OT, 6-5, 280);
Chayse Langworthy (G, 6-0, 205).
Coach’s Quote- “With work-ethic and preparation our offense can do good
things. We must stay healthy and come together to be able to compete at
the level that Livingston County offers us.”
LCN Notes- The three-time defending Livingston County D III champions
could make it four this season, especially with the senior Konert
calling the plays. Last year Konert rushed for 1,302 yards on 149
carries (8.7 avg) scoring 126 points, both second in the entire LCAA.
This kid can run the option to perfection. His main running back will be
junior Poole and senior Appleby, both capable yard producers. Good size
on the offensive line will be an added plus. Scoring points should not
be a problem for the Wolverines. The defense will be led by linebackers
Appleby, Taylor and Childs, a solid trio of tacklers. Look for this team
to make a run at the Class D title.

Geneseo Blue Devils

Coach- Tim Dolgos (1st season)
Last year- 1-6.
Key Returners- Cory Tschiderer (Sr., QB/FS); Vinnie Lukaszonas (Jr.,
RB/LB); Jimmy Huynh (Sr., RB); Shaun Welch (Sr., WR/LB); Rick Frost
(Sr., OL/LB); Brandon O'Dea (Jr., OL/D).
Coach’s Quote- “This team has a great attitude and work-ethic. The
players and coaches have worked hard all summer and we've had a
productive pre-season. We're looking forward to the upcoming 2007 season
and we expect to be very competitive this year.”
LCN Notes- Coach Dolgos takes over for Chad Henderson, who left a ton of
horses in his barn for Dolgos and company. Top returners include seniors
Frost and Tschiderer, both LCAA honorable mention a year ago. Frost is a
two-way player who will anchor the offensive line and also play
linebacker on defense. Tschiderer is a solid free safety and
quarterback. He will need to show some leadership at the helm this
season, which he’s certainly capable of. Last year Tschiderer rushed for
412 yards on 94 carries (4.4 avg). The running game will be solid as
senior Huynh (49 carries for 347 yards in 2006) is a solid tailback and
junior Lukaszonas (220 pounds) is a horse at fullback. Geneseo loves to
run the shotgun spread option which Tschiderer showed success at during
a recent scrimmage. The senior Welch led the Devils in receiving a year
ago with 111 yards on seven catches. He also led the defense with 53
tackles from his linebacker spot. There’s no doubt that this team is
hoping to fly under the radar and catch teams by surprise. But after
they whip both South Seneca (Friday) and Cuba-Rushford (Sept. 7) the
Devils’ radar will be on high alert. Their first big test will come
Sept. 14 when they travel to Bolivar-Richburg.

Warsaw Tigers

Coach- Rick Hoy, 6th season (8-23)
Last Year- 3-5 (Lost to Notre Dame in Class D first round).
Key Returners- Chris Parrott (RB/DB), Josh Rowley (RB/LB) Dylan Marley
(RB/LB) Kyle Akers (TE/DL) Adam Aguado (OL/LB).
Top Newcomers- Jacob Watkins (TE, DB).
Coach’s Quote- “Our team goal is to execute on both sides of the ball,
increase time of possession, compete on every play, and play as a team.”
LCN Notes- The Warsaw football team has low varsity numbers, but is
returning some key players from last year’s 3-5 squad that lost in the
opening round of the sectional tournament. Senior Rowley returns after
rushing for 426 yards and four touchdowns and quarterback Chris Parrott
is back after a season in which he went 56-of-128 passing for 605 yards
and five TD’s. Marley caught 23 passes for 335 yards and four scores
last year. The defense should be strong as Marley had three
interceptions and 26 tackles, Parrott picked off two passes and Rowley
made 31 tackles. Adam Aguado made 12 tackles and Kyle Akers had nine.
Last year the Tigers’ defense posted two shutouts. Rick Hoy is in his
sixth season as head coach and he hopes to get the Tigers back into the
sectional playoffs for the third straight season.

Perry Yellowjackets

Coach- Bill Devitt, 15th season (66-55-1)
Last year- 4-5 (Did not qualify for sectionals).
Key Returners- Nate Bzduch (OL/DL); Nate Morrissy (RB/DL); Ryan CLark
(QB/FS); Kris Campbell (RB/LB); Alex Kramell (LB).
Top Newcomers- Zane Hendrickson (RB/LB); Jaimie Storm (OL/DL).
Coach’s Quote- “We hope to get off to a quick start this year, something
we haven’t done in the past two seasons. We have a group of good seniors
to produce leadership, mixed in with a group of underclassmen. As always
York and Bolivar are returning strong programs. With a schedule like
this we had to take each game one at a time.”
LCN Notes- The Perry football team won a second consecutive pool play
title last season with a win over Barker in the championship game. But
the team took some major hits with the graduation of quarterback Heath
Hendrickson and running back Kyle Campbell. Veteran coach Bill Devitt
likes his returning seniors, though. Ryan Clark will take over at
quarterback with Nate Morrissey and Kris Campbell taking over at running
back. Offensive/defensive lineman Nate Bzduch returns to lead the big
guys, while Alex Kramell should be a key contributor at split end and
linebacker.

Cuba-Rushford Rebels

Coach- Chris Cappelletti, 10th season
Last year- 5-4 (Lost to Alexander in Class DD first round)
Key Returners- Josh Matijas (Sr., TB); John Doyle (Sr., RB); Anthony
Greenawalt (Jr., OG/DL); Josh Urmson, TE
Top Newcomers- Caleb Young (Soph., QB).
Coach’s Quote- “We look forward to not only a good season this year, but
good seasons in the future. Every week we expect to win. We ask the kids
a question very early, ‘what is success?’ and success equals wins. We
will be judged by how many wins and losses we have.”
LCN Notes- After a successful ‘06 campaign, the Rebels were hit hard by
the graduation bug. The sophomore Young replaces four-year starter Derek
Edwards at the quarterback spot. The Rebels, looking to build on their
first winning season since ‘99, have several sophomores who will see
considerable playing time. The senior Matijas will get the bulk of the
carries once again while classmate Doyle will get a few totes himself.
The Rebels’ offensive line took a graduation hit as four starters are
gone. Junior right guard Greenawalt will be the anchor to this year’s line.

Metcalf Predictions- 1) Bolivar-Richburg ; 2) Geneseo; 3) York
4) Cuba-Rushford; 5) Warsaw;
6) Perry

[UNCTarheels]

Aug. 31: Hornell at Letchworth; HF-L at Newark; Bolivar-Richburg at
Wellsville; Warsaw at Lyons; ER-Gananda at Livonia; Perry at
Clyde-Savannah; Mynderse at Way-Co; Midlakes at Dansville; Batavia at
LeRoy; Cuba-Rushford at Cal-Mum; York at Avon.
Sept. 1: Geneseo at South Seneca; Bath at Canisteo-Greenwood.

Sept. 7: Hornell at Livonia; Dansville at Bath; HF-L at Way-Co; LeRoy at
Letchworth; Wellsville at Cal-Mum; Geneseo at Cuba-Rushford; York at Perry.
Sept. 8: Bolivar-Richburg at Warsaw; Avon at Canisteo-Greenwood.

Sept. 14: Dansville at Hornell; Way-Co at Livonia; Bath at HF-L;
Wellsville at LeRoy; Canisteo-Greenwood at Letchworth; Cal-Mum at Avon;
Geneseo at Bolivar-Richburg; Cuba-Rushford at York.
Sept. 15: Perry at Warsaw.

Sept. 21: Hornell at Way-Co; HF-L at Dansville; Livonia at Bath; Avon at
Wellsville; Letchworth at Cal-Mum; Bolivar-Richburg at Perry; York at
Geneseo; Warsaw at Cuba-Rushford; LeRoy at Canisteo-Greenwood.

Sept. 28: HF-L at Hornell; Bath at Way-Co; Avon at LeRoy; Wellsville at
Letchworth; York at Bolivar-Richburg; Cuba-Rushford at Perry.
Sept. 29: Dansville at Livonia; Geneseo at Warsaw; Cal-Mum at
Canisteo-Greenwood.

Oct. 5: Way-Co at Dansville; LeRoy at Cal-Mum; Letchworth at Avon;
Canisteo-Greenwood at Wellsville; Bolivar-Richburg at Cuba-Rushford;
Warsaw at York; Perry at Geneseo.
Oct. 6: Hornell at Bath; Livonia at HF-L.

Oct. 12: LeRoy at Hornell; Cal-Mum at Bath; Wayne at HF-L; Livonia at
Penn Yan; Clyde-Savannah at Bolivar-Richburg; Way-Co at Midlakes; Lyons
at Cuba-Rushford; Dansville at Geneva; Dundee at York;
Canisteo-Greenwood at Perry; Wellsville at Geneseo.
Oct. 13: Avon at Batavia Notre Dame; Letchworth at Warsaw.

--
Chris Metcalf
Sports Editor
Livingston County News
122 Main Street
Geneseo, NY 14454
(585) 243-1322
sports@livingstonnews.com

[DrewVT6]

A Special Thanks to Chris Metcalf for posting these previews.

Please post all comments in the Football Preview Thread (http://sectionv.talksback.com/showthread.php?t=622)