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S e p t e m b e r 6 , 2 0 1 1V o l u m e - I / I s s u e - 1
S e p t e m b e r 6 , 2 0 1 1V o l u m e - I / I s s u e - 1
www.asmnorth.com
Burning
Questions
Page 4
2011 Football
Preview
American
Division
Page 6
National
Division
Page 8
Independence
Division
Page 10
Freedom
Division
Page 12
NJAC
Reclassification
Page 15
Burning
Questions
Page 4
2011 Football
Preview
American
Division
Page 6
National
Division
Page 8
Independence
Division
Page 10
Freedom
Division
Page 12
NJAC
Reclassification
Page 15
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Something NeW For the NJACBy Paul Mencher – ASM Northern Review Managing Editor
Cover Photos by: Louis Bellucci & Paul Swenson
C o v e r d e s i g n e d b y : Ste v en M e ye r
ill PoPe Johnsucceed in the
sPread?For four decades you could
count on one thing when youplayed Pope John: the Lions
would run all day. Under NewJersey’s record-holder for coaching
wins, Vic Paternostro, Pope John wasmaster of the ground game.
But that’s all changing now that BrianCarlson is the new head coach. Carlsonmade the switch to the spread offense andeven hired a guru of that wide-openattack as his offensive coordinator.
It’s a dramatic change, and one thatthe Lions had only a few months toimplement. Pope John definitely hasthe talent, and looked good duringthe pre-season, but there could besome hiccups as it adjusts to thenew system. The Lions hopes anysuch difficulties don’t preventthem from winning a thirdstraight National Division
title.
For more on Pope Johnand the National Division,turn to page 8.
can randolPh run the
gauntlet once again?It was a dream season for Randolph in
2010. After an opening-day non-leaguedefeat, the Rams rolled off 11 straight wins tocapture division and sectional titles.
Randolph managed to make it through themeat grinder that is the NJAC AmericanDivision unscathed. But three teams camewithin a touchdown or less—Roxbury,Morristown and Delbarton—and all three ofthose squads appear ready to threaten the Rams’perch atop the league.
To boot, Randolph could meet Roxbury a secondtime in the North 1, Group IV playoffs now that theGaels have moved back up. The Rams lost a gooddeal of talent, but the cupboard is hardly bare, andthe battles between these teams promise to be epic.
For more on Randolph and the American Division,turn to page 6.
is Madison Poised for More
Perfection?The only NJAC team to post an undefeated
record in 2010 was Madison. The Dodgerswere an offensive juggernaut, surpassing40 points seven times and piling up awhopping total of 514 points.
Graduation took many of Madison’s keyplayers away, but the Dodgers still appear
to be a formidable team this year.Junior running back Justin
Goodwin will take over as theprimary offensive threat, and hasexperience on the line in front ofhim. And Madison can fill in thegaps with players from its
undefeated junior varsity squad.
The Dodgers appear to be thefavorites again both within the
division and in North 2, Group II. Buta repeat is hardly a given, with several
teams waiting to pounce if Madisonfalters.
For more on Madison and the FreedomDivision, turn to page 12.
can anyone stoP
Mountain lakes?Believe it or not, Mountain Lakeswasn’t always an invincible force insmall-school North Jersey football. Asrecently as 2005 the Herd went “only”6-4. And back in the early 1980’sthey actually experienced severallosing seasons.
But you’ll forgive members of theNJAC Independence Division for
their skepticism. All they’ve seen inthe last two years is victory aftervictory for Mountain Lakes, often bylopsided scores, but sometimes indramatic fashion.
The Herd graduated most of itsstarters from last year, but as usual,there is a squadron of readyreplacements. Every coach in thedivision sees the Herd as the favoritesonce again, but last year MountainLakes got several scares. So it’snot crazy to imagine someonewalking off the field a winneragainst the Herd this season.
For more on Mountain Lakesand the Independence Division,turn to page 10.
Which other neW
coach Will have the
greatest iMPact?
Much of the attention went to thehistoric coaching change at Pope John.But five other NJAC schools also startthe season with new men patrolling thesideline.
Two interesting situations to watchare at Montville, where Jim Delaneyreplaces longtime coach GerryGallagher, and at Boonton, whereGallagher’s son Bryan gets his first headcoaching job (and brings his dad alongas an assistant).
Todd Callaghan and Steve Rabbittinherit challenging situations atWhippany Park and Newton, respectively,while Bill Percey takes over at High Pointafter Delaney’s departure following one ofthe school’s best seasons ever.
Randolph’s A.J. Garcia
R a n d o l p h P h o t o b y :
P a ul S w e n so nw w w . p h o t o s b y s w e n s . z e n f o l i o . c o m
Randolph ball carrier breaking a tackle, then another and
streaking down the sidelines like Rams players did many
times during last year’s championship run.
Now, that season has long passed and even though
Randolph emerged from its first three-team scrimmage
of 2011 in dominating fashion, Joe
Lusardi certainly wasn’t fooled. He
knows there’s a lot of work ahead and
what a grind the NJAC’s American
Division can be.
“The conference is
like the black and blue --
you get beaten up,’’
Lusardi said. “We will
see. I think we’re all
about the same. Nobody
knows anything until the
games are played.’’
The quality of opponents and
experienced coaches in the division
makes posting a winning season feel like
tip-toeing through a minefield. Injuries
in particular can derail a once-promising
campaign. Last year’s Rams were
fortunate to have injuries in spots where
quality replacements were on hand.
“If you don’t have depth, it hurts,’’ Lusardi said.
“That’s one thing we had last year --depth. We lost a
starting fullback and a starting linebacker and I was able
to put the second guy in there and we were terrific,
terrific.’’
Dominic Capalbo, last year’s back up for quarterback
Chris Westenhiser, has been given the keys to drive the
Rams’ offense.
“It’s time for him,’’ Lusardi said. “He ran all the scout
teams last year. He did a great job mimicking the other
teams. He came into his own. He’s really been a solid
leader for us. He has a very good arm and he’s a good
runner also. He’s different from the quarterbacks in the
past because he’s only 5-foot-8.’’
If the new quarterback plays with a bit of a chip on
his shoulder pad, it’s understandable.
“I hear it all the time and I just take it as motivation,’’
Capalbo said. “I personally don’t know what it feels like
to be tall. I’m just happy to be what I am.’’
He will direct a team that has a very clear picture of
what they want to accomplish and how they can do it.
“This year we’re sticking with the same formula as
last year,’’ senior back A. J. Garcia said. “We run the
same plays. Last year, we ran one defense the entire year
and no one could stop it. We know what it takes to get to
the top. It takes hard work, dedication and playing as a
unit to get there.’’
Garcia, Aaron Harris and James Gangemi all have
speed and toughness and will have opportunities to
carry the ball. All eyes will be on Garcia, a two-year
starter at linebacker, who may emerge as the most
dominating defensive player in the area when the dust
clears from the 2011 season.
“He’s very gifted,’’ Lusardi said. “He’s probably
our best athlete. He does things easier than others.
He’s a student of the game.
He studies with the filmwork
and reading. He just seems to
love the game and when you
get a kid like that -- you
know he’s different.’’
If anyone should get past
Garcia, they will have
trouble shaking Harris who
has improved tremendously
in the offseason.
“He grew in the spring and
he ran track,’’ Garcia said.
“He played linebacker last
year but with his
athleticism we moved
him to corner and
he’s been shutting
down people in our
7 on 7s.’’
The line is
coming
along
well,
too. Two-way tackle Brendan
Mahan (6-foot-5, 305) is getting
serious D1 consideration.
Another experienced lineman,
Bill Medve, loves the way the
Rams are coming together.
“We will make mistakes but
we’re just going to keep
pushing ourselves until we
achieve perfection,’’ Medve
said. “For us last year is just a
standard. It’s a bar that’s been
set and we want to go above it.’’
It’s a tall order. If Randolph has an
advantage over its division rivals due to
last year’s championship season, it is
because the Rams have a model for
success and understand the hard
work needed to achieve their goals.
“I think we have a nice solid
team,’’ Lusardi said. “I’m not
saying we don’t miss the kids
from last year because they did
a terrific job and they are
special kids in my heart. Last
year ’s team had great
leadership, and hopefully if
these kids learn from that,
they will do just as
well.’’
Delbarton – Is the Green Wave ready to roll?
Delbarton (5-5, 4-3 American) should benefit from last
year’s youth and inexperience. They have eight returning
offensive starters and six or seven returning defensive
starters from last year’s squad
The experience starts with John Shaffer at quarterback.
The dynamic athlete threw for over 1,000 yards in an
offense that doesn’t necessarily have to pass the ball. The
Green Wave has a variety of talented backs including
Jamie White, who rushed for over 1,000 yards as a
sophomore, bullish fullback Eric Fajardo, and Steven
DeLosa, a quicky, shifty runner who excels at catching
the ball out of the backfield.
Tight end Cole Riccardi is also a key target while Dan
Alvine and Will Reynolds are among the more
experienced blockers. Defensively, linebackers Dennis
Bencsko and Chris Soulas will bear watching. Bencsko
has a nose for the ball with more than 100 tackles in his
junior year. Soulas also displays exceptional speed and
toughness. Peter Bergh, Robert Thomas, Will Reynolds,
Rob Fajardo and Matt Killian are also among the
players to watch on a team that is primed to
step up.
mendham – A sprinkling of starters
from both offense and defense have
graduated but some consider the
Minutemen (4-6, 2-5 American)
to be a team that might
surprise in a very tough
division. One solid returnee
is senior quarterback Matt
Crowe who threw nearly
1,000 yards last season.
Crowe has a good group
of targets to throw to
ranging from fleet
junior Mike La Sorsa
to talented 6-foot-4
tight end Matt
Flanagan.
The Minutemen are still pretty young
with only an eight-man senior class,
but they have strong junior and
sophomore classes gaining in
experience and anxious to prove
themselves at the varsity level.
morris Knolls – When it comes to earlyseason predictions Golden Eagles’ coach BillRegan doesn’t show his hand. There have been toomany seasons where unlikely players haveemerged to become key performers in his veeroffense.
Despite a tough quarterback competition,experienced senior Mike Stango is expected
to direct the run-oriented attack. Oneathlete that has come through in thepast is running back/linebacker CodyGreenhagen. The tough, hard-nosed
athlete has proven hisdependability on both sides of
2011 Football Preview:American DivisionB y M a r k K i t c h i n – S t a f f W r i t e r
FoR ADVeRtISINg INFoRmAtIoNContact : Harry L itsis 201-294-5903 harrypr int [email protected]
Randolph's Aaron Harris
Delbarton's QB John Shaffer
C o n t i n u e d o n n e x t p a g e
the ball. Nick Patterson will also run the ball as theGolden Eagles look to establish field position andgrind out the yardage.
Dave Navon anchors the lines at center and nose tackle,while tackles Germaine Eluemunor and Jordan Beffertshould also step up to help Morris Knolls (2-8, 1-6American) to a better season.
morris Hills – After last year’s 3-7 campaign (1-6 inNational) the Scarlet Knights are anxious to burst over the.500 mark. And Morris Hills has some weapons returning.Elusive back Eric Turner rushed for more than 800 yardsand five touchdowns last season. Junior Kyle Corry andsenior Mike Sternlich should also have roles in a verycapable backfield.
There is a spirited quarterback battle between junior
Mike McCormack and freshman Willie Hanson.
Linemen Chuck Foster and Evan Staikos will play
important roles in a fast developing line on the Scarlet
Knights’ Delaware Wing-T.
The defense often switches between four and five-man
fronts making the secondary play of Turner and Chris
Castillo all the more important. Morris Hills will have to
deal with a vexing three-week stretch in which they will
play Pope John, Montville and High Point, all programs
that have new coaches.
morristown – There’s a good chance that the
Colonials (8-4, 4-3 American) will throw the ball a little
bit more this year. Brian Billak is the early favorite at
quarterback. He’s a 6-foot-5 athlete that can see over
linemen and make good decisions. Some of his pitches
will go to tailback Zac Carter who has excellent speed.
Morristown’s returnees on the line include
center/defensive end Ryan Flynn. The 6-foot, 210-pound
athlete is as steady as they come. The Colonials will
throw a couple of new wrinkles in on defense but with
only three returning starters, plenty of athletes will be
asked to step up as they try to build off their surprising
run to a sectional title last fall.
Parsippany Hills – The Vikings like QB Tyler
Simms who got some experience in a pair of games last
year. Receiver Danny Hardwick can really fly and will be
one of the players in Simms’ sights. The success of
Parsippany Hills (2-8, 1-6 American) depends upon the
development of the linemen.
Big things are expected of Louis Garcia and 6-foot-4,
310-pound Naujee Davis. If they step up, the Vikings will
see that improvement. Parsippany Hills will continue its
blitzing 3-5 defense. The
Vikings love to use their
speed to fire off the line
and make their opponents
scramble.
Roxbury – At the
beginning of every
football game for the last
four years, Angelo
Mangiro stood next to
Roxbury coach Cosmo
Lorusso at the 50-yard line
as the national anthem
played on. To say that the
Gaels (6-4, 3-4 American)
will miss the imposing
figure who now suits up
for Penn State is an
understatement.
“You don’t get a chance
to coach someone like him
everyday,’’ Lorusso said.
“You miss his leadership
and you appreciate everything he did for us.’’
Despite missing Mangiro, there is a different mood on
this year’s Roxbury team. “I’m excited.’’ Lorusso said.
“They know they have to depend on each other and that is
what we are preaching.’’
The Gaels are young but have some experienced
players to depend on. Kyle Adams, a 260-pound two-
way lineman, will serve as an anchor for a line that will
have to jell in a hurry. They will protect senior Brandon
Riefberg or junior Kyle Young, who are having a spirited
quarterback competition while running the Wing-T
attack. Gritty junior back Donald Panciello will be a key
target and Ryan Michaels and Chris Collucci will also
lend a hand.
West morris – How can the
Wolfpack (7-3, 6-1 American) possibly
replace their outstanding quarterback
Tom Cabarle? “I have no idea,’’ Coach
Kevin Hennelly said. “But we have a
couple of lettermen coming back who
are going to help us.’’
Cabarle accounted for over 1,700 yards
of offense and led Morris County in
scoring with 25 touchdowns. Backs Joe
DeBiasse and Jason Mackewicz may not
match Cabarle’s output on their own but
should be able to provide West Morris
with a capable offensive lift. They are
quick, strong athletes that saw plenty of
time as sophomores. Guard Chris
Carfaro, tackle Rob Hughes and tight
end Shawn Barnes will also provide a
foundation for the young West Morris
squad to build upon.
www.asmnorth.com ASmNorthern Review / 7
P h o t o s b y :
Pa u l Sw en sonw w w . p h o t o s b y s w e n s . z e n f o l i o . c o m
Pope John – Brian Carlson just couldn’t resist. The
new Pope John coach was running a goal line drill during a
recent practice when one of his quarterbacks fired the
football his way. Carlson picked off the pass and started
running the ball back upfield. The unexpected move drew
whoops and laughter from the rest of the Lions as they
moved onto a different drill.
Should teams expect the unexpected against Pope John?
Time will tell if the new look, up-tempo Lions will be
better or worse under new leadership but they will
definitely be different. Former coach Vic Paternostro’s
43-year legacy is carved in granite as far New Jersey high
school football is concerned.
Carlson, a former Kean University head coach, has come
over after being an assistant at nationally recognized Don
Bosco Prep last season. He will not be following in the same
mold. Discarding the Lions’ old smash mouth, run-oriented
style in favor of the spread offense makes that official.
“I’m happy with the kids,’’Carlson said. “They’ve picked upthe offense. It’s a lot differentthan what was done in the past uphere. We have some really goodathletes. We’re doing well at thequarterback spot. The energy isgreat so I’m really happy with theway we’ve progressed so far.’’
The spread is a no-huddle offense run out of the shotgun
formation. Players will use a combination of wristbands,
hand signals and cue cards to recognize which play to run. In
sun, rain or snow the center and quarterback are expected to
execute the snap flawlessly. It’s all new to the players but it
looks like they love it.
“It’s not as tough as I thought it was going to be,’’ senior
lineman Mike Bunero said. “I was a little skeptical but I got
right into it.’’
For a speedy back like Cory Bell, the spread offense is an
answer to his prayers.
“I love it especially since I’m a running back,’’ Bell said.
“It works to my advantage. It opens up holes. It spreads out
the defense and isolates them so your speed backs and fast
players gain more of an advantage.’’
Bell and sophomore Noah Brown have explosive quickness
and should be able to make plays once they get their hands on
the ball. It should be fun for the Lions’ offense once the
players are comfortable enough to run it and execute their
blocks properly.
Tom Sanzer, a sophomore, has an early edge over a
competing classmate in the quarterback battle, although swift
senior Johnny Holden will also take over in some packages.
The Lions have big sophomore and freshman classes
providing a terrific amount of depth and the chance for most
of their athletes to play one way and stay fresh. In their 4-2
defense many eyes will be on the tallest player on the field --
6-foot-6, 250-pound Malachi Moore. Moore, who has a
verbal agreement with Boston College, saw the differences
between coaching philosophies right away.
“Coach P is a great coach and a great man,’’ Moore
said. “The main thing this year is we are going from old
school to new school. Everything last year was basic and
it worked. Now were just focusing on the spread. I don’t
think anyone has seen the spread up in Sussex County and
we’re fine with that.’’
Moore is a tough player to move in the trenches. He can fill
a hole and stop a running back in his tracks with a single step.
His long arms can tip and bat down passes as well as block
field goal tries.
“He can be an explosive kid on defense,’’ Carlson said.
“We’re trying to make him go one way (strictly defense) and
learn his craft. He can be a big, big playmaker for us. He’s a
go get ’em kid and we’re excited about seeing him play.’’
2011 Football Preview:National DivisionB y M a r k K i t c h i n – S t a f f W r i t e r
Pope John’s HC Brian CarlsonC o n t i n u e d o n n e x t p a g e
www.asmnorth.com ASmNorthern Review / 9
The Lions have a good mix of players with experience
including Bunero, linebackers Matt Iulani and Randy May
and cornerback Anthony Smith, and free safety Holden
returning to play key positions. The system is new to them on
both side of the ball but once the Lions get used to it the
results might be stunning.
“We’re up tempo,’’ Carlson said. “We’re going to take
some chances. We’re not going to worry about making
mistakes. We want to pressure the opponent from the get-go.
“The kids have great energy. They are high tempo like we
are. We’re physical and we’re fast. We preach the three E’s
from day one: Energy, Effort and Execution. I think the
energy and the effort are there. We just have to work on the
execution.’’
High Point – There will be some new faces wearing
Wildcats’ uniforms this year. High Point (8-3, 6-1 in
National) will continue on with Bill Percey as its new
head coach.
The three-year assistant at High Point will reportedly will
make few changes and keep the “Flexbone’’ attack that has
made the Wildcats winners the last two seasons including an
8-3 mark last year. What may affect High Point more though
is losing 18 seniors including several key athletes (such as
Billy Smith and Austin Caldwell) from last year’s squad that
reached the sectional semifinals for only the second time in
school history.
Jefferson – The Falcons (4-6, 2-5 in National) have
plenty of skill people back. As a freshman J. R. Reese was a
revelation. He threw for over 600 yards and ran for 300 more
in Jefferson’s multiple set. He also has the
advantage of handing off to Steve
Strumolo for even more yardage.
Coming off a knee injury his
sophomore year, Strumolo rushed
for over 1,000 yards and shows
signs of continuing that
form his senior season.
John Kampas and
Devin Sanchez will
also carry the ball
when they are not
setting up blocks.
How the Falcons
do in the
trenches will
determine the
efficiency of the
offense.
Linebacker Kampas also
plays a crucial role in the
team’s 5-2 defense. He had
an amazing number of tackles last season. An active
secondary of Dylan Pickard, Evan Rapp and Danny
Brown can help, too.
montville – The Gerry Gallagher era is over and Jim
Delaney is the new coach of the Mustangs (4-6, 2-5 in
National). The former High Point coach registered a 13-8
mark the last two seasons with the Wildcats. His ability to
mesh his philosophies with this year’s Montville team will
determine where this squad will be headed.
Learning on the fly is not easy but Delaney believes in his
players. “We’re light years ahead of where we were in my
second year at High Point,’’ Delaney said midway through
preseason. The “Flexbone’’ attack is a surprisingly inventive
three back system that is not hard for players to learn but
takes time to execute properly. It calls for whoever is running
the offense to have good judgment. “It doesn’t have to be the
best athlete,’’ Delaney said. “But he’s the player that makes
the best decisions.’’
Repetition will be the key for the players on the offensive
end. Dave Liebowitz, John Kaplan and Paul Giannoglou are
among the linemen learning how to block for the new
schemes.
morris Hills – After last year’s 3-7 campaign (1-6 in
National) the Scarlet Knights are anxious to burst over the
.500 mark. And Morris Hills has some weapons returning.
Elusive back Eric Turner rushed for more
than 800 yards and five touchdowns
last season. Junior Kyle Corry
and senior Mike Sternlich
should also have roles in a
very capable backfield.
There is a spirited
quarterback battle between
junior Mike McCormack
and freshman Willie
Hanson. Linemen
Chuck Foster and
Evan Staikos will
play important roles
in a fast developing
line on the Scarlet
Knights’ Delaware
Wing-T.
The defense often
switches between four and
five-man fronts making
the secondary play of
Turner and Chris Castillo
all the more important.
Morris Hills will have to
deal with a vexing three-
week stretch in which they will
play Pope John, Montville and High Point, all programs that
have new coaches.
mount olive – Youth and inexperience on the offensive
line will force the Marauders (5-5, 4-3 in National) to
scramble on the attack. Garrett Schneider can both run and
pass enough to direct Mount Olive’s Pro-I sets. He also has
talented receivers Nick Saporito and sophomore Justin
Maskimow to fire at.
Fullback Justin Mancini and tight end Nick Behrens (6-4,
190) also provide some offensive weapons. On defense the
experience in the 5-2 is in the secondary with Saporito,
Mancini and Alec Poles roaming the field. The Marauders
reached the sectional playoffs last year, but in order to return,
some inexperienced players will need to step up.
Sparta – Much of the Spartans’ strength is in the tackles
with 6-foot-6, 310-pound Chad Mavety and 6-foot-4, 235-
pound Chris Panten giving quarterback Ryan Hutchinson
room to operate. Will Smith is expected to pick up the slack
in the running game but his defensive prowess is just as
appreciated at inside linebacker where he made 65 tackles
and numerous sacks and fumble recoveries.
Evan Costello, Anthony DePalma and Ryan Sisco will also be
counted on to lend their experience on a team with some holes to
fill after coming off a .500 (5-5, 4-3 in National) season.
Vernon – The Vikings (4-6, 2-5 in National) will have
difficulty replacing last year’s outstanding QB Matt Soltes.
However, they do have 20 seniors on this year’s squad and a
vast amount of varsity experience on the offensive and
defensive lines.
The new quarterback is senior Chris Rourke who backed up
Soltes last year. The 5-foot-10, 160-pound athlete can run and
pass and is prized for his decision making. He should have
plenty of time to put Vernon’s offense in motion.
Adam Smith (3-year starting tackle), John Griffin (3-year
guard), James Schreck (2-year center) and Scott Ruppel (2-
year tackle) have worked together longer than any group of
linemen in Morris or Sussex County. They will be opening up
many of their holes for Chris Gonzalez, a hard nosed,
punishing fullback, who also has three years of experience.
Gonzalez is also a devastating tackler at linebacker. Matt
Wighard, Tyler Parrish and Tom Higginson are also
experienced returnees that contribute on both offensive and
defensive positions.
Mount Olive’s DB Nick Saporito
Sparta’s RB Will Smith
P h o t o s b y :
R o ber t H ar r i sw w w . r o b e r t h a r r i s . s m u g m u g . c o m
becomes known for a particular type of role, and finds it
exceedingly hard to break out of that mold.
Two years ago, when football competition began in
the NJAC’s Independence Division, the nine current
members of the league quickly fell into roles that really
haven’t changed since those first few games. As the
new season opens, is anyone ready to play against type?
Or will the 2011 season look like another sequel?
mountain Lakes – Gladly playing the lead
role once again is Mountain Lakes (10-1 overall, 8-0
Independence). The Herd remains the only NJAC team
not to lose to a league
opponent after claiming a
second straight division
title last year. Most of
last year’s key
contributors
graduated, but the
Mountain
Lakes
tradition of
huge turnouts
and program
loyalty makes
them a force for
another season.
Second-year
coach Darrell Fusco
has 72 players in the
top three grades, including an
astounding 26 seniors. Many of
those young men are just getting
their first chance to see
significant playing time.
“It’s tough for the kids theirjunior year,” Fusco says, “butthey know if they’re loyal to ourprogram their time will come.”
One such player is Pete Breslauer, the backup
quarterback last year who hopes to be under center this
season. The senior is battling with classmate Connor
Lang for the starting position.
Among returning starters, senior Danny Badolato has
seen time on defense since his sophomore season. Chris
O’Rourke played on the offensive line his junior year,
and Fusco says he will rely on him to be an anchor on
both sides of the ball this season.
Senior running back Dylan Muti is the top returning
player at the skill positions. “He made a lot of big
plays last year,” notes Fusco. “He was starting to
become a breakaway back, and in our offense that’s a
key.”
Not everything is status quo for the Herd, though, as
Mountain Lakes comes off a tough 23-21 loss in last
year’s sectional final against Wallington, which
ended a 35-game winning streak. “We coaches
talked about it all the time during the off-
season,” Fusco says. “But with the kids it’s
more about their opportunity to contribute to
the program this year. The ultimate goal is to
win the state title, but there’s not a lot of talk
about that right now.”
Butler and Pequannock have played the roles
of the division’s co-stars, even though both had
struggled mightily previously in the Northern
Hills Conference. Both hope to hold off the
up-and-coming teams to stay near the top in
2011.
Pequannock – After placing third each of
the last two years, Pequannock (6-3 overall, 6-2
Independence) hopes to move up a notch or two
this year. But the Panthers will have to overcome a
series of pre-season setbacks.
The biggest blow was the discovery of
contaminated dirt during prep work for the installation
of Pequannock’s new
artificial turf field. The
ensuing delays mean the
Panthers may have to play
all their games on the
road this year; at least two
home games are lost for
sure.
Injuries and illness to
three returning linemen
also disrupted
Pequannock’s training
camp. But the Panthers
still have many reasons
for optimism, led by
junior quarterback Luke
Foukas.
“His confidence level
right now is through the roof,” says Panthers coach Ed
Kopp. “His decision-making is 10 times better. That
kind of development is really exciting for us.”
While many of Pequannock’s top receivers graduated,
Foukas can still throw to senior R.J. DeGeorge, while
Anthony Rubino takes over as the starting tailback.
And once those injured linemen heal, they should be a
force as well. “We’re going to be a more physical
football team,” Kopp says. Last year, Pequannock wore
down late in several key games, something the coach
doesn’t expect to see this season.
And Kopp says his team had better be tough because
of the quality of the division. “It’s going to be a
battle,” he maintains. “If we finish towards the top of
the league we will be happy.”
Butler – Nearly every contributor from Butler’s (7-2
overall, 7-1 Independence) remarkable turnaround season
in 2009 is now gone; in fact, very few starters return even
from last year’s squad, with just two back on offense and
three on defense. But coach Jim Matsakis finds reason to
remain positive.
“We took a pounding (from graduation),” he says. “The
only comforting thing is that two years ago the same thing
happened.”
Matsakis has 13 seniors on this year’s outfit, although
many haven’t been starters in the past. “There’s not a lot
of experience. We’re hoping that about seven of them can
step up and do something. If they do, we’ll be OK.”
Junior Chris Heredia is expected to take over as the
quarterback in the Bulldogs’ wide-open attack. Matsakis
believes the former backup whose experience consists of
“holding the clipboard and holding the ball for kicks” is
ready to take charge.
2011 Football Preview:Independence DivisionBy Paul Mencher – ASM Northern Review Managing Editor
FoR ADVeRtISINg INFoRmAtIoNContact : Harry L itsis 201-294-5903 harrypr int [email protected]
C o n t i n u e d o n n e x t p a g ePequannock’s QB Luke Foukas
Butler’s RB Brandon Hurtt
Mountain Lakes’s RB Dylan Muti
www.asmnorth.com ASmNorthern Review / 11
Two major contributors will be seniors Brandon Hurtt, a
starting linebacker last year who will also play running
back this season, and Mike Tenned, another experienced
defender who will be counted on at wideout for the
Bulldogs.
The Independence Division’s middle-of-the-pack
teams—Boonton, Dover, Hopatcong and Morris Catholic—
are aiming to break out of their supporting roles and
become stars in their own right. And each has hopes that
2011 could be their year.
Hopatcong – Many of the coaches in the divisionhave their eyes on Hopatcong (4-5 overall, 4-4Independence) this season, and for good reason. TheChiefs have a lot of talent and depth returning.
“We’re trying to take the next step this year,” says coachGary Andolena. “We’ve got to try to beat one of those (topthree teams) to do that.”
Leading the charge for the Chiefs is fullback/linebackerAustin Brown. The bruising but speedy senior has been astarter since his freshman year. “He’s a heck of a footballplayer and a heck of a leader,” says Andolena. “His motornever stops.”
Brown will have a lot of help toting the pigskin this year,with Feyi Olugbenga and Johann Lara among those whowill share the load. Andolena says the depth will keep hisrunning backs fresh throughout games.
Quarterback Ryan Clarke opened some eyes late lastseason when he replaced the injured starter and ledHopatcong to a win over Boonton. The sophomore has astrong arm, but it’s his size (Clarke is 6’4” and 195pounds) that really has opponents on alert.
On defense, “we have quite a few kids back, so weexpect to play on a high level,” Andolena states. Again,the Chiefs have enough depth that most starters won’t beasked to take part in every play.
Dover – Another team causing concern for the divisionleaders is Dover (4-6 overall, 4-4 Independence). TheTigers went 4-4 in the league last year and have someexplosive talent returning.
“I think our skill positions are pretty good,” says coachMike White. At running back, sophomore George Scalleyreturns after a standout freshman season, and incombination with senior Pablo Gonzalez, forms possiblythe most dangerous duo in the division.
Senior Nick Saltarelli takes over at quarterback, and willhave a top target in Ryan Schaible. But White says muchdepends on his young offensive line, which lost three keystarters from last year.
Dover opens at home in a key game against Pequannock,and will debut its new artificial turf field. “It’s definitely abig improvement,” White says. “They did a really goodjob.”
Now the goal is to rise to the challenge of contendingwith the division’s top teams. “We’re trying to get overthat hump,” says White. “Hopefully we’re one of theteams that can shake it up.”
Boonton – Much of the buzz surrounding Boonton (4-6 overall, 4-4 Independence) has to do with the newcoaching regime. Former Montville assistant BryanGallagher is a first-time head coach, but few expect him tostruggle with the transition. After all, his father is thewidely-respected Gerry Gallagher, who just retired asMontville’s head coach. Even better for the youngerGallagher, his dad agreed to serve as an assistant on hisnew staff.
“There was no convincing involved,” says BryanGallagher. “(My father) is the best friend I have in theworld. So when this came up he was ready to help out inwhatever way he can.”
Gallagher will bring Montville’s traditional Wing-Tattack to Boonton, but because the Bombers played a
variation of the sameoffense, it’s not a majortransition for the players.He describes his defense as“aggressive, but preventingbig plays as much aspossible.”
In terms of personnel, theBombers lose their twobiggest playmakers from ayear ago. Senior TerranceGreen should replace EricFajardo at quarterback,while senior Mike Reid isone of three players likelyto see time at fullback,taking over for thegraduated Andrew Regan.Gallagher believes his teamis in good shape on thelines, led by seniors VinceCoiro and Pat Faust.
morris Catholic –(2-8 overall, 2-6Independence) sufferedthrough a season last yearin which the Crusaders sawlate leads get away timeand time again. CoachGreg Lusardi says his rundefense was the majorculprit, yet ironically, heexpects the same unit to beone of the Crusaders’ strongsuits this year.
“We have strength in thedefensive line,” Lusardisays, citing seniors MikePurcell and FrankCacciabeve in particular.“We have a pretty good
corps of linebackers too.”
Change is also afoot on offense. “We don’t have thatbig-play potential anymore,” says Lusardi. “Instead of 80-yard plays, this year we’re going to have to be moreconsistent.” Lusardi hopes for good things from thecombination of senior quarterback Brendan Wood and histwin brother Eric, a wide receiver. Senior Troy Weathersbywill be the Crusaders’ top running back.
Kinnelon and Whippany Park ended up at the bottom ofthe division the last two years, and will continue to searchfor the big break that will allow them to move up.
Kinnelon – ForKinnelon (3-7 overall,1-7 Independence) thelast taste of the brightlights was just threeyears ago, when theColts won seven gamesand reached the stateplayoffs. Coach KevinWhite sees reason foroptimism as he looks atthis year’s squad.
“We feel pretty goodabout our team speed,”he says. “In terms ofsize we think we lineup a little better thisyear. Traditionally,
when we’ve been able to match up along the lines we’vebeen successful.” Returning seniors Dan Elstien and MikePost, along with junior Troy Andretta, will be the main menin the trenches for Kinnelon.
Junior quarterback Sean Robbins, who’s been the startersince his first game as a freshman, is back to run the showagain. “He’s much more physical and assertive,” says White.“We have pretty high hopes for him.”
Chris Villante returns at running back, where the seniorshared time last year. The kicking game looks like asignificant strength for the Colts, with Elstien the punter andjunior Evan Argiriou doing the place-kicking.
Whippany Park – Coming off an extremelychallenging season, Whippany Park (0-9 overall, 0-8Independence) looks to turn the corner under new head coachTodd Callaghan. A very young Wildcats team simply couldnot compete last year, but Callaghan, the school’s softballcoach for the past five years, believes that can change.
“Our success isn’t going to be measured in wins andlosses,” Callaghan says. “I’d like to see us get a couple ofwins, but if we play a full four quarters competitively, thatwill be successful.”
Callaghan will implement a Wing-T offense and expectssenior fullback Nick Fano to be his primary ball-carrier. Hehopes to rotate a number of players in at the halfbackpositions, while junior Joe LoBracio will return asquarterback. Junior Nick Falkman will play tight end and bea key target in the passing game.
On defense, expect to see Whippany Park in a 5-2formation, with Fano leading the way from hislinebacker spot.
Despite the rough 2010 season, Callaghan says his teamcame in eager for the new campaign. “The numbers areup,” he says. “The kids are more than willing to changetheir approach.”
Overall, the cast may be largely the same, butIndependence Division 2011 looks like it could be ablockbuster.
M o u n t a i n L a k e s P h o t o s b y :
L ou is B e l l u c c i
B u t l e r P h o t o b y :
J im T urn erw w w . t u r n e r s p o r t s p h o t o s . c o m
will be setting their sights on Madison after last year’s
12-0 state championship season. But if the rest of the
squad is just as competitive as cousins Michael and
Steven Finelli, the Dodgers have nothing to worry
about.
Overall, the team lost 15 seniors including 10
letterwinners, but that only encourages the Dodgers
scrapping for starting spots. It
doesn’t worry the Finellis
either. They spend more time
trying to outdo each other
rather than worrying about
any opponents. With them, it’s
personal.
“We both go at itevery day,’’ saidSteven Finelli,who insistshe’s thebetter guard.“It’s a lot offun. It’s a familything. It makes usbetter because itmakes us tryharder. We pusheach other as hardas we can.’’
It was Steven who got Michael
Finelli to start playing football
with him in the third grade. It
isn’t certain if he has lived to
regret it yet but the relationship is
certainly a tempestuous one at times.
“We’ve always been competitive,’’
Michael Finelli said. “We’ve always
played up levels. We’ve always gone one
on one with each other. Two days ago we
had our lineman competitions where it’s a one-
on-one block. Usually the competitions last for
a good 15-20 seconds, but we were going at it for
a good one minute, two minutes. We just push each other
so much.’’
Competition is what fuels the Dodgers’ camp this year
starting with the quarterbacks.
Carson Lassiter and Sean Bradley have similar skills
and attributes that will help them run facets of the
Madison offense.
“Carson Lassiter, is a junior, he’s a
big guy,’’ Michael Finelli said. “Sean
Bradley is a senior and a little
undersized but he doesn’t disappoint.
The other day he was running over
kids twice his size. He has a great
arm. He’s a real athletic kid. It’s a
good competition.’’
Another player who has grown
accustomed to running over people is
Justin Goodwin. As a sophomore, the
running back was a key figure in the
Dodgers’ exceptional season. He was
one of Morris County’s top scorers.
“He’s fast -- that’s the big thing,’’
Michael Finelli said. “He works hard,
in school, out of school, in the weight
room. Every time I see him. He’s
working hard and never goofing off,
just encouraging everyone else to be
better because he wants the same
thing. I have a hard time keeping up with him -- and I
have to block in front of him.’’
Picking up the slack from players like
Aaron Fant, Matt McHale, Martin Horn and
many others won’t be easy but the Dodgers
have a foundation to build upon.
Jesse Ruela joins the Finellis on the line.
Ben Anderson, Will Mattola, Matt
McDonald and Curtis Hubbard also
gained experience on the defense.
And then there are players that
Madison’s varsity opponents
have not even seen yet –
and may not want to.
“Our jayvee finished
undefeated last year,
too,’’ Michael Finelli
said. “Now that they
are on the big stage they
want to prove that they can fill in and
play with anybody.’’
Chatham –
The Cougars’ versatility should
help them this year. Coach Scott Morgenroth runs
Chatham (5-5 overall, 5-3 Freedom) on a platoon
system so plenty of athletes get in on the action. Two-
way lineman Nick Ball will be among the key players.
The 6-foot-1, 225-pound athlete can be a force and he
makes the line calls. Matt Babakian is another
experienced two-way lineman who will help the
Cougars upgrade their play in the trenches.
Colin Brown is a slick receiver and experienced
secondary man. Starting receiver Sam Faillia will
switch from catching to throwing passes as a
quarterback running the option. Overall, for the
Cougars it’s the more the merrier. Chatham employs a
lot of different packages to get their guys as much
experience as they can in as little time.
Hackettstown – The Tigers (4-6 overall, 3-5Freedom) will miss quick quarterback Chris Souders andwill look to others to run their spread offense.Hackettstown lost all but one starter on the offensive sideand hopes senior running back Ryan Tatarka can carrythe load. Center Alex Weingarten, the only returningstarter, keys the offensive line.
Carl Von Glahn takes over at quarterback; the seniorwas previously Hackettstown’s place kicker and bootedthe game-winning field goal last year against WarrenHills. Greg Castillo should be a key receiver for theTigers.
On the defensive side of the ball, senior nose guard JoeClarke is back as is senior linebacker Mark Grimes.Tatarka leads the secondary from his safety position.
Hanover Park – The Hornets (5-5 overall, 5-3Freedom) graduated 21 seniors last year leaving a lot ofjobs to fill. This is the second year that Hanover Park isrunning Coach Gerry Moore’s system.
Moore emphasizes an intense commitment in theoffseason, which was something they couldn’t quite take
advantage of last year because ofthe coaching switch. The
increased familiarity shouldbring a lot of the newvarsity players up tospeed in a hurry.
Strong blocks to buildaround include GiuseppeOttaiano, a steady, tough as
nails, two-waylineman and Steve
Colonello, amulti-talentedrunning
back/linebackerwho is alsocrucial to theteam’s kickinggame.
There areplenty of jobsto bedetermined
including thequarterbackposition where
juniors JimmySivolella and John
Cardovano werebattling to be the
starter.
Kittatinny –Year in and year
out, Jim Green’screw at
Kittatinny (2-8overall, 2-6
Freedom)has thereputation ofconsistentlygetting the mostout of their lineupregardless of theirrecord. That tradition willbe tested with this year’s youngteam.
2011 Football Preview:Freedom DivisionB y M a r k K i t c h i n – S t a f f W r i t e r
Chatham's Sam Faillia
Madison's RB Justin Goodwin
Madison’s lineman Steve Finelli
Madisoncelebrat ing their sect ional t i t le
C o n t i n u e d o n n e x t p a g e
www.asmnorth.com ASmNorthern Review / 13
Kittatinny has only three returning starters on eachside of the ball. Many of the newcomers are part of astrong sophomore class that will be indoctrinated onthe varsity level. Their line will be anchored by three-year starter Adam Crisman (6-2, 275).
The arm of junior quarterback Kyle Potten will openup Kittatinny’s offense a little more than in pastseasons. The Cougars will also utilize their quicknessand aggressiveness to spark the young defense.
Lenape Valley – When it comes to consistency,
there is no program steadier in northwest New Jersey
than the Patriots (8-3 overall, 6-2 Freedom). The local
youth teams run the same types of offenses and
defenses as the varsity team and often with the same
terminology.
This year’s Lenape Valley squad will show
inexperience on the varsity level but should get up to
speed in a hurry because of that consistency. Coach
Don Smolyn likes his young crew even though they
have only three offensive starters and four defensive
starters returning.
Fullback Nick Rafferty returns as the team’s top
scorer. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound athlete is a punishing
runner with more than 700 yards rushing last year.
Will Portington, who started at outside linebacker, can
be expected to carry it some.
Newton – New head coach Steve Rabbitt is
overhauling the Braves (3-7 overall, 1-7 Freedom). A
familiar face will be running the new Delaware Wing-
T offense. Two-year quarterback Zac Little, who had
free reign with the run-and-shoot system last year, will
now look to pick his spots with the more conventional
offense.
Developing longer, more consistent drives and
limiting mistakes will help Newton’s chances. One of
Little’s targets will be senior tight end Jimmy Papis.
The Braves can also rally around senior two-way
linemen Marc Jensen and Forrest Gysen.
Jensen and Papis will also have leadership roles in
the Braves’ 5-3 defense. Lack of depth is a perennial
problem with the Newton squad, so staying healthy is
of paramount importance.
Parsippany – The Red Hawks (2-8 overall, 0-8
Freedom) made big strides last year by breaking their
lengthy losing streak. Now they would like to post
some division wins as well.
Its double-wing offense helped Parsippany ground
out yardage and control the clock in its victories.
Corey Wallace will direct the run-oriented offense.
More familiarity with the system and some added
wrinkles to the playbook will make the Red Hawks an
interesting team to watch.
Returning back Tyler Wilhalme and Marcus Farrar, a
halfback who missed most of last season due to injury,
will also have more chances to run the ball. Tom
Cucchiara moves from center to guard and will help
guide the younger linemen. Linebacker Ryan Sheehan
and his teammates should have fun with the blitz
packages in the Red Hawks’ new 3-5 defense.
Wallkill Valley – The Rangers (6-4 overall, 6-2
Freedom) should continue the success they have
developed over the past couple of seasons under coach
Daryl Jones. Wallkill Valley runs a pro-set and
returning quarterback Brendan Drexler has enough
skills to continue the team’s positive results.
The Rangers will have to scramble to replace the
experience and toughness of running back tandem
Kevin Cook and Kaje Cowans, who led the team to its
first state playoff berth in 15 years where Wallkill
nearly knocked off eventual sectional champ Lakeland.
Junior Mike Buvis should contribute in the backfield
and junior Bobby Russel will be a key man on the
offensive line as well as defense.
M a d i s o n P h o t o s b y :
P au l M u e l l e r
C h a t h a m / H a n o v e r P a r k P h o t o s b y :
FoR ADVeRtISINg INFoRmAtIoNContact : Harry L itsis 201-294-5903 harrypr int [email protected]
www.asmnorth.com ASmNorthern Review / 15
While the NJAC heads into its third season
with its divisional lineup basically the same as a
year ago, a few of the conference’s schools will
be looking at significant changes when it comes
to state playoff time.
The NJSIAA’s annual group reclassification
shuffles the deck each year, as some schools
change groups based on fluctuations in the size
of their student bodies. Because of the method
the association uses, some schools can also
switch sections on an annual basis.
The NJSIAA actually has many classifications for
various sports; its general classification is now only
used for soccer, basketball, baseball, softball and
tennis. Here is a look at the significant changes for
NJAC schools for the 2011-12 school year:
general ClassificationOne school is seeing a double dose of change,
as it drops down a group and also changes
sections. Morristown, which was in North
Jersey Section 1, Group IV last year, will switch
to Group III and play in North Jersey Section 2.
Morristown struggled in most of the general
classification sports last year; the new section
would appear to be slightly easier.
The other NJAC school switching groups in
the overall classification is Vernon. A Group IV
school for more than two decades, Vernon will
drop down to Group III
this year thanks to a
sizeable dropoff in
student enrollment. On
the whole, the shift to
North 1, Group III would
seem to be a benefit to
the teams in the general
classification sports,
especially the Vikings’
basketball squads which
could almost never get
out of the first round in
Group IV.
Switching sections but
remaining in the same
group is Dover, which
shifts from North 2, Group
II to Section 1 this year.
The new section would
appear to be slightly
tougher, which isn’t great
news for the Tigers, who
didn’t make it past the first
round in any of the general
classification sports last
year.
No NJAC school is moving up in group size
this year, though Mount Olive came close,
falling just a handful of students short of
jumping into Group IV.
FootballVernon’s big change also carries over to the football
field, where it will now compete in North 1, Group
III. In this case, the move is not good news for the
Vikings. While
their old section
(N1, G4) features a
few solid teams,
including
defending
champion
Randolph, their
new section is one
of the toughest
public-school
brackets in the
entire state, led by
perennial powers
like Wayne Hills
and Ramapo.
Switching places
with Vernon is
Roxbury, which
moves back up to
North 1, Group IV
after being in
Group III last year. In an odd twist, the Gaels make
the move up despite a small decrease in student
population. Roxbury will be the
smallest school in N1, G4, but
would clearly appear to have a
better chance to make some noise
in the playoffs in its new bracket.
After three years in Group I for
football, Hopatcong will jump
back up to Group II this year.
The Chiefs did not make the
states in Group I, and qualifying
this year will also be tough. But
don’t forget that Hopatcong’s
two state titles both came in
North 1, Group II.
Another Sussex County team
will take Hopatcong’s place in
Group I, as Kittatinny moves down
to the smallest group for the first
time. Since a remarkable 10-1
season in 2007, the Cougars have not returned to the
playoffs; the switch probably won’t make it any easier
to break that streak.
Also dropping down for football
is Pequannock. The resurgent
Panthers made the state playoffs
each of the last two years in North
1, Group II, but will now compete
in Group I. The schools are
smaller, but are hardly pushovers,
and Pequannock may still need six
wins to qualify for the states. But
one would think the Panthers
should have a better chance of
competing for a sectional title in
their new group.
One NJAC school will switch
sections, as Parsippany moves from
North 2, Group II to North 1, Group
II. The two sections are similar in
strength, and the move shouldn’t
really impact the Red Hawks as
they attempt to build up their
program.
On the Non-Public front, the
NJSIAA will go back to four
brackets for the state playoffs after
combining the smallest two groups last year. Both
Morris Catholic and Morristown-Beard are designated
as Group I schools for football in 2011. South Jersey
powerhouse St. Joseph of Hammonton appears to be
the clear favorite to win that group title.
Field HockeyIn soccer’s World Cup they call it the
Group of Death—the one group that is
clearly tougher than any other. After a one-
year hiatus, field
hockey’s Section of
Doom is back
together. Madison
and Chatham, which
played last year in
North 2, Group II,
have shifted back to
North 1, Group II.
That puts the
defending Morris
County champions
(Chatham) and the
2009 Group II state
champs (Madison)
in a section that also
includes Sussex
County’s top
program, Newton,
and 14-time state
champions West
Essex.
Happy to escape the Section of Doom is
Pequannock, which moves down to Group I
this year. The Panthers struggled the last
couple of years, but if the program can regain
some of its traditional strength, Pequannock
could be a factor in N1, G1.
As in other sports, Vernon is on the move
in field hockey, dropping from Group IV to
Group III. The Vikings’ shift, along with
other changes, helps create an extremely
difficult section in North Jersey Section 2,
Group III. Defending North 1, Group III
champion West Morris makes the move, as
does Morristown. Those solid programs join
defending state champion Freehold Borough
and perennial contender Warren Hills in a
very tough bracket.
WrestlingLooking ahead to winter, North Jersey
Section 1, Group III loses one elite wrestling
program but gains another top team. High
Point drops to Group II this winter, but
Roxbury moves back into Section 1 after
winning the North 2, Group III title last year.
The Gaels are the immediate favorite to take
the section.
Meantime, High Point, the defending
Group III state champion, lost a number of
top athletes, but will still be strong, and
surely becomes the favorite in North 1,
Group II. While the Wildcats would have
been an underdog had they remained in
Group III, they must be considered a threat
for another state title in the lower group.
Also, Boonton, which missed out on a
sectional title by just a couple of points last
winter, gets a bad break as it moves out of
North 2, Group I. The Bombers will join the
very tough North 1, Group I section that
already includes Kittatinny, Newton,
Pequannock and other strong programs.
Reclassifications for some sports, like ice
hockey and lacrosse, have yet to be made
public.
NJAC ReclassificationBy Paul Mencher – ASM Northern Review Managing Editor
Vernon drops down to Group III, whichcould be good news for the girls'
basketball squad and other teams
M o r r i s t o w n w i l l k i c k o f f t h e n e w s c h o o l y e a r i n N o r t h 2 , G r o u p I I I i n m a n y s p o r t s l i k e g i r l s ' s o c c e r
R o x b u r y a n d R a n d o l p h c o u l d m e e t i n t h e f o o t b a l l s t a t ep l a y o f f s a f t e r t h e G a e l s m o v e d b a c k u p t o G r o u p I V