Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Gilbert

Head coach: Cindy Fixer (30th season, 310-242)

2018: 3-16

Key players: Seniors Sydney Kolosky, Adriana Mrowka, Jayda Small; Juniors Madison Fritch and Abbey Beecher.

Outlook: The Yellowjackets plan to take one match at a time and see where it leads them.

Coach’s comment: “We have an enthusiastic group of players returning who are looking to improve their volleyball game.”

Terryville

Head coach: Belen Michelis (4th season)

2018: 14-10

Key players: Senior Abigail Dellavecchia; Juniors Tiffany Pires, Jessie Valentine; Sophomore Taylor Barnett

Outlook: The Kangaroos are working towards a strong season with new faces in the mix allowing for team growth and development.

Coach’s comment: “The 2019 season will be one of growth. This year we have several new players who will be spreading their wings on varsity and with that comes a level of growth. Players to watch will be Tiffany Pires, Abigail Dellavecchia and Jesse Valentine. I know that these players have such passion and love for the game that they will work to improve their skill sets and will always play giving it 110%. Terryville has always had such passionate players and this year the Roos will demonstrate that!”

Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Lewis Mills

Head coach: Joanne Neuhausser (5th season, 31-2-28-5OTL)

2018: 4-1-11

Key players: Seniors Morgan O’Regan (2nd team All-League), Cassidy Urson (2nd team All-League), Hope Guillemette; Juniors Ellie Martin (1st team All-League, 2nd team All-State).

Coach’s comment: “The girls are looking foward to the season starting. They have been working hard on conditioning and team bonding. We have strength on all lines, forward/midfield/defense and in goal. It will be a challenge switching to a different conference, the team has embraced the move and is excited to get the season going.”

Pomperaug

Head coach: Anne Strobel (8th season)

2018: 16-13

Key players: Senior captains Kari Richardson and Leah Kowalasky (All-Division); Juniors Jessica Evan (All-Division), Maddie McKune (All-Division)

Outlook: The Panthers will work to defend their 2018 SWC title this season.

Coach’s comment: “Pomperaug graduated 8 starters from last year, so this year will be a big building year. The underclassmen have some big shoes to fill but are very excited to start the 2019 season.”

Thomaston

Head coach: D. John Long, Jr. (1st season)

2018: 5-10-1

Key players: Senior Captains Alexa Kowalski and Kaylee Falter; Junior Hannah Laone; Sophomores Olivia Thier and Aurelia Barker

Outlook: “As a first year head coach, it is hard for me to predict where we will fall in league play. That being said, I feel like we have a solid group of players who are beginning to gel as a unit. In fact, I coached the majority of these girls when they played in middle school and enjoyed an undefeated season when our sophomore class were the core players on that team. We will continue to practice hard, work on our fitness, and fine tune our offensive and defensive structures in an effort to better our record from last season and to return to the state playoff structure. We hope to be a force in Class S this year.”

Coach’s comment: “While we will be a young team, we have a solid core of skilled players in our starting line-up who are very strong on both sides of the ball. Our sophomore class is deep with talent and could very well make up the majority of our go-to players. We have some excellent support players, as well, from the the freshman class up to our junior class. Out goaltending, while young and relatively inexperienced, had been practicing hard and improving on a daily basis. With more game experience, our keepers should gain confidence, particularly with the solid defense and mifdield providing protection.”

Nonnewaug

Head coach: Beth Tarby (3rd season, 21-9-1)

2018: 13-3

Key players: Eva Brown, Steph Davino, Savan Fish, Becca Reinhold, Steph Disarro, Zuzu Gasco, Elena Eschman, Hannah Lopresti, Lauren Parker, Sam Faull, Lolya Taylor, Alyssa Desmarest, Erin Classey.

Outlook: The Chiefs are looking to bring home a second Berkshire League title and qualify for the state tournament.

Coach’s comment: “Many of my JV have shown the willingness and much improved skill and they will be joining the varsity level.We have a very diverse group this year and many options to work with. My freshman are eager and willing to put out the hard work early on in practice.”

Watertown

Head coach: Audrey Brown (3rd season, 14-18)

2018: 7-9

Key players: Senior Olivia LeBella (honorable mention SWC Patriot Division player last year); Junior Brianna Catalani (SWC All-Patriot Division last year)

Coach’s comment: “Our defense should be strong as we are returning many seniors. Many underclassmen will be counted on for minutes on the field as well. The SWC is very competitive and we will be looking to compete well with those teams.”

Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Lewis Mills

Head coach: Josh Krampitz (5th season, 20-20)

2018: 2-8

Key runners: Seniors Michael Collen, Greg Logan; Junior Nate Pinette; Sophomores Justin Cascio (Berkshire League All-Star), Tim O’Sullivan

Outlook: The Spartans hope to be competitive and win some meets against the new competition in the CCC (CC South Division) going against strong programs such as Bristol Central, Middletown, and Berlin.

Coach’s comment: “The team is looking to improve on last year’s 2-8 record. We have a good crew of returning runners who showed a lot of improvement over the course of last season, and a bunch of new runners who should be able to make contributions right out of the gate. Sophomore Justin Cascio has been training hard and should be one of the top runners in the league.”

Taft

Head coach: Stuart Guthrie (4th season, 6-16)

Key runners: Senior Ian Staines (All-League, Founders League & New England All-Star); Junior Joey Nihill.

Outlook: Taft is looking for a winning season in dual meet competition and to improve their standing in the Founder’s Championships (5 of 9) and the NEPSTA Championships (8 of 15).

Coach’s comment: “We have a solid 1-2 punch with Ian Staines (captain) and Joey Nihill, who can keep us competitive as any one in the league. We did lose our #1 runner from last season. PG Ollie Spencer, and we will need some of the younger, less experienced guys to step up and have a big season to improve our record from last year; Mid, Nate Dexter, and Lower Mid, Jack Johnson, have the potential to be key varsity runners this season. Stefan Kim will be returning for his second season of captain duties; he has been a powerful motivator for out guys.”

Pomperaug

Head coach: Mark Goodwin (46th season)

2018: 12-1

Key runners: Seniors Trey Generaldi (All-SWC), Hayden Godfrey, Ryan Furr; Junior Tim Monahan; Sophomore Mike Connelly

Outlook: Competing in a tough SWC, the Panthers looks to be a factor by late October.

Coach’s comment: “We won the SWC last year and as many other schools had graduation losses. We will be pursuing that title and position and the State Open Meet.”

Cheshire

Head coach: Pam Gunneson (2nd season, 7-2)

2018: 7-2

Key runners: Seniors Brendan Mellitt (Captain, All-SCC, All-State, Class L 8th place finish, Open State Championship 15th, competed in the New England Championship, All Record Journal Team), Francis Simpatico (All-SCC Second Team, All Record Journal Team), Charlie Pettit (Captain), Parer Arai (Captain), Owne Fiore; Juniors Patrick O’Connor, Ryan Farrell; Sophomore Robert DiNatalie; Freshman Colin Grevelding

Outlook: The Rams are focusing on the higher finishes in the SCC where they finished 5th and State Class L 8th. Amity and Shelton will be strong competitors for the Housatonic Championship.

Coach’s comment: “We are looking to have another strong season with many returning varsity runners. They Boys have trained hard over the summer and are excited for the start of the new season and are aiming for even higher team finished at the SCC and State Class L meets. The team goals is to run at the Open State Championship as a team this year.”

Kaynor Tech

Head coach: Brian Stasaitis (2nd season)

Key runners: Seniors Scott Dalesio (All-League), Demarco Dimbo; Juniors Jayden Teasley, Michael Santiago; Sophomores Jake Ashmore (All-League), Evan Domenchello

Outlook: With two returning All-League runners, the Panthers look to be competitive in the Connecticut Technical Conference.

Coach’s comment: “The boys have been working extremely hard in preparation for the season. This season we have 11 boys on the team and are looking for them to push each other and continue to improve our times throughout the season.”

Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Holy Cross

Head coach: Sarah Ciarleglio (2nd season)

2018: 9-13

Key players: Senior’s Amber Bromley and Lizzy Diorio

Coach’s comment/outlook: “We graduated many seniors last year and are trying to fill the void. We have many young players who are willing and able to step up and contribute for this team. The NVL is always strong in volleyball. It offers excellent challenges throughout the season to keep teams on their game and to prepare for tournament time.”

Seymour

Head coach: Cathy Federowicz (21st season, 389-76)

2018: 24-1 (defending Class M state champions)

Key players: Seniors Faith Rousseau (Captain, All-State, All-NVL), Kolby Sirowich (Captain, All-Copper), Katherine Kusera, Vicky Sampiere, Stephanie Ferrara, Jenna Baxter

Outlook: With several strong teams competing in the league the season, the Wildcats will work to bring their ‘A’ game to every match.

Coach’s comment: “We are returning 6 seniors along with junior Jacey Cosciello and sophomore Kenzie Sirowich. All 8 played key roles for us during the last season and throughout the tournament. However, we will be trying to find a way to replace the loss of our All-State setter Alyssa Cosciello due to graduation.”

Kennedy

Head coach: Michael Stango (14th season, 166-112)

2018: 21-4, NVL Champions

Key players: Seniors Tesi Tili (Captain), Britney Barton (Captain), Kariny Topolosci (Captain), Jalissa Robles; Juniors Vivian Bunker (NVL All-Brass Division), Krystal Matos

Outlook: The Eagles are focused on winning the Brass Division Title and making it back to the NVL tournament to defend their league championship against some tough competition, Seymour, who returns a loaded squad.

Coach’s comment: “We return four starters from last year’s NVL championship team but replacing the three senior captains from a season ago is going to be very challenging. Senior Kariny Topolosci has waited patiently for her return and is more than ready to take over as our setter. We need to see returning starters Tesi Tili, Britany Barton, and Vivian Bunker take on larger roles offensively this season and finding someone that can step in and provide solid play at the libero position is going to be our biggest challenge.”

Sacred Heart

Head coach: Sherry Morgan (2nd season)

2018: 2-7 junior varsity schedule

Key players: Seniors Paige Carroll (setter), Julia Mitnick (outside hitter), Samantha Warren (defensive specialist), Ajanique Lewis (right side hitter), Juniors Azhia Rochead (libero), Brooke Morgan (outside hitter, setter), Shera Tripp (outside hitter), Asia Chapman (middle hitter/blocker), Jada Ellis (outside hitter). Newcomers: Sophomore Emily Ronalter (midde hitter/blocker), freshman Lauren Baker (defensive specialist)

Coach’s comment: “This will be a transition for the players to the varsity level and will be a lot of opportunity for them to grow as a team and improve their skills individually.”

WCA

Head coach: Sara Paradis (3rd season, 14-26)

2018: 7-13

Key players: Seniors Jada Howard, Emily Semedo; Junior Verannie Figueiredo

Outlook: The Spartans are looking to stay in the mix against a well-balanced and strong league this year.

Coach’s comment: “After graduating six players, we have a young team this season. The Lady Spartans are passionate about the game and eager to improve as the season progresses. They consistently work hard, give 100% and have great attitudes.”

Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Seymour

Head coach: Paul O’Connor (4th season, 19-23)

2018: 9-5

Key runners: Senior Aidan Loooke; Juniors Matthew Solerti, Tyler Bredice, Tim Buzik, Vaughn Beddington; Sophomore Ben Rich

Outlook: The Wildcats will work to finish in the middle of the pack if they put in the effort on race days against competitive Woodland, Watertown and, Wolcott,

Coach’s comment: “We lost 6 seniors including All-NVL Dan Bouzolin, but have confidence that we can run competitive times and compete with the other teams. Looking for leadership from our upperclassmen.”

St. Paul (Boys and Girls)

Head coach: Paul Gionfriddo (3rd season)

2018: Boys: 11-5 Girls: 9-7

Key runners: Seniors Aidan Reilly, Tucker Raymond, Joseph Gaffney, Jeremy Rinaldi, Michael Ferraro, Kailyn Beliecki

Outlook: “I predict that we will have another successful season, with a winning record. Most of my varsity runners are returning athletes. They are all highly motivated and have big goals for this season and I am looking forward to achieving them.”

Coach’s comment: “Coming off a successful season in 2018 for both of the boys and girls teams. Both teams are looking forward to continuing and building on that success. Have a lot of returning runners this season, especially on the boys side.”

Holy Cross

Head coach: Brian Walker (5th season, 31-25)

2018: 7-7

Key runners: Seniors Marcas Racevicius, Nick Galasso, Mike Famiglietti, William D’Avino; Juniors Robert Anchini, Michael Dane; Sophomore Anthony Ruggia

Coach’s comment/outlook: “There is a good mixture of new and returning runners. They are working hard both individually and as a team to improve and become more competitive in the league.”

Wolcott

Head coach: Julie Fell (2nd season, 4-7)

2018: 4-7

Key runners: Junior capt. Nicholas Bendtsen (All-NVL, All-State, NVL Most Outstanding male runner), Senior capt. Michael Evans; Juniors Miles Shoban, Daniel Loughman, Mitchell Rocca

Coach’s take: “We have key returning athletes putting us in a great position for the start of the season. The boys have some strong juniors and some talented newcomers that should help our league standing.”

Woodland

Head coach: Jeff Lownds (19th season, 187-57)

2018: 14-0 (Division and NVL Champions)

Key runners: Juniors Martin Swercewski, Garrit Wissink, Nick Santovasi. Noah Behrle; Sophomores Chase Young, Colin Slavin, Carl Cicchetti, Eric Meade, Elias Sturdevant, Aiden Kennedy, Mark Barbarito; Freshman Erwin Owusu, Nate Trumbley, Jeremiah Parra

Coach’s comment/outlook: “We return several of our boys who were 14-0 last season. we have dedicated boys who work hard each day and want to have a good NVL season and perform well in Class M. We are fortunate to have a strong group of underclassmen and look forward to another successful season.”

Sacred Heart

Head coach: Molly DePaiva (6th season)

Key runners: Seniors Fujie Lan, Julian Cammarasana, Nick Salerno, Alex Valenta, Christopher Iles, Jeferson Garcia, Andrew Campion; Juniors Jesse Breidenbach, James Bona, Ben Camp; Sophomores Trevor Warren, Bryan Ambos

Outlook: The Hearts hope to compete with the top teams this year in a competitive NVL.

Coach’s comment: “We have a really strong core group of runners back this year. The boys’ team should make a good run for the city title. We hope to compete in every meet this year and get better to have a chance at NVL’s and States.”

Information that has been supplied by league coaches:

Nonnewaug (boys and girls)

Head coach: Arleigh Duff (28th season)

Key runners: Seniors Maddie Woodward (Berkshire League All-Star), Helene Berger, Carly Andrews; Juniors Greg Bastek, Connor Inglis, Ian Budrewicz, Jennie Schwarz; Sophomores Lilly Mills, Elizabeth King; Freshman Jenna Barns

Coach’s comment/outlook: “Both teams will try to be competitive this year, they are working hard. The boys team lost BL Champion/Class SS Champion/All-State and All-New England runner Eddie Nicholas.”

Northwestern (boys and girls)

Head coach: Alison Beauchene

Key runners: Boys Returning: Josh Mangini, Alex Beauchene, Matt Henrickson; Key newcomers: Tyler Schumacher, Lucas Oles. Girls Returning: Bethany Adams, Erin Daley, Isabella Gregor; Key newcomers: Marina Dyndiuk, Maddie Adams, Lexi Arthur

Coach’s comment/Outlook: “The boys team has their eyes on a fourth BL Championship win but with the loss of some key seniors and an injury, the fight agasint a stron Terryville team will be tough. The girls team looks stronger than it has in the past with many new strong runners joining the team this year.”

BY JASON LEVY

WATERBURY — The Waterbury City Soccer Jamboree came down to Tommy Pompei’s foot.

The senior was the fifth Crusader to line up for a penalty kick against Chase Collegiate keeper Rohan Singh following a scoreless final match and with Cross leading in PK’s, 3-2.

“I was shaking,” Pompei said. “I was just thinking, ‘I’ve got to come through for my team right now. I have to finish this, and we’ve got to leave with the win.’”

Pompei nailed the kick to lift the Crusaders over the Highlanders in PK’s, 4-2, to clinch the jamboree title Saturday afternoon at Crosby High.

“We had a chip on our shoulder from being there last year and not finishing the business,” Holy Cross coach John Teixeira said. “So we wanted to come in this year and finish what we started last year. I couldn’t be prouder of them for taking that trophy home this year and putting the work in.”

Brian Silva, Kadin Talhu and Gennero Genua also converted penalty kicks for Holy Cross. Simon Kopecky and Conrad Coyanda-Parkzes scored for Chase. Two other shots hit the post.

Holy Cross’ Talhu was named jamboree MVP.

“I just want to thank my teammates, my coach and everybody here on the team,” Talhu said. “I couldn’t do a thing without all of them.”

Holy Cross hopes the jamboree title is a precursor to a run to the Naugatuck Valley League title. The season starts Thursday at St. Paul.

“We’re still pushing toward that final championship,” Pompei said. “But it was a tremendous start for our season. I think it got us all fired up.”

The Lewis Mills High football team’s first game in the Central Connecticut Conference on its home field will be under the lights in Burlington.

By MARK JAFFEE

Using portable lights, the Spartans will host Bulkeley/HMTCA/Weaver Friday at 7 p.m.

“The school and parents are really are backing this,” said Lewis Mills coach John Oko. “It’s huge expecting a lot of students and the booster club and selling special T-shirts for the game. I think the game will be well attended and a lot of fun.”

Oko praised the Spartans after their 24-0 win in a scrimmage over Notre Dame of Fairfield last Thursday.

“Last year, they beat us pretty good, but we’re a different team right now,” said Oko. “We’re stronger, bigger, and confident. We had a really good preseason and ready to go.”

The Spartans’ football team had been playing in the Pequot Conference since the program began. The school opted to leave the Berkshire League in all sports last year and move to the CCC.

Ready for their coaching debuts: Five area football coaches will make their head coaching debuts this week, including Michael Kearns at Seymour.

A former player at Newtown High and at Endicott College, Kearns previously coached at his high school alma mater and was the Seymour defensive coordinator last season under interim coach Steve George.

The Wildcats host St. Paul on Friday at 7 p.m. at DeBarber Field.

Chris Theriault will make his Wolcott debut Friday as the Eagles visit Naugatuck at 7 p.m.

Theriault had been the defensive coordinator at Cromwell-Portland and succeeds Matt Hove, who resigned after two seasons at the helm.

Other new head coaches are Mike Scott of Crosby and Jennifer Garzone at MCW United (cooperative program with Housatonic, Wolcott Tech, Wamogo) and Tim Nixon at O’Brien Tech-Ansonia.

A Waterbury native, Scott was a volunteer coach at Sacred Heart-Kaynor last year and previously coached with the Waterbury Patriots youth program. The Bulldogs host Holy Cross Friday at 7 p.m. at Jimmy Lee Sadium.

Garzone, who will guide MCW United against Platt Tech of Milford Saturday at noon at Housatonic Valley in Falls Village, becoming the first female head football coach in Connecticut.

Location changes: With Municipal Stadium’s Ray Snyder Sr. Field in Waterbury still being renovated with new FieldTurf, several games have been moved throughout September.

In the opener, Kennedy will meet Sacred Heart-Kaynor Tech on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Crosby High.

In other games moved to Crosby, there will be a doubleheader on Sept. 21. Sacred Heart-Kaynor will meet Waterbury Career Academy at 11 a.m. followed by Kennedy-Seymour at 2 p.m.

A week later, Kennedy meets Wilby on Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. at Crosby.

Games are not expected to be played at Municipal until Oct. 5 when Waterbury Career Academy meets Kennedy at 10 a.m.

.

Here are the football previews for the NVL’s Copper Division:

By MARK JAFFEE

Ansonia

2018 record: 11-1 overall, 10-0 NVL (Brass champions, NVL champions, Class S semifinalist)

Head coach: Tom Brockett (14th season, 159-12)

Assistant coaches: John Sponheimer, Kevin Rowley, Bob Lisi, Shane Kingsley, John Mihalko

Key players: Shykeem Harmon (Sr., RB-DB), Sheldon Schuler (Jr., QB), Jalen Johnson (Jr., WR-DB, injured), Tyler Cafaro (Sr., RB-LB), Garrett Cafaro (Sr., TE-DE), Louis Santiago (Sr., OG-DE), Noah Wagnblas (Sr., WR-S), Troy Sanders (Jr., LB)

Key losses: Terquan Burney, OL-DL; Luca Belenchia, OL-DL; John Picheco, LB; Darwin Amaya, RB; Tyler Navaro, OL-LB

Coach’s take: “Sheldon Schuler is getting better and Shykeem Harmon looks good.”

Derby

Head coach: George French (10th season, 42-50)

2018 record: 4-6

Assistant coaches: Charlie DiCenso, John DeFrancisco, David Chevarella, Jeff Collins, Ron Conyers, Mat Nicolari

Key players: Julian Delarosa (Sr., capt., RB-DB), Damian Caruso (Sr., capt., RB-DB), Michael Rijo (Sr., capt., TE-LB), Zerion Montgomery (Jr., RB-DB), Bryce Cotter (Jr., QB-DB), John Ruggerio (Sr., capt., OL-DL)

Key newcomers: Abe Rodriguez (Sr., OL-DL), Driton Suma (Jr., OL-DL), Jeff Polis (Jr., TE-LB), Massimo Pettine (Jr., WR-DB), Zyir Wali (Soph., WR-DB)

Key losses: David Chevarella, OL-LB (All-Copper), Nate Bartone, OL-DL (All-Copper), Alex Hickey, TE-LB-P (All-NVL), Tom Abel, RB-LB; Logan Flanigan, OL-DL

Coach’s take: “Depth can be an issue at any Class S school, but if Derby improves on both the offensive and defensive lines, then they can be contending with some of the better teams in the league.”

Oxford

Head coach: Joe Stochmal (13th season, 47-66)

2018 record: 4-6

Assistant coaches: Lu Diaz, WR-DB-special teams; Josh Harris, defensive coordinator, OL-DL; John Bogart, RB-LB; David Jurewicz, OL-DL; Tyler Torres, OL-DL; Ryan Tuttle, TE-DE

Key players: Cayden Mitchell (Sr., QB-DB), John Biondo (Sr., WR-LB), Jason Madden (Sr., OL-DL), Matt Rich (Sr., OL-LB)

Key newcomers: Patrick Mucherino (Sr., WR-DB), Paul Davis (Sr., WR-DB), Adem Kica (Jr., OL-LB), Adam Lang (Jr., OL-DL), Peyton Mowry (Jr., WR-DB), Ethan Stella-Mackie (Jr., RB-DB), Gavin Tadduni (Jr., OL-DL)

Key losses: Dylan Batlle, RB-LB; Dylan Pudelka, OL-DL; Andrew Aldo, WR-LB

Coach’s take: “With teams like Wolcott, Ansonia, Naugatuck, Seymour, and Woodland on the schedule, the Wolverines will have to grow up fast if they want to compete in the NVL season.”

Seymour

Head coach: Michael Kearns (first season)

2018 record: 6-4

Assistant coaches: Steve George, offensive coordinator; Jamie Burns, OL-DL; Matt Pellicone, RB-LB; Chris Jeanette, WR-DB; Jake DeVellis, QB-DB; Pat Dempsey, OL-DL

Key players: Kevin Harmeling (Jr., QB-S), Curtis Dion (Jr., RB-WR-CB), Matt Oczkowski (Sr., capt., WR-S-LB), Louie Cortello (Sr., WR-CB), Alex Taverner (Sr., capt., OL-DE), Philip Fioretti (Sr., capt., OL-DT), Adam Violano (Jr., OL-DE)

Key newcomers: Ethan Mabasa-Hamilton (Jr., WR-LB-S); Jimmy Coughlin (Sr,, capt., RB-LB-S), Parker LaPointe (Jr., FB-LB)

Key losses: Cade Klarides-Ditria, OL-LB (All-State); Ian Sadick, QB-CB; Tyler Ganim, RB-S; Markell McKnight, OG-DT; D.J. Kirpas, OL-LB; Jon Dumas, WR-S; Jacob Carfo, WR-LB; Austin Verab, OL/DL; John Panda, OL-DL; Arsim Kalici, OL

Coaches take: “The kids have an incredible work ethic. They want to learn and want to be successful.”

Woodland

2018 record: 9-2 overall, 9-1 NVL (Class S quarterfinalist)

Head coach: Chris Moffo (4th season, 15-16)

Assistant coaches: Chris Anderson, Scott Lynch, Cody Kingsley, Steve Bainer, Joe Kmetz, Tom Bonvisuto

Key players: Alek Tolboe (Sr., OL-DL), Tyler Bulinski (Sr., QB), Zachariah Kabusk (Sr., RB-DB), James Champagne (Sr., WR-DB), Ryan Knobel (Sr., OL-DL), Jason Palmerie (Soph., RB-DB), Nick Rousseau (Jr., RB-DB), Brett Barrett (Jr., OL-LB)

Key newcomers: Joe Dedomenico (Jr., RB-DB), Mike Bunce (Jr., TE-LB)

Key losses: Edit Krivca, RB-LB; Josh Hassan, OL-DL; Carter Amore, TE-LB; Joe Shea, OL, DE; Mike Farina, WR-DB; Zach Cochran, RB-DB

Coach’s take: “The team will be prepared and sound in all phases.”

Here are the football previews for the NVL’s Iron Division:

By MARK JAFFEE

Naugatuck

Head coach: Dave Sollazzo (3rd season, 18-4)

2018 record: 9-2 overall, 9-1 NVL (Class L quarterfinalist)

Assistant coaches: Kevin Cretella, defensive coordinator; Brendan McQueeney, offensive coordinator-WR-DB; Ollie Gray, assistant head coach, QB-RB, junior varsity; Scott Langenheim, OL-OLB; Matt Burke, freshman coach-DB-WR

Key players: Syed Ahmad (Sr., OL-DL), Malachi Gatison (Sr., RB-LB), Josh Lastra (Sr., OL-DL), Anson Lau (Sr., OL-DL), Paul Marsh (Sr., WR-DB), Jay Mezzo (Sr., QB), Dante Miranda (Sr., RB-LB), Jeff Schebell (Sr., WR-DB), Herve Tshibamba (Sr., OL-DL), Isaiah Williams (Sr., WR-DB), Ty Dippelhofer (Sr., OL)

Key newcomers: Aaron Smith (Jr., RB-LB), Jason Spino (Jr., WR-DB), Tim Northrup (Jr., OL), Matt Nunno (Sr., DL), Connor Maxwell (Jr., DL), Nick Linton (Jr., WR-TE-LB).

Key losses: Zack Koslosky, WR-DB-PK (Western New England), Jadyen Anderson, OLB (CCSU), Mike Natkiel, RB-LB; Tyrell Allen, DL; Elijah Robinson, WR-DB; Doreon Chapman, RB-DB; Nick Airall, RB-DB; Michael Amankwah, DL; Derek McGrath, OL-DL; Jonathan Vincent, OLB

St. Paul

2018 record: 5-5

Head coach: Jude Kelly (15th season, 66-68)

Assistant coaches: Chris Kennedy, Tony Mazzarella, Kiley Palmer, Mike Guy, Joe Ciancolo

Key players: Max Peruta (Sr., WR-DB-LB), R.J. Murphy (Sr., OL-LB), Quentin Conner (Jr., RB-DB), Jack DelDebbio (Jr., C-DL), Ben Foligno (Jr., OL-DL), Bryson Kennedy (Jr., QB-DB), Matt Bacho (Sr., PK), Matt Boscoglio (Sr., LB)

Key losses: Kevin Ashworth, QB-S; Connor Bogdanski, RB-DB; Ryan Pendergast, RB-DB; Joe Sefcik, OL-DL

Coach’s take: “The players are coachable, competitive and experience. Our goal is to get better every day and every game.”

Torrington

Head coach: Gaitan Rodriguez (7th season, 27-36)

2018 record 4-6

Assistant coaches: Rick Dubois, WR-DB; Mike Ciesco, QB-OLB; Kevin Caruso RB-LB; Rusty Elliott OL-DL; Rich Romanchick, RB-OLB; Jim Hoyt WR-DB

Key players: Conrad Avallone (Sr., QB-DB), Christian Estefani (Sr., RB-DB), Jacob Coleman (Sr., WR-SS), Logan Bermas (Sr., OL-LB), Bryce Coudriet (Sr., OL-DL), Zach Sweeney (Sr., OL-DL), Aidin Traver (Jr., OL-DL), Logan Kovall (Soph., WR-DB)

Key newcomers: Jose Navarro (Sr., FB-DL), Mike Brown (Sr., WR-DB), Joe Zepperi (Sr., WR-DB), Rangel Pascual (Sr., WR-DB), Isaiah Hammonds (Sr., WR-DB), Zander Romanchick (Jr., OL-DL), Zakye Smith (Jr., RB-LB), Lucas Stannard (Jr., QB-OLB)

Key losses: Ora Curry, QB (All-Iron), Jacob Allen, OL-DL (All-NVL), Josh Maldonado, RB-LB.

Coach’s take: “The strength of our team has been our senior leadership, our effort and focus throughout the offseason. I feel really good about the preparation, the commitment, the effort and focus the team has demonstrated throughout the offseason. Everyone has been working diligently to take steps forward and have an improved season.”

Watertown

Head coach: Luigi Velardi (6th season, 20-32)

2018 record: 3-7

Assistant coaches: Shawn Stanco, offensive coordinator; Jerry Valentino, defensive coordinator; Keith Borkowski, freshman coach; Jeremy Plourde, special teams; Bruce Ciancialo, DL; Robert Rose, OL; Mike Lombardi, OL; Rob Graziano, QB; Matt Terlizzi, LB; Brian Consalvo, RB

Key players: Xavier Powell (Sr., QB), Anthony Velardi (Sr., RB-LB), Jaeden Goodwine (Sr., WR-DB), Leo Kolonsky (Sr., WR-DB), Jonathon Palomba (Sr., LB), Owen Jalbert (Sr., OL-DL), Jake Gambi (Sr., OL-DL), Owen Munson (Sr., WR).

Key newcomers: Charlie Maynard, WR-DB, Sr.; John Terlizzi lll, RB-DB, Sr.; Mateo Raidhi, WR-DB, Jr.; Anthony Latanzio, OL-DL, Jr.; Ryan Robinson, OL-DL, Jr.; Rich Serna, RB-LB, Jr.; Nicholas Graziano, LB, Jr.

Key losses: Alban Blerci, OL-DL; Charlie Mazzarella, OL-DL (All-Iron); Sam St. Hilaire, RB-DB

Coach’s take: “We look to compete this year on both sides of the ball. We return eight on defense and eight on offense. How we play this year is put into the hands of my offensive and defensive lines.”

Wolcott

Head coach: Chris Theriault (first season)

2018 record: 7-4 overall, 7-3 NVL (Class M quarterfinalist)

Assistant coaches: Chris Hayes, offensive coordinator; Lorenzo Baker, defensive coordinator; Bob Stoeckert, OL; Tony Bell, DL; Jim Pawlak, Ryan Caggiano, Kevin Nicol, Chris Spring

Key players: Matt Stoeckert (Sr., QB), DJ Barry (Sr., OL), Dean Bard (Jr., OL), Justin Pawlak (Sr., DL), Nick Lafountain (Sr., FS)

Key losses: Anthony Ligi, QB-DB; Jake Filippone, OL-LB; Logan Lussier, OL-DL; Dean Howell, OL-DL; Jake Sforza, FB-LB

Coach’s take: “We will be technically and fundamentally sound and looking to compete every week.”

Outlook: Matt Stoeckert will start at quarterback after playing an invaluable role as a receiver and defensive back last season. D.J. Barry and Dean Bard return on offensive line, which has always been a strength of the Eagles. A handful of players on the defensive side saw varsity repetitions last season. Head coach Chris Theriault succeeds Matt Hove, who resigned after last season following two seasons. Theriault, a Bristol native, was previously an assistant at Cromwell-Portland and a head coach at Platt Tech in Milford. Theriault is a department head at Kaynor Tech in Waterbury.

Here are the football previews for the NVL’s Brass Division:

By MARK JAFFEE

Crosby

Head coach: Mike Scott (first season)

2018 record: 0-10

Assistant coaches: Mike Forge, WR; Taji Blizzard, LB; Brandon Sierra, QB-DB; Edgar Rivera, RB; Matthew Santos, OL-DL

Key players: Mark Campbell (Sr., RB-WR-S), Elias Diaz (Sr., WR-DE), Sam Sebus (Jr., OT), Edric Guzman (Sr., RB-MLB), Talen Hernandez (Jr., OG, attends WAMS), Jonathan Johnson (Jr., TE-DE), Tanner Leo (Soph., QB), Johan Medina (Sr., OL-MLB), Jeremy Santos (Jr., OL), Tiaje Vasquez (Sr., WR, attends WAMS), Jeffrey Burke (Soph., WR-DB)

Key newcomers: Isaiah Miller (Jr., DT), Eddison Rodriguez (Jr., OG-DT), Taji Blizzard (Soph., WR-DB)

Coach’s take: “They have youth, energy, an eagerness to learn and a hunger to get better and to win.”

Holy Cross

Head coach: Mike Giampetruzzi (11th season, 65-42)

2018 record: 6-4 (Brass Division champions)

Assistant coaches: Matt Smolley, offensive coordinator; Jim Caouette, defensive coordinator; Chris Mullins, offensive line; Eric Barbarito, linebackers; Dave Iannantuoni, running backs; Robert McGrath, freshmen

Key players: Elijah Wright (Jr., RB-LB), Rashawn Mitchell (Jr., WR-DB), Mah’Kai Wilson (Soph., WR-LB), Sam Gizzie (Jr., OL-DL), Shawn Austin (Sr., RB-DB), Marcus Payne (Sr., WR-DE), Patrick Giancarli (Jr., RB-DB), J.J. Giesen (Jr., OL-DE)

Key newcomers: Jalon Jones (Soph., RB-LB), Luke Daddona (Soph., WR-DB), Drevon Yeldell (Jr., QB), Jayden Peszek (Jr., OG-MLB)

Key losses: Qaron Brown, WR (All-State); Alex Ward, RB-DL (All-State); Corey Fappiano, QB; Vincent Graziano, WR-DB; Connor Goggin, WR-DB; Jared Longo, OL-DL

Coach’s take: “We have a young team but have a lot of experience playing at the varsity level.”

Kennedy

Head coach: Chris Sarlo, 15th season, 43-101)

2018 record: 4-6

Assistant coaches: Don Boland, Roy Thompson, Gus Krisavage, Dave Soucey

Key players: Tre’Sean Graves (Jr., capt., WR-DB); Zech Rountree (Jr., capt., WR-DB), Chris Byrd (Sr., capt., OL-DL), Angel Cruz (Sr. capt., FB-MLB)

Key newcomers: Damar Byrd (So., RB-LB), Reis Mussino (So., C-MLB), J’Kwon Crawford (So., QB), Dereck Ledee (Fr., QB), Devin Johnson (Fr., RB-DB), Elliot Giordano (Fr., FB-LB), Daniel Hernandez (Fr., WR-DB)

Key losses: Rhakeem Henry, RB-LB; Nytoni Jones,TE-LB; Cassius Arnold, OL-DL-LS; Jake Desjardins, WR-CB; Elijah Nelson, RB-SS

Coach’s take: “The freshmen numbers are impressive and they have a lot of desire and the core has good football experience.”

Sacred Heart-Kaynor Tech

2018 record: 3-7

Head coach: Thomas Allen (3rd season, 4-16)

Assistant Coaches: Rohan Ifill, David Plaza, Jamorie Gregory, Andrew Quinones, Keerome Lawrence, Ken Douglas

Key players: Alex Gonzalez (Sr., QB-LB), Josue Salazar (Sr., WR-DB), Takai Coleman (Sr., RB-LB), Jayden Gonzalez (Sr., RB-LB), Marques Williams (Soph., WR-DB), Joe Zafra (Sr., OL-DL), Cassidy Sheehan (Sr., WR-DB), Tommy Romero (Sr., WR-DB), Dyllon Polletta (Sr., OL-DL)

Key newcomers: Matt Perkins (QB-DB), Justin Stevens (RB-DB)

Key losses: Rob Guerin, Saijon McIntosh, Quinten Asiedu

Coach’s take: “We have good skill players with the ability to make big plays. Hopefully we will be able to compete in the league and surprise some people along the way.”

Waterbury Career Academy

2018 record: 5-5

Head coach: Peter Flammia (4th season, 12-18)

Assistant coaches: Dom Flammia, associate head coach; Trai Weaver, offensive coordinator; Ronan O’Leary, OL-DL, special teams; Tom Farrington, RB-LB-special teams; Justen Rudel, WR-DB

Key players: Jalen Gopie (Sr., capt., RB-OLB), Rafael Prado (Sr., capt., OL-MLB; Darrell Coombs (Sr., capt., TE-OLB); Giovanni Rodrigues (Sr., capt., OL-DL), David Matabula (Sr., OL-DL), Xavier Rivera (Sr., WR-SS)

Key newcomers: Adhem Gad (Jr., C-LB), Carmelo Mojica (Soph., RB-MLB), Carlos Calle (Soph., OL-DL)

Key losses: Jacob Torres, WR-DB, All-Brass; Langstun Racine, WR-DB, All-Brass; Mark Cummings, OL-LB.

Coach’s take: “We are hoping to be competitive in all of our games.”

Wilby

2018 record: 1-9

Head coach: LaMar Kennedy (5th season, 1-39)

Assistant coaches: Preston Soeprasetyo, defensive coordinator; Damon Atkinson, OL-DL; Walter Lewis, RB-LB; Mike Hunter, WR-DB

Key players: Dashaune Wilson (Sr., H-Back-LB, All-NVL in ’18), Raekwon James (Sr., RB-DB), Andres Urena (Sr., WR-DB), David LaBoy (Jr., QB-DB)

Key newcomers: Rashaad Lodge (Jr., OL-DE), Kadrais Araline (Jr., WR-SS), Giovanni Brown (Sr., RB-LB).

Key losses: Erick Pelton (All-Brass); Dylen McKitty (All-Brass); Stefon Morris (All-Brass)

Coach’s take: “The team strength is defense and overall team speed. We’re looking for our defensive players to make big plays this season.

Here are previews for area football teams for the season:

By MARK JAFFEE

Lewis Mills

2018 record: 0-10 (Pequot)

Head coach: John Oko (2nd season at Mills)

Assistant coaches: Chris Martinelli, defensive coordinator; Zach Vitalli, Mike Watts, Bryan Zeiner, Dave Orie

Key players: Nick Romano (Sr., capt., OG-LB), Cade Cormier (Sr., capt., FB-DE), Colby Nordstrom (Sr. capt., QB-S), Sean Polinsky (Jr., RB-OLB), Tyler Kolenda (Jr., TE-OLB), Colby Cables (So., TE-FS), Josh Martinotti (Jr., RB-CB)

Key losses: Grayson LaBerge, QB; Alex Nicoletti, OG-DE, Holden Cowger, OT-DE, Cooper Matiello WR-DB, Dylan Hallett, Tyler Rousseau, C- LB

Coach’s take: “The players seem more enthusiastic and have a sense of confidence. We had a good offseason.”

Outlook: Lewis Mills is beginning its first season in Central Connecticut Conference after competing in Pequot Conference the past decade. The Spartans’ linebacker core of Nick Romano, Tyler Kolenda and Sean Polinsky, is the strength of the team, according to Oko. The secondary should also be strong, led by Colby Nordstrom, who started at corner back last season, but will move to safety and utilize his instincts and strong leadership abilities. Nordstrom will also start at quarterback. Having the ball in his hands will be a key as the Spartans feature a wishbone offense. Fullback Cade Cormier and halfback Sean Polinsky will get plenty of opportunities.

Cheshire

2018 record: 3-7

Head coach: Don Drust (8th season, 37-25)

Key players: Jason Shumilla (Sr., capt., QB-DB), Will Bergin (Sr., capt., OL-DL), Colby Griffin (Sr., QB-DB), Jake McAlinden (Sr., RB), Sean Cangiano (Sr., OL-DL), Jacob DuBois (Sr., RB-LB), Alec Frione (Sr. WR-DB), Trevor DeLott (Sr., RB-LB)

Key losses: Elijah Allston, RB-LB; Tim Krutz, WR-DB

Coach’s take: “We return a lot of guys who have played a lot of football.”

Outlook: Cheshire played a lot of underclassmen and that should bode well for this season. Running back Jake McAlinden ran for 973 yards and has recorded 2,169 all-purpose yards and 15 TDs. The offensive line is a strength with returning starters Will Bergin and Sean Cangiano. Quarterbacks Jason Shumilla and Colby Griffin saw action last season and both are back. The defense is also a strength with an experienced defensive line and secondary. The Rams faced a really tough schedule last season through the first half, and while they went winless through the first five games, they played several close games, including a 17-10 decision to Shelton and a 33-30 OT decision to Law of Milford.

Gilbert-Northwestern

2018 record: 4-6

Head coach: Scott Salius (12th season, 70-44)

Assistant coaches: Tom Scarangelo, Josh Penn, Chris Salius, Mark Douglass, Bob McCarthy, Jeff Rines

Key players: Dylan Keith (Sr., OL-DL, All-Pequot), Dylan Phillips (Sr., OL-DL), Nate Garala (Sr., OL-DL), Chase Sanden (Sr., RB-DB), Cam Mulligan (Sr., WR-DB), Marco Folino (Jr., RB-LB), Josh Hamel (Jr., PK)

Key newcomers: Hunter Sanden (Jr., RB-LB), Anthony Carfiro (Jr., QB-DB), Clay Maloney (Jr., RB-DB), Ryan Van Dyke (Jr., WR-DB), Ian Thompson (Soph., TE-LB)

Key losses: Alex Smith, RB-LB, All-Pequot); Eric Lissy, QB-DB; Zack McLellan, RB-LB

Coach’s take: “The team lacks depth, but of the players on the roster many saw action in 2018.”

Outlook: The team returns five starters on the offensive line and at tight end plus two others saw significant time last season. Chase Sanden starts at quarterback. He began last season at tailback before moving to quarterback due to an injury to starter Eric Lissy. Marco Folino showed great promise at running back and returns as a junior. The defensive line should be strong with a lot of experience, featuring Dylan Keith, a four-year, two-way starter on the line. A versatile athlete at Gilbert, Keith won the Class S wrestling championship at the heavyweight division and also earned All-State in golf last spring.

Nonnewaug

2018 record: 5-3 junior varsity level

Head coach: Zach Mihaly (3rd season)

Assistant coaches: Ray Nappi, Trevor Scappatura, Runni Walter-Prince, Joe Wall

Key players: C.J. Fairbairn (Sr., capt., OL-LB), Austin Grant (Sr., capt., WR-DB), Matthew Stampp (Sr., OL-DL), Hunter Owens (Sr., RB-LB), Jacob Hungerford (Jr., WR-DB), Cody Kelsey (Jr., OL-DL), Kellen Herman (OL-DL), Ben Conti (Soph., QB-DB), Colby Leonard (WR-DB).

Key newcomers: Jacob Marques (Soph., RB-LB), Sam Scott (Fr., QB-DB)

Coach’s take: “The majority of our skill positions are back. Our entire offensive line is back. Everyone is all in and working hard to obtain our goals. Leadership through experience will determine how successful this team will be.”

Outlook: The Chiefs had hoped to join a cooperative program, but instead will remain by themselves and split the season between playing sub-varsity and varsity games.

Junior varsity games: Sept. 16: at Wethersfield; Sept. 28: home vs. Trumbull; Nov. 4: home vs. MCW United; Nov. 14: home vs. Bethel; Nov. 21: at Pomperaug

Varsity games: Oct. 12: home vs. Amistad; Oct 26: at Amistad; Nov. 27: home vs. Capital Prep

O’Brien Tech

2018 record: 7-3

Head coach: Tim Nixon (first season)

Assistant coaches: Robert Hayes, defensive coordinator, LB-RB; Ronte Byrd, DL-WR

Key players: Branden Acosta (Sr., FB-LB), Xavier Gonzalez (Sr., OT-DE), Matt Gilbert (Sr., C-DT), Xavier Velleco (Sr., RB-DB), Marques James (Jr., OG-DE), Ryan Scarpuila (Jr., OT-DT), Rian Newkirk (Jr., TE-LB), Kevin Flynn (Jr., RB-DB), Ozzie Priar (QB-DB)

Key losses: Jammar Roc, RB; Jonte Roc, RB; Devon Mero, WR

Coach’s take: “I think our offensive line will lead the way and be our strength, offensively. Our linebacking corps has shown steady progression.”

Outook: Nixon takes over for longtime coach Nick Aprea, who nearly took team to the playoffs for the second time in three years last season. The Condors won their first five games last season. Nixon was the offensive coordinator at Hamden Hall in 2018 and held that role at West Haven High from 2011-17. The Condors’ strength is on the offensive line and at linebacker.

Pomperaug

2018 record: 6-4

Head coach: Tony Pereira (2nd season, 6-4)

Assistant coaches: John Pereira, offensive coordinator; Bert Hughes, OL-DL; John Klechner, OL-DL; Rob Mazuroski, head freshmen; Andrew Reel, freshmen

Key players: Jake Oldham (Sr., capt., RB-LB), Sai Quesenberry (Sr., capt., OL-DL), Mike DeRienzo (Sr., capt., TE-LB), J.C. O’Leary (Sr., capt., WR-DB), Henry Mescavage (Sr., OL-DL), Owen Henry (Jr., RB-LB)

Key newcomers: Max Fitch (Sr., OL-DL), Tomas Reyes (Sr., RB-LB), Connor Brown (Jr., QB-DB) Jay-Li Poon (Sr., QB-DB), Anthony Kosheluk (Soph., FB-LB), Alec Kosheluk (Soph., RB-LB)

Key losses: David Satkowski, OL-DL; Troy Harwell, QB-DB; Aidan Henry, TE-DL; Joe Christiano, OL-DL; Jon Tapia, FB-LB

Coach’s take: “We have depth at the skilled positions and have a group of players who understand the importance of work ethic and mental toughness as it relates to success on the field.”

Outlook: The Panthers won three of the final four games last season to finish with their first winning season since 2011. Jake Oldham is an effective running back and emerged as one of the two-way players in the SWC. One of the keys will be at quarterback to replace three-year starter Troy Harwell, as Connor Brown and Jay-Li Poon will be vying for time. Quesenberry anchors the offensive and defensine lines. The Panthers will play four out-of-conference games — Bristol Eastern, Farmington, Hamden and North Haven — which will be a good measuring stick on how much they have improved.

MCW United

2018 record: 0-10

Head coach: Jennifer Garzone (first season)

Assistant coaches: Larry Gwinn, WR-DB-Special teams; Damian Gwinn, QB-RB-LB; Mark Mangelinkx

Key players: Jacob Waldron (Sr., RB-LB), Dylan Crump (Sr., QB-RB-SS), Max Dodge (Sr., RB-LB), Zach Mallett (Sr., OL-DL), Eric Hickey (Sr., WR-S)

Key losses: Chris Speaker, QB-TE-DL; Nick Guida,      RB-LB

Coach’s take: “Our energy and chemistry will essential this season. We have five seniors with significant varsity experience who will lead us to success. With the addition of a couple of transfers, new upperclassmen players and a healthy freshmen class, MCW United should tun the page.”

Outlook: Garzone succeeds longtime head coach Jamie Coty and becomes the first female scholastic head football coach in Connecticut history. The program, with 40 players, is in its fourth season as a cooperative with Housatonic and Wamogo. The team hasn’t won a varsity game since becoming a co-op.

Southington

2018 record: 10-0 regular season (Class LL quarterfinalist)

Head coach: Mike Drury (9th season, 80-11)

Assistant coaches: Mike Drury, Chuck Drury, Rob Levesque, Frank Stamilio, Bill Liquindoli, Drew Barmore, Alex Jamele, Steve Barmore, Armando Candelaria, Will Shifrin, Max Connolly, Travis Swim, Andy Pettola, Steve Daniels (Statistician).

Key players: Carter Uhlman (Sr., WR-DB), Angelo Plantamuro (Sr., capt., RB-LB), Johnny Carreiro (Sr., capt), Billy Carr (Sr., capt., LB), Dillon Kohl (Sr., RB-DB), Josh Vitti (Sr., WR-DB), Jacob Vecchio (Sr., capt., OL-DL)

Key newcomers: Max Casella (Sr., LB), Ryan Andrews (Sr., OL-DL), Jake Delmonte (Sr., WR),

Key losses: Sam McCarty, OL, All-CCC, All-State, 2nd Team Walter Camp and USA Today; Will Downes, WR, All-State, All-CCC; Jacob Flynn, WR, All-State, All-CCC; Jacob Drena, QB, All-CCC; Tanner LaRosa, RB, All-CCC; Jamie Lamson, WR; All-CCC; Kyle Messenger, LB

Coach’s take: “Our strength is our leadership on both sides of the football of players who saw significant action last year will be a key element to the success of our team this year. We have players who have a tremendous work ethic and look to improve every day. Our team strength and speed is as good as it ever has been in the program.”

Outlook: The key for the Blue Knights will replacing quaterback Jacob Drena and three starters on the offensive line. Dillon Kohl has emerged as the team’s primary running back, succeeding the graduation loss of Tanner LaRosa. Southington has four returning starters on the defensive side of the ball and five on the offensive side of the football. The Blue Knights have reached postseason in six of the eight seasons in Drury’s tenure. The Blue Knights will play perennial state contender Darien in an out of conference game.

Taft

2018 record: 8-1 (Erickson League, NEPSAC Todd Marble Bowl Champions)

Head coach: Tyler Whitley (8th season, 27-30)

Key returning players: Diante Vines (Sr., WR-SR., All-New England selection, committed to University of Iowa), Michael Yamin (Sr., capt., WR-DB, All-Founder’s League), Mashod Harrison (Sr., capt., RB-LB, All-Erickson League), Jack Bryant (Sr., capt., LB), Zach Derish (Sr., LB), Josh Schwartz (Sr., QB-LB-K), Skyler Bell (Jr., WR-DB), Jacob Rooks (Jr., WR-CB).

Key newcomers: Stanley Dennis (PG, OL-DL), Michael Spencer (PG, TE-DE), Chez Jennings (PG, OL-DL), Osirus Rhodes (PG, OL-DL), Richie Licursi (Jr., OL-DL, transfer from St. Joseph, of Oxford), Mason Frank (Jr., OL-DL), Heath Bostick (Jr., OL-DL), Mark Didio (Jr., WR-DB), Jack Englert (Soph., RB-DB), Nick Brown (Fr., QB).

Coach’s take: “We return some very talented skill players and we add a strong new group of postgraduates and repeat juniors. We expect to compete with the best in New England. We also know that we won’t sneak up on anyone this year and we will definitely get everyone’s best game.”

Outlook: The Rhinos graduated quarterback Nolan Grooms, the Erickson League Player of the Year, now at Yale. Senior Josh Schwartz and freshman Nick Brown (6-4 195) will compete for the starting spot and will likely both see action at QB. Diante Vines (12 TDs in 2018), Yamin, Skylwe Bell, Sean Cummings and Mark Didio make for a really strong aerial attack. Senior center Erik Johannesson-Perez, a 6-foot-4, 315-pounder from Rekyjavik, Iceland is the only returning starter on offensive line.

Cheshire Academy

2018 record: 5-4

Head coach: David Dykeman (8th season)

Key players: Jack Roberge (Sr., RB), Jordan Robinson (Sr., WR-CB), Charlie Davis (Sr., LB), Greg Fernstrom (Sr., OL), Jack Brandon (Jr., QB), Wilfredo Aybar (Soph., DE), Toby Canales (Jr., OL-DL)

Coach’s take: “We have a solid group of returning starters and a nice nucleus of new players.”

Outlook: The Cats will be playing its final season as a Class A independent and will join the newly re-aligned NEPSAC A Division next fall.

Five years after graduating from Ansonia High and a year out of UConn, standout running back Arkeel Newsome hasn’t given up on a professional football career.

By MARK JAFFEE

Last Thursday, he signed online a free-agency form with the National Gridiron League, a 12-team indoor league that began in 2017 and competes in the spring.

Most of the league’s franchises are in the Midwest and South. The closest franchises to Connecticut are in Pennsylvania and Virginia.

“I haven’t found a home; I’m still looking,” said Newsome, 25. “I’ll play anywhere as long as I get to play. I haven’t given up my football dream. I’m still going strong. I feel I have worked way too hard and way too long to give up now. I still have a lot of hope.”

Newsome is also considering the Arena Football League.

Newsome still holds a series of state rushing and touchdown records from high school.

“It seems like a long time ago,” said Newsome. “I miss playing at Ansonia and UConn, for sure. To this day, I look back at the highlights, with high school football about to start.”

At Ansonia, Newsome rushed for 10,672 yards, still No. 1 in Connecticut history, from 2010-13. He also holds state records for touchdowns in a season (68) and a career (187) and points in a season (422), all set in 2013. Newsome led the Chargers to three state titles from 2011-13.

At UConn, Newsome rushed for 1,956 yards from 2014-17, with eight touchdowns.

A 2018 UConn graduate with a degree in urban studies, Newsome has been working as a home-care aide in Waterbury for a company known as NeuroStrategies Inc.

[This post contains video, click to play]

Westover

Head coach: Kendra Galusha (5th season, 40-28)

2018: 13-4

Key players: Setter Ellie Dunn (conference All-Star), middle hitter Kayla Surajnoth (4-year starter), middle hitter/outside hitter Meaghan Bottino, libero Natalie Calo

Coach’s comment: “We have great returning players who are dedicated to the sport and want to continue the success from last year. We have six returning seniors who want to make an amazing senior season.”

Wolcott Tech

Head coach: Ray Tanguay (first season)

2018: 5-15

Key players: Senior Kelly Benham, juniors Zoe Orie, Rachel Heaney, Karlee Fendley, Alexis Gonzalez, Gianna Spagnola, Sophomore Jennifer Sarmiento, sophomore Sierra Doyle (CTC first-team)

Coach’s comment: “The team is motivated and working diligently to imp[rove our offense and defense to put us in a position to qualify for the league and state tournament. They are driven and focused to meet their goal and providing great strength and leadership to forge their oath to success.”

Here are girls swimming previews (from schools that replied):

Watertown

Head coach: Garry Smith (35th season, 244-136-2)

2018: 6-4

Key swimmers: Senior Captain Sarah Jacovino (state finalist); Juniors Emma Johnson, Jill Nugai; Sophomore Gabrielle Malenda

Outlook: The Indians hope to be the best among a tough Seymour squad and a strong Naugatuck, Sacred Heart and Woodland.

Coach’s comment: “After graduation, injury and retirements this is very young team. We have ten 9th and 10th graders. We have some ability and lots of enthusiasm. If they can turn that into some good times we’ll have a good season.”

St. Paul

Head coach: Meegan Martin (18th season)

2018: 4-10

Key swimmers: Captain Miranda Grustas, Captain Lyndsay Stanwicks, Amelia Badzioch, Abby MacAllister, Adriana Raymond, Mary Melvin, Amber Austin

Coach’s comment/outlook: “After losing a strong senior class last year, our goal is to rebuild our team, personal best times, improve technqiue and stay united as a team. We have three new swimmers this year that show promise. I will be looking forward to seeing their improvements throughout the season. Wilby, Torrington, and Kennedy will be exciting meets for us. Our main focus meet as a team will be our NVL championships. Our goal is to have major time improvements and have more individual state qualifiers.”

Seymour

Head coach: Patrick DiCaprio (2nd season, 10-0)

2018: 10-0

Key swimmers: Senior Ania Mrozik (All-NVL, All-State), Juniors Olivia Velleco (All-NVL, All-State), Kelti Johnson (All-NVL, All-State), Kaitlyn McCluskey (All-NVL); Sophomores McKenna Haynes (All-NVL), Grace Parkosewich (All-NVL)

Outlook: The Wildcats have their sights set on another league champinship, but know they have tough competition facing Woodland and Naugatuck.

Coach’s comment: “After graduating one of the most decorated athletes to ever pass through the program, we have some lineup holes to fill. Freshman Sophia Velleco and Katrine O’Leary lead a talented incoming class that hope to do just that as the team works towards their goal of repeating as NVL champions.”

Southington

Head coach: Evan Tuttle (11th season)

2018: 8-2

Key swimmers: Seniors Gianna Perugini, Hannah Lasbury, Sarah Meade, Anny Moquete-Volquez, Kelly Berglund

Outlook: The Lady Knights will work to fulfill the Southington Athletics motto of ‘Chasing Excellence’ by working tirelessly day in and day out to improve, and will not settle for less than their best. The Lady Knights look to qualify as many athletes as possible into the post season and make another historic push for State Opens.

Coach’s comment: “The Lady Knights will be led by a strong, veteran senior class. At the head of the pack are Captains Gianna Perugini, Hannah Lasbury, Sarah Meade, Anny Moquette-Volquez and Kelly Berglund. Also returning to the pool this year are CT State Finalists Meghan Hammarlund, Maddie Symecko, Gianna Perugini, and Andie Nadeau. LL qualifier Jenna Famiglietti. Back on the board is LL finalist diver Liz Beaulieu.”

Cheshire

Head coach: Dave Modzelewski (2nd season, 11-0)

2018 record: 11-0, SCC champions

Key swimmers: sprint freestyler Sophie Murphy (All-State, All-American, State Open champion), distance free Julia Stevens (All-State, All-American), middle distance Nora Bergstrom (All-State, All-American), backstroke Sarah Chen (capt.), backstroke/IM Jillian Stevens (capt., All-State), butterfly Bella Tejeda, fly/breaststroke Mary Barto, diver Natalie DeMatteo, Freshman Julianna Tyler, freshman Avery Potyrala, sophomore Ellie Farell

Coach’s comment: “After graduating 17 seniors, we lost a lot of key swimmers in a championship run. We retained our top-notch junior and sophomore class while gaining great additions in our freshmen class and diving corps.

Soccer coaches and players can be notorious in their attempts to waste time. That is especially true for a team nursing a lead late in a game.

By ED DAIGNEAULT

The National Federation of High Schools took a step toward eliminating that with a rule change this year. In the last five minutes of a match, the clock will be stopped if the team in the lead or if both teams are substituting.

Previously, teams in the lead would run myriad subs into the game late to waste time. While officials had the discretion to stop the clock if the time-wasting tactics were obvious, the new rule makes things easier on officials.

“It takes the onus off of the referee,” said Art Hamm, rules interpreter for the Western Connecticut Soccer Officials Association. “The referee and coaches won’t get into any kind of disagreement.”

There will likely be issues, of course. Some schools don’t have scoreboards where the time is visible so the officials will have to constantly be checking their watches to see if a match is in the last five minutes. Some timekeepers might not be paying close enough attention.

While the referees’ time is the official time, there is likely to be some discrepancy between what the referees have for time remaining and what the timekeeper has. And there will probably still be a way to waste time, as Hamm found out when a coach asked him a question when he was presenting the changes to them.

“One guy asked, ‘What if the score is tied and I’m the visiting team and the other team is much better than me and I keep subbing because I’m trying to delay on purpose because I don’t want them to score on me?'” Hamm said. “That’s a different take.”

Answer: The clock continues to run unless the referee determines that is a clear delay tactic. However, determining intent is a gray area for referees.

“How do I know what he’s thinking?” Hamm said.

There are two other rules changes that die-hard fans might notice.

Improper equipment and illegal equipment will now be treated the same. Yellow cards, or cautions, will not be issued for improper equipment. Improperly equipped players — a player without shin guards or a player wearing jewelry, for example — can leave the field to correct the issue. A sub can be brought on or the offending team can choose to play down a player until the player has corrected the issue.

In the past, the team with an improperly equipped player was forced to play down a player while the team with an illegally equipped player could substitute. Illegal equipment includes hard casts or shin guards with sharp edges, among other things.

The National Federation saw an inequity that needed to be corrected.

The drop ball rule has also changed. The restart for an injury stoppage will be a drop ball regardless of whether a team was in clear possession at the time of the stoppage unless the goalkeeper has possession. The restart for a ball that goes out of bounds off opposing players simultaneously and when players commit simultaneous fouls of the same degree will be a drop ball.

Here are  boys soccer previews as submitted by team coaches:

Ansonia

Head coach: Ryan Santos.

2018 record: 4-7-3.

Key players: Sr. midfielders Conard Czerwonka, Evan Laskey, Joe Mongillo; So. defender Christian Malave; So. midfielder Martin Melo; Sr. defender Phil Zawardski; So. goalie Jamal Hannaif.

Coach’s comment: “We’re hoping to compete with the top of the league. We start with Seymour and will take it one game at a time.”

Crosby

Head coach: Mike Sullivan (11th season)

2018 record: 9-7-2

Key players: Sr., capt., Goalie Dylan Kinsella (All-NVL), Senior defender Tyson Parker, Senioor defender Dalip Asanov, Senior defender Josel Pinentel-Alves, Junior midfielder Rico Gomes, Junior forward Mostafa Mabrouk

Coaches comment: “We’re returning our entire defensive unit and our All-NVL goalkeeper (Kinsella). We will rely on him to keep us in games. We’re hoping for some players to step up on the offensive side.”

Derby

Head coach: Eric O’Toole (1st season as interim)

2018: 0-16

Key players: Seniors Jusuf Coma and Arman Torruellas; Sophomore Kujtim Gjonbalaj

Coach’s comment/outlook: “Our team will be working very hard to compete in a competitive Naugatuck Valley League. Watertown, Woodland, and Naugatuck will all be very good this year.”

Holy Cross

Head coach: John Teixeira (2nd season, 8-4-4)

2018: 8-4-4

Key players: Seniors Brian Silva (All-NVL), Christopher Christiano, Jack Villano, Tommy Pompei, Aidan Nixon; Juniors Kadin Talho (All-Brass), Gennaro Genua (All-Brass), Luke Zipoli, Colin Harrington, Justin Forino

Outlook: The Crusaders look forward to an interesting year with a lot of competitive teams.

Coach’s comment: “Looking to improve our team from last years season. The boys are eager to get Holy Cross back in the top tier.”

Kennedy

Head coach: Robert Likorama (1st season as head coach)

2018: 8-8-1

Key players: Seniors Redjan Cipi, Yasin Azizoglu; Juniors James Rusi, Nathan Meglio, Sher Eh Htoo, Kevin Demiraj

Outlook: “This year our team is aiming to win the City of Waterbury Jamboree and also qualify for the NVL and States Competition. Our experienced players will be joined by many new and talented players. The whole team has worked in the pre-season and is enthusiastically waiting to step on the field and well represent the Kennedy community.”

Coach’s comment: “Last year our team played very well and represented Kennedy in a dignified way! With vigorous training and hard work in the field our team reached the goal last year. We were able to play in the finals for the City of Waterbury Jamboree, qualify for the NVL finals, as well as the States. We will certainly take all the positives from last year and use them to furher advance our game this year.”

Naugatuck

Head coach: Ryan Kinne (4th season, 48-8-8)

2018: 12-5-3

Key players: Seniors Freddie Longo, Alex Manasoiu, Nelson Lavoura, Samuel Daniel; Juniors Jay Barth (Captain/All-NVL), Chris Akinduro (All-Iron); Sophomores Ahmed Aljamal, Manny Silva.

Coach’s comment/outlook: We’re excited about this group. There is plenty of talent and a good mix of youth and experience. The group is hungry and excited to get back on the field after a bit of an underwhelming year last season where we fell short of our expectations. Last year it seemed that nothing was given on any given night and we expect more of the same this year. There should be plenty of parity and we look forward to playing in a few classics.”

Oxford

Head coach: Dan Bautista (1st year)

2018: 3-11-1

Key players: Tanner Saracco, Matt Darroch, Aiden Casper

Coach’s comment: “Oxford looks to build and grow after a rough season in 2018. The Wolverines are young, only returning a few upperclassmen from the previous season. Tanner Saracco will return to the goal this season and will have a host of young talent in the field. New Coach Dan Bautista expects to use his younger players and build as the season progresses.”

Sacred Heart

Head coach: Stephen Bafumi (1st season)

2018: 4-12-0

Key players: Seniors Leandro Fernandes (All-NVL), Eddy Romero, Matthew Francisco, Nick Warner, Nelson Gomes, Douglas Riofrio; Juniors Jesse Swartout, Aidan Knappe, Jacob Grendzinski. Michael Cyr; Sophomore James Cipriano

Outlook: The Hearts have the capability and determination to be competitive in the NVL. The coaching staff believes that they will rise to the challenge and improve upon their results from last year.

Coach’s comment: “We are led by a large group of upperclassmen who are eager to contribute. Their work ethic and attitude has been outstanding so far. They are a very coachable group who have responded well to the challenges we’ve placed in front of them. Senior Leandro Fernandes is a talented player who leads by example and will be key to solidifying our defense. Junior Jesse Swartout has used his tremendous athleticism to become a great goalkeeper and also serves as a vocal leader. Sophomore James Cipriano gives us the type of creativity and vision that we look for in a central midfielder. Junior Aidan Knappe is a workhorse. His speed and endurance can be utilized in many different positions. Freshmen Zack Warner and Michael Cipriano have the technical ability to make an immediate impact”

Seymour

Head coach: Aaron Pawluk (first season)

2018: 8-5-2

Key players: Senior defender Jon Pereira, junior defender Ethan Bryce, junior midfielder Chris Seara, sophomore forward Jacek Inglant, sophomore defender Ben Sepulveda, sophomore defender Joe Marchetti

Coach’s comment: “We are a young team looking to be competitive in the NVL. We have a strong mix of talented underclassmen and older players looking to take on leadership roles.”

St. Paul

Head coach: Victor Lira (2nd season, 12-3-3)

2018 record: 12-3-3

Key players: Capt. Stefan Swolinski, capt. Adam Vanlinter, capt. Spencer Sinkwich, seniors Ethan Rembish, Luke Hines, Patrick Carbone, Jack Noli, junior Dani Bond

Coach’s comment: “We’re looking forward to this season. The team is hungry for more. We did well last year, but want to do better. We have high expectations and working very hard every day to accomplish our goals.”

Torrington

Coach: Michael C. Fritch (10th season, 94-64-10)

2018: 8-8-2

Key players: Neyger Atariguana, Nathan Bolesh, Janos Herczeg, Kevin Hidrovo, Xavi Rodas, Ben Sisic

Outlook: “The NVL looks to be the strongest it has been in while with a number of teams from all the divisions having an opportunity to not only make the league tournament but have a chance to win the tournament. It should be a very exciting season, with any number of teams comprising the top 8 in the league.”

Coach’s comment: “Eight starters return from last year’s team which competed hard in each game. The team needs to learn how to win the close one and in doing so good things will follow. The JV program has been restocked after 2 consecutive large freshman classes, which will provide some needed depth throughout the season.”

Watertown

Head coach: Vitto Caligiuri (8th season, 100-30-12)

2018: 19-1-3

Key players: Seniors Zack Fenn, Moni Jusufi, Troy Tedesco, Stephen Law, Austin Dickson, John Mancini, Evan Arnold, Jordan Arnold, Vincent Orsini; Juniors Ben Piri, Keith Caouette, Kam Pruitt, Mike Braun; Sophomores Justin Calabrese, Liam Farrell, Wes Kulikaukas, Bruno Colella, Betim Kllobochista, Ty Phelan, Rob Lubus, Finn Street, Lucas Fenn; Freshman Zack Polletta, Kyle Zaccagnini, Jack Geise, Nate LeMadeline, Eri Spaho, Percy Dozier.

Outlook: “The NVL is always a grind, there will be stiff competition every day. I see quite a few teams out there who are serious contenders and can win the NVL when all is said and done.”

Coach’s comment: “We have a very talented team this year, how well this team does will be dictated upon the way we replace some of the key players we lost last year in Jake Champagne (22 goals), Anthony Longo (6 goals, 4 assists), Jonathan Polletta, and Hayden Beauty. Moni Jusufi, Keith Caouette and Liam Farrell will be key players in our attack and we will look to them to replace the production we lost through graduation. Ben Piri had a great season last year with his goal and 14 assists, he will be one of the keys for us this year as we will look to him to provide experience and distirbute the ball in the middle. Troy Tedesco will provide the spark as he did much of last year, he is relentless in defense and provided some timely goals fo us last season. Wes Kulikauskas and Zack Fenn will anchor the defense in the middle and around them we have some talented outside backs in Mike Braun, Stephen Law, Kam Pruitt. Every season is different and nothing we accomplished last year carries over so this team needs to have that same focus and energy we brought into every game last year.”

Wilby

Head coach: John Alves (1st season)

2018: 3-12-1

Key players: Senior Orlando Coello; Juniors Messiah Harling, Nathan Daunis (All-Conference), Almin Cecunjanin, Rodney Delgado

Outlook: The Wildcats will focus on team and self growth, taking one game at a time and are looking forward to winning some games.

Coach’s comment: “We are a young Wilby team that lost 11 seniors to graduation. As we look forward to a new season, we recognize the challenges and difficulties ahead of us, and understand that hard work and persistence will provide opportunites.”

WCA

Head coach: Ryan McDonald (1st season as interim)

2018: 4-12

Key players: Seniors Lucas Aaronson, William Carillo, Brandon Lage, Enis Vako; Juniors Jon Bermejo, Joni Kadriaski; Sophomore Devin Pais

Outlook: The Spartans are looking forward to some exciting games across the board this year with several teams looking like they can compete for a championship.

Coach’s comment: “We return good leadership on this team. We need some younger players to step up and contribute. The team is excited to begin the season and is looking forward to competing.”

Wolcott

Head coach: Bryan Plona (13th season)

2018: 6-10-1

Key players; Senior midfielder Alex James, senior forward Chris LeBeau, senior midfielder Mike Santpietro, Sophomore forward Dwight Edwards, junior back Christopher Evangelista, junior goalie Kenneth Hayes

Coach’s comment: “We graduated 25 players the last two seasons and have only three or four with varsity experience. We will work hard to make the NVL playoffs.”

Woodland

Head coach: Kenan Collins (1st season, 4th with program).

2018 record: 14-4-3.

Key players: Senior midfielders Dante Polletta (All-Copper), Devon Poletta (All-NVL); Sr. goalie Ryan Lamb (11 shutouts); Sr. defender Geoge Hughes (All-Copper); Sr. striker Jason Claiborne (10 goals); Sr. striker Cole Barrows.

Outlook: Collins takes over for the defending Copper Division champs after three years as an assistant.

Coach’s comment: “We have a strong corps of kids and hope to be up there again among the top teams.”

Here are  boys soccer previews as submitted by team coaches:

Gilbert

Head coach: Patrick Cooke (1st season as interim)

2018: 1-13-2

Key players: Seniors Sean Smith, Kyle Valickis, Hunter Smith, Cam Merritt, Sam Hadash; Juniors Dylan Crowley, Max Cruz.

Outlook: The Yellowjackets look to improve on their 2018 record.

Coach’s comment: “We look to be competitive on a daily basis both in games and at practice. Gilbert will look to veteran upperclassmen who have a wealth of playing experience to lead the way.”

Housatonic

Head coach: Jim Terrall (10th season)

2018: 9-7

Key players: Senior capt. Midfield Lucas Calhoun (All-BL), Senior capt. defender Ian Gold, Senior capt. Forward Luke Molica

Coach’s comment: “I think we can be in the upper middle of the league. Our strength is our defense . We have a lot of potential, but it’s unrealized.”

Litchfield

Head coach: Rob Andrulis

2018: 15-3-1, Berkshire League championship, Class S semifinalist

Key players: Junior capt. Timmy Donovan (All-BL, All-State, 30 goals), senior capt. defender, midfielder Luke Parsons, senior defender Evan Fischthal, senior defender Ajani Campbell, junior goalkeeper Erik Tieman, junior midfield Aidan Donohue, senior defender Dan Pang, sophomore defender Daniel Dieck, sophomore midfielder Harrison Barnes, sophomore defender Tommy Gostowski, sophomore defender Thomas P. Eykeloff, sophomore midfielder Ethan Pang

Outlook: With Lewis Mills gone to CCC, Nonnewaug and Northwestern will be the teams to watch with Housatonic also competing at or near the top.

Coach’s comment: “We lost nine starters to graduation, so that said, we hope to compete and be near the top of the league standings come the end of October and qualify for the CIAC tournament. That is our goal and I believe this yioung group can achieve that.”

Nonnewaug

Head coach: Toby Denman (14th season, 168-49-18)

2018: 10-5-2, 10-4-2 BL

Key players: Seniors forward Josh Cheatham (2nd-team BL), defender Jackson Baker (first-team BL), goalkeeper Jim Parker, Juniors forward Zach Thompson, defender Franco Pannofino, defender Jon Khazzaka, midfielder Pedro Prates; Sophomores midfielder Aiden Colby (2nd-team All-BL), defender Brendan Burke

Coach’s comment: “A blend of youth and experience has Nonnewaug looking to compete for one of the top spots in the league.”

Northwestern

Head coach: Andrew Campbell (17th season, 163-84-28)

2018: 9-9

Key players: Seniors Zach Barown, Trey Newman, Ryker Weirdsma, Will Wysocki, Asher Kreske, Justin Lucas, Josh Pinton, Justin Tatsapaugh

Outlook: The Highlanders plan to contend against the teams to beat in the Berkshire League such as Nonnewaug and Housatonic.

Coach’s comment: “We return an experienced line-up of solid soccer players and should contend for the BL Title and we are looking forward to a good run in the State Tournament. I look towards how the younger players come together with the experienced guys, they have all worked hard in the off season and so far that is paying off with better training and more competition for playing time. I look forward to a good season.”

Shepaug

Head coach: Jim Stinson (9th season, 57-88-18)

2018: 6-9-3

Key players: Seniors Cole Donaghey, Nate Douskey, Drew Doerwald; Junior Cazden Brenner

Coach’s comment/outlook: “We are a very young team, as we graduated 10 starters and 15 seniors from last years team. I look for this team to be competitive and to play hard all season long in a tough BL.”

Terryville

Head coach: Ryan McAdoo (2nd season, 3-12-1)

2018: 3-12-1

Key players: Seniors Evan Coviello, Jacob Zappone, Dana Mazur

Outlook: The Berkshire League should be close this season and the Kagaroos are excited to get out and compete with everyone else.

Coach’s comment: “Last season was a learning experience, for the team as a whole. The boys learned some new information about the game of soccer and as a first year head coach, coach McAdoo had to learn the ropes. By the end of last season, the team had gained some momentum, but we ran out of games to play. We’re hoping to keep learning together, and to continue the momentum we ended with last season. Key match ups for the season include a night game on Friday, Oct. 4th against Thomaston at Terryville High School.”

Thomaston

Head coach: Martin Giroux (16th season)

2018: 8-8-1

Key players: Seniors Shawn Galeski, Ian Bethin, Chet Pierce, Sal Treglia; Juniors Ryan Bethin, Brendan Fainer, Nathan Scarola, Alex Mentone, David Treglia, Tyler Miller; Sophomores Enio Dauti, Connor Brody, Dylan Walmsley, James Bothroyd, John Reeser

Outlook: The Bears hope to qualify for the tournament and finish in the top half of the league, battling against Litchfield, Northwestern, Housatonic and Nonnewaug for the top spot.

Coach’s comment: “We are a very young team, as we only have four seniors. The good news is we have outstanding goalkeeping and several younger players who are eager to secure starting spots. Looking for a goal-scorer to step up and take charge of our offense.”

Wamogo

Head coach: Patrick Odell (5th season, 24-41-4)

2018: 4-11-1

Key players: Seniors Eric Fowler (BL Second Team Defender), Zach Kelly. Tyler Calhoun, Logan Marti; Juniors Oligert Leka, Noah Arrigoni

Outlook: “Navigating the Berkshire is tough for any team, the newly balanced schedule after the departure of Mills should re-invigorate rivalries and create a competitive environment as all teams will now play each other twice a year. Students are looking forward to this as I am sure coaches are as well.”

Coach’s comment: “The boys are optimistic and energetic about the 2019 season. We have worked hard in the off season to put ourselves in a position to be competitive every time we step on the field.”

BY JASON LEVY

TORRINGTON – With the start of the high school soccer season fast approaching, Torrington High boys soccer coach Michael Fritch is saving some space in his head to think about the future.

The Red Raiders brought in 12 freshmen last season and have added another 13 freshmen to the program for 2019. That’s 25 players who can put their time in on the JV squad and even earn some playing time on the varsity roster if they can distinguish themselves.

[This post contains video, click to play]

“So they come in and they’re small, they’re scrawny, but I like to keep as many freshmen as I can because their bodies are going to change so much after one full year of high school,” Fritch said Monday before a scrimmage against Litchfield. “There’s a couple of kids that were freshmen last year who are playing varsity today. As I’m watching them practice over there right now I already have eyes on a few of them that could play at some point this year and should play at some point next year.”

Fritch noted that with such a large senior class this season – there are currently 11 on the roster – the program needs to be stocked with young players ready to assume larger roles in the not-too-distant future. And it’s never too soon to see what the youngsters can do.

“We’re trying a lot of different things,” Fritch said. “This is our third scrimmage and I’ve mixed up lineups every 10 minutes just to try and find that right mix. It’s who is performing at that moment who is going to play because we want to win. If you’re not performing, someone else is going to.”

Fritch believes the current freshmen and sophomore classes have seen a spike in numbers because many of them have been playing together for a long time and have established deep connections. He is confident they can all flourish in Torrington.

“The kids know that coming to the high school, they are going to have a chance to play,” he said. “They see their friends coming to the high school and they want to come to THS. We’ve had that problem the last couple of years where kids have been choosing other schools. We’re trying to change that culture. This is a great place to come not just for sports, but for academics as well.

The freshman and sophomores will have a great resource on the upperclassmen, who see the young players as building blocks for the future who can bring the best out of the Red Raiders.

“It’s a big deal because the more people involved, the better it is for the program,” senior Xavi Rodas said. “The more people you have, the more stuff you get. The sport just gets bigger and we love to see that.”

If there is one lesson Rodas hopes to impart, it’s making the effort to be the best you can be.

“That’s probably the biggest thing,” he said. “Putting the work in, showing up to practice, being here on time and stuff like that. Just be here and put in the work. That’s all we ask for.”

Keeping an eye on the future doesn’t mean the Raiders are not focused on this season. Fritch believes his team can hold its own in the competitive Naugatuck Valley League.

“I’ve got a lot of seniors who have played varsity for three years,” he said. “They are hungry and they are not going to be intimidated by anybody. It’s not like they are stepping onto the field for the first time. They think it’s their turn. They are hoping they can put it all together at the right time. We are going to grow into our season. I don’t want to peak Thursday (in the season opener at Wolcott). I want to peak in November.”