The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Fairport>>Skippers
Just the facts
Conference: NAC
Coach: Tim Glodowski, first year OHSAA: Division VII, Region 25 2020: 4-3
Twitter: @SkippersFB
Home field: Greig Field
Outlook
What a year the last two weeks have been for the Skippers. From doubt there would be a season at all due to unsustainable roster numbers to an unexpected coaching change in turn, Fairport has had to navigate its share of recent challenges. The positive aspect is numbers are seemingly sustainable now as the program embarks on its 100th anniversary season, with much of the returning talent back in the fold. There’s eight two-way starters and promise in what returns. But overall, what matters most is the broader picture is not as murky as it appeared even a week ago.
Player to watch
Josiah Cooper, a 5-foot-9, 215-pound senior, was a workhorse for the Skippers last fall, with 604regularseason rushing yards and eight TDs. Cooper is also among eight two-way starters who will line up at DE.
His production behind a young offensive line will be paramount to Fairport’s aspirations. Underclassman to watch: Junior Will Fazekas (6-2, 255) provides a unique combination, as the QB, with 852passing yards and eight TDs and five rushing scores a year ago in the regular season, and at nose tackle.
Bottom line
IF: … the Skippers can navigate their August tumult and stay healthy; THEN … around 5-5and a top-12playoff berth is doable, although that tumult makes that a big if.
— Chris Lillstrung
Dillon Knesebeck is shown during a 2020 game.
Schedule (subject to change)
Aug. 20: Brooklyn at Fairport, 7
Aug. 27: Fairport at Berkshire, 7
Sept. 3: Cardinal at Fairport, 7
Sept. 10: Fairport at Wickliffe, 7
Sept. 18: Fairport at Warren JFK, 7
Sept. 24: Pymatuning Valley at Fairport, 7 Oct. 1: Fairport at Mathews, 7
Oct. 8: Windham at Fairport, 7 (HC)
Oct. 15: Southington at Fairport, 7
Oct. 22: Fairport at St. John (at SPIRE), 7