CR South believes it can turn things around

HOLLAND, PA. » With a host of sophomores in its starting lineup, the Council Rock South High School football team struggled last year with an 2-8 record.

Although it is looking at a limited five-game schedule, now is the time to turn it around with so many experienced returning players on both sides of the ball.

“We’re excited; we have a hungry group of kids,” said assistant coach Tony Checchia. “We took our lumps last year andwe have a lot of guys who want to prove themselves. We want to get back to what Council Rock South football is all about. We want to get back to playing with a lot of pride.”

The Hawks don’t have a lot of seniors but they do have two mainstays in David Nolter (250) and Aiden Geist. Nolter is a two-way lineman, while Geist is a linebacker and running back. Another senior to watch is wide receiver Josh Caldani.

The talented junior class includes Brady Beres and Alex Checchia. Beres will be one of the feature running backs while Checchia (6-5, 220) is a tight end/defensive end who is attracting Division 1 interest.

Junior Matt Striffolino is back at quarterback and looking good in the pre-season.

“Matt took a lot of hits last year, but he is now bigger and stronger,” said Checchia. “The experience he got from last year with help him a lot.”

Another key junior is Braden Kotter. He’s a two-way lineman aswell and part of a group that should be able to physically hold its own this season.

“We have gone tomore of a spread,” replied Che cc hi a when asked about the offense. “We will still run some option, but we are not the kind of wishbone team we used to be.”

Coached by Vince Bedesem, Rock South will open regular season play on Oct. 2 at home against HatboroHorsham.