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Expect top effort from senior-heavy Maine West

Maine West football coach Chris Hare knows he doesn’t have to worry about his Warriors giving 100 percent this season.

“Their work ethic is tremendous,” he said of his roster. “We have numerous players with experience coming back. We are very excited about our seniors. They are a strong group that are passionate about the game of football.”

Among the returning players for Hare are senior Matt Swanson (quarterback), junior Kyle Cook (offensive lineman), senior Brett Straessle (wide receiver), senior Nick Spizzirri (wide receiver), senior Zach Brown (safety), senior Aaron Leiva (outside linebacker), senior Kevin Strom (linebacker) and senior Joey Marella (outside linebacker).

Cook has started on the Warriors’ line since he was a freshman.

Swanson will be the signal caller for his second straight year.

“He’s a great leader,” Hare said. “Matt has a great work ethic. He’s a good runner and a smart kid.”

Hare likes the leadership of all his seniors.

“Once again that’s the strength of our team,” Hare said. “They are the glue that will hold our team together and will help us compete in every game. Our goal is to compete, be physical on defense and consistent on offense.”

The Warriors will plan to run an option-based offense under the direction of Swanson, who will also serve as the team captain.

“On defense, we have to avoid giving up the big play,” Hare said. “And we have to be more consistent with our tackling. On offense, it is simple. We need to put more points on the board.”

Hare knows the Central Suburban North will be tough as usual.

“The conference is always very tough,” he said. “We want to compete and be in the games. Our seniors have been playing for a while so we do have some experience.”

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