Hersey’s aiming high
Hersey has been on a steady rise since Dragan Teonic took over the program three seasons ago. And with 19 seniors in the starting rotation, The Huskies look to truly break through this fall.
“We got some guys coming back,” said Teonic, who has compiled an 11-16 record in the previous three seasons.
“This is our first senior group that has been with us the whole time. It’s awesome. This group is committed and very serious.”
Hersey just missed qualifying last year with a 4-5 record, playing a schedule that included seven state qualifers. The Huskies’ 3-2 conference mark was the first time they posted a winning record in divisional play since 2004.
“Every group has built upon the previous one,” Teonic said. “This group is ready to accept the challenge.”
One of the things that is different is that we are using kids two ways this year. In the past, we have been completely platoon. So we think we will have 3 or 4 guys go both ways.”
Jack Warner will take over at quarterback this year, replacing Quinn Orlandi, who graduated. Gragt Burke, who will line up at tight end, along with Sam Harvey and Eddie Miklasz and Tyndale Dahnweih, will be on the receiving end of Warner’s throws.
The Huskies will also have a rotation of Mario Thomas, Kyle Polinski and Chase Bandolik in the backfield.
“They are all a bit different in the style that they run the ball,” Teonic said. “So it will give us some different looks.”
The trio will run behind an offensive line that is made up entirely of seniors. Chris Collins (6-foot-1, 235 pounds) and Joey Bellafiore (6-1, 200) both started last year for the Huskies. They will be joined by George Vladimirov (6-1, 230), Pat Flynn (6-1, 200) and Tyler Masini (6-1, 210). Sophomore Spencer Krueger (5-11, 205) will also see some action.
“This is the first time we have had five seniors start for us on the offensive line,” Teonic said. “But we are thin on the line with size and numbers. So we have to fight up front.”
Burke will anchor the defense for the Huskies and play middle linebacker, while Bandolik and Joey Seafield will also be at the linebacking position. Bellafiore, who is a three-year starter will be on the defensive line along with Vladimoriv. Harvey, Miklasz, Polinski Joey Caputo and Jack Carroll will make up some of the secondary.
“We will be better there,” Teonic said. “And a lot more athletic.”
Teonic hopes his Huskies can break through to challenge for the East conference title and qualify for the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
“We have a tough schedule so we need to play well,” Teonic said. “We have some ability and we are more skilled than I have ever seen here. But we need to stay healthy and not turn the ball over.”