Can-do spirit keeps growing at Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates has not had a winning season since 2000, which was the year some of Mike Donatucci's players were born. But if things stay on course, that could change this year.
The Hawks nearly accomplished the feat a year ago, winning four games. But they lost their final game of the season, which cost them a winning record and most likely a playoff spot.
"We have to get over the hump this year," Donatucci said. "The kids are finally understanding the sense of urgency here. They got a little complacent last year, since they weren't used to winning. They were expecting to win the fifth one. But there are no gimmees."
The program is blossoming under Donatucci, with 76 players on his combined varsity roster which includes sophomores. Two years ago, that combined number was under 50.
"It has been a good preseason," Donatucci said. "We have been cautious about how much we have banged. We feel very good about what we have in and how the practices have been going.
"The culture and mindset are turning to a 'We Can' from a 'Maybe.' We are making progress."
The Hawks welcome back their bruising H-back/defensive end Dante Cleveland, who has received numerous Division I offers, including Army. Cleveland, who is 6-foot-3 and 255 pounds, figures to be a huge part in what Hoffman does on both sides of the ball.
"Cleveland is the man," Donatucci said. "His skill set as a receiver is excellent. His blocking is phenomenal. And there are not too many defensive linemen that are better than him in the area."
Hoffman Estates will look to Keegan Pierce to replace Jeff Mayes, who graduated at quarterback.
Brandon Hall, who is 6-6 and has begun to draw some attention from college recruiters, will be giving opponents matchup issues all season at wide receiver. He will be joined on the outside by Dan Banahan.
Donatucci is very high on his offensive line, which harkens to his days at Fremd when it was all about size and strength. Jorge Morales (6-1, 218), Zack Clark (6-3, 275) Nathan Edwards (6-2, 270), Thomas Krawiec, (6-0, 232), Ryan Davalos (6-1, 265) and Jay Daniels (6-1, 209) will be a formidable group up front.
"It really is the strength of our team," Donatucci said. "It is one of the best offensive lines we have had here in at least the last 10 years."
Chady Bitre, who stepped in quite nicely last year after an injury and rushed for 693 yards, also returns. The Hawks will also have a pair of transfers in Jaylin Alexander (Schaumburg) and Jaylyn Johnson (Morgan Park) to provide some depth and carry the load.
Defensively, Hoffman will be strong with its front seven and will look to Cleveland to set the edge. La'Mere Barnes, Daniels and a rotation of Clark, Edwards, Davalos and Zavior Stopa will make up the defensive line. Byron Williams and Jakub Wiater will be keys at linebacker, along with Alexander.
The defensive backfield will be young and inexperienced. Ryan Howson, who is a senior, will return at safety along with sophomore Trevon Hall. Senior Jumaane Jones, junior Mishan Bradford and sophomores Anigel Jones and Clevonte Jackson, will be vying for the cornerback spots.