The beat goes on for the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake football team.
The Spartans are looking for their fourth consecutive Section II Class A title and another trip to the state finals at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. But to do that, they will have to replace several key players from last year’s team including quarterback Phillip Neumann, tailback Tyler Paluba linemen Zachary Morton and John Acors.
We have to replace two defensive ends, which is a pretty big replacement, said head coach Matt Shell. `But the good news is we have half of our [defensive] line back.`
Senior Keaton Flint switches roles from wide receiver to quarterback to lead BH-BL’s offense.
`He’s working hard,` said Shell. `He likes the challenge, and he’s a real good athlete who likes challenges.`
Flint may not have to throw the ball often for BH-BL ` not with tailbacks Evan Nusbaum, Brandon Beatty and Willie Fisher returning to the backfield. And Shell said Flint will run with the football, too.
`With [Flint] back there, we essentially have four backs who can run the ball,` said Shell.
The Spartans begin their season Friday with a game at Lansingburgh. Their home opener is Sept. 10 against Averill Park.
Elsewhere in Class A, Mohonasen and Scotia-Glenville have new coaches and new attitudes for the 2010 season.
Dennis Corbitt replaces Josh Whipple at Mohonasen, while Carm DePaolo takes over for Mike Turgeon at Scotia-Glenville.
`I have a nice group of kids who are willing to put in the hard work to change things at Mohonasen,` said Corbitt.
Here is a look at the two Schenectady County Class A teams:
Mohonasen Mighty Warriors
Head coach: Dennis Corbitt
Key players: Andrew Caster (OG/DL), Sean Ghikas (TE/LB), CJ Stone (RB/LB), Killian Tallman (QB/FS)
Outlook: The Mighty Warriors are hoping that a few more wins are coming their way now that they don’t have to worry about playing Troy and Niskayuna, who moved to Class AA this year.
`I wouldn’t overlook any of those other [Class A] teams in any way shape or form,` said Corbitt.
Scotia-Glenville Tartans
Head coach: Carm DePaolo
Key players: Nick Leffler (QB/DB), Ryan Reed (QB/DB), Andrew Tabbert (RB)
Outlook: For the Tartans to build on last year’s playoff appearance, his players must buy in to his system. `If they listen and if they start to believe, then they will turn this program around,` he said.“
