Here is a look at two contenders for this year’s Section II Class B football title — three-time defending champion Schalmont and Reinfurt Division power Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk.
Schalmont Sabres
League: West Division
Head coach: Joe Whipple
Key veterans: Devon Willis (junior QB/DB), Kyle Binkley (senior WR/LB), Nick Gallo (sophomore RB/LB), Chas Higgins (senior WR/CB), Jesse Ross (senior OT/DT), Mike Famolaro (senior OT/DT)
Outlook: Just like he did three years ago with Vincent Gallo, Whipple has converted his leading rusher (Willis) into a quarterback. That doesn’t mean Willis won’t be running this season. “He’s just moving up two yards and putting his hands out. That’s all he’s doing,” said Whipple.
Schalmont faces a larger Class B field — one that includes former Class A powers Lansingburgh and Glens Falls. “Two very good teams are coming down (to Class B),” said Whipple.
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Indians
League: Reinfurt Division
Head coach: Gary VanDerzee
Key veterans: Conner Zeoli (senior QB/DB), Dylan Keyer (senior FB/LB), Brandon Williams (senior OL/DE), Alex Soutiere (senior OL/DL), Nick Vasto (senior WR/DB)
Outlook: The additions of Lansingburgh and Glens Falls in Class B makes the task of winning the Section II title harder, but VanDerzee said he likes his team. “We’ve got a good blend of youth and experience,” said VanDerzee.
