Marple Newtown looks to take next step under Gicking

August 25, 2015

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Coach: Chris Gicking

2014 Record: 5-6 (4-5 Central League)

2014 In Two Sentences: Adrian Sapnas ran roughshod on the Central League and Abel Hoff set the county’s single-season record for most receptions. Despite their explosive efforts, the Tigers suffered a streak of four consecutive losses and fell short of a District One Class AAA playoff berth in Gicking’s first year running the program.

Key Departures: Adrian Sapnas (RB), Vince Civardelli (DL), Lucas Maas (WR-DB), Dom Talluto (OL).

Looking Ahead: As is the case every year, the Tigers’ depth will be challenged, but they have the pieces to make some noise in the Central League. There are 12 returning starters, which is cause for optimism.

Among those players back for a second season in Gicking’s system are Hoff and quarterback Marcus Weathers. The offensive line, wiith four returnees, should be a strength.

Players to Watch: Hoff is an explosive talent who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. In addition to his exploits as a receiver, Hoff (Sr.) is also a playmaker in the return game.

Weathers (Sr.) has the potential to be one of the top-flight quarterbacks in the county. While he endured his ups and downs as a junior, he posted solid numbers across the board (1,250 yards, 13 TDs, 136.6 QBR). The foundation on the offensive line is set with Kyle Kelly (Sr.), Pat Carr (Sr.), Ryan Rhoads (Sr.) and Luke Lozowicki (Jr.) back in the fold.

Elsewhere, Carmen Christiana (Jr.) and Tyler Kotsack (Sr.) give the Tigers good experience in the defensive secondary. Noah Turner (Sr.) and Matt Trainor (Sr.) are the bookends on the D-line, while Gino DiCamillo (Sr.) and Matt Mckee (Sr.) give the Tigers a solid one-two punch at linebacker.

Coach’s Corner: “This is our second season, so the kids know the system more than they did last year,” Gicking said. “We have worked hard as a program this offseason. The key will be consistency on both sides of the ball.”

Season Opener: Away vs. Cardinal O’Hara, Friday, Sept. 4, 7 p.m.