Berkeley Springs Indians Preview
The Berkeley Springs Indians finished last season with a 5-5 record. Look for the Indian football team to continue to improve and be a dangerous team in the AA class in West Virginia.
The Indians return nine starters on offense and have many players on defense capable of making plays. Coach Angelo Luvara is very excited about the return of his entire offensive line, whom he feels can compete with any team in the state.
Quarterback
With Joe Whitehead off to VMI this fall, a new name will be taking the snaps for the Indian offense in 2006. His name is Nathan Sirbaugh. Sirbaugh alternated at quarterback last season until week seven when he broke his wrist and was out for the remainder of the season. Sirbaugh is a very smart quarterback and is also very athletic.
Sophomore Matt Truax is developing and shows promise for the future.
Running Back
The Indians return both starting running backs in juniors Cody Hess and Cody Reed. Hess has compiled 2500 yards and 22 touchdowns in his two year career as the starting tailback for the Indians. Fullback Cody Reed is an excellent blocker and a very hard runner. Expect big numbers from these talented running backs this year!
Wide Receiver
With the departure of Matt Willard at receiver someone needs to replace his experience for the 2006 season. Foster Sirbaugh, Danny Lacy, and Justin Thomas will be called upon to accept that role. Sirbaugh caught 42 balls for 562 yards. In 2005 Look for him to be Coach Luvara's go to guy this season. Danny Lacy and Justin Thomas have good speed and will be asked to provide depth to the receiving core!
Tight End
Standout Ryan Morris (6'4 208lbs) returns for his senior season and will be a major player for the Indians this year. As a sophomore Morris had 58 catches and was named first team All-State. His junior year he compiled 32 catches and was honorable mention All-State. With Morris's 3.93 GPA and athleticism, colleges are noticing his as a Division I prospect. Coach Luvara is also very excited about junior tight end Alex Moretz. Moretz is a prototype tight end who can do it all. Look for Morris and Moretz to shine in 2006.
Offensive Line
With the entire starting line returning in 2006, look for Berkeley Springs to win most battles upfront this year. Juniors Josh Mason, Matt Kees, Denton Powell, Jake Stotler, and senior Jacob Waugh are all 20 pounds heavier and excited about the upcoming season. Coach Luvara feels left tackle Jacob Waugh is as good as any lineman in the state.
Defensive Line
The Indians return two starters this season in noseguard Troy Stotler and rush end Sammy Trump. Coach Luvara has high hopes for junior Mike Miller and senior Corey Waugh this season. Both players have the ability to be disruptive upfront. With as many as eight players rotating along the defensive line, expect Berkeley Springs to be solid at this position.
Linebacker
The linebacking corps will be led by junior middle linebacker Nick Campenelli. Coach Luvara tabs Nick as a dependable player and probably our smartest kid in terms of being a football player! The outside backer positions will be two year starters Tyson Bennett and Joey Berens.
Defensive Back
The Indians will be inexperienced with the loss of four starters in the secondary. But, there are four players very capable of stepping in. Senior Ian Lechliter has the most experience. He recorded six interceptions playing half the time last season. Look for Sam Burns, Brian Derryberry, and Brian Ness to contribute to the defense very early in the season.
Special Teams
Alex Meretz returns to his kicking duties this season. Meretz is an outstanding kicker who will be a weapon for the Indians this season.
Key Game
The football game with Hancock has become a huge rivalry with both towns bordering each other. Look for an exciting battle of the border in Week #10 for Senior Night!
Extra Point
The entire Offensive Line returns this season for the Indians. Each player has gained 20 pounds and has dedicated the off-season to improving their game. Coach Luvara and the Indians feel their line can compete with anyone!
Schedule
Aug. 25 Petersburg
Sep. 1 @ Hedgesville
Sep. 8 @ Grafton
Sep. 15 @ Northern
Sep. 22 Frankfort
Sep. 29 Open
Oct. 6 @ Westmar
Oct. 13 Keyser
Oct. 20 @ Beall
Oct. 27 Allegany
Nov.3 Hancock
