Training Camp Tour: Damascus Hornets
DAMASCUS, MD - Last year fans of Damascus football had a chance to see a glimpse of what could possibly be coming this season. Where quarterback Connor Frazier was heading towards becoming one of the top quarterbacks in the state, when he was sidelined with broken collar bone before coming back to finish the final games of the season.
This year the Damascus Hornets are returning bigger and stronger with most of the key starters ready for a chance to be able to dominate their division.
In spite of what happened during the 3A semi finals last year the Hornets have gained tremendous experience with the disappointing come from behind loss to Seneca Valley. Where the team will be focused on avenging what happened to them last year and being able to use that experience to be able to take their overall level of play even higher. This overall amount of experience can be seen when you examine all of the different aspects of this year's team.
Offense
One of the biggest strengths of the team this year will be the return of Connor Frazier at quarterback. During the off-season he has been clearly working hard at improving his overall quarterbacking skills and strength. Where during the Upper Montgomery County Passing League in June Frazier was able to consistently beat the different secondaries while being able to throw tight, accurate spirals the length of the field and he gained an additional 30 pounds.
The combination of experience, strength and improved skills make Frazier a tough opponent to stop when he is in the pocket. As head coach Eric Wallich commented, "Connor could become one of the best quarterbacks in the state."
Combine this with the fact that you have Brain Lucas and Mark O' Hara returning at running back along with Brandon Phelps as well as Chris Betts returning at wide receiver could create an explosive offense which can be able to break many close games wide open.
Defense
Like with the offense the defense is coming back with most of their key starters from last year. Some of the most notable strengths can be seen with a solid core of linebackers and defensive backs lead by Brian Phelps and Brain Lucas.
Overall it is expected that seven out of eleven key starters will be returning this year, combine this with the potent three four package that the Hornets run and you could have the potential of seeing one of the most stingiest defenses in the conference this year.
Weaknesses
Like all teams the Hornets do have their fair share of weaknesses. This year it is in the offensive line where they have lost some key starters from last year's team. That being said, head coach Eric Wallich feels that they have a core group of young people who could potentially fill this void with added conditioning and training.
Strengths
When you evaluate the overall strengths of the Hornets it is clear that this year they are returning with many players which could make them contenders in a tough division. Some of their most dominate strengths which could be a factor in the overall success of team this year would include: their experience, strength, speed, overall athletic ability and tremendous pride that they bring with them.
What to expect this season
While no one knows what will happen, the Damascus Hornets have the ability to dominate their division this year. Sure, they will have some tough opponents to face when they play Seneca Valley, Quince Orchard, Clarksburg and the 4A state champions Sherwood.
That being said, the overall core nucleus of the team is returning this year lead by their starting quarterback Connor Frazier. If all of these key players can stay healthy, means it would not be surprising for Damascus fans to see a team that can wear down opponents with their potent running game then break the game wide open with Frazier throwing the ball to their talented wide receivers.
It is this overall combination of talent, experience and athleticism which could place the Hornets as one of Maryland's best teams this year.
