2004 Preview

Panthers meet Upper Perk in football opener

By Bud Kern
Courtesy of The Free Press

The 2004 version of the Quakertown High School football team will be unveiled on Friday evening, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m., when the Panthers host Upper Perkiomen at Alumni Field. The locals, three-time winners of the SOL Liberty Division, find themselves
in the newly-formed Continental Division this season, facing squads from William Tennent and Central Bucks South, as first-time foes this autumn. At this point the team chemistry has been great, the guys have worked extremely hard in the off season. "We, as a staff, feel very positive about heading into our opener on Sept. 3rd," said Panther head coach John Donnelly. "We're the small school in this new conference; however, our expectations remain strong in the challenge that we, as a team, face." Filling the shoes of last season's quarterback Chris Donley, will be Jon Ruch, a 5'10" 175-pound senior. "It's looking really good for us in practice so far," said Ruch. "We've got a big line our line is probably the most impressive thing we've got this year." All-league veteran Nate Cox returns as a potential triple-threat performer on offense as a wide receiver, kickoff and punt returner. Cox is also a defensive back. "Our defense should do well, we¹ve got a lot of starters back this year. Things are beginning to shape up," said Cox. Other offensive performers returning include senior Zach Schoch, a speedy
tailback that saw much action last season; James Streapy, a standout all-league defensive back; veteran Morgan Keller returns as a wideout and free safety on defense.
Junior Chris Leister appears to be the starting fullback, also filling a linebacker spot on defense; another junior, Jim Bowman, will back up Ruch at the Q.B. position, and share tailback duties with Schoch if needed. Billy Whitehead, Derrick Ambler, Sean Viers, Jon Latronica, and Nate Dixon are all expected to see action on offense and defense for the Panthers. Defensive line returnees include Dustyn Siefert, Mike Devlin, Ryan Davis, Caleb Ruch, and Doug Kile. Other defensive linemen include Scott Heilman, Brian Lorman, and Kevin Orr. Sophomore Dylan Brenton returns as kicker Brenton was outstanding as last season's placement kicker. Senior Nate Miller is also a skilled kicker if needed. Schoch will handle the punting chores along with Miller. Coach Donnelly noted that junior Mike Tomasino has impressed early on and will see action at fullback and outside linebacker. Donnelly also noted that Sean Viers, a senior, has looked good during the pre-season. Donnelly's assistants include defensive coordinator Chris Cocozza, defensive line coach Dom Cusumano, offensive line coach Chad Evans, and running backs mentor Dave Weinstein. Chris Gunning will help with the wide receivers and Tom Humphrey, a Penn State grad, has been added to the staff. Mike McFettridge and Jason Mohap will also assist. A new season, a new team, Quakertown will hope to improve on last year's overall 9-4 record, and perhaps secure its first Continental Conference Crown.

Bud Kern is a freelance sports writer for The Free Press.