2012-13
“Watch list”
District 11
Aaron Bradley, Senior OL/DL, Nazareth – A returning presence in the trenches for the District 2/4/11 AAAA champion and PIAA quarterfinalist Eagles, Bradley helped to pave the way for a Nazareth offensive unit which averaged 406.9 yards (268 passing, 138.9 rushing) and 39.6 points per game, producing a 3,700-yard passer and 1,660-yard rusher while scoring 77 total offensive touchdowns (45 rushing, 32 passing).
Aaron Genevese, Senior OL/DL, Whitehall – Genevese helped to pave the way for a Zephyr offensive unit which, in partial season statistics, averaged 375.8 yards (270.6 rushing, 105.2 passing) and 35.8 points per game en route to an 8-4 record and runner-up finish in the Eastern Conference AAAA playoffs to Bethlehem Liberty. Whitehall produced an 870-yard passer and 1,080-yard rusher while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (37 rushing, 12 passing).
Abu Shaw, Senior LB, Bethlehem Catholic – A transfer from Pius X who was wrecking ball of a linebacker and one of the Royals’ top returning tacklers from a season ago, Shaw recorded 80 tackles (50 solo), a team-leading 14.5 sacks, a deflected pass, two forced fumbles and a blocked punt, averaging 5.7 tackles per game, finishing four games with multiple sacks and one game with 10+ tackles.
Alex Tonnies, Senior WR/DB, Nazareth – The third-leading receiver in Nazareth’s lethally effective no-huddle aerial assault which averaged 268 yards per game, Tonnies hauled in 42 passes for 681 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 16.2 yards per reception. Tonnies was one of four Eagle receivers with 40 or more receptions and 500+ yards at season’s end.
Alex Vignone, Senior TB/DB, Palmerton – Vignone was one of the Blue Bombers’ leaders on both offense and defense last season, racking up 594 all-purpose yards of offense (490 rushing, 67 passing, 37 receiving) and scoring six touchdowns (all rushing). He averaged 3.1 yards per carry and 37 yards per reception and also completed 5-of-7 passes (71.4 percent). Defensively, he added 36 tackles (22 solo), three interceptions (one of which was returned for a touchdown), a deflected pass and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.6 tackles per game.
Andrew Romeo, Senior WR, Pleasant Valley – One of three Bear receivers with at least 20 receptions on the season, Romeo snagged 22 passes for 305 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 13.9 yards per reception while posting a season-best 129 yards and three touchdowns against East Stroudsburg North. Defensively, he added 30 tackles (15 solo), an interception and four deflected passes, averaging three tackles per game. He also completed his only pass attempt of the season 34 yards for a touchdown.
Andrew Terlingo, Senior OL/DL, Southern Lehigh – A potential Division-1 prospect in the 2013 class along the offensive line, Terlingo has generated interest from numerous programs. He helped to pave the way for a Spartan offensive unit which averaged 347.1 yards (208.3 rushing, 138.8 passing) and 27.5 points per game en route to a 7-5 record and berth in the Eastern Conference AAA championship game opposite Berwick. Southern Lehigh finished the season with a 1,630-yard passer and an 1,100-yard rusher while scoring 43 total offensive touchdowns (24 rushing, 19 passing).
Angel Rodriguez, Junior OL/DL, Easton Area – Rodriguez helped to pave the way for a Rover offensive unit which averaged 314 yards (172.2 rushing, 141.8 passing) and 28.5 points per game en route to an 11-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional championship game opposite Nazareth, producing an 1,860-yard passer and two 550+-yard rushers while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 18 passing).
Anthony German, Senior QB, Panther Valley – One of three quarterbacks utilized by the Panthers in an aerial assault which averaged 105.6 yards per game in 2011, German connected on 10-of-25 passes (40 percent) for 202 yards and a touchdown. He also added one rushing touchdown in 13 keepers.
Anthony Greggo, Sophomore OL/LB, Bangor Pius X – Greggo returns to the Royals’ defensive unit at linebacker after posting 47 tackles, five sacks and a forced fumble, averaging 3.4 tackles per game for the District 11 A champions.
Austin Brown, Senior RB/LB, Easton Area – The Rovers’ fourth-leading rusher last season, Brown ran for 303 yards on 87 carries and caught another 12 passes for 152 yards, averaging 3.5 yards per carry and 12.7 yards per reception while scoring 12 total touchdowns (nine rushing, three receiving). He was also one of the team leaders on defense for a unit which allowed an average of 16.2 points per game, racking up more than 100 tackles.
Austin Forte, Junior RB, Mahanoy Area – The No. 2 rusher in the two-time defending Eastern Conference A champion Golden Bears’ backfield last year, Forte ran for 675 yards and eight touchdowns on 123 carries, averaging 5.5 yards per carry and 56.3 yards per game on the ground. He trailed only quarterback Mike Gaval, a Pennsylvania Sportswriters’ All-state selection, who rushed for 2,047 yards and 30 touchdowns.
Blaine Woodson, Senior OL/DL, Stroudsburg – A fixture on the Mounties’ defensive line, Woodson tallied 33 tackles (21 solo), six sacks and two fumble recoveries, averaging 3.7 tackles per game in helping Stroudsburg qualify for the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional playoffs opposite Parkland.
Blake Bowman, Senior TB/WR, Tri-Valley – The Bulldogs’ do-everything athlete last season, Bowman was the primary offensive and defensive catalyst. Offensively, he amassed 1,416 yards of total offense (1,132 rushing, 284 passing) and had a hand in 13 total Tri-Valley touchdowns (12 rushing, one passing). He averaged 5.2 yards per carry and completed 26-of-59 passes (44.1 percent), throwing for 100+ yards once and rushing for 100+ yards six times. Defensively, he totaled 121 tackles, three sacks, an interception, two deflected passes, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery, averaging 12.1 tackles per game. On special teams, he returned nine kickoffs for 175 yards.
Brad Biever, Junior OL/DL, Schuylkill Haven – A returning presence on the offensive line for the Hurricanes, Biever helped to pave the way for a Schuylkill Haven offensive unit which averaged 269.6 yards (250.3 rushing, 19.3 passing) and 16 points per game last season, helping to pave the way for a pair of 640+-yard rushers while scoring 23 total offensive touchdowns (21 rushing, two passing). Defensively, he added 52 tackles (all solo), five sacks, an interception, a forced fumble and three fumble recoveries, averaging 5.2 tackles per game.
Brad Romig, Junior DL, Bethlehem Freedom – Romig is a returning presence from a Patriot defensive unit which allowed an average of 14.7 points per game during the 2011 season.
Brady Mutton, Junior OL/DL, Pen Argyl – A returning two-way presence in the trenches for the Green Knights, Mutton helped to pave the way for a Pen Argyl offensive unit which averaged 343.7 yards and 36.1 points per game en route to a 13-1 overall record, District 11 AA championship and berth in the PIAA AA quarterfinals opposite West Catholic, producing a 2,000-yard rusher and an 1,100-yard passer while scoring 68 total offensive touchdowns (52 rushing, 16 passing). Defensively, Mutton added 52 tackles, a sack, a deflected pass and two fumble recoveries, averaging 3.7 tackles per game.
Brandon Heimbach, Senior RB/LB, Northampton – A multi-purpose weapon out of the backfield for the Konkrete Kids, Heimbach ran for 484 yards on 104 carries and caught another 10 passes for 234 yards, averaging 4.7 yards per carry and 23.4 yards per reception while scoring six total touchdowns (three rushing, three receiving). He ran for 100+ yards in a game twice and posted a season-best 64 receiving yards against Bethlehem Catholic. On special teams, he returned four punts for 101 yards and a touchdown and four kickoffs for 67 yards, averaging 25.3 yards per kick return and 16.8 yards per kickoff return.
Brandon Leap, Junior QB/FS, Pleasant Valley – Leap assumed the controls of the Bears’ offensive arsenal halfway through the season, and he responded to the challenge, connecting on 54-of-106 passes (50.9 percent) for 649 yards and seven touchdowns and adding 98 rushing yards on 49 keepers. He averaged 129.8 yards passing per game and averaged two yards per carry, throwing for a season- and career-best 271 yards and four touchdowns against East Stroudsburg North. Barring injury, Leap is on pace to throw for 3,245 yards and 35 touchdowns in his career for PV.
Brett Albinson, Senior QB/DE, Bangor Area – One of two Slater athletes to see significant time under center last season, Albinson connected on 11-of-33 passes (33.3 percent) for 248 yards and five touchdowns, throwing for a season-best 126 yards and two touchdowns in a convincing victory over Palisades. Defensively, Albinson added 13 tackles (10 solo) and a deflected pass, averaging 1.3 tackles per game.
Brett Kosciolek, Sophomore QB/DB, Tamaqua – The Blue Raiders’ field general over the final four games of the season, including the Eastern Conference playoffs, Kosciolek connected on 24-of-48 passes (50 percent) for 329 yards and two touchdowns against five interceptions, twice surpassing 100+ yards passing in a game and engineering a 2-2 record, helping lead Tamaqua to the EC AA championship game opposite North Penn-Blossburg.
Brett Polinsky, Senior OL/DL, Minersville – A returning presence in the trenches for the Battling Miners, Polinsky helped to pave the way for a Minersville offensive unit which averaged 371 yards and
33.1 points per game, producing a pair of 1,200-yard rushers and a 700-yard passer while scoring 46 total offensive touchdowns (38 rushing, eight passing). Defensively, Polinksy added 63 tackles, two sacks, an interception and a deflected pass, averaging 5.7 tackles per game.
Brian Uliana, Senior QB, Bethlehem Freedom – Uliana helped to pilot the Patriots to an 8-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA quarterfinals opposite Easton by connecting on 71-of-137 passes (51.8 percent) for 1,337 yards and 14 touchdowns against seven interceptions while adding 295 yards rushing and three additional touchdowns on 62 carries. He averaged 121.5 passing yards per game and 4.8 yards per carry. He also helped Freedom defeat archrival Liberty for the first time since 2003. Uliana is on pace to throw for 2,674 yards in his career.
Bryan Pearson, Junior WR/DB, Bangor Area – A returning presence in the defensive backfield for the Slaters, Pearson registered 19 tackles (17 solo), three interceptions and two deflected passes, averaging 3.2 tackles per game. He also saw a combined five touches on offense – two rushes and three receptions. He averaged 15 yards per carry and scored one rushing touchown and also averaged 36.7 yards per reception while scoring two additional touchdowns as a receiver.
Caleb Johnson, Senior TE/OLB, Northern Lehigh – A two-way presence for the District 11 AA runner-up Bulldogs, Johnson was the team’s featured receiver, hauling in 16 passes for 293 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 18.3 yards per reception while posting a three-catch, 104-yard game in the D11 semifinals against North Schuylkill. Defensively, Johnson added 60 tackles (all solo) and three sacks, averaging 5.5 tackles per game for NL. Over the last three seasons, Northern Lehigh is 33-6 overall (.846).
Charlie Schuster, Senior WR/DB, Pottsville – The Crimson Tide’s leading returning rusher, Schuster posted 141 yards on 27 carries and caught another eight passes for 103 yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and 12.9 yards per reception. Defensively, he chipped in with 12 tackles and a fumble recovery, averaging 1.2 tackles per game. He also returned seven punts for 77 yards and one kickoff for 10 yards.
Chris Bonk, Junior OL/DL, Shenandoah Valley – Bonk helped to pave the way for a Blue Devil offensive unit which averaged 312.9 yards (176.8 rushing, 136.1 passing) and 23.8 points per game en route to an 8-4 record and berth in the District 11 A championship game opposite Bangor Pius X, producing three 300+-yard rushers and a 1,490-yard passer while scoring 42 total offensive touchdowns (29 rushing, 13 passing). Defensively, Bonk added 46 tackles, 2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery.
Chris Mamay, Senior RB/LB, Saucon Valley – A multi-purpose weapon out of the backfield, Mamay ran for 209 yards on 40 carries and caught another 10 passes for 142 yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and 14.2 yards per reception while scoring four total touchdowns (three rushing, one receiving). Defensively, he chipped in with 30 tackles (27 solo), two sacks, two deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.8 tackles per game.
Chris Murphy, Senior RB/DB, Minersville – The Battling Miners’ top returning rusher from a team which averaged more than 300 yards per game on the ground last season, Murphy posted 452 yards on
58 carries and added another nine receptions for 94 yards, averaging 7.8 yards per carry and 10.4 yards per reception, scoring eight total touchdowns (seven rushing, one receiving). Defensively, he chipped in with 51 tackles (29 solo), two sacks and three deflected passes, averaging 4.6 tackles per game.
Chris Ochenrider, Senior OL/DL, Minersville – A returning presence in the trenches for the Battling Miners, Ochenrider helped to pave the way for a Minersville offensive unit which averaged 371 yards and 33.1 points per game, producing a pair of 1,200-yard rushers and a 700-yard passer while scoring 46 total offensive touchdowns (38 rushing, eight passing). Defensively, he posted 34 tackles (21 solo), 2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.1 tackles per game.
Chris Palubinsky, Senior QB, Shenandoah Valley – One of the main offensive catalysts for the District 11 A runner-up Blue Devils, Palubinsky connected on 97-of-194 passes (50 percent) for 1,498 yards and 12 touchdowns against eight interceptions and added another 303 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 91 carries, averaging 3.3 yards per rush. In his career to date, Palubinsky has thrown for 3,272 yards and 27 touchdowns for the Blue Devils.
Colin McDermott, Senior RB, Allentown Central Catholic – The featured running back each of the last two seasons for the Vikings, McDermott ran for 1,506 yards and 27 touchdowns on 276 carries last season and adding another three receptions for 21 yards, averaging 5.5 yards per carry and seven yards per reception. The senior-to-be surpassed the 100-yard mark in rushing in a game six times, and scored 11 of his rushing touchdowns in the playoffs, helping play a role in ACC winning its third consecutive District 11 AAA championship and reach the PIAA semifinals for a second straight year. For his career, McDermott has run for 3,172 yards and scored 43 touchhdowns on the ground.
Collin Kendrick, Junior QB/LB, Southern Lehigh – The Spartans’ top tackler on defense last season, Kendrick amassed 128 tackles (97 solo), a sack, a forced fumble and a blocked field goal for the EC AAA runners-up, averaging 10.7 tackles per game.
Dakota Everett, Senior TE/LB, Pleasant Valley – Pleasant Valley’s top returning tackler and one of leading tacklers in all of the Mountain Valley Conference last year, Everett piled up 112 tackles, a half a sack, two deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging a whopping 11.2 tackles per game, finishing six of PV’s 10 games with 10+ tackles, including a season-best 17 stops against Honesdale. He also caught six passes for 75 yards from his spot at tight end, averaging 12.5 yards per catch.
Dakota Rakus, Senior OL/DL, Shenandoah Valley – Rakus helped to pave the way for a Blue Devil offensive unit which averaged 312.9 yards (176.8 rushing, 136.1 passing) and 23.8 points per game en route to an 8-4 record and berth in the District 11 A championship game opposite Bangor Pius X, producing three 300+-yard rushers and a 1,490-yard passer while scoring 42 total offensive touchdowns (29 rushing, 13 passing).
Dalton Miller, Senior QB, Tri-Valley – A returning presence at linebacker, Miller recorded 46 tackles, a sack, an interception and a forced fumble, averaging 5.1 tackles per game. Offensively, he amassed 314 all-purpose yards of offense (125 passing, 107 rushing, 82 receiving) and accounted for five total Tri-Valley touchdowns (two passing, two rushing, one receiving), completing 12-of-47 passes (25.5 percent) and averaging 2.5 yards per carry on 43 rushes and 20.5 yards per catch on four receptions.
Dalton Nunemacher, Senior RB/DB, Tamaqua – A key two-way presence returning for Tamaqua, Nunemacher posted a combined 615 rushing and receiving yards (384 rushing, 231 receiving), averaging 8.2 yards per carry and 11.6 yards per reception while scoring three total touchdowns (all rushing). Defensively, he chipped in with 33 tackles (all solo), three interceptions, a deflected pass and a blocked field goal, averaging 2.8 tackles per game.
Dan Conville, Senior OL/DL, Pottsville – A returning presence in the defensive trenches for the Crimson Tide, Conville finished his junior season with 30 tackles (15 solo) and two sacks, averaging 2.7 tackles per game.
Dashon Russell, Junior RB/DB, Bangor Pius X – A key returning presence in the Royals’ defensive backfield, Russell recorded 38 tackles (22 solo), an interception and five deflected passes, averaging 2.9 tackles per game. He also chipped in offensively with 174 yards rushing on 34 carries and hauled in another five passes for 56 yards, averaging 5.1 yards per carry and 11.2 yards per reception, scoring two total touchdowns (one rushing, one receiving).
Dave Gottshall, Junior RB/LB, Shenandoah Valley – One of the Blue Devils returning from a District 11 A runner-up finish last season, Gottshall posted 60 tackles, averaging five stops per game.
Demetrious Lanier, Junior TE, East Stroudsburg South – Lanier posted 56 tackles (37 solo) for the Cavaliers in his sophomore season, making him one of the team’s top returning tacklers from a year ago. He averaged 6.2 tackles per game, posting a season-best 11 stops against Pleasant Valley.
Dennis Steakin, Senior OT/DT, East Stroudsburg South – Steakin tallied 28 tackles (19 solo), three sacks and a fumble recovery, averaging 2.8 tackles per game for the Cavaliers.
Deonte St. Hill, Junior RB/CB, Jim Thorpe – St. Hill returns to his position in the Jim Thorpe defensive backfield after tallying 42 tackles (28 solo), three deflected passes and four forced fumbles, averaging 4.2 tackles per game. Offensively, he ran for 186 yards and a touchdown on 64 carries and added three receptions for five yards and another touchdown, averaging 2.9 yards per carry and 1.7 yards per reception.
Derek Vandermartin, Senior TE/DE, Tamaqua – Playing only in eight of the Blue Raiders’ 12 games, Vandermartin tallied 26 tackles (all solo), six sacks (second on the team) and a blocked punt, averaging 3.3 tackles per game.
Devon Dillard, Senior WR, Panther Valley – Dillard finished his junior season with eight receptions for 254 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 31.8 yards per reception for the Panthers.
Devin Masser, Junior FB/LB, Tri-Valley – Masser tallied 39 tackles, a half a sack, an interception and a deflected pass for the Bulldogs last season, averaging 3.9 tackles per game.
Donovan McDonald, Junior WR/DB, Stroudsburg – The Mounties’ second-leading receiver in 2011, McDonald hauled in 16 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 13.3 yards per reception.
DuBois “Boise” Ross, Senior ATH, Bethlehem Freedom – Ross, a potential collegiate prospect in the 2013 class at wide receiver, did a little bit of everything for the Royals last season, proving to be one of the team’s dynamic pieces. A Pennsylvania Sportswriters’ Class A All-state selection at wide receiver, Ross hauled in 49 passes for 1,177 yards and 19 touchdowns, averaging 24 yards per reception while posting five games with 100+ receiving yards. He also added 232 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 20 carries, averaging 11.6 yards per rush. Defensively, Ross was also effective, posting 93 tackles, five interceptions, nine deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging 6.6 tackles per game. He also returned a combined 10 kickoffs/punts for a total of 196 yards.
Dustin Jones, Senior OL/DL, Schuylkill Haven – A returning presence on the offensive line for the Hurricanes, Jones helped to pave the way for a Schuylkill Haven offensive unit which averaged 269.6 yards (250.3 rushing, 19.3 passing) and 16 points per game last season, helping to pave the way for a pair of 640+-yard rushers while scoring 23 total offensive touchdowns (21 rushing, two passing). Defensively, Jones added 54 tackles (all solo), an interception, three deflected passes, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, a blocked punt and four blocked field goals, averaging 5.4 tackles per game.
Dylan Quirk, Senior RB, Marian Catholic – The second-leading rusher in Marian Catholic’s offensive arsenal, Quirk ran for 663 yards and five touchdowns on 68 carries, averaging 9.8 yards per carry for the 5-5 Colts.
Ethan Motsney, Senior RB, North Schuylkill – A multi-purpose back in the Spartans’ Wing-T offense, Motsney finished the season with 495 yards rushing on 60 carries and snagged 10 passes for 279 yards, averaging 8.3 yards per carry and 27.9 yards per reception while scoring 11 total touchdowns (seven rushing, four receiving).
Evan Blair, Senior WR, Bethlehem Catholic – The Golden Hawks’ top returning receiver from the 2011 edition, Blair hauled in 20 passes for 360 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 18 yards per reception.
Evan Kaufman, Senior LB, Bethlehem Freedom – Kaufman is a returning presence from a Patriot defensive unit which allowed an average of 14.7 points per game during the 2011 season. In six games with limited defensive stats reported on Maxpreps, he had totaled 24 tackles (all solo) and 1.5 sacks, averaging four tackles per game.
Forrest Myers, Sophomore OL/DL, Easton Area – Myers helped to pave the way for a Rover offensive unit which averaged 314 yards (172.2 rushing, 141.8 passing) and 28.5 points per game en route to an 11-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional championship game opposite Nazareth, producing an 1,860-yard passer and two 550+-yard rushers while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 18 passing).
Gavin Kline, Junior OL/DL, Tri-Valley – Kline helped to pave the way for a Tri-Valley offensive unit which averaged 209.4 yards (167.8 rushing, 41.6 passing) and 15.5 points per game while producing an 1,130-yard rusher and scoring 21 total offensive touchdowns (18 rushing, three passing). Defensively, Kline added 16 tackles, averaging 2.7 stops per game.
Greg Cahill, Senior OL/DL, Wilson Area – Cahill helped to pave the way for a Wilson Area offensive unit which averaged 299 yards (186 passing, 113 rushing) and 17.8 points per game last season, producing a 1,090-yard rusher and 1,590-yard passer while scoring 26 total offensive touchdowns (15 rushing, 11 passing). Defensively, he added 40 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries, averaging four tackles per game.
Jacen Nalesnik, Senior ATH, Lehighton – Nalesnik was all over the field for Lehighton last season and was the team’s do-everything player. Offensively, he posted 1,059 combined rushing and receiving yards (620 receiving, 439 rushing), averaging 8.3 yards per carry and 16.8 yards per reception while scoring 19 total touchdowns (10 receiving, nine rushing). On special teams, he booted 30 punts for an average of 31.3 yards, with six punts downed inside the 20 yard line; averaged 40.8 yards per kickoff on 36 kicks; and converted 25 extra points and two field goals. Defensively, he chipped in with 34 tackles (26 solo), a sack, two deflected passes and a blocked field goal, averaging 3.4 tackles per game. He accounted for 145 of Lehighton’s 274 points scored on the season, or 52.9 percent of the team’s season scoring output.
Jagger Miller, Junior OL/DL, Easton Area – Miller helped to pave the way for a Rover offensive unit which averaged 314 yards (172.2 rushing, 141.8 passing) and 28.5 points per game en route to an 11-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional championship game opposite Nazareth, producing an 1,860-yard passer and two 550+-yard rushers while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 18 passing).
Jahid Beamon, Sophomore RB/LB, Wilson Area – The second-leading tackler on the Warriors’ defensive unit a season ago, Beamon recorded 54 tackles (28 solo), two interceptions and a deflected pass, averaging 5.4 tackles per game while posting a season-best 12 tackles in a victory over Salisbury Township.
Jake Deitzler, Senior DEF, Blue Mountain – The Eagles’ top returning sack artist from a season ago, Deitzler amassed 42 tackles (33 solo), five sacks and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.8 tackles per game for the Eastern Conference AAA semifinalists.
Jake Del Priore, Junior WR/S, Southern Lehigh – The featured receiver in a Southern Lehigh aerial assault which averaged 138.8 yards per game last season, Del Priore snared a team-leading 39 passes for 564 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 14.5 yards per reception. He finished with a season-best 141 yards against Palmerton and caught multiple touchdown passes in games against Wilson Area and Berwick.
Jake Lynch, Senior OL/DL, Palisades – Lynch played in only six games last season for the Pirates, notching 32 tackles, three sacks, an interception (returned 30 yards for a touchdown) and a forced fumble, averaging 5.3 tackles per game.
Jake Maeher, Senior LB, Emmaus – Maeher finished his junior season as the Hornets’ top returning tackler, with 67 stops, averaging 6.7 tackles per game.
Jake Moser, Junior OL/DL, Northern Lehigh – A returning presence in both the offensive and defensive trenches for the Bulldogs, Moser helped to pave the way for an NL offensive unit which averaged 272.9 yards (196.3 rushing, 76.6 passing) and 26.8 points per game en route to a 10-2 record and berth in the District 11 AA championship game opposite Pen Argyl, producing a 1,330-yard rusher and 855-yard passer while scoring 43 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 12 passing). Defensively, Moser added 17 tackles (all solo) and a sack.
Jake Wygant, Senior OL/DL, Whitehall – Wygant helped to pave the way for a Zephyr offensive unit which, in partial season statistics, averaged 375.8 yards (270.6 rushing, 105.2 passing) and 35.8 points per game en route to an 8-4 record and runner-up finish in the Eastern Conference AAAA playoffs to Bethlehem Liberty. Whitehall produced an 870-yard passer and 1,080-yard rusher while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (37 rushing, 12 passing).
Jarel Elder, Senior RB, Parkland – One of two 1,000-yard rushers last season for the Trojans, Elder ran for 1,015 yards entering the team’s 2/4/11 AAAA subregional semifinal game against Nazareth, forming a potent 1-2 punch with fullback Rob Dvoracek.
J.D. Donnelly, Junior FB/DL, Palisades – Donnelly returns to the Pirates after posting 35 tackles and four sacks in his sophomore season, averaging 4.4 tackles per game. Offensively, he added 80 yards rushing on 25 carries and five receptions for 36 yards, averaging 3.2 yards per carry and 7.2 yards per reception.
Jeff Gulyas, Senior OL/DL, Allentown Central Catholic – A returning presence in the defensive trenches for the three-time defending District 11 AAA champion Vikings, Gulyas posted 50 tackles (37 solo), nine sacks, an interception, two fumble recoveries and a blocked field goal, averaging five tackles per game. He posted his best defensive game of the season in a 46-7 trouncing of Emmaus – he tallied 13 tackles and a trio of sacks. Gulyas also tallied a trio of sacks against Northampton.
Jesse Snyder, Junior QB/DB, Palisades – The Pirates’ leading returning rusher, Snyder was a dual-threat, amassing 790 yards of total offense (633 rushing, 157 passing) while accounting for three total Palisades touchdowns (two rushing, one passing). He averaged 4.8 yards per carry on 133 rushes and completed 13-of-52 passes (25 percent), posting a career-best 227 rushing yards against Wilson Area. Defensively, he added 32 tackles (23 solo) and two deflected passes, and, on special teams, he returned seven punts for 280 yards for an average of 40 yards per return.
Jimmy Kelleher, Senior FB/LB, Palisades – Kelleher returns to the Pirates’ defensive unit as its leading returning tackler after tallying 77 tackles, two deflected passes and a forced fumble, averaging 7.7 tackles per game. Offensively, he added three rushing touchdowns on just seven attempts from his fullback position.
Joe Fedornak, Senior OL/DL, Minersville – A returning presence in the trenches for the Battling Miners, Fedornak helped to pave the way for a Minersville offensive unit which averaged 371 yards and 33.1 points per game, producing a pair of 1,200-yard rushers and a 700-yard passer while scoring 46 total offensive touchdowns (38 rushing, eight passing). Defensively, Fedornak posted 34 tackles, 2.5 sacks and two deflected passes, averaging 3.1 tackles per game.
John Amber, Senior TE/LB, Saucon Valley – Amber returns to his linebacker position after recording 46 tackles (39 solo), a sack, an interception, two deflected passes, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.1 tackles per game for the Panthers.
John Snyder, Senior OT/DT, Palmerton – Snyder returns to his position in the trenches for the Blue Bombers after tallying 66 tackles (33 solo), three sacks and two fumble recoveries, averaging 6.6 tackles per game.
John Spadoni, Junior OL/DL, Easton Area – Spadoni helped to pave the way for a Rover offensive unit which averaged 314 yards (172.2 rushing, 141.8 passing) and 28.5 points per game en route to an 11-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional championship game opposite Nazareth, producing an 1,860-yard passer and two 550+-yard rushers while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 18 passing).
Jordan Gray, Sophomore RB, Nazareth – In 2010, a freshman named A.J. Long ripped up opposing defenses through the air. One year later, Jordan Gray, also a freshman, did the same, only on the ground. In all, Gray ran for 1,669 yards on 268 carries and caught another 19 passes for 176 yards, averaging 6.2 yards per carry and 9.3 yards per reception while scoring 22 total touchdowns (20 rushing, two receiving). His 1,669 yards rushing is believed to be the state single-season record for a freshman, and he is on pace to rush for 6,676 yards and 80 touchdowns in his career.
Jordon Ellison, Senior K, Stroudsburg – Ellison primarily handled the kickoff and placekicking chores for the Mounties last season. He booted 45 kickoffs for an average of 42.2 yards with four touchbacks and converted 19 extra points and two field goals, scoring 25 total points. He also punted four times for an average of 42.3 yards, with one of his punts downed inside the 20 yard line.
Josh Baker, Junior RB, Mahanoy Area – One of four Golden Bear athletes with at least 300 yards rushing in 2011, Baker finished his sophomore season with 345 yards on 46 carries and caught another four passes for 44 yards, averaging 7.5 yards per carry and 11 yards per reception while scoring seven total touchdowns (four rushing, three receiving).
Josh Pensyl, Senior RB/ILB, Bangor Area – Pensyl played in only the first five games of the season for Bangor, but he made the most of his limited time, amassing 42 tackles (30 solo), an interception, five deflected passes, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, averaging 8.4 tackles per game while posting a season-best 15 stops in a narrow victory over Southern Lehigh. Offensively, Pensyl ran for 219 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries, averaging 9.1 yards per rush while twice surpassing 65 rushing yards in a game.
Josh Thornton, Senior FB/LB, Pleasant Valley – A returning presence at linebacker for the Bears, Thornton totaled 54 tackles and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.4 tackles per game while posting a season-high 13 stops against Honesdale. Offensively, he ran for 33 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries and caught one pass for 26 yards, averaging 2.4 yards per carry.
Justin Gilfillan, Senior RB/LB, Blue Mountain – The featured running back in Blue Mountain’s offensive arsenal last season, Gilfillan ran for 663 yards and seven touchdowns on 127 carries and caught one pass for 17 yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry while twice surpassing 100 yards in rushing in a game. Defensively, he added 41 tackles (33 solo), a sack, an interception and a forced fumble, averaging 4.1 tackles per game. He also returned six kickoffs for 110 yards.
Kayin Herb, Junior OL/DE, Shenandoah Valley – A force along the defensive line for the Blue Devils, Herb posted 55 tackles and a team-leading six sacks for Shenandoah Valley last season, averaging 4.6 tackles per game.
Khaaliq Lynch, Junior WR/LB, Jim Thorpe – The featured wide receiver in an Olympian offensive arsenal which averaged better than 130 yards per game through the air last season, Lynch hauled in 37 passes for 655 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 17.7 yards per reception.
Keegan Bray, Senior WR/CB, Pleasant Valley – Bray returns to his position in the PV defensive backfield after recording 41 tackles, a sack, four deflected passes and two forced fumbles, averaging 4.1 tackles per game.
K.J. Williams, Junior WR/DB, Bethlehem Liberty – The featured receiving target in the Hurricanes’ aerial assault which averaged 82.2 yards per game, Williams snagged a team-best 31 passes for 620 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging 20 yards per reception and 51.7 yards per game. Williams was also a force in the Liberty defensive backfield, where he forced 16 tackles (all solo), one sack and three interceptions.
Kyle Ferryman, Junior RB, Panther Valley – Ferryman is one of the Panthers’ top returning receivers after a sophomore season in which he snagged nine passes for 141 yards and a touchdown, averaging 15.7 yards per reception. He also recorded seven carries for 32 yards, averaging 4.6 yards per rush attempt.
Kyle Jesiolowski, Senior WR/DB, Palisades – From his spot in the Palisades defensive backfield last season, Jesiolowski notched 47 tackles, a sack, three deflected passes and a forced fumble, averaging 4.7 tackles per game for the Pirates. Offensively, he added a pair of receptions for 26 yards.
Kyle Kokawski, Junior OL, Bangor Pius X – Kokawski helped to pave the way for a Royal offensive unit which put up staggering numbers last season, averaging 462.5 yards (265.6 passing, 196.9
rushing) and 42.9 points per game en route to a 12-2 record, District 11 A championship and berth in the PIAA A quarterfinals opposite Southern Columbia. Pius X finished the season with a pair of 930+-yard rushers and a 3,700-yard passer, scoring 86 total offensive touchdowns (40 rushing, 46 passing).
Kyle Watson, Senior TE/DE/P, Stroudsburg – Stroudsburg’s primary punter in 2011, Watson averaged 38 yards per punt on 27 kicks, with seven of those punts (25.9 percent) downed inside the 20 yard line. He booted a long of 54 yards on the season.
Louden Klotz, Junior RB/LB, Bethlehem Freedom – Klotz, who transferred to Freedom between his sophomore and junior seasons, enjoyed a successful sophomore season at linebacker for the District 11 A champs, posting 90 tackles (62 solo), five sacks and two fumble recoveries, averaging 7.5 tackles per game while finishing a trio of games with 10+ tackles, including a 13-stop performance in the PIAA A quarterfinals opposite Southern Columbia.
Luke Matsago, Senior OG/DE, Tamaqua – A two-way presence for the Blue Raiders, Matsago helped to pave the way for a Tamaqua offensive unit which averaged 268.6 yards (208.6 rushing, 60 passing) and 22.8 points per game en route to a 6-6 record and berth in the Eastern Conference AA championship game opposite North Penn-Blossburg, producing four backs with season rushing totals between 255 to 1,340 yards and a pair of 300-yard passers, scoring 40 total offensive touchdowns (37 rushing, three passing).
Lyle Troutman, Senior OL/DL, Tri-Valley – Troutman helped to pave the way for a Tri-Valley offensive unit which averaged 209.4 yards (167.8 rushing, 41.6 passing) and 15.5 points per game while producing an 1,130-yard rusher and scoring 21 total offensive touchdowns (18 rushing, three passing). Defensively, he added 65 tackles and two sacks for the Bulldogs, averaging 6.5 tackles per game.
Marquis Brown, Junior TE/DE, Pleasant Valley – A key 6’4 frame in the defensive trenches for the Bears, Brown finished his sophomore season by posting 44 tackles (23 solo), two sacks, four deflected passes and two blocked field goals, averaging 4.4 tackles per game.
Matt Gowney, Senior RB, North Schuylkill – One of six 200-yard rushers to finish the season for the 10-1 Spartans, Gowney totaled 239 yards and five touchdowns on 36 carries, averaging 6.6 yards per carry.
Matt Hlavinka, Senior OL, Bethlehem Catholic – A returning presence on the offensive line, Hlavinka helped to pave the way for a Golden Hawk offensive unit which averaged 266.6 yards (148 rushing, 118.6 passing) and 19.2 points per game, producing three 200+-yard rushers and an 810-yard passer among its featured components while scoring 21 total offensive touchdowns (13 passing, eight rushing).
Matt Kimmel, Senior RB, Mahanoy Area – The No. 5 back in Mahanoy’s offensive arsenal which averaged 309 yards per game on the ground, Kimmel ran for 196 yards and two touchdowns on 54 carries and caught one pass for 19 yards, averaging 3.6 yards per carry for the Eastern Conference A champs.
Matt Laub, Senior RB/LB, Saucon Valley – The Panthers’ second-leading rusher last season, Laub ran for 693 yards on 137 carries and caught another 10 passes for 73 yards, averaging 5.1 yards per carry and 7.3 yards per reception while scoring five rushing touchdowns. He surpassed the 100-yard mark in a game twice, including a season-high 174 yards against Wilson Area. Defensively, Laub added 44 tackles (31 solo), an interception, five deflected passes and a blocked field goal, averaging four tackles per game. On special teams, he returned a combined 20 kickoffs and punts for 308 yards, averaging 4.3 yards per punt return and 18.2 yards per kickoff return.
Matthew Mowad, Senior TE/DE, Easton Area – A two-way presence for the Rovers, Mowad was a force on the defensive line where he totaled 50 tackles, eight sacks, five pass deflections and a fumble recovery (which resulted in a touchdown), averaging 3.6 tackles per game. He also hauled in 16 passes for 196 yards and four touchdowns offensively, averaging 12.2 yards per reception.
Max Kroh, Junior OL/DL, Tri-Valley – Kroh helped to pave the way for a Tri-Valley offensive unit which averaged 209.4 yards (167.8 rushing, 41.6 passing) and 15.5 points per game while producing an 1,130-yard rusher and scoring 21 total offensive touchdowns (18 rushing, three passing). Defensively, he chipped in with 25 tackles and a fumble recovery, averaging 2.5 stops per game.
Michael Clarke, Senior RB/ILB, Bangor Area – The Slaters’ top returning tackler from a season ago, Clarke amassed 118 tackles (88 solo), five deflected passes, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery (returned 57 yards for a touchdown), averaging 10.7 tackles per game while posting a season-best 18 stops against Pen Argyl and 15 more tackles in the District 11 AAA semifinals opposite Pottsville. Clarke also saw limited action at running back, where he ran for 29 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries, averaging 2.9 yards per rush.
Michael Depaolo, Junior RB/LB, Pen Argyl – The top returning tackler from a stingy Green Knight defensive unit which allowed an average of only 8.6 points per game, Depaolo tallied 72 tackles, a sack, three interceptions, a deflected pass and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.1 tackles per game. Offensively, he recorded 159 yards rushing on 22 carries and caught an 11-yard pass, averaging 7.2 yards per carry with one touchdown.
Michael Wythe, Senior RB/LB, Pottsville – One of the Crimson Tide’s top returning tacklers from last season, Wythe posted 46 tackles, two sacks, three deflected passes, a forced fumble and three fumble recoveries, averaging 4.2 tackles per game for the District 11 AAA runners-up. He also saw some action in the offensive backfield, running for 139 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per carry.
Mike Donovan, Senior RB, Blue Mountain – The Eagles’ No. 2 rusher and overall leading scorer during the 2011 season, Donovan totaled 603 yards on 76 carries, caught two passes for 17 yards and returned 13 kickoffs for 347 yards, averaging 7.9 yards per carry, 8.5 yards per reception and 26.7 yards per kickoff return while scoring 10 total touchdowns (nine rushing, one kickoff return). He ran for a season-best 144 yards against Berks Catholic and finished four games with multiple touchdowns scored. Defensively, Donovan chipped in with 31 tackles (27 solo).
Mike Paskewicz, Senior WR/DB, Saucon Valley – The Panthers’ second-leading tackler, Paskewicz tallied 55 tackles (44 solo), a team-best five interceptions, 11 deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging five tackles per game. Offensively, he hauled in five passes for 51 yards, averaging 10.2 yards per reception.
Mike Racciato, Senior RB/DB, Pen Argyl – The Green Knights’ top returning multi-purpose offensive weapon, Racciato ran for 664 yards on 105 carries and caught another 14 passes for 263 yards, averaging 6.3 yards per carry and 18.8 yards per reception while scoring 17 total touchdowns (14 rushing, three receiving). He twice surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark in a game and had three games with 60+ receiving yards. Defensively, Racciato added 49 tackles (29 solo), four interceptions, a deflected pass and a forced fumble. On special teams, he added four punt returns for 67 yards (16.8 yard avg.) and six kickoff returns for 123 yards (20.5 yard avg).
Mike Roszkowski, Senior OL/DL, Palisades – Roszkowski notched 27 tackles, a half a sack and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.4 tackles per game while posting a season-high 10 stops in a loss to Northern Lehigh.
Mitch Snyder, Senior WR/LB, Tri-Valley – The Bulldogs’ featured wide receiver last season, Snyder hauled in 15 passes for 139 yards and a touchdown, averaging 9.7 yards per reception. Defensively, he added 34 tackles, a deflected pass and a forced fumble, averaging 4.3 tackles per game.
Nathanial Kramer, Junior OL/DL, Schuylkill Haven – A returning presence on the offensive line for the Hurricanes, Kramer helped to pave the way for a Schuylkill Haven offensive unit which averaged 269.6 yards (250.3 rushing, 19.3 passing) and 16 points per game last season, helping to pave the way for a pair of 640+-yard rushers while scoring 23 total offensive touchdowns (21 rushing, two passing). Defensively, he added 40 tackles (all solo), three sacks and a fumble recovery, averaging five stops per game.
Nich Hollenbach, Senior FB/NG, Tamaqua – Hollenbach proved a force to be reckoned with on the Blue Raider defensive line, amassing 70 tackles (all solo), a team-leading 11 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.8 tackles per game while posting a season-high 11 tackles against eventual Eastern Conference A champion Mahanoy Area.
Nicholas Shafinsky, Senior QB/DB, Whitehall – Shafinsky was a dual-threat quarterback who helped lead Whitehall to the Eastern Conference AAAA championship game opposite Liberty. In partial season statistics, Shafinsky amassed 1,279 yards of total offense (874 passing, 405 rushing) and accounted for 18 total Whitehall touchdowns (11 passing, six rushing, one receiving). He completed 59-of-106 passes (55.7 percent) and averaged 4.2 yards per carry on 97 rushes. His lone reception of the season came on a 58-yard touchdown pass.
Nick Kerson, Senior S, Emmaus – Kerson was a force in the Hornets’ defensive backfield where he totaled 58 tackles, an interception and three fumble recoveries, averaging 5.8 tackles per game.
Nick Merva, Senior WR/DB, Shenandoah Valley – One of two featured wide receivers in a Shenandoah Valley aerial assault which averaged 136.1 yards per game last year, Merva hauled in 48 passes for 616 yards and added another 308 yards rushing on 61 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per rush and 12.8 yards per reception while scoring eight total touchdowns (five receiving, three rushing). He also completed 4-of-15 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown in the passing game.
Nick Raso, Junior DL, Easton Area – Raso was a contributor on an Easton defensive unit which allowed an average of 16.2 points per game, limiting eight of 14 opponents to 14 points or less, with two shutouts.
Niko Petrone, Junior RB/SS, East Stroudsburg South – Petrone finished his sophomore season by running for 389 yards on 32 carries and hauling in another 11 passes for 117 yards, averaging 12.2 yards per carry and 10.6 yards per reception, scoring five total touchdowns (all rushing). He ran for a season- and career-best 151 yards on just seven carries against Northampton.
Nolan Zeigler, Senior RB/LB, Tamaqua – A prominent factor on defense for the Blue Raiders, Zeigler tallied 100 tackles (all solo), two sacks, an interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a blocked field goal, averaging 8.3 tackles per game while finishing four of Tamaqua’s final five games with 10+ stops, including a 17-tackle peformance against Marian Catholic. Offensively, Zeigler added 259 yards rushing and five touchdowns on 61 carries, averaging 4.3 yards per rush.
Owen Daniel, Senior RB/WR, Williams Valley – The Vikings’ leading rusher and top returning scorer from a season ago, Daniel posted 1,194 yards on 159 carries and caught another 12 passes for 107 yards, averaging 7.5 yards per carry and 8.9 yards per reception, scoring 11 total touchdowns (eight rushing, three receiving). He also completed both of his pass attempts on the season for 74 yards and two touchdowns.
Patrick Duvigneaud, Senior QB/FS, Jim Thorpe – The field general at the helm of an Olympian offensive unit which averaged 18.6 points per game, Duvigneuad connected on 84-of-188 passes (44.7 percent) for 1,302 yards and 19 touchdowns against 10 interceptions and added another 222 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 81 carries, averaging 2.7 yards per carry and 130 yards passing per game. He is on pace to throw for 2,600 yards in his career.
Petey Hernandez, Senior ATH, Bethlehem Freedom – Hernandez, a transfer to Freedom from Pius X, proved a factor in all three phases of the game for the Royals, amassing 802 all-purpose yards (254 rushing, 183 receiving, 365 kickoff/punt returns), averaging 7.9 yards per carry, 13.1 yards per reception and 33 yards per kickoff return, scoring seven total touchdowns (five rushing, one receiving, one kickoff return). Defensively, Hernandez helped contribute in the Royals’ defensive backfield by tallying 48 tackles (28 solo), three interceptions and five deflected passes, averaging 3.7 tackles per game.
Phil Stokes, Senior TE/LB, Stroudsburg – Stokes finished his junior season with 36 tackles (18 solo), a deflected pass and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.1 tackles per game for the Mounties, who finished 9-3 overall and reached the District 2/4/11 AAAA quarterfinals opposite Parkland.
Rich Smith, Senior ATH, Panther Valley – The featured running back in the Panthers’ offensive arsenal last season, Smith ran for 400 yards on 96 carries and caught another eight passes for 156 yards, averaging 4.2 yards per carry and 19.5 yards per reception while scoring four total touchdowns (three rushing, one receiving).
Robby Karstendiek, Senior RB/LB, Stroudsburg – The Mounties’ leading returning rusher, Karstendiek ran for 171 yards and six touchdowns on 48 carries, averaging 3.6 yards per rush. Defensively, he was among the team’s top tacklers, notching 54 tackles (38 solo) and a sack, averaging six stops per game while posting a season-high 10 tackles against Williamsport.
Ryan Bonshock, Junior RB/DB, Whitehall – In partial season stats, Bonshock finished with 32 tackles (26 solo), four interceptions and a deflected pass, averaging 3.6 tackles per game. He also added 68 yards rushing and a touchdown on 10 carries, averaging 6.8 yards per rush.
Ryan Dailey, Senior QB/DB, Wilson Area – Dailey assumed the helm of Wilson’s spread offense last season, finishing by connecting on 103-of-211 passes (48.8 percent) for 1,594 yards and 11 touchdowns against nine interceptions, throwing for 100+ yards in nine of the Warriors’ 10 games. He is on pace to throw for more than 3,100 yards in his career. Defensively, he added 25 tackles and a deflected pass.
Ryan Hydock, Senior QB/DE/ILB, Bangor Area – The primary Slater under center during the 2011 season, Hydock saw action in nine of Bangor’s 11 games. He connected on 38-of-82 passes (46.3 percent) for 661 yards and six touchdowns, twice surpassing the 100-yard mark in passing yards for a game and finishing two games with multiple touchdown passes. He also added one rushing touchdown on 30 keepers.
Ryan Williams, Senior RB, Easton Area – Williams returns to the Rover offensive backfield after running for 268 yards and five touchdowns on 37 carries, averaging 7.2 yards per rush.
Scott Beltz, Senior TE/DE, Pen Argyl – A two-way presence for the District 11 AA champion and PIAA AA quarterfinalist Green Knights, Beltz was a force at defensive end, recording 69 tackles, four sacks, six deflected passes and a forced fumble, averaging 5.3 tackles per game. Offensively, he hauled in four passes for 82 yards and a touchdown, averaging 20.5 yards per reception, and also helped to pave the way for a Green Knight ground attack which averaged 258.9 yards per game.
Sebastian Joseph, Senior OL/DL, Stroudsburg – One of Stroudsburg’s leading sack artists last season, Joseph, a Rutgers recruit, tallied 25 tackles (21 solo), tied for the team lead in sacks, with six, and deflected three passes, averaging 4.2 tackles per game. He posted multiple-sack games against Lehighton and Pocono Mountain West.
Sekou Jones, Senior WR/OLB, Pleasant Valley – Playing in only the Bears’ first six games, Jones finished his junior season with 20 receptions for 285 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 12.9 yards per reception while posting a season-best seven catches for 119 yards against Wyoming Valley West. Defensively, he added 26 tackles, two interceptions, two deflected passes, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.7 tackles per game.
Shane Grapsy, Junior QB, Blue Mountain – Grapsy assumed the reins of Blue Mountain’s offensive arsenal for the final eight games of the season, and he amassed 546 yards of total offense (508 passing, 38 rushing) and threw three touchdown passes, leading the Eagles to a 5-3 record and berth in the Eastern Conference AAA playoffs opposite Southern Lehigh. He completed 45-of-99 passes (45.5 percent) and averaged 1.7 yards per carry on 22 rushes.
Shane Kostishack, Senior OL/DL, Minersville – A returning presence in the trenches for the Battling Miners, Kostishack helped to pave the way for a Minersville offensive unit which averaged 371 yards and 33.1 points per game, producing a pair of 1,200-yard rushers and a 700-yard passer while scoring 46 total offensive touchdowns (38 rushing, eight passing). Defensively, he posted 44 tackles, 2.5 sacks, a deflected pass and two fumble recoveries, averaging four tackles per game.
Shane Simpson, Sophomore WR/DB, Easton Area – The featured wide receiver in a Rover aerial assault which averaged 141.8 yards per game, Simpson hauled in 36 passes for 679 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 18.9 yards per reception. Simpson is on pace to finish his career with more than 2,700 yards receiving.
Shabarreon Banks, Senior DB, Easton Area – Banks was a contributor on an Easton defensive unit which allowed an average of 16.2 points per game, limiting eight of 14 opponents to 14 points or less, with two shutouts.
Stanley Acosta, Senior FB/MLB, East Stroudsburg South – A key returning presence at linebacker for the Cavaliers, Acosta notched 20 tackles (15 solo), a team-best six sacks and three fumble recoveries, averaging 2.5 tackles per game.
Steve Juarbe, Senior OL/DL, Bangor Pius X – Juarbe helped to pave the way for a Royal offensive unit which put up staggering numbers last season, averaging 462.5 yards (265.6 passing, 196.9 rushing) and 42.9 points per game en route to a 12-2 record, District 11 A championship and berth in the PIAA A quarterfinals opposite Southern Columbia. Pius X finished the season with a pair of 930+-yard rushers and a 3,700-yard passer, scoring 86 total offensive touchdowns (40 rushing, 46 passing).
Tate Koppenhaver, Senior RB/DL, Tri-Valley – The Bulldogs’ second-leading rusher, Koppenhaver ran for 258 yards and two touchdowns on 49 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. Defensively, he added 58 tackles, two deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.8 tackles per game.
Thomas Misiak, Junior OL/LB, Saucon Valley – A key returning presence at linebacker for Saucon Valley, Misiak tallied 29 tackles (18 solo), two sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, averaging 2.6 stops per game for the Panthers.
Tim Baranek, Senior QB, Parkland – Entering the District 2/4/11 AAAA subregional playoffs, Baranek had completed 53-of-88 passes (60.2 percent) for 730 yards and six touchdowns against three interceptions, averaging 73 yards per game. Parkland finished 9-3 overall, reaching the 2/4/11 semifinals opposite Nazareth.
Tim Viario, Senior RB/LB/DB, Bangor Area – A returning presence at linebacker for the District 11 AAA semifinalist Slaters, Vicario notched 63 tackles (50 solo), an interception (returned 57 yards for a touchdown), two deflected passes and two fumble recoveries, averaging 5.7 tackles per game. He also saw some action at running back, recording 118 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries, averaging 8.4 yards per rush attempt.
Todd Zimmerman, Senior RB/LB, Schuylkill Haven – The Hurricanes’ third-leading rusher from a season ago, Zimmerman posted 283 yards and three touchdowns on 58 carries, averaging 4.9 yards per rush. Defensively, he added 25 tackles (all solo), a sack, a deflected pass and a fumble recovery, averaging 2.5 tackles per game.
Travis Blankenhorn, Sophomore RB/DB, Pottsville – An all-around presence for the Crimson Tide, Blankenhorn did a variety of things for the District 11 AAA runners-up. He serves as the team’s leading returning receiver after hauling in 17 passes for 276 yards and a touchdown, averaging 16.2 yards per reception. Defensively, he added 62 tackles (31 solo), a half a sack, an interception, three deflected passes, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, averaging 5.4 tackles per game. On special teams, he booted four of his 33 kickoffs for touchbacks and converted 26 extra points, accounting for 38 total points on the season (26 PATs, two TDs).
Tre Nelson, Sophomore TE/ILB, Palmerton – Nelson had a respectable freshman campaign for Palmerton, posting 66 tackles (39 solo) and a half a sack, averaging 6.6 tackles per game while posting consecutive 11-tackle games against Notre Dame-Green Pond and Southern Lehigh.
Trevor Whelski, Junior RB, Williams Valley – The No. 3 rusher in the Vikings’ run-centric offense which averaged 248.8 yards per game on the ground, Whelski ran for 558 yards and five touchdowns on 97 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per carry. Whelski was one of three backs to finish the season with at least 500 yards rushing as Williams Valley finished 7-4 overall and reached the District 11 A playoffs.
Trey Robinson, Senior RB/DB, Wilson Area – Robinson proved to be quite the all-purpose weapon for the Warriors, making impacts in all three phases of the game. When all was said and done, Robinson wound up amassing 2,163 all-purpose yards (1,096 rushing, 457 receiving, 603 kickoff/punt returns) and scored 16 total touchdowns (12 rushing, four receiving), averaging 8.4 yards per carry, 15.8 yards per reception, 16.2 yards per punt return and 17.5 yards per kickoff return. He ran for 100+ yards four times, including a whopping 405 yards and five touchdowns against Notre Dame-Green Pond to close the season. Defensively, he added 81 tackles (48 solo), 2.5 sacks, an interception, three deflected passes and three fumble recoveries, averaging 8.1 tackles per game.
Ty Waizenegger, Senior WR/DB, Tri-Valley – A returning presence in the Bulldogs’ defensive backfield, Waizenegger totaled 52 tackles, an interception and eight deflected passes, averaging 5.2 stops per game. Offensively, he hauled in six passes for 116 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 19.3 yards per reception.
Tyler Greene, Senior OL/DL, Easton Area – Greene helped to pave the way for a Rover offensive unit which averaged 314 yards (172.2 rushing, 141.8 passing) and 28.5 points per game en route to an 11-3 overall record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional championship game opposite Nazareth, producing an 1,860-yard passer and two 550+-yard rushers while scoring 49 total offensive touchdowns (31 rushing, 18 passing). Also, defensively, Greene posted 77 tackles, seven sacks and three forced fumbles, averaging 5.5 tackles per game.
Tyler Hope, Junior RB/LB, Tamaqua – One of four backs to factor prominently in the Blue Raiders’ ground attack which averaged 208.6 yards per game, Hope ran for 442 yards on 68 carries and caught another seven passes for 130 yards, averaging 6.5 yards per carry and 18.6 yards per reception, scoring six total touchdowns (four rushing, two receiving). He also recorded 45 tackles (all solo) and one sack on defense and returned a kickoff 87 yards.
Tyler Krell, Senior SE/DB, Tamaqua – A 6’2 presence in the Blue Raiders’ defensive backfield, Krell more than made his presence known, totaling 25 tackles (all solo), a team-leading seven interceptions and a fumble recovery, averaging 2.3 tackles per game. Also utilized in the team’s aerial assault, he snagged 10 passes for 155 yards, averaging 15.5 yards per reception.
Tyler McLaughlin, Senior QB/OLB, East Stroudsburg South – A dual-threat field general at the helm of the Cavaliers’ offensive arsenal, McLaughlin amassed 1,148 yards of total offense (866 passing, 282 rushing) and accounted for 12 total East Stroudsburg South touchdowns (10 passing, two rushing), completing 57-of-134 passes (42.5 percent) and averaging 3.2 yards per carry on 88 rushes. He threw for 100+ yards in a game three times and also finished three games with multiple touchdown passes. He posted nine tackles (seven solo) on defense and averaged 33.2 yards per punt on 17 kicks, with three of those punts downed inside the 20 yard line.
Tyler Peerson, Senior OL, Bethlehem Freedom – Peerson helped to pave the way for a Patriot offensive unit which averaged 355.3 yards (232.2 rushing, 123.1 passing) and 36.7 points per game en route to an 8-3 record and berth in the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional quarterfinals opposite Easton, producing a 1,300-yard passer and 1,160-yard rusher while scoring 43 total offensive touchdowns (29 rushing, 14 passing).
Tyler Smith, Senior RB, Panther Valley – One of the Panthers’ top returning rushers from a season ago, Smith ran for 166 yards and a touchdown on 44 carries and caught one pass for five yards, averaging 3.8 yards per carry.
Will Bornstein, Junior DEF, Blue Mountain – One of the Eagles’ top returning tacklers, Bornstein finished the season with 40 tackles (31 solo), four sacks and a blocked punt (recovered for a touchdown against Hamburg), averaging 3.6 tackles per game. He also saw some action offensively, running for 38 yards and a touchdown on six carries, averaging 6.3 yards per rush attempt.
William Casella, Sophomore RB/LB, Schuylkill Haven – The second-leading rusher in a Hurricane offensive unit which averaged 250 yards per game on the ground, Casella rolled up 644 yards and three touchdowns on 125 carries, averaging 5.2 yards per rush with a pair of 100-yard games, including a career-high 221 yards against Panther Valley. Defensively, he added 10 tackles (all solo) and three fumble recoveries in limited action.
Zach Gurinowich, Senior LB, Parkland – Gurinowich was one of Parkland’s top tacklers last season, and, entering the 2/4/11 AAAA subregional playoffs, had tallied 93 tackles for an average of 9.3 tackles per game.
Zach Kerschner, Junior OL/LB, Schuylkill Haven – A returning presence on the offensive line for the Hurricanes, Kerschner helped to pave the way for a Schuylkill Haven offensive unit which averaged 269.6 yards (250.3 rushing, 19.3 passing) and 16 points per game last season, helping to pave the way for a pair of 640+-yard rushers while scoring 23 total offensive touchdowns (21 rushing, two passing). Defensively, he added 75 tackles (all solo), a sack, a deflected pass, two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries, averaging 7.5 tackles per game.
Zachary Delp, Senior TE/LB, Whitehall – In partial season stats, Delp tallied 40 tackles (28 solo), four sacks and an interception (returned 44 yards), averaging 4.4 tackles per game for the Zephyrs. He also caught a 59-yard pass offensively.
Zach Bogoly, Senior WR/LB, Wilson Area – Bogoly emerged as a receiving threat over Wilson’s last eight games, hauling in 34 passes for 534 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 15.7 yards per
reception while posting a season-best 123 yards in a loss to Bangor. Defensively, he contributed 38 tackles (30 solo), an interception, five deflected passes and a fumble recovery, averaging 3.8 tackles per game.
Zee Roberson, Junior WR/FS, East Stroudsburg South – The top returninfg receiver from an aerial assault which averaged 90.9 yards per game, Roberson caught 12 passes for 242 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 20.2 yards per reception. Defensively, he added eight tackles (seven solo), an interception and a fumble recovery, averaging a tackle per game for ESS.
