Expectations are high for the Varsity Burlington Stampeders football squad as they prepare for their season opener this Sunday, where they will host the Guelph Bears.
The Stampeders, who finished second place in their division last year with six wins and one loss, are looking to their veteran players to bring the competitive edge the team needs to succeed.
“We have a great mix of young talent and veteran experience,” said Stampeders head coach Adam Grandy. “Our expectations as a team are to be as competitive as possible, with out opponents and ourselves.”
“We want to compete every snap of every play until the clock reads zero.”
Returning quarterback Troy Downton will lead the Stampeders offense. Rookie running-back Jordan Lyons and rookie receivers Ben Field and Connor McQuilkin are also young talented players that should make an impact on the field. The Stampeders expect their offense to continue the strong play that allowed them to finish second place last season.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Stampeders will look to veteran defensive linemen Andrew Ziebart and Matt Macera as well as returning defensive back Lucas Merlin. Rookie defensive back Connor Newcombe is also expected to make a strong impact with the team.
“Our offense will be successful running the football,” added Grandy. “Defensively we have a lot of speed and our success will be based upon all 12 guys doing the job.”
The Stampeders play the Bears this Sunday the 26th at Nelson Stadium. Kick-off is set for 5:00 pm.
Head Coach: Adam Grandy
2012 Record: 6-1
Key Returnees:
Andrew Ziebart, DL -Iroquis Ridge
Luke Korol, LB – Corpus Christi
Lucas Merlin, DB- Corpus Christi
Matt Macera, DL – Corpus Christi
Nick Thun, OL – Corpus Christi
James Morin, OL – Notre Dame
Troy Downton, QB – MM Robinson
Gabriel Ferraro, K – St. Marcellinus
Key Rookies:
Darius Ciraco, OL – Assumption
Jordan Lyons, RB – Assumption
Ben Field, WR – Corpus Christi
Connor McQuilkin, WR – Corpus Christi
Aidan England, LB – Nelson
Connor Newcombe, DB Assumption
Carter Gladman, DL St. Thomas Aquanis
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