OVFL: Cambridge Lions look for players and coaches to make positive impact this season (PREVIEW)

The Cambridge Lions Varsity team is in full throttle mode as this start of this season is fast approaching

Leading the team out onto the field will be returning Head Coach Anthony Maggiacomo.

Maggiacomo’s expectations are the same as last year.

“I expect to make playoffs,” said Maggiacomo.

While, he remains humble, he does plans to take every game in stride.

“Show up Game 1 and play, at the end of the day this is what I expect now,” said Maggiacomo.  “We are at the point now after the last three years we feel were finally ready, we have key players at the talent positions and are as deep as we have ever been.”

The Lions roster this year boasts three players that were part of Team Ontario Selects, which competed in Texas this past winter.  Those players include quarterback James Roberts, linebacker Drew Walden, and wide receiver Carlton Smith. Additionally, the team itself has a number of returning players and a group of new players ready to make an impact the team. Key returning players taking the field for the Lions include, running Back Tyler Gibner and wide receiver Eric Cussimano.

Key rookies joining the Lions ready to make big contributions this upcoming season include offensive linemen Andrew Pickett, and defensive linemen Hassan Barry.

Maggiacomo notes that his season the team boasts a lot of assets.

“I think our strength is as a team we are well balance, we have a lot of players that have played at this level and we can rely on the defense and offense,” said Maggiacomo.. “Also noting specifically on the defensive side “we have our linebacker and defensive backs core returning.”

However, the Lions will have to overcome some adversity if they want to be champions this year. The team’s youth is a double edged sword.

“Still a pretty young team with a handful of grade 11 students,” noted Anthony, “We don’t have a lot of three year veterans, but I wouldn’t say that is a weakness.”

With this opportunity to grow as a team and gather experience, it is also a possible weakness

The Lions will have some Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks coaches on their staff.  Running Backs Coach Ryan Lynch, Wide Receiver Coach Mark Surya, Linebackers Coach Jesse Alexander and Offensive Line coach Dave Montoya to work with the Lions this season.

The Lions organization knows that these additions will make a huge impact on the team.

“Seeing the success of the Jr. Mustangs last season it was a move; in terms of player development is essential, this will help us be competitive,” said Maggiacomo.

Having enjoyed the success as a franchise, the 2013 season will be an interesting, yet exciting time to be a Lion. The Lions open up their inaugural season against the Sault Ste. Marie Sabercats, on May 25th at 3pm at home on their new turf field.

 

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