published Tuesday, August 27,1996

KENNEDY CHRISTIAN

Team SCHEDULE // ROSTER // PREVIEW STORY
Back to Herald Football '96

`Kennedy shooting for return to PIAA playoffs`

As coach John Turco sat behind his desk Saturday morning in the newly remodeled office at Kennedy Christian field house, in walked a familiar figure _ veteran Farrell coach Lou Falconi.

Falconi was there to exchange films of preseason scrimmages, since the two teams meet Saturday afternoon in their season opener at Kennedy.

As Falconi turned to leave, he said, ``I hope we need do this again at the near the end of the season.''

For that to happen, both teams would have to win their respective districts and then advance to the Western Regional Class A final. But that's not that far-fetched an idea. Farrell was there last year, advancing on to win the state title. Kennedy Christian was there two years ago, losing out on a trip to state to Western Beaver.

Turco is looking foward to playing Farrell: ``I feel it's a real honor just to be on the field with the defending state champs. We're in the process of upgrading our schedules to play better opponents. That's also why we scheduled (Warren) JFK.

``We're not at the level Farrell is at this point; it's a goal anybody having knowledge about football would seek. This area is known for football and they're at the top of the heap around here.''

The veteran Turco, who spent several years at Rayen before taking the reins at Kennedy in 1994, chooses not to look ahead to the western regional fianls already. ``Our early goal is always to win our league, by beating Sharpsville and West Middlesex,'' he said. ``Since we now play each of the teams only once (unlike twice as the past few years), there's a litte urgency in preparing for those games. There are no second chances. If we don't win those games, we don't make it to the postseason.''

Kennedy has won the Class A division of the Mercer County Athletic Conference the past three years. Last season the Golden Eagles were eliminated in the District 10 semifinals by Iroquois and finished the season at 6-4. Key players lost to graduation were running back Doug Tolley and linemen Joe Shipton, Ed Kraft and Sean Miller.

But the Eagles return a wealth of experience at some key positions, including quarterback with senior Rob Brevetta. ``Rob has matured a lot since last year,'' said Turco. ``He a much more solid offensive player, as well as being a great defensive player. He's being looked at by some Division I teams because he has good speed and is a 3.9 grade-point-average student. The way he reads the options so far is outstanding.''

Senior Rick Dunder, who gained 941 yards last season, returns at running back. Also at a halfback slot will be sophomore Jason Cecil, a real speedster, who Turco said has ``that elusive ability to take it all the way on any play.'' Hard-nosed Scott ``Scooter'' Renniger will be at fullback.

The offensive line is anchored in the middle by senior guards Ed Stabile and Rob Brown. The two experienced lineman are joined at center by Jeff Dolan, with tackles being Sean Marenkovic (a transfer from Cardinal Mooney) and Rob Bain or John O'Brien. Junior T.J. Donofrio returns at tight end.

Split end will be Mike Scullin, while flankers will be Cody George, Jemille Cecil or Isaac Friday.

Others who could see action are Kevin Hart at tight end, Muke Edwards and Lamar Adams at halfback, and Steve Butler on line.

On defense, the Golden Eagles line up with Donofrio and Marenkovic at ends and Stabile and Brown at tackles. Inside linebackers are Dolan and Renninger, with Scullin and Dunder on the outside. Defensive backs include Jason Cecil, Dale McAdams, George and Brevetta. Also set for action are John Kawecki and Travis Shirley at inside linebacker and Brian Trimboli and Chris Joseph at outside linebacker.

``Offensively, the key is that we have to throw the football,'' said Turco, normally a run-oriented coach. ``It will be hard for me to do. I have to change my offensive thinking. But if teams are going to put 11 guys up on the line to stop the run, we're going to throw. We have the players this year for a good passing game.''

One of the keys to the passing game is Cody George, a talented transfer from Sharpsville. As a freshman and sophomore for the Blue Devils, George pulled in 68 receptions for 889 yards, including an area-best 48 for 688 yards last season. He suffered a preseason knee injury (bad bruise and swelling), but should be ready for the opener.

Turco again talked of the outstanding support given by the administration, parents and Kennedy community of fans. ``That aspect makes it easier to coach,'' he said.

The school installed bleachers on the far side of the field to allow for additional seating. ``Having seating on both sides gives it more of a football atmopshere,'' said Turco.

Joining Turco on the coaching staff are Al Boggia, Joe Kenneally, Archie Donofrio, Don George, Dan Hromyak, Tom Pokabla, Jordam Klucinec and Sean O'Neill.

Back to TOP // Back to Herald Football '96 page // Back to Herald HOME page

Updated August 29, 1996