Summerfield was another team that began a new era, as Ryan LeFevre took over for Erik Johnson last season. The Bulldogs made the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season, and for the eighth time in school history as they went 7-4 with a loss to eventual Division 8 State Champ Whiteford. The Bulldogs return six starters on offense, and seven on defense.
Head Coach: Ryan LeFevre (7-4; second season)
Assistants: Darrell Polter, Nathan Mills, Al Gilson, Steve Bolster, Tony Fietz, Alex Lipka
Offense: Brendan Zeipekis returns at quarterback, and will have no shortage of playmakers to get the ball to, led by junior RBs Bryce Smith and Andrew Bucher. Senior TE Mark Keller will likely be the go-to receiver for Zeipekis. Morgan Slinker and Ryan Puterbaugh return to anchor the offensive line. Junior WR Derek Clark and junior RB Jake LaRocca are two new faces to watch on offense.
Defense: Slinker and Smith return to anchor the defensive line. Keller and Jacob Heisler are back at linebacker, and the secondary has three starters back, led by Brayden Jewell, Brendan Defoe, and Cade Hall. Heisler can also play defensive back.
Coach’s Outlook: The league will be tough this year. Whiteford is coming off of a state championship, and Clinton and Sand Creek will be fielding stout teams. We look to compete with everyone, but the TCC has some great coaches so, there are no easy wins on the schedule.
FNV Outlook: Summerfield has been fairly consistent; making the playoffs in all but two of the last ten seasons. Making it for a fifth consecutive season is feasible, but the schedule provides plenty of challenges with visits from an improved Erie Mason squad and a Pittsford team that went 9-2. Road trips to Morenci and Clinton could spell the difference between a playoff bid and staying home.
Frank’s Prediction: 5-4
Chris’s Prediction: 5-4
Gary’s Prediction: 6-3