Girard YellowJackets
Jim Funk
Coach (season, record): Jim Funk (2nd season, 4-6)
2010 overall record: 4-6
2010 region record (place): 3-3 (fourth)
2010 playoff results: Lost 28-7 to Sharon in the District 10 Class AA quarterfinals.
Top players lost: Jordan Dudas, Joe Sobucki, Nate Smialek, Anthony Stuart, Hunter Erdman, Justin Zadorozny, John Vogel, Tyler Tome
Top returning players: Jake Kalicky, Austin Platz, Hayden Erdman, Brandon Hall
Assistant coaches: Mike Zona, Pat Erdman, Josh Chiocco, Bill McNally, Ron Platz, Tracy Dinger
Outlook: It should be an interesting year in Girard this fall. The YellowJackets will basically have a new backfield and will search for a new set of standouts. Talented running backs Joe Sobucki, Jordan Dudas and Tyler Tome have graduated as well as quarterback Justin Zadorozny. Wide receiver Anthony Stuart graduated as well, leaving second-year coach Jim Funk with almost no experience at the skill positions. All-region members Hunter Erdman (lineman) and John Vogel (linebacker) have also graduated, leaving holes on the offensive line and on defense.
Jake Kalicky
Austin Platz
Jake Kalicky, a fullback/linebacker, took on a leadership role in the offseason in the weight room and could be an impact player this season, along with Austin Platz, Hayden Erdman and Brandon Hall on the offensive line. Christian Bock could step into a starting role as a linebacker, while Hunter Jones could be an impact player at wide receiver. Almost all starting jobs are open this fall, which should create some intense competition in camp.
Girard is a young team and might go through some growing pains this season. The ‘Jackets’ schedule won’t be easy this season. It includes a season-opening road game at Class AAA Corry along with home games against Class AAA teams Oil City and Fort LeBoeuf. The biggest stretch for the ‘Jackets this season will come in September. Girard will host Harbor Creek and Northwestern – two teams the ‘Jackets will battle for a playoff spot – along with an important road game at North East.
Schedule
September
2 at Corry 7
9 Harbor Creek* 7
16 Oil City 7
23 Northwestern* 7
30 at North East* 7
October
7 Fort LeBoeuf 7
14 Fairview* 7
21 at Seneca* 7
28 at General McLane* 7
November
4 Bye
Wednesday: Greenville
– Tom Reisenweber
