By Joseph Staszewski
St. Francis Prep isn’t satisfied with the taste of success it experienced last season.
The Terriers went undefeated in CHSFL’s Class AA-A division during the regular season before suffering a heartbreaking one-point overtime loss to Kellenberg in the playoffs. Still, the year re-energized a proud program that endured some lean seasons in recent years.
“It was a big spark for us,” senior running back Justin Guerre said. “It gave us motivation, especially coming into this season.”
He and his teammates are looking to continue the program’s resurgence since a change in the CHSFL’s structure will give them a chance to test themselves against a number of AAA level teams this season. It’s a challenge they are embracing as St. Francis Prep enters its 100th year of football and legendary Coach Vince O’Connor starts his 61st season at the school.
“We are taking a step up this year,” Guerre said.
He will be a big reason why the Terriers have a chance to do so. Guerre, who O’Connor calls “special,” is an explosive runner, especially around the edge. He rushed for 913 yards and 13 touchdowns last season and also had 120 yards receiving. Guerre even amazes his teammates with what he is able to do with the ball in his hands.
“As soon as he passes the linebackers, it’s most likely a touchdown,” fellow running back Tariq Oliver said. “It’s amazing. Sometimes kids have to edge him and then he runs like a 4.3, so he’s got that NFL speed.”
They should make quite a team along with Marques Gordon, a powerful runner, and full back Rob Campbell. Jonathan Joseph and Michael Hartgrove will split time at receiver and in the secondary.
The question mark is an inexperienced offensive line anchored by Joe Stevens. The Terriers will also have a new quarterback under center as senior Billy Gluck battles junior Rob Einersen for the chance to replace the graduated Jack Hurley.
“They will develop as the season goes on,” O’Connor said. “They aren’t accomplished quarterbacks yet.”
One place where St. Francis Prep won’t have to worry about a lack of experience is on defense. The Terriers’ strength will be a linebacker in returning Frankie Irving, Jed Hendrixson and Robert Wright, who was second in the league in sacks with 10. Wright, who O’Connor said plays the position with ease, thought his season went unnoticed to those outside the team. He moved from outside to inside linebacker and flourished as he was allowed to be more aggressive.
“I like blitzing,” Wright said.
He and his teammates also enjoyed winning much more prolifically last season and want that to continue. They have confidence their experienced defense and potentially potent running game will be enough keep the Terriers on the upswing.
“That’s a great way to mix things up against a defense,” Guerre said of the speed and power in the backfield. “It’s a great combination. It’s a hard combination to beat.”
