Wednesday, August 27, 2003

By Mike White and Ken Mrazik, Post-Gazette Sports Writers

TEAM TO BEAT

Shenango -- Word is Tri-County North teams are down a little this year in terms of talent. But Shenango is still up. The Wildcats won the conference title a year ago and made it to the WPIAL quarterfinals before losing to Aliquippa, 38-32. Coach Brian Cooper has four players returning who were first-team all-conference. They are senior two-way tackle Doug Petrick (6-5, 290), senior receiver-defensive back Terry Grossetti (6-4, 180), senior halfback-defensive back Dave Flora (5-9, 165) and senior running back-linebacker David Dado (5-11, 220). Flora was the team's second-leading rusher last year and Grossetti was the leading receiver. A key for Shenango is defense. The Wildcats gave up 21 points or more in four of the final five games.

CONTENDERS

Riverside -- After finishing second to Shenango last year, the Panthers should once again challenge for the conference title. Quarterback Joe DeSanzo (6-2, 195) completed 49 of 99 for 618 yards last year as a sophomore. Senior Brian Mohr (6-3, 215) made the coaches' all-conference team on offense and defense. The Panthers must find a capable running back for graduated Jimmy Bates (1,1195 yards last year).

Laurel -- Junior tight end-defensive end Mike Burkett (6-5, 220) might be a Division I prospect for next year. He could help the Spartans to a second consecutive playoff berth.

THE OTHERS

Mohawk -- The Warriors are hoping momentum from the final part of last season carries over. After starting 0-5, they won three of their final four games, including three by shutout. But facing Freedom, Rochester and Laurel in the first three weeks doesn't make it easy.

Summit Academy -- A new set of starters will make it difficult for the Knights early in the season, but Coach Steve Sherer likes what he sees of sophmore tailback Kaseem Clark (5-8, 146) and junior quarterback Mahlon Drumgoole (6-1, 165).

Neshannock -- The Lancers' only win last year was in the final game against Geibel, but Neshannock has senior Steve Schauer (5-10, 180), who rushed for a team-high 639 yards.

Union -- Steve Brenner led theteam in rushing last season.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mike Burkett, Laurel (TE-DE, 6-5, 220, Jr.); Joe DeSanzo, Riverside (QB, 6-2, 195, Jr.); Terry Grossetti, Shenango (WR-DB, 6-4, 180, Sr.); Brian Mohr, Riverside (TE-DL, 6-3, 215, Sr.); Doug Petrick, Shenango (OT-DT, 6-5, 290, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Riverside at Shenango, Oct. 18.

BEST BAND

Riverside.

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