Wednesday, August 27, 2003

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

TEAM TO BEAT

Monessen -- Carmichaels beat out Monessen for the conference title last season, but the Greyhounds should return to top dog status this year. Eight starters return on offense and six on defense. Running back-linebacker Earnest Williams (6-2, 245) and running back-defensive back Quinton Martin (5-11, 185) were both all-conference last year as sophomores. Senior Delroy Ross (6-0, 190) is back at quarterback. "We have a lot of talented skill players," said Coach Joe Fischer.

THE CONTENDERS

Mapletown -- A host of returning starters make the Maples the biggest threat to Monessen. Senior two-way tackle Matt Messich (6-1, 276), son of Coach George Messich, can bench press 375 pounds. Senior Gerod Buckhalter (6-3, 175) caught 50 passes a year ago.

Jefferson-Morgan -- With starters returning at 13 positions, the Rockets are a team to watch.

Carmichaels -- The Mikes are defending conference champions. Although they lost most of their starters to graduation, first-year coach Mike Bosnic is convinced his team could still be playoff-bound.

THE OTHERS

Frazier -- Coach Larry Wilson has only five returning starters, but the Commodores could still sneak into the third- or fourth-place spot.

California -- Is senior quarterback Parker Bongiorno (5-10, 180) enough to lead the Trojans to a fifth consecutive playoff appearance? He threw for 553 yards in 2002.

West Greene -- Sophomore quarterback-defensive back A.J. Wilson is a player to watch. You might remember his brother. Rodney Wilson, who graduated in 1994, was once the WPIAL's all-time leading rusher.

Geibel -- The Gators haven't won more than one game since 1996. "We could surprise some people and win four or five games this year," said Coach Angelo Dippolito. Junior center-defensive tackle Steve Hohol (6-2, 215) is a standout lineman.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Parker Bongiorno, California (QB-DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.); Gerod Buckhalter, Mapletown (WR-RB-DB, 6-3, 175, Sr.); Quinton Martin, Monessen (RB-DB, 5-11, 185, Jr.); Matt Messich, Mapletown (OT-DT, 6-1, 276, Sr.); Earnest Williams, Monessen (RB-LB, 6-2, 245, Jr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Monessen at Mapletown, Oct. 24.

BEST BANDS

Carmichaels, Frazier, California.

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