Photo By Patty Theurer - #44 Dillon Sperber
Written By: Sven Alskog
A quick glance at what Genesee has in place for the new season would indicate that the line play should be expected to be a strength for the team.
“We have a very experienced group of offensive linemen and are adding a senior in Jared Ketcheson that will help even more,” said head coach Tim Sperber.
It’s the same story on defense, where All-State performer Dillon Sperber and All-Conference selection Ethan Graves lead the way.
Dawson Durham will be relied upon to take over the offense from the quarterback position, with Owen Crowley and Jake Odenborg expected to be a couple of his primary targets.
“We have very skilled young guys and are hoping that one more year under their belts will improve our success,” added Sperber.
There is not much question that the group has athleticism and smarts, two things that are staples of successful teams.
The Bulldogs have also put in extra work in the weight room during the offseason to prepare themselves to go head-to-head against some of the upper echelon teams in the league. It is a night and day difference from a year ago in a lot of ways.
“We have athletic and smart (back-to-back Academic State Champion) kids, and if we stay healthy, we could contend at the end of October. [We also have] much improved leadership and one more year of maturity,” said Sperber.
One emphasis in the offseason has been making players more diversified by getting them comfortable playing multiple positions, something which is crucial in 8-man football.
Linebacker and offensive lineman Truman Renton is another player that was mentioned by the coach as a key returner to watch.
Genesee takes on Valley at Middleton on September 7 to begin the 2019 season.