James Sharples, the Jackson Liberty High School football coach, is counting on a work effort from his team that will lead to a winning season — and a possible berth in the state sectional playoffs.
“Our expectations for this year are for a vast improvement over last year’s 1-9 record,” Sharples said. “The team put in a great offseason — probably the hardest they have worked since I’ve been the head coach. We hope that it pays off. Our goal is to be a playoff team and to compete in our division, and I feel this team is capable of that.”
Sharples, who is entering his fifth year as head coach of the Lions, reported that the only thing that may hold his team back this year is experience — or the lack thereof.
“The area that concerns me most is the overall youth and inexperience of our boys,” Sharples said. “Many players got some playing time last year on Friday nights, but many more are very inexperienced and will be learning on the job. In particular, our offensive line must grow up on the job.”
Despite the inexperience, Sharples believes he has the right group of players who can get the job done.
“I think our team’s biggest strength is the quality and attitude of our kids,” Sharples said. “There are no egos, and they push each other to be the best they could be. That usually goes a long way in a sport like football.”
Sharples, who has been associated with the Jackson Liberty program since it opened in 2006, is calling on a few players to guide a young squad.
“We are expecting big things from Nick Johnson, a returning, two-year, two-way starter for us,” Sharples said. “He is going to anchor both our lines. Joe Crouchman, a returning starter on the line, is our strongest player. Dan Lignelli is a returning starter at safety, as is Jay Young. Jaquel Spears got quite a few touches in the backfield last year and should be our leading rusher [this year].
“We also have a lively quarterback competition that should bring out the best in the participants. Evan Catron, a sophomore, and Antonio Baritelli, a junior, are competing for the job.”
The Lions open their season on Sept. 8 when they take the short ride to play rival Jackson Memorial High School. The game will kick off at 7 p.m.
