Palisades Football Aims to Build Momentum After Last Season’s Struggles
Palisades High School’s football team is gearing up for the 2024 season with renewed commitment and a determination to build on the momentum gained at the end of last year. After a challenging start that saw the Pirates suffer seven losses in their first eight games, the team finished strong, winning their final two matches and securing a berth in the District 11 Class 2A playoffs.
Head coach Bobby Smith highlighted the shift in mentality among the players. “How we felt after games was part of growing up,” he said, reflecting on the team’s previous attitude. “Last year, it was, ‘Maybe I’ll make a play here or there.’” The turning point came during the last two games of the 2023 season, where the Pirates outscored their opponents, Wilson and Salisbury, 68-6, earning vital playoff experience against Schuylkill Haven.
The excitement surrounding the Pirates is palpable, driven by a core of nine seniors, including Lincoln Cook, who expressed the team’s collective resolve. “We’re all working hard to be better, and we’re going to turn things around. There is a lot of team chemistry and maturing,” he noted. With aspirations to play at higher levels, the players understand that deep playoff runs could enhance their opportunities.
Despite losing two key players, John Haubert and Angelo Ziccardi, the Pirates are returning a wealth of experience and athleticism. The upcoming season will test their unity, especially given that five of their first six games are away, starting with an opener against Bristol on August 22, 2024.
Leadership and Development in Key Positions
Senior quarterback Jack Trickel is poised to take command on the field after gaining valuable experience last year. He completed 129 of 242 passes for 1,461 yards, with 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Trickel has worked diligently in the offseason to improve his performance, focusing on reducing turnovers and enhancing team chemistry. “The coaches and my teammates helped me a bunch with my confidence,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with his receivers and linemen.
Trickel’s physical growth has also been notable, as he has added 18 pounds and grown three inches since last season. Coach Smith remarked, “He’s had the biggest jump I’ve seen in all the players,” referring to Trickel’s increased understanding of defensive reads and his role as a leader.
The Pirates’ offense will benefit from a talented supporting cast. Cook, who caught 49 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns last season, has the potential to be a standout player. “Cook as a wide receiver is among the top I’ve ever been around,” Smith praised, highlighting his maturity and improved blocking skills.
Ashton Fitzgerald, another senior, is set to be the primary running back after contributing 22 receptions, including three touchdowns last year. His speed complements the athleticism of teammates like Silas Day and Max Woerner, who are expected to play pivotal roles on both offense and defense.
Building a Strong Foundation
The Pirates’ offensive line has shown significant improvement, crucial for sustaining drives and scoring touchdowns. Center Will Kapp, alongside Matt Casterline and Rowan Tharp, will anchor the line, with Smith and junior Carter Kilhefner providing additional support after transitioning from linebacker.
Cook’s defensive skills also contribute to the team, having led the Pirates with four interceptions last season. The entire team recognizes the importance of this season, particularly for the nine seniors who have been starting since their sophomore year. Coach Smith emphasized the need for increased effort, stating, “They realized that if they put in a lot more work last year like they have this year, things would have been different.”
As Palisades prepares for its upcoming schedule, the players are motivated to turn the lessons from last season into success on the field. The Pirates are not only looking to improve their standings but also to forge a legacy that could resonate beyond just this season.
