PARAMUS CATHOLIC
Coach: Chris Partridge, first year
Last year: 5-5
Outlook
Partridge was the captain of the PC team that won the 1997 State title. Now he’s hoping to bring that winning attitude back. “We’re trying to change the mentality,” Partridge said. “And I would be disappointed if we didn’t compete in every game.” A strong senior class returns, hoping to bounce back after consecutive 5-5 seasons. Junior Leo Krizanovic has been a tone-setter in practice. Senior running back and outside linebacker Matt Giachinta, along with Marquise Wright, a two way starter on the line, will provide leadership.
Keep an eye on …
Kevin Bless, sr., DE/OL; Bryant Klein, sr., QB; Lamont Thomas, jr., RB/SS; Joe Zito, sr., SS/WR; Anthony Greenfield, sr., K/P; Derick Brown, sr., CB/WR; Geo Santos, sr., LB/WR; Doug Strickland, jr., DE/OL; James Colacci, so., WR/CB; Chris Maldonado, jr., WR/FS; Brendan Walsh, sr., OL/DL
SPOTLIGHT
With the Paladins trying to embrace a winning attitude, co-captain Matt Giachinta is spearheading the effort. “He’s a tremendous leader,” Partridge said. “And he has tremendous work ethic. He’s big for us. He’s a tough kid. He’s hard-nosed, he works very hard and understands what it takes to be a successful football player. And because of all that he pushes other kids to do well, too.”
NOTES
Marquise Wright, also a co-captain, has had an impressive preseason after an offseason of hard work … Previous coach Gabe Infante left the program to coach at St. Joseph’s Prep, outside Philadelphia … One big hole the Paladins have to fill is the loss of Dan Foose. The 6-6, 310-pound offensive lineman is playing at Florida State this year.
The 2010 Paramus Catholic Paladins