Expectations high for Seahawks

Carey has made a little noise over the past couple years on the gridiron. The Seahawks have made consecutive trips to the conference semifinals only to fall short of a shot at their first title since 1978.

Carey, the No. 2 seed in a strong Conference II, is sure to be back in the hunt in 2009.

Head coach Mike Stanley is pleased with the way the Seahawks look in training camp. “The boys are working extremely hard and understand what it’s going to take to be successful,” Stanley said. “They’ve bought into the idea that we have to work hard every day to improve. If we stay healthy, we should be competitive each week.” The Seahawks finished 7-3 overall last fall.

Despite losing All-County quarterback Luke Zahradka, now at Bentley University, the Seahawks should be able to put points on the board. Senior Greg D’Arienzo, one of the top returning players in the county, will be used to run, pass and catch the ball in Carey’s high-octane spread offense. Stanley knows D’Arienzo will be tough to handle for opposing defenses. “Greg is developing as a passer and becoming even more versatile,” he said. “He has a great handle on the offense and is maturing as a leader.” Junior Kyle Zahradka is more of a pure passer and can the run the ball as well.

The Seahawks have a challenge in having to replace their top receiver from a season ago, Rob Braun. Among the threats in the offensive attack are juniors Jake Robison, Jules Bove and Rob Miotto, and senior Scott Bradshaw. Bove and Miotto will get plenty of touches out of the backfield, while Robison and Bradshaw are threats through the air. Sophomore Rob Zorn, the top rusher on the JV last season, will also contribute to the ground attack.

Carey returns three starters from a solid offensive line. Center Mike Lisi, who has verbally committed to play at Hofstra, and fellow seniors Al Gentile and Pat Castel lead an experienced group of athletic linemen. Juniors Drew Zahradka and John Fineo, and senior Mike Babich will all see plenty of time in the trenches. Stanley and his staff has been impressed with the offensive line. “The guys worked real hard in the off season and it is showing in camp,” Stanley said. “I think the unit is certainly going to be one of our team’s strengths.”