Laurel plans on return to playoffs
After running into a Terrelle Pryor-led Jeannette team in the first round of last year's Class AA playoffs, Laurel coach Jerry Holzhauser expects his Spartans to make another playoff run.
"We always have high expectations," the fourth-year head coach said. "These kids have experienced two championships and three playoff experiences and they are expecting to win."
But Holzhauser's team must overcome the graduation of several stars, none bigger than a former Lawrence County Player of the Year, quarterback Corey Collins.
"The kids know we lost players after last season. They recognized that and are getting ready," Holzhauser said.
Three players find themselves in competition to be Collins's successor, as senior Aaron Pollum is currently sharing snaps with sophomores Tyler Forbes and Jacob Dando.
Each has a good chance to be named the starter, but the position probably won't be filled until the end of the summer, Holzhauser said.
Other offensive positions appear set, with senior running back Steve Waskin slotted to get many of the carries. Senior receivers Dane Naughton and Adam Gibson will also play important offensive roles.
"When you lose someone like Corey, you have to replace him somehow," Holzhauser said. "We hope to do it with an increase in team play."
The offensive line will be led by three returning starters, as senior Brandon Reno will team with juniors Tyler Patton and Ryan Pistachio.
Laurel also returns senior tight end Pat Conti, who also anchors the defense as a linebacker.
"Defensively, we have good speed," Holzhauser said. "It's a matter of finding who the best hitters are."
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