Shamrock Football hopes for greatness
The Portland St. Patrick's football team has high hopes and expectations following last seasons disappointing Semi-Final loss. A large returning senior class of 8 players and plenty of underclassmen experience should make the Shamrocks a very exciting team to watch this fall. The Shamrocks already started their season with a scrimmage in Manistee, where they competed well against some tough opponents. Returning starters include Seniors Jeffrey Davlin (OL/DL), Bret Weller (OL/DL), Alex Kissane (LB), Riley Kissane (LB), John Schneider (RB/S), Zach Spitzley (TE/DE), Ned Smith (RB/NG), and Juniors Connor Cross (QB), Brian Kwiecinski (OL). Returning All State players Ned Smith and Riley Kissane, and leading tackler Alex Kissane will anchor a very aggressive defense that is returning 7 out of 8 starters. Offensively, the Shamrocks again return 7 out of 8 starters. Running back Ned Smith was the leading rusher last year, with Quarterback Connor Cross returning for his second year. Receivers John Schneider and Zach Spitzley are also going to score touchdowns. Junior Bryce Cook will also start this year at TE/DE. Sophomores Shane Cook (SE/DB), Derec Fedewa (RB/LB), and Braxton Teachworth (TE/DE) will also contribute. Freshmen Seth Frawley, Grady Heckman, and Payton Russman will provide depth and athleticism on the practice field and give opportunities to become better teammates and mentors for the upperclassmen. Senior Ned Smith had a great quote that required no editing. "I'm really excited about this upcoming season, we've got a lot of returning starters and a lot of new talent in the younger guys. We've only improved since last year and we are constantly working to perfect our offense and defense. Ever since day one I knew that this years team is something special, and our seniors and juniors now have multiple years of experience that will culminate into a spectacular season. I know everyone on this team is ready and willing to contribute to each others success and with our team chemistry I think we can do some amazing things this year." Coach Todd Davlin was bubbling with enthusiasm when asked for a quote. " Saint Mother Teresa said, "The bridge between goals and accomplishments is self discipline". We have an exceptional group of athletes who are committed to being virtuous men and exceptional teammates. With God's grace, we can accomplish great things, and with those great accomplishments will come some victories as well." 2019 St. Patrick's Schedule Friday 8/30- 7:00 pm Home against Battle Creek St. Philip Saturday 9/7- 7:00 pm Home against Tekonsha Friday 9/13- 7:00 pm Home against Academy of the Americas Friday 9/20- 7:00 pm Away against Webberville Friday 9/27- 7:00 pm Home against Vestaburg Saturday 10/5- 7:00 pm Home against Manistee Catholic Central Saturday 10/12- 7:00 pm Home against Onekama Saturday 10/19- 7:00 pm Away against Bellaire (tentative date and time- subject to change) Friday 10/25- 7:00 pm Home against Burr Oak
