After last season's mass exodus of senior talent, Freeport has found itself in the midst of a youth movement to build the next dominant team.
Sophomore quarterback Austin Romanchak seems poised to lead the way.
Romanchak put to rest any fears Yellowjackets fans may have had last Friday by leading Freeport to a 48-14 nonconference road win over Vincentian Academy. The youngster introduced himself to the high school football world with a dazzling 64-yard touchdown run that showed why he got the starting nod from coach John Gaillot and his staff.
“He makes unbelievable moves,” Gaillot said of Romanchak's running ability. “It's impressive and scary.”
The 5-foot-9 Romanchak added another touchdown run and two touchdown passes before retiring to the sideline. He ran for 132 yards on seven carries.
Romanchak's brother, Andrew, quarterbacked the Yellowjackets before Ryan Weigold took over last season. Andrew is playing quarterback at Robert Morris.
How long have you been playing quarterback?
Usually I play receiver but throughout the years, since second grade, I've stepped in at quarterback three or four times.
Has your brother, Andrew, offered up any advice?
There's definitely big shoes to fill when it comes to him; he told me to slow the game down and just be an athlete.
What's been the most difficult adjustment about playing quarterback at the varsity level?
The speed, and me being on the shorter side, it's been the linemen, and stepping up in the pocket to throw.
How excited are you about opening up the new Freeport Area Athletic Stadium against Deer Lakes Friday?
It's a huge game for us, especially because it's against Deer Lakes, and we're honoring the three coaches that have passed away.
What's it going to take for this team to get back to the postseason?
Mostly be physical in the secondary and up on the line. That's our goal this year, to be physical and compete.
Why do you wear No. 7?
I was No. 11 when I came into seventh- and eighth-grade football and they didn't have the No. 11 in the away (jersey) so I picked No. 7 and stuck with it.
What are your favorite college and NFL football teams?
My college team is definitely the Oregon Ducks. I really don't follow the NFL as much as college but probably the Steelers.
Who is your favorite college football player?
I like Christian McCaffrey from Stanford.
Do you have a nickname?
Most people call me “Chak.”
