Steve Sciullo never has backed down from a challenge as coach at Deer Lakes. Now in his third year, however, Sciullo may face his biggest challenge yet.
He must replace five offensive linemen who averaged 287 pounds and formed one of the largest lines in program history.
The Lancers also lost workhorse tailback Hunter Burns, who rushed for nearly 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns in helping the Lancers reach the WPIAL postseason for the second time in school history.
“It's going to be tough,” Sciullo said. “We have a lot of people we need to replace. There's more than one way to skin a cat, and we have to go to the toolbox to get those ways. Last year was simple: Grind 40 runs, rinse and repeat.”
Junior tailback Josh Soloman (5-foot-10, 170 pounds) is faced with the task of replacing Burns.
“He's intelligent and a hard-working kid with a great change of direction and great speed,” Sciullo said. “He's going to take over at tailback along with some contributions from others. We will see how the gameplan evolves from week to week, but we're expecting him to take over the load.”
The only returning starter on the offensive line is senior Billy Palmiere (5-11, 280), who is returning from a battle with blood clots but has been deemed healthy. He is a four-year starter, and his presence and experience will go a long way in helping reshape an offensive line that will have a lot of fresh faces.
“He's the wise, old one,” Sciullo said. “He's got a lot of starting experience. All the guys lean to him, and they will when times get tough. As a run blocker, he's tenacious and is a finisher. As a pass blocker, he's quick and stout.”
Senior Jake Spirnock (6-3, 190) will be the go-to receiver again. He showed the ability to make plays in space and made a big play when needed.
Senior receiver Vince Sammartino (5-9, 160) is expected to play a big role as well.
“He's going to line up all over the field for us at inside and outside receiver and tailback,” Sciullo said.
Senior Nino Itri, described as a Swiss army knife by Sciullo, expects to line up at tight end and fullback. Senior Mark Febinger also will be called upon to make plays and stretch the field.
The biggest contributor to the offense could be senior quarterback David Fleming (6-0, 180), who transferred from Vincentian.
“He's a big, strong, physical athlete,” Sciullo said. “He will play free safety for us this year. He will come downhill and thump you. He's a leader. He has a quiet, confident demeanor about him.”
