2008 Woodie Awards
Football has high expectations this year
After failing to make a bowl game last year, the Gladiators are ready to make a strong push in their last year in the Golden Gate Conference and go undefeated
Ricky Clark
Issue date: 9/6/07 Section: Sports
- Page 1 of 1
|
This will be the Gladiators' last year in the Golden Gate Conference.
Coming into his fourth season as head coach, Danny Calcagno feels confident with a fresh team, though many of the starters from last season will not be returning.
"We are doing ok, we have a good group of players. Our goal for this season is to get better every game," said coach Calcagno about the team's offense, defense, and special teams.
Returning this season will be quarterback Eric Carrillo, who replaced struggling starter Nick Segura midway through last season.
Carrillo looks to bolster the offense in the wake of tailback Randall Elridge's recent transfer to Sam Houston University.
However, two primary players, Doug Cech and Brad Sullivan have returned to create a dynamic duo of wide receivers.
Nick Goulet and Pete Davis are also new additions to the offensive team as running back and offensive line coaches.
On the defense side of the ball, returning player and defensive captain Sipili Tuigamala will be anchoring the defense along with returning safety Devin Joseph.
"We want to be undefeated, and make a name for ourselves," said Tuigamala.
"Everybody is getting stronger and faster from training camp."
A new addition to the defensive lineup is former NFL pro bowler and Oakland Raider, Chester McGlockton who will be acting as defensive line coach.
With many new starters on both sides of the ball, this season, players are expected to see more playing time.
"You got to make a name for yourself. You got to fight for a spot," said incoming defensive end Tevita Taufalele.
The first test for this team came on Aug. 25 in a scrimmage with Santa Rosa.
Calcagno said, "We played as we expected. Santa Rosa was a good test. Our offense, defense, and special teams looked good during the game.
"We made a few mistakes on offense, but they are correctable."
The Gladiators won their season opener at Merced Community College on Saturday, Sept. 1, 29-22.
The first home game for the Gladiators will come Sept. 8 at 7 p.m.against San Mateo.
Be the first to comment on this story