Philadelphia, PA - Aggressive defensive line play, a hard-hitting secondary and outstanding performances from La Salle's stable of running backs have been the highlights of Spring Ball. Head Coach Phil Longo has been impressed with the maturation process of his young defensive linemen who have been led by returning senior, Nate Moss. One key reason for the overall improvement up front is directly related to the presence of coach Phil Petitte. In his second year as defensive line coach and his first as the defensive coordinator, Coach Petitte has implemented his multiple defensive scheme during the first twelve days of camp. He has been pleased with the progress of the unit overall and with the cohesiveness of the defensive staff. The staff includes the return of Jesse Gambone (OLB's/Special Teams Coord.) and Matt Peloso (Asst. DB's). It also includes the addition of Marty Moke (DB's), Archie Stalcup (ILB's) and Troy Gore (Asst. DL).
Defensive backs Mario Palmieri and Taylour Lauri have shown considerable improvement in Spring Ball after starting as freshmen during the '04 campaign. Coach Moke has also been impressed with receiver turned cornerback, Randy Carpenter. OLB's Nick DePinto and Nick Sipics have played solid football throughout camp along with the return of senior Chris Twardy (Marshall Univ. transfer) at MLB. Future sophomore JJ Luney continues to impress Coach Longo at DE and linemen Bob Merhk, Warren Reid and Chris Reiter have all reported to Spring Ball in terrific shape.
On the offensive side of the football, workouts have been highlighted by the performance of the running backs. Returning senior, Steven Adelman who hails from Arizona has been the most consistent RB in Spring Ball. The veteran offensive line continues to open holes and running backs Josh Brumfield and Kevin Sullivan have shown flashes. Brumfield was hampered by injuries last season but is healthy and has reported to spring camp at a solid 210 lbs. Sullivan saw time at WR and RB last season after missing the first four games with an ankle injury. He has continued to be a multiple position player for the Explorers in recent practices.
For a team known for throwing the football, the run game that average 150 yards per game last season looks poised to return in '05. Defensive recruiting was the priority for the Explorer coaching staff in the off-season and the development of the defense in camp appears to be the priority as well. Thirteen defensive players who started at some point last season will return this year. Coach Longo commented, "Maintaining offensive consistency and continuing to develop our players on defense are the keys to our success in 2005." Spring Football at 20th & Olney looks to be a promising indication!
