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Fledgling program growing

Bishop McLaughlin finally has seniors, and its experience shows in a spring victory.

By DEREK LaRIVIERE
Published May 23, 2006

SHADY HILLS - Bishop McLaughlin hasn't even laced up its cleats for the first game of its second varsity season, and already its confidence is growing.

During a disappointing inaugural varsity season, the Hurricanes were shut out four times and averaged 5.3 points per game. This is not the same 2-7 team that took the field last year, and both the coaching staff and players know it.

Two years ago, the school formed a football program that now has one junior varsity and one varsity season under its belt. A senior player has never worn a Bishop McLaughlin jersey. That won't be the case come August. After Thursday's spring gameagainst Hernando Christian Academy, that has coach Jim Ceccarelli on the edge of his seat.

"We were missing senior leadership last season," Ceccarelli said. "We knew we had the talent, but the experience wasn't there."

The Hurricanes dominated the Lions on both sides of the ball, winning 34-7. The game was highlighted by two upcoming seniors playing head and shoulders above the rest offensively.

Tailback Cal Kuenzel did not get a carry until midway through the second quarter of the team's fourth offensive series. That is not going to be the case once next season rolls around. Kuenzel showed how dangerous an athlete he is, finishing with 68 yards and two touchdowns on 10 attempts. He also caught two passes for 22 yards to lead the team with 90 yards from scrimmage.

Kuenzel's performance was so impressive, Ceccarelli said he is building his offense around the halfback. Until late last season, Ceccarelli was not sure Kuenzel was physically prepared to carry such a heavy load but now is convinced it won't be a problem.

"I always knew that Cal's maturity and leadership would make him the ideal player to build around, but we were never sure about him physically," Ceccarelli said. "He's done more than we could ask for to show that he can be the man in the running game."

Bishop McLaughlin'sother standout was Coleman Hengesbach. The quarterback was asked to stay conservative early by handing the ball off to fullback Brandon Marks. After a couple of series, Ceccarelli took the handcuffs off and gave Hengesbach free rein to throw out of the shotgun formation.

Hengesbach did not disappoint. He led the team on three consecutive scoring drives in the second quarter. He finished with impressive stats (9 of 14, 128 yards, one touchdown) and was pulled before the fourth quarter. Kuenzel credited Hengesbach's composure in the huddle for the team's offensive success.

"It was Coleman's ability to establish the pass that opened up the run for us," Kuenzel said. "When you have a quarterback with that kind of confidence, everyone plays better."

The question becomes whether the momentum and confidence the Hurricanes built will translate into success this fall. Coaches feel the team's chemistry can only improve over the summer.

"We'll use this as a springboard into next season," Ceccarelli said. "Obviously, we still have a lot of work to do. But as long as we stay healthy, we're going to be a good team."

Ironically, Bishop McLaughlin's first test will be an Aug. 18 rematch against Hernando Christian Academy. This time, the matchup will take place at the Lions' field. The game should serve as a good barometer for how each team responds to the summer break.

[Last modified May 23, 2006, 01:30:12]