Tarpon Springs

By BOB PUTNAM
Published August 31, 2007

No part of a football team is designed to work in such synchronicity as the offensive line, a unit equally dependent on the brutishness of a wrestler and the teamwork of the Rockettes.

During practice and study, linemen learn the orchestrations of all other parts.

Tarpon's line is one of the most cohesive units. The Spongers have five returning seniors - Dominic Ingargiola, Isiah Flowers, Brian Bowie, Jarrod Descaro and Zac Aldrich.

Besides experience, Tarpon also has depth. Sophomore George Koulianos will play at center. The big question is who will get the ball. Quarterback Danny Reyes is back, but he will be surrounded by a lot of new skill players, all of whom are trying to fill the void left by running back Calvin Wood and receiver Marquise Gamble, who both graduated. One target will be Donnel Engram, who will line up at fullback or tight end.

Offenses have a hard time stopping the mayhem Engram creates. The senior defensive end is a speed rusher off the edge who can knife through the line. Last year he recorded 76 tackles and 17 sacks.

How much time do you spend on MySpace?

Not much. I'm just too busy.

Do you play video games?

All the time. It can be Playstation2 or 3. Right now, I'm playing NCAA '08. I'll be playing Madden '08 soon.

What teams do you play on those games?

I like LSU or USC or Oregon in the NCAA game. In Madden, I usually go with the Panthers.

What's your pregame ritual?

I like to eat at McDonald's, then I stop talking to everyone except Coach Kotis.

Who is your favorite player?

I'm a big fan of (Carolina Panther) Julius Peppers. He plays the same side as I do. I like his speed and technique and the way he gets off blocks.

Bob Putnam, Times staff writer

Coach: George Kotis (second season)

Colors: Maroon and white

Stadium: Sponger Stadium, 1411 S. Gulf Road, Tarpon Springs.

Playoff history: 1970, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1999, 200, 2001, 2005, 2006.

Last appearance: Lost 35-14 to Merritt Island.

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 14:24:04]