Training Camp Tour Day 2: Park View Patriots
STERLING, VA - The last time the Park View Patriots were on the football field as a team they were playing for a trip to the regional championship. A last second field goal ended their hopes of making a deep push into the playoffs. Eager to make another run at the postseason, the Patriots hit the practice field working as hard as ever to erase the memories from a year ago. Now, without standout running back and defensive back Deric Dudinski, the Patriots are looking to form a new identity, and prove they are still the team to beat in 2007.
The Patriots must replace big names such as Justin Denekas, Corbin Barnes, and James Nolen. However, Park View does bring back the district's most experienced quarterback in C.J. Leizear. Leizear is entering his third year as the signal caller and has grown into a vocal leader on the team. All state defensive tackle Thomas Mulabah will anchor the line in his senior campaign with help from defensive end Kenny Smith. Smith, only a junior, is one of the biggest players in the district this year, and is expected to be a force on both sides of the ball. With experience and strong leadership qualities, Leizear will need to carry the Patriots on his back to win the District Championship. Look for new and old faces to contribute to the Patriots' success in the upcoming season. It won't be one guy this year but instead, a whole unit with one goal, a third consecutive district championship.
How Will the Patriots Perform in 2007?
With a sour taste from last year, the boys from Sterling Park are as hungry as ever. Leizear and the rest of the squad are anxious to prove to people that say they can win without Dudinski. With strong senior leadership and a core of talent returning, there is no reason why the Patriots should not be a force in the Dulles District. Look for the Patriots to walk into Broad Run for the last game of the season ready to battle for the district title. Park View has a chip on their shoulder, and they are ready to prove why they are the two-time defending Dulles District Champions.
Who will step up on Defensive?
Everyone knows about Defensive Tackle Thomas Mulabah after his performance as a junior. 46 tackles for a loss were the best in the state, and Mulabah is primed to dominate in 2007. The secondary is a question mark entering camp, but the linebackers should be strong with returning starter Eric Johnston. David Revsbeck returns to the field after missing his junior year, and will make a name for himself this season.
Who is expected to replace Deric Dudinski at tailback?
Eric Johnston saw limited time as Dudinski's backup last year, and is expected to be the main ball carrier. He has the size and the speed to do big things in the Dulles District. Watch for Thomas Mulabah to also see some touches in the backfield on short yardage situations. The combination of Mulabah's size and Johnston's speed should provide the Patriots will a balanced running attack.
Will the Patriots Claim a Third Straight Dulles District Championship?
With obvious talent returning there is no doubt the Patriots will be tough to beat in 2007. They need to find an offensive identity early, and must give C.J Leizear time to step into the pocket and deliver the ball down the field. If the Patriots can gain confidence early and ride Leizea's leadership, they will be in the mix all year long.
Key Match Up
The Patriots need to take each game one at a time, but everyone knows the Broad Run game is circled on the calendar. A tough match up from a year ago rekindled the Spartan and Patriot rivalry. This game could decide the District Championship if both schools don't look ahead and take care of business early in the year.
Extra Point
In two seasons at Park View High School, Coach Andy Hill has led the Patriots to two consecutive district titles. The pressure is on for Coach Hill to not only win the district, but to advance in the playoffs. The district is continually getting stronger and Park View will have a bullseye on their backs because of their recent success.
Schedule
8/31 Herndon
9/7 Jefferson, WV
9/14 Handley
9/21 Open
9/28 Loudoun County
10/5 Freedom
10/12 Potomac Falls
10/19 *Briar Woods
10/26 Dominion
11/2 Heritage
11/9 Broad Run
