A rainbow appears as Chartiers Valley players warm up prior to a game against Montour on Oct. 29, 2021, at Chartiers Valley. Kristina Serafini | Tribune-Review
High school football season is fast approaching, and Tribune-Review writers and photographers are traveling around Western Pa. to preview the 2022 campaign.
Check out the Trib’s preview features for every team in the WPIAL and City League, as well as several independent programs.
We also will have classification breakdowns with rankings, players to watch and don’t miss matchups.
Be sure to visit TribHSSN.triblive.com throughout the season for game coverage, recaps, previews, features, statistics, schedules, broadcasts, podcasts and more.
Trib HSSN will preview one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 26. Scroll through the page to find your team or click a classification to jump there.
CLASS 6A | CLASS 5A | CLASS 4A | CLASS 3A | CLASS 2A | CLASS A | Independents
Check out the Position breakdowns.
Mt. Lebanon’s Kade Capristo works out with the linemen during practice. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review.
Class 6A
WPIAL Class 6A football breakdown
• In tiny field of 5, contenders line up to take shot at Mt. Lebanon
At its zenith, the highest classification in the WPIAL, then called Quad-A, had 28 teams in the early 2000s. That number stayed steady over the next decade-plus and was at 25 teams for the 2014 and 2015 seasons.
Seneca Valley
• Experienced Seneca Valley squad ready to make a run for gold in Class 6A
Since expansion to six classifications in 2016, Seneca Valley is a combined 35-28 with two trips to the WPIAL 6A title game and two berths in the district semifinals.
Mt. Lebanon
• Perfection in the past, Mt. Lebanon starts new season with lots of fresh faces
When Bob Palko made the big move to Mt. Lebanon after decades of success and championships at West Allegheny, he knew there was something special about the Blue Devils’ Class of 2022.
Central Catholic
• Central Catholic looking to regain championship swagger
Central Catholic coach Terry Totten isn’t in fear about the upcoming 2022 season, but optimistically nervous would be a good description about how he feels about his Vikings.
Canon-McMillan
• Canon-McMillan looks to join elite in shrinking Class 6A
Canon-McMillan football coach Michael Evans is not a math wizard. However, he seems to have a grasp on the numbers breakdown in Class 6A this season.
North Allegheny
• North Allegheny expects to be in the title mix in Class 6A
The bar is always set high at North Allegheny. While most football coaches would be content with a younger team finishing 7-5 overall and reaching the district semifinals, Art Walker is not one of them.
CLASS 5A
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown
• Gateway among teams trying to squeeze into tight playoff field
Earning a WPIAL playoff spot in Class 5A was never easy, but the task becomes a little harder this year. That’s because the WPIAL has shrunk the bracket from 12 teams to eight, meaning a team with as few as two losses might miss the playoffs. Only the top two finishers in each conference are assured playoff spots with two third-place teams earning wild cards.
Moon’s Nick Prozzoly works out at Tigers Stadium. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
CLASS 5A: Allegheny Six
Baldwin
• Baldwin moves into Class 5A looking to regain confidence
Although Baldwin has taken a step down from Class 6A to 5A this season, its 2022 schedule still can be considered a grind.
Bethel Park
•With slew of starters returning, expectations soaring at Bethel Park
Bethel Park coach Brian DeLallo can count on an impressive list of returning players for the 2022 edition of his football team.
Moon
• After unforgettable run to WPIAL finals, rebuilding process begins at Moon
Moon is one year removed from a historic run for the program, making its first championship appearance since 1998.
Peters Township
• Short on seniors, Peters Township looks for next wave to take over
Senior night promises to be a short affair at Peters Township. The football team has only five seniors, so coach T.J. Plack will turn to his junior and sophom*ore classes to fill some leading roles as the Indians seek a sixth straight trip to the WPIAL playoffs.
Upper St. Clair
• Upper St. Clair loaded with returning starters, ready for another playoff run
After finishing in second place in the balanced Class 5A Allegheny Six Conference a year ago, Upper St. Clair qualified for the WPIAL playoffs for a 22nd straight year.
South Fayette
• South Fayette looks to turn hard-luck losses into conference wins
There was a zero in the wins column, but South Fayette’s conference record didn’t tell the entire story.
Penn-Trafford quarterback Conlan Greene looks to throw at Greater Latrobe High School. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review.
Class 5A: Big East
Franklin Regional
• Franklin Regional hopes last year’s learning experience benefits returning players
Injuries to two key players derailed Franklin Regional’s 2021 football season. But those injuries could provide a boost to the 2022 campaign.
Gateway
• Bolstered by improved offensive line, Gateway builds confidence for run at WPIAL title
Gateway’s offensive line was pushed around at times last season by some of the best defensive fronts in the WPIAL, but the Gators say they’re ready to bite back.
Penn-Trafford
• Penn-Trafford ready to tackle the challenge of staying on top
Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane is faced with something he’s never encountered before: preparing a team to defend a WPIAL and PIAA Class 5A championship. It’s a challenge Ruane will embrace.
Hempfield
• Added depth, drop to Class 5A fuel optimism at Hempfield
Dropping to Class 5A means little to Hempfield, at least on paper. To second-year coach Mike Brown, the move — and accompanying chatter that things might ease up for the Spartans — are about as useful as a broken elevator.
Norwin
• Norwin has postseason aspirations amidst field of new 5A opponents
Dave Brozeski stops short of using air quotes when he talks about Norwin “dropping down” to Class 5A this football season. But his sentiment still is clear.
Plum
• Plum hoping to carry momentum from strong finish into new season
Plum football coach Matt Morgan watched a young group of players mature on the fly to win three of their last five games and earn a playoff berth last season.
Quarterback Ben DeMotte holds a football at the Fox Chapel High School Stadium. Lilly Kubit | Tribune-Review.
CLASS 5A: Northeast
Fox Chapel
• After taste of playoff success, Fox Chapel back for more
Fox Chapel won five games in the 2021 football season — and one of those victories was quite significant. The Foxes won their first WPIAL playoff game since 1997, a 13-10 victory at Upper St. Clair, a school with one of the highest winning percentages in WPIAL history at .702, a 473-193-9 overall mark.
North Hills
• North Hills with plenty of ‘untold stories’ entering 2022
Coming off its best season since 2010, North Hills is ready to begin writing a fresh chapter. But, right now, the authors are a bit unknown.
Penn Hills
• New Penn Hills coach wants to ramp up aggressiveness
Penn Hills coach Charles Morris isn’t so worried about X’s and O’s for his first season in charge. The foundation for the Indians’ success on the field has been shaped over the previous few years by the players and coaching staff.
Pine-Richland
• New Pine-Richland coach wants to play ‘Western Pa. football’
As the Jon LeDonne era begins at Pine-Richland, one element that he wants to add into the program is more physicality.
Shaler
• Shaler looks to learn lessons from losing streak
There was a real opportunity last season for the Shaler football team to get off to a 3-0 start. But after two double-digit wins to open the season, the Titans were tripped up by Hampton by three points.
Woodland Hills
• Woodland Hills still running with the big dogs in Class 5A
Woodland Hills could’ve dropped down two classifications this season because of a statewide change in how enrollment numbers are counted, but the Wolverines declined.
CLASS 4A
WPIAL Class 4A football breakdown
• Aliquippa ready for another heavyweight fight
In winter 2020, Aliquippa challenged the PIAA assertion, under the competitive-balance rule, that it should move up from Class 3A to Class 4A.
Central Valley’s Brett FitzSimmons takes a hand-off during practice in Center. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review.
CLASS 4A: Parkway
Aliquippa
• Expectations soar as defending state champ Aliquippa brings back loaded roster
After winning WPIAL and state championships, expectations couldn’t be any higher for an Aliquippa football team that brings almost everyone back.
Ambridge
• With losing streak snapped, Ambridge turns attention to playoff win
Ambridge ended a 28-game losing streak by defeating Hopewell, 35-9, on Oct. 1 last season. The victory was a big step in the right direction for the Bridgers.
Blackhawk
• Blackhawk looking to reverse close losses, return to playoffs
Blackhawk football is a storied program that has won four WPIAL championships. Although the Cougars had recent success making the playoffs in 2018 and 2019, they fell short of that goal the past two seasons.
Central Valley
• With 3rd straight WPIAL title secured, Central Valley’s goals don’t change
The Heinz Field clock was ticking down last fall on Central Valley’s third consecutive WPIAL title when coach Mark Lyons was approached by longtime assistant Shawn McCreary.
Chartiers Valley
• Chartiers Valley hopes to be a Payne for Parkway Conference foes
When he was hired in April to replace Dan Knause as head coach of the Chartiers Valley football program, one of the first thoughts Aaron Fitzpatrick had was, ‘It’s go time.’
Montour
• Experience puts Montour in the mix as a challenger in deep Class 4A field
For the last 17 years under Lou Cerro, the Montour football program has always competed.Even in years the Spartans finished under .500 or didn’t make the playoffs, they had a competitive team that usually is alive for the playoffs until the final week of the regular season.
New Castle
• New coach, renovated field usher in new era for New Castle football
With a renovated field and new coach, New Castle wants to cash in and make the playoffs for a second straight season. The Red Hurricanes made their way back to the playoffs and won their first postseason game since 2016 when they defeated Highlands, 31-19, last season.
West Allegheny
• After injuries derailed last season, West Allegheny brings back experienced roster
Every football team has to deal with injuries. Some are able to stop the bleeding and continue toward a successful campaign, while others watch as the snowball becomes an avalanche and derails all the hopes for a season. Such was the case for West Allegheny in 2021.
North Catholic safety Gavin Kamody and quarterback Jason Siket during practice. Lilly Kubit | Tribune-Review.
CLASS 4A: Greater Allegheny
Armstrong
• Cadin Olsen, Armstrong aim to build off 1st WPIAL playoff victory
The Armstrong River Hawks are ready for one last ride with their standout quarterback Cadin Olsen at the helm. Olsen eclipsed 2,500 yards passing and threw 28 touchdowns last fall coming off a year in which he led the WPIAL in passing yards.
Hampton
• Hampton remains hungry after 11-win season
No one needs to tell Hampton first-year coach Steve Sciullo about the importance of an offensive line. The former NFL lineman knows the front five is the anchor of any offense.
Highlands
• New coach has talented team to work with at Highlands
Make no bones about it, Highlands is going to have a different look, feel and attitude under first-year head coach Matt Bonislawski.
Indiana
• With new coach at helm, Indiana continues quest for WPIAL success from afar
The road to a WPIAL football championship is a long and winding one for Indiana. As the lone member school currently situated outside the WPIAL’s designed boundaries, the program finds itself in a world of its own.
Kiski Area
• Kiski Area brings new-look roster into Class 4A competition
When Kiski Area moved down from Class 5A to Class 4A and into the Greater Allegheny Conference, coach Sam Albert knew one of the league matchups would carry extra meaning.
Mars
• Mars slowly but surely acclimating to coach Eric Kasperowicz’s system
A new coach, a new quarterback and a new playbook. This is a summer of transition for the Mars football program under new coach Eric Kasperowicz, but learning a new offense and defense doesn’t happen overnight.
North Catholic
• North Catholic embraces new challenge in Class 4A
North Catholic enters the 2022 season in a new classification with a different home field, a new offensive coordinator, a new quarterback and many new starters.
Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer works out in practice before last season. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review.
CLASS 4A: Big Seven
Connellsville
• Trio of Connellsville alumni to share coaching duties, trying to get program back on track
Times have been tough for the Connellsville football team for a number of years. The Falcons have endured back-to-back losing seasons and haven’t tasted victory since defeating Albert Gallatin to close out the 2019 season. Connellsville, which enters the season riding a 17-game losing streak, hasn’t qualified for the WPIAL playoffs since 2014.
Greater Latrobe
• Latrobe works toward more victories after move to Class 4A
It is better to be the shark than the minnow, and Latrobe might be ready to raise its fin in a new classification.
Laurel Highlands
McKeesport
•After close call last year, McKeesport hopes to make a run at Class 4A gold
The McKeesport Tigers finished in second place to Belle Vernon in the 4A Big Eight Conference and lost a heartbreaker in the WPIAL semifinals to eventual district and state champion Aliquippa.
Ringgold
• New Ringgold coach ready to face challenges of restoring winning culture
Marcus McCullough played his final football game at Ringgold in 1987, losing to New Castle in the WPIAL Class 3A semifinals. Now he’s in charge of restoring the Rams’ program into the force that it once was, and he’s relishing that chance in his first season at the helm.
Thomas Jefferson
• Thomas Jefferson aiming to regain championship mojo
The 2021 season was not a customary prize-winner for the Thomas Jefferson football team. The Jaguars fell short on all three of their annual goals of winning conference, WPIAL and PIAA titles, and the TJ coaching staff hopes that fact doesn’t bode well for opponents this fall.
Trinity
• New coach Dan Knause focuses on physicality as Trinity hopes to end playoff drought
With new coach Dan Knause in town, the Trinity Hillers are looking to end a drought this season. Trinity, which has missed the playoffs for four straight seasons, is looking to turn the program around with Knause now running the show.
CLASS 3A
WPIAL Class 3A football breakdown
• Belle Vernon leads new-look field of contenders
A changing of the guard in WPIAL Class 3A football will occur in 2022 and Belle Vernon, a Class 4A finalist last year, is favored to be the top team to replace three-time WPIAL champion Central Valley.
West Mifflin quarterback Tayshaun McMillan throws during quarterback camp in July at Valley High School. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
CLASS 3A: Western Hills
Avonworth
• Avonworth hopes to climb to top of Western Hills and beyond
When it comes to consistently excellent football programs in the district, Avonworth is right there in the conversation.
Beaver
•After bounce-back season, Beaver looks to add to winning tradition
In Cort Rowse’s first season as head coach last year, Beaver went 7-3, finished second in the Parkway Conference and made the playoffs. Rowse has prioritized continuing Beaver’s winning culture.
Hopewell
• After winless season, Hopewell driven to make statement
Hopewell football comes into the 2022 season more motivated than ever. The players and the coaches want to prove they can play with anyone in the Western Hills conference.
Quaker Valley
• Quaker Valley begins building project under new coach
Jason Cappa, who comes from a family of coaches and educators, was hired in April as Quaker Valley football coach. Cappa has been with the QV school district since 2019. He is a paraprofessional in the life skills classroom at the high school and serves as the middle school softball coach.
Seton LaSalle
• After graduations, transfers, coaching change, Seton LaSalle moving in all new direction
Tim Storino appears to be in the right place at the right time. Storino was hired in March as Seton LaSalle’s coach following a tumultuous 2021 season, as the Rebels lost six of their first seven games before finishing with a 3-7 record in Class 2A.
South Park
• South Park looks to regain winning ways after tough seasonSouth Park enters the new season in rebound mode. After splitting their first four games in 2021, the Eagles lost their final five contests by a combined score of 171-27, keeping them out of the WPIAL postseason for the first time since 2018.
West Mifflin
• Big, strong offensive line makes West Mifflin a team to watch in Class 3A
West Mifflin has been a fixture in WPIAL Class 4A football, but due to realignment, the Titans are competing in 3A for the next two seasons.
Nick Carney works out during a recent practice at Knoch High School. Louis B. Ruediger |Tribune-Review
CLASS 3A: Allegheny Six
Deer Lakes
• Deer Lakes in position to return to playoffs
With a mix of returning talent, those hoping to increase roles and a few newcomers ready to make an impact, coach Tim Burk’s confidence is high.
East Allegheny
• East Allegheny hoping to deliver 7th straight playoff berth
Coach Dominic Pecora and his Wildcats are angling for the WPIAL playoffs for a seventh season in a row.
Freeport Area
• Freeport could have plenty to celebrate in program’s 100th season
With several starters and all-star performers returning on both sides of the ball, optimism is high that Freeport can make a run to the WPIAL playoffs.
Knoch
• Knoch prepares to tackle all-road schedule
For the first time since 1957, Knoch will play exclusively on the road. But coach Tim Burchett feels whenever the ball is in the air, the team has to be ready to play.
Shady Side Academy
• With co-op in 2nd year, Shady Side Academy ready for bump up to Class 3A
Bulldogs coach Chuck DiNardo says because of “good leadership in our senior class,” the new season should be more productive than last.
Valley
• Valley alum Dave Heavner wants to bring pride back to Vikings program
Dave Heaver has returned to coach the Vikings and hopes to replicate an earlier era where Valley was one of the top programs in the area.
Southmoreland’s Ty Keffer during a tournament at Greater Latrobe High School. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
CLASS 3A: Interstate
Belle Vernon
• Belle Vernon roars into Class 3A with Quinton Martin, strong supporting cast
Belle Vernon coach Matt Humbert doesn’t make too much of his team’s drop to Class 3A, though it would be hard to blame him for being excited.
Elizabeth Forward
• Elizabeth Forward not ready to relinquish top spot in Class 3A Interstate Conference
Elizabeth Forward has heard all the rumblings about certain Interstate Conference newcomers. But as far as the Warriors are concerned, they’re still the top dogs. The Warriors have won the Interstate four out of the past five years, and with a talented lineup coming back, coach Mike Collodi thinks his team is still the favorite there and among the favorites in Class 3A.
Greensburg Salem
• Greensburg Salem puts offense in hands of skilled standout Cody Rubrecht
What do you do with the best athlete on your football team? If you’re Greensburg Salem coach Dave Keefer you make him your quarterback.
Mt. Pleasant
•Mt. Pleasant aims to build on WPIAL playoff experienceMt. Pleasant’s starting quarterback from 2021 won’t be lining up behind center this season. That’s because Mt. Pleasant coach Jason Fazekas is pleased with the progress that sophom*ore Cole Chatfield has made in the offseason which allows him to utilize the talent of Tyler Reese in different ways to benefit the team.
South Allegheny
•New coach likes South Allegheny’s chances: ‘The talent level is outstanding’South Allegheny’s first-year coach has begun preparing the Gladiators for a chance at back-to-back WPIAL playoff appearances, hoping his more than 20 years of coaching at Delaware powerhouse high schools and two stints as a college assistant at Division III Wesley (Del.) will pay off.
Southmoreland
• New roles at Southmoreland but familiarity remains
Familiarity is a buzz word around Southmoreland camp. The more things change with the Scotties, the more they seem to stay the same. The coaching staff is different — only in titles. Tim Bukowski was elevated from offensive coordinator to head coach, and Dave Keefer went from head coach to assistant.
CLASS 2A
WPIAL Class 2A football breakdown
• Beaver Falls, other perennial powers to duke it out
In one sense, WPIAL Class 2A football looks radically different this season. Four conferences have been consolidated into three with the total number of teams in the class dropping from 27 to 23.
Derry’s Roman Darazio makes a catch during a tournament at Greater Latrobe High School. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
CLASS 2A: Allegheny
Apollo-Ridge
• Apollo-Ridge looks to stay healthy, bounce back
Last season, the Vikings were plagued by a variety of injuries and illnesses that led to a 1-4 record in Allegheny Conference play, 2-7 overall. But the Vikings are healthier now and looking forward to a bounce-back season.
Burrell
• Burrell ready to take on new challenges in Class 2A
Burrell coach Shawn Liotta says his team is getting ramped up for the season and is excited for its potential in its new conference, hoping to build on last year’s WPIAL playoff appearance, its first since 2012.
Derry
• Interest level high at Derry following 2 subpar seasons
With a new coach on board, Derry has been repositioned in Class 2A. No disrespect to the current opponents, but dropping down just might suit the Trojans better after several fruitless seasons in Class 3A.
Imani Christian
• Imani Christian to pick up pace with coach LaRoi Johnson back
Producing a winning football program at Imani Christian isn’t an impossible dream. Coach LaRoi Johnson knows it because he was there in 2017.
Ligonier Valley
• Ligonier Valley aims to stay healthy, put offensive weapons to good use
Roger Beitel begins his 19th year as head football coach at Ligonier Valley, and he hopes the 2022 season isn’t as bizarre as 2021.
Serra Catholic
• Serra Catholic ready to shake off graduation losses, begin WPIAL title defense
Confidence isn’t lacking inside the football locker room at Serra Catholic. A year after winning WPIAL gold and playing in a state championship game in Hershey, the Eagles are faced with the tall task of trying to replicate last season’s success. Can they do it? They surely believe so.
Steel Valley
• Division I talent could help Steel Valley write happier ending to 2022 season
Last year, Steel Valley was the favorite to win the school’s sixth WPIAL championship. But it all ended with a most unsatisfying conclusion. But coach Ray Braszo thinks that with a new season on horizon, it’s time to look forward.
Yough
• Behind alum Ben Hoffer, Yough aims to turn program around
New Yough coach Ben Hoffer used to shed tacklers and score touchdowns with ease when he played on Cougar Mountain. Now, he has big plans for his alma mater — “big” being a relative term.
Beaver Falls quarterback Jaren Brickner works out. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
CLASS 2A: Midwestern Athletic
Beaver Falls
• Whether by land or air, Beaver Falls always makes its way into WPIAL title conversation
The immense challenge WPIAL defensive coordinators have faced when taking on Beaver Falls over the last couple of seasons can be summed up in two tidy stats.
Ellwood City
• Former OLSH coach brings positivity, focus on fundamentals to Ellwood City
Looking to turn its program around after three consecutive winless seasons, it’s hard to imagine Ellwood City could have found a coach more suited for the job than Dan Bradley.
Freedom Area
• Having stabilized program, next step for Freedom is playoff berth
After three coaching changes in the previous four years, the Freedom football team was looking to establish some stability last season. With athletic director John Rosa stepping in as head coach, did the Bulldogs do that? Yes.
Mohawk
• Strong, veteran line could keep Mohawk in playoff picture
After a successful season that included a third-place finish in the Midwestern Athletic Conference and a first-round WPIAL playoff victory, Mohawk comes into this year with a strong, veteran line and some inexperience at the skill positions.
Neshannock
• Football team looks to get in on championship act at Neshannock
Rumor has it a major repaving project has been planned for Mitchell Road in Neshannock this fall. Over the last year or so, there have been so many championship parades in front of the high school that the traffic pattern has worn grooves in the pavement.
New Brighton
• New coach brings best of Beaver County football to New Brighton
New Brighton’s Tony Caltury speaks highly of Beaver County football, and there are a few really good reasons for that. First, he is the county’s newest head coach, taking the reins from Joe Greco, the program’s all-time wins leader who stepped down after last season.
Riverside
• Coach bets on data-driven approach to get Riverside back on track
Second-year coach Fran Ramsden has a tool he plans to use to liberally to help his Riverside team turn things around after a 1-8 season. Data.
Western Beaver
• QB Xander LeFebvre, Western Beaver out to earn respect
How many local high school football fans are familiar with that name, even though he’s a four-year starter who threw for 1,000 yards for a WPIAL playoff team last season? That’s a key question that could shape Western Beaver’s season.
Brentwood’s Daelinn Drew catches a pass during practice. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
CLASS 2A: Century
Brentwood
• Back in Century Conference, Brentwood looks to return to playoffs
Welcome back, Brentwood. The Spartans are returning to the Class 2A Century Conference for at least the next two seasons, reverting back to the early years of last decade.
Charleroi
• New Charleroi coach knows team won’t get outworked
Soon after he was hired as head coach at Charleroi, Mark Gambino reached out to a former coach to get a little inside information on the team he was taking over. “He told me, ‘They will work hard for you,’” Gambino said. “He said, ‘Set the tone and they’ll work.’” Gambino has been working with his new team since April and has had a first-hand look at how hard his kids have worked.
Keystone Oaks
• After smooth coaching transition, resilient Keystone Oaks ready for another run
After eight successful seasons in which he went 45-34, Greg Perry left as Keystone Oaks football coach in the offseason, in part because of a cut in pay for his assistant coaches.
McGuffey
• McGuffey looks to get swagger back after up-and-down year
Ed Dalton hasn’t lost his swagger. Or, so it seems. The veteran McGuffey coach appears as enthusiastic as ever as he enters his 34th season as a high school football coach. But, coming off his first losing season in 10 years at McGuffey, Dalton minces no words.
Sto-Rox
• Loaded with playmakers, Sto-Rox looks to get over WPIAL championship hump
The Sto-Rox Vikings outscored their opponents by 39 points on average last season. The Vikings shut out four foes, making it all the way to the WPIAL semifinals.
Washington
• With star QB leading way, Washington looks to peak at right time
Last year, the Washington football team was a case study in peaking at the wrong time.
Waynesburg
• With experienced roster returning, Waynesburg sets bar higher
After missing the playoffs every season since 2015, Waynesburg is poised to turn the tide. With an experienced roster returning, coach Aaron Giorgi’s staff and the team have built a strong bond.
CLASS A
WPIAL Class A football breakdown
• Defending champion Bishop Canevin the team to beat
Bishop Canevin does not have a lot of players who might be considered NCAA Division I prospects — at least not according to the feedback from college coaches.
Jeannette quarterback Kymone Brown looks to throw during a passing tournament. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
CLASS A: Eastern
Clairon
• WPIAL title contender Clairton somehow flying under radar
Remember Clairton? As in, the football team that won 10 WPIAL titles in a 14-year span, most recently in 2019? The Bears lost in the first round of the playoffs last season and coach Wayne Wade has noticed folks seem to have forgotten about them.
Frazier
• Frazier eager to break into win column
The Frazier football team wasn’t happy with the way things went throughout the 2021 season. The Commodores struggled from start to finish on their way to an 0-9 season. The holdovers from last year, coupled with the new additions to this year’s team, are out to prove that the Commodores are much better than a winless football team.
Greensburg C.C.
• After trying season, Greensburg C.C. presses forward with talented roster, high hopes
Nothing could have prepared Greensburg Central Catholic’s Marko Thomas for what he and his team faced in his first year as head coach of the Centurions.
Jeannette
• After rare down season, Jeannette ready to rebuild under new coach Tom Paulone
It’s a mid-July evening and Jeannette is returning home from a 7-on-7 workout as the sky begins to dim toward nightfall. About 10 hours later, the team reassembles for a rise-and-shine workout.
Leechburg
• After historic season, Leechburg hungry for more
By now, many are familiar with the season of firsts for the 2021 Leechburg Blue Devils. First winning season since 1991. First time in the playoffs since 1988. First playoff victory since 1978. First team in Alle-Kiski Valley history to score 500 points in a season make playoffs. The list goes on and on.
Riverview
• Riverview rebuilding project could pay off this season
Riverview has struggled in and out of Eastern Conference play with just seven victories over the past five seasons.
Springdale
• New coach brings wide-ranging changes to Springdale programAs the page turned to a new season, first-year Dynamos coach Ryan Tempalski, who was hired in March, and his staff were eager to see what the mix of returning and new players had to offer as every spot on both sides of the ball was up for grabs.
Mapletown players run after practice on Aug. 18. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
CLASS A: Tri-County South
Bentworth
• Expect balanced offense, young players in key spots for Bentworth with this season
As Bentworth football coach JJ Knabb enters his fourth year with the Bearcats, he is faced with a team that may not have a lot of experience but has tremendous upside. The Bearcats entered the preseason with 28 players on their roster, but only four are seniors.
Beth-Center
• Beth-Center looks to open up offense, contend in Class A
The Beth-Center Bulldogs are making the move from Class 2A to Class A this season. Coach Tony Ruscitto believes the switch will be greatly beneficial for the Bulldogs.
California
• With deep roster, California sets sights on playoff run
The California football team intends to use strength in numbers to climb the ranks in the Tri-County South Conference. Class A teams are usually lucky to have 30 players on the roster. Cal will enter this season with a roster size of 46.
Carmichaels
• Despite graduation losses, Carmichaels expects to be right in thick of Tri-County South race
Losing a quarterback who passed and rushed for more than 1,000 yards and a player who set the program’s all-time scoring record to graduation would be a lot for any high school team, let alone one in Class A. That’s the situation Carmichaels finds itself in in 2022, but Mighty Mikes coach Ron Gallagher isn’t deterred.
Jefferson-Morgan
• New Jefferson-Morgan coach focused on creating competitive culture
Shane Ziats will be tasked with trying to turn around a Jefferson-Morgan football program that has won three or fewer games the past six seasons and hasn’t qualified for the playoffs in a decade. He’ll start the process with a culture shift for 2022.
Mapletown
• With loaded roster, special season could be in store for Mapletown
Long-time Mapletown coach George Messich has been coaching football for a little more than four decades, and it’s pretty safe to say he knows a good thing when he sees it. “Our goal right now is to make the playoffs,” said Messich who is entering his 41st season as the Maples coach.
Monessen
• Monessen looks to build on ‘promising finish’ to 2021 season
It goes without saying that there is much optimism around the Monessen football program as the 2022 season dawns. Returning three all-conference players will help the Hounds’ cause.
West Greene
• Fresh faces ready to make impact as West Greene looks to defend Tri-County South title
For the first time under coach Brian Hanson, the West Greene football team will go into the season with a new look. Coming off another WPIAL Class A Tri-County South Conference championship, the Pioneers will be looking to replace 11 seniors from last season’s team. It’s a task Hanson is looking forward to.
Avella players work out. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
CLASS A: Black Hills
Avella
• After competitive offseason, Avella aims to return to playoff contention
Avella owns one of the smallest rosters in WPIAL football. Nonetheless, the Eagles are ready to face the challenges that are coming their way with a never-quit mentality.
Bishop Canevin
• Championship roster almost entirely intact as Bishop Canevin aims to defend WPIAL title
Two years removed from a one-win season, Bishop Canevin quickly built a solid foundation for the football program that led to the school’s first WPIAL championship since 1990 last fall.
Burgettstown
• Burgettstown brings momentum into new Black Hills Conference
Burgettstown returned to the playoffs in 2021 for the sixth time in seven years thanks to a strong finish with three straight regular season must-wins.
Carlynton
• Carlynton working to end playoff drought
After finishing tied for third place in the 2001 Class AA Interstate Conference, Carlynton traveled to Reeves Field at Geneva College to battle heavy favorite Beaver Falls in the first round of the district playoffs. Carlynton hasn’t played a WPIAL football playoff game since.
Chartiers-Houston
• Father-son coach-quarterback duo out to earn elusive playoff win for Chartiers-Houston
Terry Fetsko Jr. started in Chartiers-Houston’s program as a ballboy. Often Fetsko would travel with the team coached by his dad, who is in his 18th year as coach, to see away games.
Cornell
• Cornell continues to earn place among WPIAL Class A elite
Cornell’s 50th anniversary season last year was a successful one. The Raiders finished 9-3 with a 6-1 conference record in the Class A Big Seven.
Fort Cherry
• Fort Cherry making strides in upholding program’s tradition
Three years removed from a winless season, coach Tanner Garry and the Fort Cherry Rangers are turning the ship around. Last season, the Rangers fell short of the playoffs but went 5-5 with a 3-4 conference record.
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart
• OLSH driven to return to WPIAL championship game with new coach
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart needed one more stop to make the WPIAL championship game. After losing to Rochester earlier in the season, the Chargers wanted vengeance on their conference foes.
Northgate head coach Chris Lucas urges on his players during practice Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022 at Northgate High School. Chaz Palla | Tribune-Review
CLASS A: Big 7
Laurel
• Despite roster losses, reloaded Laurel in good position to contend in Class A
Despite the key losses to graduation, Laurel coach Brian Cooper is optimistic — as his team moves to Class A due to the PIAA’s reclassification — that his team can be a force this season.
Northgate
• With losing streak in rearview mirror, Northgate excited about progress
A year ago, Northgate entered the 2021 season carrying the weight of the WPIAL’s longest losing streak — 32 games played, 32 straight losses. But the Flames wasted no time snapping the skid in Week Zero and ending with three wins total. That growth on the field has now translated to a different kind of expansion.
Rochester
• Rochester ready to ‘kick the door down’ in 2022
Rochester has a message for its Class A opponents this year — tighten those hinges. “Our motto this year is, ‘Kick the door down,’” said 23rd-year coach Gene Matsook. “That door is the semifinals, and hopefully we can knock it down and move to the next level.”
Shenango
• Despite playoff win, Shenango wants to shake off disappointing 2021
Coming off a 7-2 season in 2020, Shenango had high hopes this time last year. But reality failed to meet expectations and, despite a second straight season with a playoff victory, the Wildcats were left wanting more.
South Side Area
• South Side has weapons to compete with Class A’s best
Coming off a hard-earned berth in the WPIAL Class 2A playoff field last season, South Side is looking to be one of the top teams in Class A this year. Luke Travelpiece is going into his seventh year as Rams head coach and is looking to improve in some areas.
Summit Academy
• New coach focuses on fundamentals, teamwork at Summit Academy
Anthony Becoate thought this was the right time to take his first job as a head coach. He’d coached junior varsity football at Summit Academy seven years ago but took time off. Stepping back into coaching by taking the job with the Knights will be a challenge Becoate relishes.
Union
• New coach brings lessons learned from all-time greats to Union
If anyone’s ever been ready for his first head coaching job, it’s Union’s Kim Niedbala. He’s the son of the late Rich Niedbala, who won 192 games and three WPIAL titles at Western Beaver. He played under coach Joe Hamilton, second-winningest coach in WPIAL history at Blackhawk.
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Independents
Brownsville
•Brownsville embarks on independent schedule following another coaching change
After years of despair in the WPIAL, Brownsville’s football program is on the move. The Falcons, who’ve won just 26 games in 21 seasons since their last non-losing record (5-5) in 2000, are set to begin play this year as a PIAA Class 3A independent program after a long affiliation with the WPIAL.
Butler
• Butler looking to build off most successful season in 25 years
Sometimes the grass is greener on the other side. After going a combined 0-20 in 2018 and 2019, the Butler football program decided to leave the WPIAL to play an independent schedule.
Albert Gallatin
• Albert Gallatin football loving the independent life
These are the glory days of high school football at Albert Gallatin. School officials decided to leave the WPIAL for football only and play an independent schedule made up of teams from the WPIAL, West Virginia and Maryland. In the last three years, the Colonials are a combined 16-6, including a 6-2 overall record last season.
Uniontown
Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo throws a pass during practice on Aug. 24, 2021, in Homewood. Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review
City League
• 2022 City League preview: Allderdice aims to defend its title but will be tested
Competition will again be stiff among City League football teams this fall. Allderdice capped off a thrilling 2021 league season by upsetting two-time reigning champion Westinghouse to win the City title for the third time in the past five seasons. Fellow City League team Carrick will be playing as an independent for the fourth straight season. Here’s a look at each of the teams in the City League.
Position breakdowns
•Scouting the quarterbacks
The race for the 2021 WPIAL passing title was a three-way battle between Gateway’s Brad Birch, Beaver Falls’ Jaren Brickner and Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen. This year’s race might look very similar.
• Scouting the running backs
Take a look at the WPIAL rushing leaders from last season and you’ll notice four state champions. Along with earning a spot among the league’s top five rushers, Central Valley’s Landon Alexander, Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza, Penn-Trafford’s Cade Yacamelli and Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes also led their teams to PIAA titles a year ago. So, no, high school teams haven’t forgotten about the run game.
•Scouting the wide receivers
How’s this for a good quarterback-receiver combination? One of the top quarterbacks from last season, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher, is becoming a wide receiver. And one of the leading receivers from last season, Greensburg Salem’s Cody Rubrecht, is becoming a quarterback.
•Scouting the tight ends
The storied history of WPIAL football often focuses on its quarterbacks or defensive backs. But don’t forget about the tight end tradition. Consider, the first pure tight end inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was from the WPIAL: Aliquippa grad Mike Ditka in 1988.
• Scouting the offensive line
High school football teams deploy a variety of offensive schemes, from no-huddle spreads to the wing-T. What do they all have in common? Five offensive linemen.
• Scouting the defensive line
The athletes who play defensive line are maybe the most varied of any group in high school football.
• Scouting the linebackers
Linebacker is one of the deepest positions in the WPIAL and City League. Leechburg’s Braylan Lovelace (Pitt), Washington Davoun Fuse (Rutgers), Brashear’s Kameron Cheatom (Akron), Bethel Park’s Gavin Moul (Delaware) and Seneca Valley’s Chris D’Appolonia (Toledo) and Aiden Lyczek (Navy) have already committed to Division I schools.
• Scouting the cornerbacks
Ty Law, Darrelle Revis and other former WPIAL stars have put cornerback on the map when it comes to Western Pennsylvania football. And with the rise of pass-heavy spread offenses nowadays, high school teams need as many good cornerbacks as they can find.
• Scouting the safeties
Safety is often the last line of defense, but having a good one can be a weapon for any team. Just look at the WPIAL teams that won last year.
• Scouting the specialists
It was two decades ago — Oct. 4, 2002 — when East Allegheny’s Josh Miller kicked a 55-yard field goal, a feat that still stands as the longest known in WPIAL history. The WPIAL has seen a number of talented kickers since, but Miller’s mark remains.
• Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
A rainbow appears as Chartiers Valley players come together prior to a game against Montour on Oct. 29, 2021, at Chartiers Valley. Kristina Serafini | Tribune-Review.
