The Danvers High football team won more games last season (6-5) than it did in its previous three seasons combined (4-28).
It was a major step in the right direction, but the Falcons don't want to be patting themselves on the back. They need to do more if they want to be considered a serious player in the Northeastern Conference.
"We were one game away from making the playoffs in our division last season," said rookie head coach Sean Rogers, who was the offensive coordinator under John Sullivan for three seasons. "But 23 kids who were a big part of it — they're all gone."
Rogers isn't setting himself up to make excuses by mentioning the high number of seniors who graduated. Instead, he feels the door is wide open for young players who want to continue the growth process.
He considers Danvers the Land of Opportunity. The youth programs are well stocked, Rogers indicated, so now it's a matter of kids making the commitment to get it done for the Falcons.
"I think what's bringing out the competitiveness in camp is that the kids see the empty (starting) spots," said Rogers, 30, who will be one of the youngest head coaches in Eastern Mass. "There aren't many upperclassmen, so it's wide open for playing time. If there's a freshman or two that can help us, we're not going to turn them away. It'll be, 'Let's bring them up.'
"My objective (as a first year coach) will be to make the kids better players," added Rogers. "If we can say after Thanksgiving Day that they're without a doubt better players, I think the results will show for themselves. I don't know how many wins that might mean, but it'll show in the quality of the play. That's what we're aiming for."
Even though there are just eight seniors, Rogers feels there are some tools to work with. Patrick McBride started at outside linebacker and returning lineman Shane Tobyne is an imposing 6-foot, 260-pounder. Mike Connors, a two-way lineman, has had a strong preseason, according to Rogers.
Then there's senior co-captain Zach Ryan, a two-way end who caught eight passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns last season. Ryan will be in the middle of just about everything the Falcons will do.
SDLqZach will never leave the field," said Rogers. "He'll be doing our punting, kickoffs, extra points and field goals along with playing on both sides of the ball."
Greg Little, one of the leaders in the weight room this summer, is making a big push to be the starting quarterback, although he'll be challenged by last year's Jayvee quarterback, Paul Nicolo.
"We've (had) the luxury of multiple scrimmages to figure out the quarterback situation," said Rogers.
Nick Valles, who totaled 72 ground yards last season, will be used much more extensively this season. "He's got the best feet on the team," said Rogers. "He's another kid with an unbelievable work ethic."
Jimmy Oliveri, a transfer from Bishop Fenwick who finished the school year at Danvers in the spring, will be a welcome addition as a 6-foot-1, 220 pound fullback and middle linebacker.
"We have to find our identity as a team and that may take some time," said Rogers, "but we'll ride the enthusiasm that we have."
SOARING FALCONS
Last year's record: 6-5
Head coach: Sean Rogers (first season)
Team captains: Greg Little, Sr., QB/DB; Zach Ryan, Sr., TE/DE
Top returning rusher: Nick Valles (72 yards, TD)
Top returning passer: None
Top returning receiver: Ryan (126 yards, 3 TDs)
Last league title: 2005 (NEC Small)
Did You Know?: The Falcons haven't had back-to-back winning seasons since 2004-05
2010 Schedule
DateOpponentTime
Sept. 18at Pentucket1 p.m.
Sept. 24at Revere7 p.m.
Oct. 1Lynn English7 p.m.
Oct. 9at Lynnfield2 p.m.
Oct. 16at Beverly2 p.m.
Oct. 22Swampscott7 p.m.
Oct. 29at Marblehead7 p.m.
Nov. 5Winthrop7 p.m.
Nov. 13at Saugus1 p.m.
Nov. 25Gloucester10 a.m.
