By Brian Carroll – Havenfootball.net
After an abrupt and unexpected ending to their 2022 season, the Central League co-champion Strath Haven football team embarked on an offseason with many question marks after several experienced and talented seniors graduated this past June. Offseason running and lifting was accented by the Strath Haven baseball team’s run to the state finals, and mini-camps and August practices were accompanied by all eyes on the Media Little Leaguers incredible journey to Williamsport for the Little League World Series last week. We blinked, and the summer was suddenly finished. But with plenty of good sports energy in the community the Panthers are ready to launch their 2023 football season.
Strath Haven’s first test comes this Friday, 8/25/23, on their new turf at George L. King field as the defending District 1 4A Champion Interboro Bucs come to town. The Bucs, led by Head Dennis Lux and a staff full of fellow alumni, are in a similar boat as Strath Haven, wondering who will pick up the oars and row after heavy graduation losses. All-Delco lineman Matt Galanaugh and several linemates are gone, as is two-year starting QB Julian Bulovas and defensive standouts Eben Affainie and Tolo Awoemi. Lest we forget, the 2023 Delco Player of the Year, Abu Kamara, takes his talents and record-setting rushing yardage to Yale University. Coach Lux will look to refill the cupboard with massive two-way tackle #77 Nolan Royer, all-purpose back #3 Anthony Barr, and another two-way contributor #87 Pete Gentile. With some experience and plenty of grit that seems to be an annual staple, the Bucs could once again make some noise in the DelVal League and the 4A District playoffs.
