High school football in the Monroe County Region kicks off Thursday.
It’s time to start thinking about the Region’s top players. We asked each of our 14 coaches to tell us their top players for the 2023. Below is the list we compiled.
High School Football:Schedules for all 14 Monroe County Region teams
Now you get the opportunity to tell us who you think is best. Attached to this story story is a poll that gives you a chance to vote. Cast your votes by 7 p.m. Aug. 31.
Other positions are in parenthesis. All quotes are from the players’ head coach. Players at each position are listed in alphabetical order.
DEFENSIVE LINE
It’s not one-size-fits-all when it comes to defensive linemen. The Region’s top players figure to range in size from New Boston Huron’s 260-pound Earl Shepherd to 165-pound wrestler Trey Parker of Dundee.
Ben Carter, SMCC, 5-10, 180, 11: Broke into the lineup last season with 37 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. “We’re expecting him to be that high-motor player we’ve had the last few years similar to Noah Smith and Riley DeSarbo.”
Elijah Cartwright, Milan, 6-0, 210, 11 (OL): “Returning starter on both sides of the ball. Lots of experience. Ready to step into a leadership role.”
Matt Foor, Airport, 6-3, 225, senior (OL-RB): “Matt will see time up front on both sides of the ball. He is a great, coachable young man who has worked extremely hard this off season to improve his game.”
Logan Goodin, Mason, 6-2, 175, 11 (RB): A versatile three-sport athlete who amassed 101.5 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 4 forced fumbles and 4.5 sacks last season as a defensive end. “Will make his presence known on the field this season.”
Gabe Hall, Jefferson, 6-2, 225, 12: “Gabe will be a serious issue for teams to contend with. Work ethic, speed and power will help him dominate his position.”
Drew Knaggs, Whiteford, 5-10, 205, 12 (FB): Racked up 66 tackles and 5 sacks with running for 597 yards last season. “Drew is the strongest and hardest-working kids in our program.”
Nolan Laskey, Bedford, 6-4, 220, 12 (TE): “Nolan is a returning starter on defense. He had a break out season last year earning a number of accolades. He has spent his summer working hard honing his skills.”
Trey Parker, Dundee, 5-10, 165, 12, (RB): An All-Region wrestler who went 46-9 and placed third in the state. He uses the wrestling skills in the interior of the line.
Breylon Richards, Monroe, 6-0, 225, 12 (OL): A gifted athlete who had his junior season wrecked by injuries. “Extremely strong and athletic. Four-year varsity player.”
Earl Shepard, Huron, 6-4, 260, 12 (OL): Earned a starting job last year and is expected to be a leader this season. “Has good size and has rapidly improved. Expecting him to help the team on both sides of the ball.”
LINEBACKER
Eight Monroe County Region players racked up 100 or more tackles last season. Six of them are back this season and three of them are linebackers – Jake Iott of Whiteford (202), Cooper Buhl of Dundee (119) and Cole Kreger of Erie Mason (109.5).
Rocco Breslin, Flat Rock, 5-11,185, 12 (TE): A three-year starter who intercepted three passes and scored a pair of defensive TDs last season. Racked up 384 yards and 4 TDs at TE.
Cooper Buhl, Dundee, 5-10, 190, 12 (TE): A three-year starter who ranked fifth in the Region last fall with 119 tackles. He racked up 18 tackles for loss.
Antonio Burrell, Carlson, 5-10, 200, 12. “Played in some big games down the stretch for us last year. Has taken on a leadership role for our defense. Physical football player.”
Brennan Caldwell, Huron, 5-10, 210, 12 (RB): “Brennan is a third-year varsity starter, strong and stout and brings football mentality to the huddle. He is a valuable team leader for the Chiefs.”
Brock Cousino, SMCC, 6-2, 180, 10: Enjoyed a phenomenal freshman year with 72 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 4 pass breakups. “Ben is a rarity. He played last year out of necessity. This year we expect him to be a really good player.”
Bret Gennoe, Jefferson, 6-0, 175, 9: “Bret is going to end up being one of the best linebackers to come out of this league when his career is over. That is a big statement that I will never shy away from. His ability to read, hit and intelligent level for his age is amazing.”
Lucas Gerber, Bedford, 5-10, 175 11, (RB): “Lucas played many roles for us last season. He has used the off season to solidify his role and his play-making ability.”
Jeremiah Hoffman, Ida, 5-11, 200, 11, (G): “Jerry is a leader in the weight room and in the classroom. He is a strong, physical, and intelligent player. Jerry has good instincts for the ball at linebacker.”
Cole Kreger, Mason, 6-0, 175, 12: “He will be a playmaker for us wherever he is lined up on either side of the ball. On offense, he will take snaps at WR, RB, and QB, and he is a kick/punt returner. On defense, he plays OLB and DE.”
Jake Iott, Whiteford, 6-1, 185, 12 (RB): Broke school record with 202 tackles, which was 68 better than anyone else in the Region last season. Also ran for 1,144 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Tyler Konieczny, Ida, 5-10, 165, 12: “Tyler is only in his third year of football, and he has made tremendous strides. He continues to improve and pick up on the nuances of the game.”
Teegan Simmons, Monroe, 6-2, 200, 11 (RB): An outstanding shot-put and discus thrower in track and field who plays three sports. “Great size, fast and athletic.”
Jake Wadsworth, Summerfield, 5-10, 215, 12 (RB). “Defensively, he will be the foundation of everything we do, the quarterback of the defense. … Offensively, he will be heavily featured.”
Nolan Zajac, Airport, 6-2, 185, senior (TE-RB): A four-year varsity player who has started both ways for the past two years. “He has a high football I.Q. and finds a way to put himself in positions to make plays.”
DEFENSIVE BACKS
Are they defensive backs or linebackers?
It’s sometimes difficult to tell with the way Monroe County Region players close in from the secondary.
Brian Booms of Flat Rock, Airport’s Jack Mills and Ryin Ruddy earned spots on the All-Region team last season. Ruddy and Dundee’s Ethan Layton finished with more than 100 tackles.
Brian Booms, Flat Rock, 5-11, 170, 12 (RB): “Booms does everything for our team. He runs it, catches it, and throws it. He led the team in rushing yards and TDs last year. On D, he led the team in tackles and interceptions.”
Michael Burns, Monroe, 6-1, 185, 12 (RB): A returning starter at safety. “Tall, athletic and fast.”
Ethan Layton Dundee, 5-9, 165, 12 (WR): A three-year starter, three-sport athlete and three-year captain. He was sixth in the Region with 116 tackles last season.
Jack Mills, Airport, 6-1, 185, 12 (RB): Racked up 1,290 receiving yards, 433 receiving yards and 72 tackles last season. “Jack Mills is the most complete football player that I've had the pleasure of coaching.”
Hayden Noland, Summerfield, 5-7-155, 11 (RB): “He will be responsible for the short side of the field. We will leave him on an island often. He is a great athlete and we are very excited to see what he can do.”
Owen Przybylski, Bedford, 6-4, 200, 11 (RB): “Owen is a returning defensive starter and will play a role on offense this season. He is quick and physical. His skills should be showcased on both sides of the ball for us this season.”
Ryin Ruddy, Whiteford, 6-2, 185, 12 (TE-QB): He is one of the candidates to replace his older brother Shea at quarterback and is entering his fourth season as a starter in the defensive backfield. Finished last season with 126 tackles.
Jaxen Wourman, Milan, 6-1, 175, 11 (WR): “Returning starter on defense. Playmaker who has made considerable strides in the off season.”
OFFENSIVE LINE
The line is the key to any good offense and Monroe County Region teams seem poised to score a lot of points in 2023. That’s because there is plenty of talent in the trenches.
Michael Beaudrie, Flat Rock, 6-5, 210, 12 (DL): A two-year starter who serves as the blind-side protector for quarterback Michael Junge. “Michael will anchor our O-line and D-line.”
Chase Cousino, Jefferson, 6-3, 230, 12: “Chase is our most vocal captain, strength and speed, plus his desire to make things perfect at practice will help propel our line on both sides of the ball.”
Cam Davis, Mason, 5-8, 185, 10 (DL): “Cam is one of our returning starters on the offensive line. He has been committed to the weight room since his 8th grade year and is one of our most dedicated players to the football program.”
Chris Galloway, Ida, 5-11, 275, 12 (DL): “Chris is as solid as they come on the offensive line. He is an outstanding drive blocker and wins at the point of attack.”
Connor Green, Bedford, 6-1, 225, 12 (DL): “Connor is a three-year letter winner. He is a returning starter and All-SEC. He has taken on a leadership role and looks to build on his resume from last season.”
Jason (JJ) Hawkins, SMCC, 5-7, 185, 12: Will anchor the Falcon offensive line. “He’s a 4.0 student, a very smart kid. He knows what is going on at every position of our offense.”
Jack Iott, Whiteford, 6-3, 275, 12, (DT): “Jack is a four-year starter at offensive tackle and will move to the super tackle position in our offense. Will be counted on to be the leader on the offensive line with 4 new starters coming into the lineup this year.”
Kyle Klocek, Bedford, 6-3, 225, 12, (DL): “Kyle is a returning starter on offense. This off-season he has been a leader. He has set the tone through his hard work. We’re looking to Kyle’s experience and leadership this season.”
Brody Lopez, Milan, 6-0, 240, 12 (DL): “Returning starter on the offensive line. Lots of experience. Ready to step into a leadership role.”
Josh Luciow, Huron, 6-3, 260, 12 (DL): Entering his third season as a starter on the offensive line. “He will be a reliable blocker for us as well as an experienced leader in the trenches.”
Jackson Wertenberger, Ida, 6-4, 300, 11 (DL): “Jackson has improved his strength and agility. He is looking at taking his game up a few notches this season. He should help to anchor the right side of the offensive line.”
Adam Zurawski, Carlson, 6-2, 230, 12: “Started every game last year. Needs to take his game to the next level and lead our young group of offensive linemen.”
QUARTERBACK
Graham Junge of Flat Rock, who set a Monroe County Region record with 2,644 passing yards last season, returns along with fellow All-Region quarterbacks Vaugh Brown of Erie Mason (school-record 1,877 yards, 21 TDs) and Airport’s Cooper Nye, Airport (school-record 1,678 yard, 14 TDs).
There are several others QBs who could have made the team and some rising stars.
Luke Beaudrie, Jefferson, 5-8, 155, 9: “Luke's speed, agility and vision at QB is a perfect fit for the team. He has a very special talent and doesn't play like a freshman by any means.”
Vaughn Brown, Mason, 5-11, 175, 12 (DB): “He is committed to the weight room (pound-for-pound the strongest guy on our team) and has become a role model for younger athletes in our community.”
William Gaskell V, Milan, 6-3, 200, 12 (LB): An All-Region player in 2021 who was slowed by injuries last season. “The focal point of our offense and defense schemes. Dynamic player.”
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Graham Junge, Flat Rock, 6-1, 185, 11: Appears fully healed from an injury suffered at the end of basketball season. “He will be the focal point of our offense both throwing and running.”
Joe Krolak, Carlson, 6-0, 175, 11 (S-P): “Vying for the starting QB job. Has nice pocket presence and runs the ball very well.”
Cooper Nye, Airport, 6-4, 225, senior (LB): Set school records for passing yards and TD passes in a season in each of the last two years. “His leadership on and off the field this off season has been crucial for the continuing development of our football program.”
Trace Secor, Summerfield, 6-1, 175, 11 (DB): Returns after missing most of last season with an injury. “He has shown great work ethic and leadership skills throughout the summer.”
Micah Smith, Huron, 6-2, 190, 12 (LB): Has stood out at a number of positions at Huron. This year he will be taking snaps. “Athletically gifted, versatile, has toughness and football acumen. The program is looking forward to a big season from him.”
Ryan Zanger. Dundee, 6-0, 190, 11 (LB): Burst on the scene last year with 1,571 passing yards and 13 touchdowns. He was fourth in the Region for passing yards. “Leads our offense as another coach on the field.”
RUNNING BACK
Look for Hunter DeBarr to take a larger role for Whiteford this fall.
He was the leading rusher for the state champions in 2022, but the All-Region selection played a secondary role to quarterback Shea Ruddy on the Bobcat offense.
He will get his chance in the spotlight this season.
Hunter DeBarr, Whiteford, 6-1, 160, 12 (DB): A four-year starter who led the Bobcats with 1,212 rushing yards last season and scored 12 TDS. Also racked up 66 tackles on defense. “Hunter can break the game wide open every time he touches the ball.”
Mitchell Gomulinski, Summerfield, 5-9, 175, 11 (LB): “Mitchell was pulled up to varsity midway through last season and made a great impact. As a Junior, we expect him to be a major contributor.”
Logan Loveland, Monroe, 5-9, 175, 12 (S): Was a two-way starter last year and plays three sports. “Leader, great work ethic and toughness.”
Evan Marcon, SMCC, 5-9, 175, 12: Ran for 676 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. “Evan is a kid who possesses great speed for us. He hits the hole really well.”
Hunter Poignon, Bedford, 6-1, 175, 12, (LB): “Hunter came out of nowhere as a junior to be a big part of our offense last season. He’s coming back bigger and faster.”
Malachi Pribyl, Jefferson, 5-10, 185, 12: Ran for 797 yards last season. “Malachi's speed and quickness in our scheme is a perfect fit for him. He is in the top tier for backs in the league.”
Dean Thomas, Ida, 5-9, 160, 11, (DB): “Steadily improved last season. Dean possesses great vision in the backfield and is deceptively quick. He also will play a prominent role in the secondary.”
Izaiah Wright, Carlson, 5-10, 195, 10 (DB): Gained valuable reps as a backup to Region leading rusher Omari Carter last year. “Extremely fast and tough football player. Looking for a breakout year from him.”
WIDE RECEIVER
As with the quarterbacks, the Region boosts plenty of talented pass catchers. Korbin Herrera of Erie Mason, Airport’s Colin Nowak and Braiden Whitaker of Dundee all were All-Region choices last fall.
Ryan Anderson, Huron, 6-3, 200, 11 (DB): Earned a starting job last year as a sophomore. “He can play multiple positions, and has a nice mix of size and speed. Expecting him to have a great year for us.”
Tyler Dafoe, Summerfield, 6-2, 145, 11 (DB): “He will be our go-to receiver. He is a very smart and talented athlete. He is very good at finding the open areas and using his body to shield defenders.”
Alex Gillum, Flat Rock, 6-6, 215, 12 (DE): Missed all of last season with an injury. “He will be a deep-threat option at WR for our offense.”
Korbin Herrera, Mason, 6-2, 180, 12, (DB): Averaged 20.4 yards per catch with 37 catches for 754 yards and 9 TDs. “Put on some muscle adding about 20 pounds to his frame while improving his speed. He is a returning starter at corner on defense as well as our punter and kicker.”
Colin Nowak, Airport, 6-1, 170, senior (RB-DB): Caught 38 passes for 674 yards and 9 TDs last season. “Colin is an electric athlete and is a threat to score anytime he has the ball. He has continued to become a better route runner and pass catcher as well as an on-ball defender.”
Braiden Whitaker, Dundee, 6-3, 180, 12 (DB): Caught 46 passes for 732 yards and 6 touchdowns last season. He is being recruited in both football and basketball.
Jackson Zachary, Carlson, 6-3 190, 12 (QB-DB): Looks to be one of the Region’s most versatile players. “Jackson is going to command a lot of attention from our opponents based on his size and athleticism.”
TIGHT END
It takes unique skills to have the brawn to survive on the line and the hands to haul passes.
Kolby Masserant, Whiteford, 6-2, 195 (S): Led the Bobcats last season with 23 receptions for 449 yards. “Kolby is a physical big-play threat. He was the main target in the passing game last year.”
Adam Nabozny, Monroe, 6-1, 200, 12 (DE): Would have been a major factor last year, but never got to play because of injuries. “Strong, great work ethic, sure handed.”
Drew Sikora, Carlson, 6-3, 190, 11. Learned under 2023 Athlete of the Year Ben Przytula. “Had a great offseason and will be an asset in the passing game for us.”
KICKER
Gibrlatar Carlson’s Kyler Ostrowski returns after an All-Region season in 2022 that saw the soccer player connect on 41-of-43 PATs and 4-of-5 field goals.
Kyler Ostrowski, Carlson, 5-8, 140, 12: “Huge weapon on our special teams unit. We will rely on him to put points on the board and contain teams with his kickoffs.”
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