After countless hours of summer training, the Lake Forest High School Football Team is set to begin its season this Friday with a home game against Lakes.
The team began training in June which consisted of weight lifting and conditioning. It wasn’t until July when they put their pads on and started running plays on the field.
At the end of July, the team headed to Parkside College in Wisconsin, a multi-day training camp that primarily focused on team building exercises, and planning plays for the upcoming season.
“Parkside has been a tradition for the last 20 years and I believe it is one of the best parts of being on the team,” said Varsity Running Backs Coach Dylan Johnson.
In August, the team began to drill down the logistics for the upcoming season. Returning seniors are eligible to apply for a captain position. This competitive process includes a written essay, multiple interviews, and a vote from each player on the team.
The senior captains for the 2024 season are Tim Dan (Linebacker and Kicker), Finn Goodman (Defensive End), Charlie Markee (Wide Receiver), and Matthew Somoza (Defensive Line).
“As captains, it’s our responsibility to be the voices for our team, set an example, and maintain focus. Our coach often says that the best teams that have come through the program have been run by the seniors,” said Dan.
Unlike past seasons, the team is made up of 40 seniors and multiple returning juniors. These experienced players are familiar with day to day practices, varsity games, and can lead the team with or without the title of being a captain.
“As the quarterback, I have to be a leader which is something I really take to heart. I lead the offense which means I have to make sure that my team is confident in me as well as themselves. I strive to be the returning player I had always admired,” said senior Danny Van Camp.
Alongside Markee and senior Bink Hartline, the team will also showcase sophomore Jack Burger who make up the Scouts’ “greatly improved” wide receiver unit. On the other side of the ball, the Scouts have built a secure defense including many returning starters, and with the edition of a new linebacker coach, Coach Floyd, the team is confident they will be a strong competitor this season.
“We are a fast team, whether it be our wide receivers being able to run routes quickly or our defensive lineman being able to get out of their stance quickly. We are a very physical team as well. Not afraid to hit,” said Goodman.
As the Scouts prepare for each Friday night’s game, their week consists of weight lifting, film studies, and specifically adjusting their plays for each opposing team.
“Everyone needs to be there and give 100% in order to have a successful game. We’ve learned to communicate really well and we all rely on each other,” said Markee.
The team strives to “bounce back” from past seasons and compete in the 2024 State Finals as they preach their team motto, “Excellence is not an accident.”
“Our priority is to make this the most memorable year, especially for the seniors. The wins and losses will take care of themselves,” said Varsity Head Coach Chuck Spagnoli.
