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Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Team News - Players Honored at Year End Banquet

The 2017 West Chester University Golden Ram football team was honored at the 52nd annual team banquet sponsored by the Golden Ram Football Club Saturday night at the Concordville Inn in Concordville, PA.

For their performance in each game this past season, the following were selected as the Killinger Players of the Game:



Morrissey
Bentley - Tyler Morrissey - In a game where the opponent didn't score a touchdown until the final play of the game, Morrissey (Jr., Springfield) registered four solo stops. More importantly, he forced two Bentley punts when he notched third-down sacks which resulted in a total loss of eleven yards.



Elder
Slippery Rock - Jarel Elder - At Slippery Rock, Elder (Sr., Parkland) registered a total of 250 all-purpose yards. He had 102 yards on five kickoff returns and 148 yards rushing on 25 carries. He also scored three touchdowns on runs of 3, 5 and 39 yards.


Duggan
Edinboro - Kevin Duggan - In West Chester's 62-28 win over Edinboro, Duggan (Sr., Central Bucks West) logged four tackles and a quarterback hurry. But he experienced every defender's dream by directly contributing to the scoreboard when he intercepted a pass and returned it 31 yards for a touchdown.


Long
Lock Haven - A.J. Long - After seeing limited action in West Chester's first three games, Long (So., Friendship Christian (TN)) got the start at Lock Haven and made the most of it. He completed 12 of 26 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns in addition to running 15 times for 181 yards and two more scores. His 181 yards rushing was a single game, season high for the Golden Rams. Long was named PSAC East Offensive Athlete of the Week for his performance in the Golden Ram victory.


James
Kutztown - Rasheem James - James (R-Fr., Ben Franklin) overcame a rough start to have a career game in the Golden Ram win. In the first half, he had two catches for eight yards on six targets including two drops. But he finished the game with six catches for 142 yards including an 85-yard touchdown. For his efforts in the game, he was named both PSAC East Offensive Athlete of the Week as well as ECAC Rookie of the Week.


Karpinski
Shippensburg - Tyler Karpinski - the Raiders had no answer for Karpinski (Sr., Manheim Township) who made eight catches for 130 yards. Although he didn't get into the end zone, five of Karpinski's receptions resulted in first downs including a 25-yard pickup on third and 19 from West Chester's own one-yard line in the fourth quarter when the score was tied.


Elder
Bloomsburg - Jarel Elder - Despite a loss to the Huskies, Elder (Sr., Parkland) provided 50% of the offense and all of the scoring for the Golden Rams. Elder rushed for 171 yards on 23 carries in a game where West Chester gained a total of 356 yards on offense. Elder scored touchdowns on runs of one, 10 and 20 yards.


Ganzelli
Cheyney - Josh Ganzelli - Ganzelli (Sr., Downingtown East) made two solo stops and two assisted tackles for four total tackles at Cheyney. Among those stops were 2.5 tackles for loss including a solo sack for a loss of 12 yards.


Dooley
East Stroudsburg - Paul Dooley - In West Chester's hard fought win over the Warriors, Dooley (So., Springside-Chestnut Hill) was 14 of 24 for 166 yards and a touchdown passing. Additionally, he ran the ball 14 times for 106 yards and two more touchdowns.


Shipp
Millersville - George Shipp - In a game where West Chester only led for six minutes in the contest, the Golden Rams had to rely on the defense. Shipp (Sr., North Penn) made a game-high nine total tackles including seven solo stops. He registered 2.5 sacks that totaled 20 yards and participated in additional 1.5 tackles for loss.


Morrissey
Indiana - Tyler Morrissey - Morrissey (Jr., Springfield) was one of the few bright spots for the Golden Rams in the PSAC Championship game. He notched 20 total tackles including ten solo stops in the game, as he was seemingly all over the field for the West Chester defense.


Paulison
Shippensburg - Brendan Paulison - Paulison (Jr., Delaware Valley) was only called on to punt four times in the deluge at Shippensburg, but he maximized his opportunities. His punts went 41 yards (fair catch), 64 yards (downed at the one), 37 yards (downed at the two), and 44 yards (-4 yard return, fumble). Paulison also kicked off five times for a total of 291 yards for a 58.0 yard average.


Paulison
Indiana - Brendan Paulison - Paulison (Jr., Delaware Valley) averaged almost 46 yards on six punts in the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs. He dropped three of those punts inside the opponent 20-yard line and boomed two of them over 50 yards. Of his six kicks, only two were returned for a total of just five yards.




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West Chester Football Scholar Athlete of the Year - Justice Smith


Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Justice Smith with
the Scholar Athlete of the Year Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

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The following players were selected by the coaches for their efforts this season:

Offensive Scout Team in Memory of Mark Killinger - Trael Seegers - Seegars (Fr., Susquehanna Township) was a two-time all-conference running back and a recognized scholar-athlete in high school.


Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Trael Seegers with
the Offensive Scout Team Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

Dave Williams Defensive Scout Team - Nyeem Jones - Although Jones (Fr., Ben Franklin/Chester) was an All-Delco running back at Chester prior to transferring to Ben Franklin, he has settled in as a defensive back in the Golden Ram secondary.


Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Nyeem Jones with
the Defensive Scout Team Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

Ted Novak Memorial Coaches' Award - John Dubyk - Due to a foot injury, Dubyk (Sr., Pennridge) missed the first eight games of the season. He returned to play the final five games, including starting both games against Indiana. He finished the season with eight total tackles, including 0.5 tackles for loss and a pass breakup.

Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents John Dubyk with
the Ted Novak Memorial Coaching Staff Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

Mark and Julie Drochek Coaches' Award - Josh Ganzelli - As a captain, Ganzelli (Sr., Downingtown East) was one of just two defensive linemen and one of just six defenders to start every game this past season for the Golden Rams. From his defensive tackle position, he logged 30 total tackles including 6.0 tackles for loss and 3.0 sacks.

Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Josh Ganzelli with
the Mark and Julie Drochek Coaches Award (Photo Ron Hockman)
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The following players were selected by their teammates for their performance for the season:

Kelly's Sports Unsung Hero - Alex Host Host (Sr., Haverford) provided senior leadership to a line that provided protection for an offense that gained over 400 yards per game.


Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Alex Host with
the Kelly's Sports Unsung Hero Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

Bill Vansant Memorial Special Teams Award - Brendan Paulison - Paulison (Jr. Delaware Valley) finished the season with the fourth best punting average (44.1 yards per punt) in all of Division II and tops in the PSAC. He led the conference in punts over 50 yards with 17, dropped 23 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line, forced 16 fair catches and only four touchbacks. On his 62 punts, opponents averaged just 2.3 yards per return giving West Chester the best net punting average (41.2 yards per punt) in the PSAC. He was named first team All-PSAC East, first team CCA All-Super Region 1, first team All-ECAC and second team CCA All-American.

Jim Vansant presents Brendan Paulison with
the Bill Vansant Memorial Special Teams Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

Muz and Lew Peck Offensive Player of the Year - Tyler Karpinski - For the second year in a row, Karpinski (Jr., Manheim Township) was West Chester's leading receiver, this year with 55 catches for 787 yards and seven touchdowns. He finished second on the team in all-purpose yards and scoring. He registered 100 yards receiving against Slippery Rock (107), Shippensburg (130) and Cheyney (173). Karpinski was named first team All-PSAC East, first team All-ECAC and Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area.

Golden Ram Football Club Treasurer Lew Peck presents
the Muz and Lew Peck Offensive Player of the Year Award to Tyler Karpinski (Photo Ron Hockman)

Geoff Ruth Memorial Defensive Player of the Year - Tyler Morrissey - Morrissey (Jr., Springfield) had the third-most tackles ever in a season by a Golden Ram and the most since Lee Woodall in 1993. His 137 stops were most in the nation and his 10.5 tackles per game was second in the conference. He finished the season with 14.0 tackles for loss including 7.0 sacks, five quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and a pass breakup. Morrissey was named first team All-PSAC East, first team All-ECAC, first team CCA All-Super Region 1, second team CCA All-American and second team AP All-American. He was also named PSAC East Defensive Player of the Year, ECAC Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Cliff Harris Award.

Head Coach Bill Zwaan presents Tyler Morrissey with the Geoff Ruth Memorial Defensive Player of the Year Award (Photo Ron Hockman)

WCU Football Athlete of the Year and Golden Ram Football Club Player of the Year - Jarel Elder - Elder (Sr., Parkland) received the WCU Football Athlete of the Year for the second consecutive year. He led the Golden Rams with 2,130 all-purpose yards which if the fifth best season in West Chester history. His team-high 1,230 rushing yards was fourth-best in the conference. Elder also amassed 339 yards receiving on 23 catches and 561 yards on 28 kickoff returns. He had 15 touchdowns on the ground and two receiving, making his 17 total touchdowns good for third in the PSAC . Elder was named first team All-PSAC East, first team All-ECAC and second team CCA All-Super Region 1 and PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

Golden Ram Football Club President Richard Greenwood gave Julie and Mark Drochek the honor of presenting Jarel Elder with the Golden Ram Football Club Player of the Year and WCU Football Athlete of the Year Awards
(Photo Ron Hockman)

The Golden Ram Football Club would like to give a special thank you to Ron Hockman for providing photos at the banquet and throughout the season. All banquet photos can be found here.


The 2017 Golden Ram Seniors gather for one last picture (Photo Ron Hockman)
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Sunday, January 28, 2018

Team News - 2018 Captains Announced

At the 2017 West Chester University Golden Ram football team banquet sponsored by the Golden Ram Football Club, head coach Bill Zwaan introduced the captains for the 2018 season. They include two captains from the 2017 squad - cornerback Shaquille James and offensive guard Tyler Drob. In addition, linebackers Nydair Rouse and Tyler Morrissey will represent the team.

The 2018 season will open on Thursday August 30 at Bentley in Waltham, MA.
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Player News - Zach DeMarchis Commits to Golden Rams

Zach DeMarchis (Pennsbury) has stated his intentions to play Golden Ram football. The 5-10 175lb dual-threat quarterback ran for over 1,400 yards and threw for over 1,800 yards while accounting for 34 touchdowns in leading the Falcons to the PIAA Class 6A semi-finals this past season.

- 2017 Second Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 First Team Bucks County Courier Times Golden Team
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One National


WBCB Sports Network - Four-Minute Drill with Pennsbury’s Zach DeMarchis
Bucks County Courier Times - Zach DeMarchis, Pennsbury ‘D’ stand tall against Central Bucks South
philly.com - Zach DeMarchis leads Falcons past Titans in District 1 6A opening round
Bucks County Courier Times - Courier Athlete of Week: Zach Demarchis, Pennsbury football
papreplive - Zach Demarchis marches Pennsbury football past Truman
The Intelligencer - Zach Demarchis leads Pennsbury over Academy Park

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Player News - Tyreer Mills Tweets Golden Rams

Tyreer Mills (Middletown) has tweeted his commitment to the Golden Rams. The 5-11, 175lb athlete made plays on offense, defense and special teams for the Blue Raiders which finished this past season 14-1 and the PIAA Class 3A runner-up. Mills selected West Chester over Albany, Sacred Heart, and PSAC rivals Slippery Rock, California and Shippensburg.

- 2017 Honorable Mention Class 3A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2017 First Team Mid-Penn Capital (defense)
- 2017 First Team Mid-Penn Capital (special teams)
- 2017 Second Team Mid-Penn Capital (special teams)
- 2016 PA Football Writers Class 3A All-State (athlete)
- 2016 Second Team PFN Class 3A All-State (defense)
- 2016 Second Team Penn Preps Class 3A All-State (defense)
- 2016 Honorable Mention Class 3A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2016 First Team Mid-Penn Capital (offense)
- 2016 First Team Mid-Penn Capital (defense)


EasternPAFootball.com - Player Previews in 100 Days – Day 58: Tyreer Mills, Middletown Area
Press & Journal - What will the Blue Raiders football team do for an encore in 2017? Team tries to look forward
The Times-Tribune - Middletown defeats Scranton Prep again

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Player News - Kobey Baldwin Tweets WCU

Kobey Baldwin (Pottsgrove) has stated his plans to play football for West Chester University. The 6-0 190lb cornerback also excelled on returns and played wide receiver for the Falcons, which captured the PIAA District 1 Class 4A championship the past two seasons. Baldwin selected West Chester over many other schools including PSAC rivals Bloomsburg, Kutztown and East Stroudsburg.

- 2017 First Team Mercury All-Area
- 2017 First Team All-Pioneer Frontier
- 2017 Honorable Mention Mercury All-Area
- 2016 Second Team All-Pioneer Frontier


Pac-10 Sports - Five Pottsgrove senior student/athletes announce their college destinations
Reading Eagle - Faison, Falcons rout PJP II, will play for title

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Saturday, January 27, 2018

Player News - Danny Guy Issues Commitment

Danny Guy (Garnet Valley) has tweeted his intentions to play for the Golden Rams. The 6-0 205lb running back was his school's recipient of the Mini Maxwell Award which is based on on-field performance, academics and community service. The Jaguars fell in the PIAA District 1 Class 6A final, despite Guy's 201-yard and two-touchdown effort. He finished the season with 1,480 yards and 17 touchdowns rushing and 75 yards and two touchdowns receiving.


- 2017 Honorable Mention Class 6A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2017 Second Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 All-Delco Football Player of the Year
- 2017 First Team All-Delco
- 2017 First Team All-Central


papreplive - All-Delco Football Player of the Year: On and off the field, Guy embodied the Garnet Valley way
papreplive - Fearless Garnet Valley erases four-score deficit to freeze out North Penn

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Player News - Nick Chapman Tweets Golden Rams

Nick Chapman (Hatboro-Horsham) has issued a commitment to West Chester University football. The 6-0, 230lb inside linebacker also played tight end and tackle on offense. In the winter, Chapman wrestles for the Hatters, qualifying for states last year and currently ranked first in District 1 at 220lb. He chose West Chester over PSAC rivals California and Millersville.

- 2017 Honorable Mention Class 6A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One American (defense)
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One American (offense)
- 2016 Second Team All-Suburban One American (defense)
- 2016 Second Team All-Suburban One American (offense)


SuburbanOneSports.com - Hatboro-Horsham Duo to Play Collegiate Football
philly.com - Nick Chapman started wrestling to 'fight back' - now he's unbeaten
papreplive - Hatboro-Horsham gets payback on Upper Moreland with Thanksgiving win
The Intelligencer - Unselfish Nick Chapman a key player for Hatboro-Horsham on Thanksgiving
Suburban One Sports - Featured Athlete - Nick Chapman

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Friday, January 26, 2018

Player News - Jackson Taylor Coming to West Chester

Jackson Taylor (Abington) has tweeted his commitment to the Golden Rams. The 6-1, 240lb inside linebacker also played full back and tight end for the Ghosts and was #34 on the Top Football Prospects of 2018 list.

- 2017 Second Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One National (defense)
- 2017 Second Team All-Suburban One National (offense)
- 2016 First Team All-Suburban One National (defense)
- 2016 Third Team All-Suburban One National (offense)


The Sports Fan Base Network - Galloping Ghosts of Abington Gallop Away with a Victory over Cheltenham Panthers
WBCB Sports Network - 15 Must Watch Football Players on the WBCB Sports Network
papreplive - Suburban One League 2017 Preview and Team-by-Team Breakdowns - Abington Galloping Ghosts
EasternPAFootball.com - Player Previews in 100 Days – Day 21: Jackson Taylor, Abington

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

Player News - Trevor Watts Commits to Golden Rams

Trevor Watts (Souderton) has issued his intentions to attend West Chester University and play football for the Golden Rams. The 6-2 265lb two-way lineman was on Rick O'Brien's Southeastern PA's offensive linemen to watch list. The team captain was his school's recipient of the Mini Maxwell Award which is based on on-field performance, academics and community service.

- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One Continental (offense)
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One Continental (defense)
- 2016 First Team All-Suburban One Continental (offense)
- 2016 Third Team All-Suburban One Continental (defense)


papreplive - Hats off to the Hatters: Hatboro-Horsham runs through Souderton
EasternPAFootball.com - Player Previews in 100 Days – Day 65: Trevor Watts, Souderton Area HS

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Player News - Michael Gobora Tweets WCU

Michael Gobora (Pennsbury) has tweeted a commitment to play for West Chester University. The 6-2 225lb defensive end was on Rick O'Brien's Southeastern PA's defensive linemen to watch list and helped his team to the PIAA Class 6A semi-finals this past season as the Falcons finished 10-3.

- 2017 Honorable Mention Class 6A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2017 Second Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 First Team Bucks County Courier Times Golden Team
- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One National
- 2016 First Team All-Suburban One National


The Intelligencer - Defensive end Mike Gobora is the leader for Pennsbury
WBCB Sports Network - 15 Must Watch Football Players on the WBCB Sports Network
WBCB Sports Network - Football Preview: Pennsbury Falcons

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Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Player News - Kenny Edelin Headed to West Chester

Kenny Edelin (Middletown) has indicated that he's coming to West Chester. The 6-2, 185lb wide receiver had 34 catches for 585 yards and 6 touchdowns this past season. The Cavaliers finished 2017 with a record of 11-1, falling in the state championship game.

- 2017 First Team DIFCA All-State
- 2017 First Team All-USA Today Delaware Football Team
- 2017 First Team Blue Hen Flight A
- 2016 Second Team Blue Hen Flight A


WDEL - Middletown's Kenneth Edelin scores three times as the Cavaliers shut out Concord
Delaware Sports Digest - Middletown looks for that extra yard to get back to Division I football final
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Player News - Connor Munnelly staying in Chester County

Connor Munnelly (Downingtown East) has tweeted his commitment to be a Golden Ram. The 6-2 225lb defensive lineman was the Ches-Mont National League's 2017 Defensive Player of the Year. The Cougars advanced to the PIAA District One Class 6A quarterfinals this past season. Munnelly is also an All-Ches-Mont first baseman for the Cougars baseball team.

- 2017 Second Team PFN Class 6A All-State
- 2017 First Team Class 6A All-EasternPAFootball.com Team
- 2017 First Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 First Team All-Daily Local News
- 2017 First Team Ches-Mont National


papreplive - No. 8 Downingtown East explodes in 61-44 win over No. 7 North Penn
EasternPAFootball.com - Player Previews in 100 Days – Day 23: Connor Munnelly, Downingtown East

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Player News - Noah Collachi coming to WCU

Noah Collachi (Central Bucks South) has committed to the Golden Rams. The 6-1 260lb defensive tackle, who had a 55-yard pick-six in his junior season, played for a Titans team that qualified for the PIAA District One Class 6A playoffs each of the past two years.

- 2017 First Team Suburban One Continental
- 2016 First Team Suburban One Continental


SuburbanOneSports.com - CB South Trio Commits to Play Collegiate Football
philly.com - Central Bucks South battles past upset-minded Central Bucks East
Courier Times - Big plays lift Central Bucks South over Council Rock North
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Monday, January 22, 2018

Player News - Joe Janick a Golden Ram

Joe Janick (Downingtown East) has tweeted his commitment to play football for West Chester University. The 6-2 240lb defensive end also played tight end for the Cougars which advanced to the PIAA District One Class 6A quarterfinals. In the spring, Janick plays first base for the Downingtown East baseball team.

- 2017 Second Team All-Daily Local News
- 2017 First Team Ches-Mont National


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Player News - Joe Crocenzi coming to West Chester

Joe Crocenzi (Red Land) has tweeted his commitment to be a Golden Ram. The 6-1 225lb defensive end/outside linebacker is a pass rushing specialist, finishing his high school career with 20 sacks and 190 tackles. Rated as one of the top ten outside linebackers by Penn Preps, Crocenzi selected West Chester over offers from Slippery Rock, Kutztown and Millersville.

- 2017 First Team PFN Class 5A All-State
- 2017 PA Football Writers Class 5A All-State
- 2017 First Team Class 5A All-EasternPAFootball.com
- 2017 First Team All-Sentinel
- 2017 Second Team All-Mid-Penn
- 2017 First Team All-Mid-Penn Keystone
- 2016 First Team All-Sentinel
- 2016 First Team All-Mid-Penn Keystone


The Sentinel - Red Land's Joe Crocenzi picks West Chester
pennlive.com - Red Land's Joe Crocenzi has a trio of college football offers
The Sentinel - 2016 All-Sentinel Football Team: DL Joe Crocenzi, jr., Red Land
The Sentinel - Red Land ready for rival Bishop McDevitt

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Player News - Nika Wright a Golden Ram

Nika Wright (Pennsbury) has tweeted his plan to be a Golden Ram. The 6-3 270lb offensive guard helped his team's offense to the PIAA Class 6A semi-finals this past season as the Falcons finished 10-3.



- 2017 First Team All-Suburban One National
- 2017 First Team Bucks County Courier Times Golden Team


philly.com - Falcons avenge loss to Redskins in PIAA District 1 6A quarterfinal

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Player News - Jon Miller staying in Chester County

Jon Miller (Phoenixville) has tweeted his intentions to be part of the Golden Rams. The 6-2 275lb two-way lineman was his school's recipient of the Mini Maxwell Award which is based on on-field performance, academics and community service. He selected West Chester over PSAC East rivals Shippensburg, Bloomsburg, Kutztown and Millersville.

- 2017 First Team All-Pioneer Frontier Division (offense)
- 2017 First Team All-Pioneer Frontier Division (defense)
- 2016 Honorable Mention EasternPAFootball.com Class 5A (offense)
- 2016 First Team All-Pioneer Athletic Conference (offense)
- 2016 First Team All-Pioneer Frontier Division (offense)
- 2016 Second Team All-Pioneer Frontier Division (defense)


PAC-10 Sports - 5 Phoenixville senior athletes announce their college plans
EasternPAFootball.com - Player Previews in 100 Days – Day10: Jon Miller, Phoenixville Area High School
papreplive - Garcia, Miller, Phoenixville out to avenge last season’s loss to Upper Perk

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Player News - Ja'Den McKenzie Coming to West Chester

Ja'Den McKenzie (Springfield) has tweeted his plan to be a Golden Ram. The 6-1 200lb two-way player excelled on both sides of the ball. On offense, he had 1,273 yards and 18 touchdowns this past season which followed a junior year in which he amassed 1,280 yards and 13 touchdowns. But as a senior, he scored an additional four touchdowns from his linebacker position on defense. The Cougars advanced to the PIAA District One Class 5A final for the past two seasons, with the team owning a 25-3 record over that two-year span.

- 2017 Honorable Mention EasternPAFootball.com Class 5A (offense)
- 2017 Second Team All-Southeastern PA
- 2017 First Team All-Delco (defense)
- 2017 First Team All-Central (offense)
- 2017 Second Team All-Central (defense)
- 2016 Second Team All-Delco (offense)
- 2016 First Team All-Central (offense)


Delaware County Daily Times - His foul play forgotten, Springfield’s Ja’den McKenzie back in fair territory
philly.com - Springfield (D) rolls Ridley behind Ja'Den McKenzie's five touchdowns
papreplive - McKenzie, the talented ‘Mr. Ripped,’ leads Springfield past Glen Mills

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Player News - Mark Anastasi Tweets WCU

Mark Anastasi (Council Rock North) has tweeted his intentions to attend West Chester University to play football. The 6-2 270lb two-way lineman was his school's recipient of the Mini Maxwell Award which is based on on-field performance, academics and community service.

- 2017 Second Team Suburban One National (Offense)
- 2017 Second Team Bucks County Courier Times Golden Team (Offense)
- 2016 Second Team Suburban One National (Offense)


WBCB Sports Network - Four-Minute Drill With Council Rock North's Mark Anastasi
The Intelligencer - Mark Anastasi manning the line for Council Rock North
WBCB Sports Network - 15 Must Watch Football Players on the WBCB Sports Network

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Player News - Kyle Boney transferring to West Chester

Kyle Boney (Emmaus/Lackawanna) has tweeted his plans to transfer to West Chester. As a high school senior, he was named Eastern Pennsylvania Conference South Offensive MVP after rushing for 2,452 yards and 41 touchdowns. He also was his school's recipient of the Mini Maxwell Award which is based on on-field performance, academics and community service. Despite finishing his high school career with 3,068 yards and 51 touchdowns, Boney (5-11, 235lb) made his way to the other side of the ball at Lackawanna, playing linebacker for two seasons with the Falcons.

- 2015 PA Football Writers Class 4A All-State
- 2015 First Team Eastern Pennsylvania Conference South


East Penn Press - Boney earns All-State nod
All Out Blitz - Emmaus High School RB Kyle Boney Talks About Historic Season

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Player News - Montize Young transferring to West Chester

Montize "Tez" Young (Pottsgrove/Stevens) has tweeted his plans to transfer to West Chester. He was an all-conference track star for the Pottgrove Falcons, but this past fall, the 5-10 175lb cornerback received all-conference honors for the Stevens College Bulldogs.

- 2017 First Team All-Seaboard Conference



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Friday, January 19, 2018

Alumni News - Killinger Foundation Meets With Fiorentino

Members of the Killinger Foundation present West Chester University president Dr. Christopher Fiorentino with a pullover celebrating the 2017 PSAC East Champion Golden Rams
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Thursday, January 18, 2018

Team News - 2017 Season Review - Overall

Entering the season, the questions for this team were in the secondary and at quarterback. And it didn't take long for more questions to mount when injuries affected both the offensive and defensive lines. But somehow, the Golden Rams won, played in the PSAC championship game, and qualified for the NCAA Division II playoffs after a two year absence. It's hard to say that this wasn't masterful work by the coaching staff. While the season surely wasn't perfect - the games against Slippery Rock and Bloomsburg were very winnable and the contests versus East Stroudsburg and Millersville were a struggle - it exceeded most fans' expectations.

Captains Shaq James, Jarel Elder, Josh Ganzelli, Kevin Duggan, and Tyler Drob
(Photo Ron Hockman)

The season opened with a 51-9 thumping of Northeast-10 opponent Bentley. Then it was on the road to the westen half of the state to take on Slippery Rock. Despite outgaining the Rock, the Golden Rams battled penalties all evening. They battled back from 21 points down midway through the third quarter to tie the game at 42 with six minutes left, the Rock scored the game-winning touchdown thanks in part to a pass interference penalty.

West Chester returned home to take on Edinboro which was 2-0 and coming off a 9-2 2016 season. The outcome was hardly in doubt as the Golden Rams laid a 62-28 waxing of the Fighting Scots. It was the start of a four-game winning streak as the A.J. Long led team garnered a victory at Lock Haven. The team showed its mettle when it scored a touchdown in the final minute to tip Kutztown 27-21 which set up a showdown at undefeated Shippensburg. It was another tight battle until Andrew Chegia kicked a 41-yard field goal to give the Golden Rams the lead for good with under seven minutes left.

The 2017 Golden Ram seniors (Photo Ron Hockman)

Hosting arch rival Bloomsburg with a division title in sight, the Golden Rams defense couldn't get off the field and the offensive passing game never got going, but it was a pass interference call against West Chester on fourth and long late in the fourth quarter that led to the Huskies' 20-19 win. The team rebounded the following week at Cheyney in what appears to be the final between the two schools. Then in front of a huge homecoming crowd on a beautiful day, the Golden Rams held a 31-6 lead heading into the final quarter against East Stroudsburg, but only managed to hang on for the 31-26 win when redshirt freshman defensive end David Simmons registered a sack to end the game. But the lethargy lingered the following week at Millersville, who led a majority of the game. It wasn't until Mike Class scored on a one-yard run with 1:18 left to play that the Golden Rams led since the first frame. Defensive back Rashee Davis sealed the win with an interception. With the win, and Bloomsburg's 27-24 loss at Lock Haven two weeks earlier, the Golden Rams would represent the East division in the PSAC championship.

For the second time in three years, West Chester hosted the PSAC championship game. Unfortunately, Indiana held an eight minute advantage in time of possession and the Golden Rams threw four interceptions in leading to a 24-7 win for the Crimson Hawks. Despite the loss, West Chester's 8-3 record and superior strength of schedule was enough for them to qualify for the NCAA Division II playoffs for the eighth time in Bill Zwaan's 15 seasons at West Chester University.

Bill Zwaan has led West Chester to the postseason 8 times (Photo Ron Hockman)

The team had renewed energy and shook off the previous nine quarters of football as they dominated host Shippensburg on a cold and rainy day in the first round of the playoffs. But the season came to an end the following week, when a rematch with PSAC champion Indiana ended in a 44-10 loss.

Despite a new quarterback and a multitude of injuries on both lines, the Golden Rams finished 2017 with a 9-4 record and a trip to the playoffs. Thirteen players received All-PSAC honors, while senior running back Jarel Elder and junior linebacker Tyler Morrissey were named the PSAC East Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year respectively. Morrissey also received All-American recognition from the Associated Press, the CCA and D2football.com. And Brendan Paulison has shown to be one of the best punters in the nation.

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Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Player News - Morrissey, Paulison, Four Others Named to Regional Team

Junior linebacker Tyler Morrissey and junior punter Brendan Paulison were named to the first team All Super Region One by the Don Hansen Football Gazette.

Named to the second team offense were senior running back Jarel Elder and sophomore guard Frank Tranzilli. Named to the second team defense was senior defensive end George Shipp. Senior defensive tackle Josh Ganzelli was named to the third team defense. Ganzelli and Elder are both making repeat appearances on this Super Region team.

Super Region One consists of schools in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, Northeast-10, Mountain East Conference, and the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. Morrissey and Paulison now advance to the national ballot. The Don Hansen Football Gazette 2017 NCAA Division II All-America team will be announced later this month.

Rams Up to the 2017 All-Region players

2017 Don Hansen Football Gazette Super Region One Team Announced
West Chester Athletic Site - Six Golden Rams Named Don Hansen Football Gazette All-Super Region 1
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Teams News - 2017 Season Review - Offense

Once again, the Golden Rams managed a balanced offensive effort with 2,453 yards rushing and 2,838 yards passing for an average of 407 yards per game. The team averaged 33 points per game, and when they failed to score 20 points in a game, the team was 0-3, so scoring mattered. The biggest problem the offense had was interceptions as the three quarterbacks combined for 17 this season. Only three teams in the PSAC threw more. The offensive line and the quarterbacks' scrambling ability resulted in just 21 sacks in a season of 13 games. Overall, it wasn't the best offense that West Chester has put on the field in recent years, but they did play five games against the top four defenses in the conference (Shippensburg, Kutztown, Bloomsburg and Indiana twice).

Quarterback

It was an interesting season for the most critical position on the Golden Ram offense. The 2015 starter, Pat Moriarty, who led West Chester to a PSAC East title, played in ten games in 2016. All the other quarterbacks on this season's roster had combined to throw just one pass for the purple and gold prior to this season. But Moriarty went from the top of the preseason depth chart to only playing in two games in 2017. Sophomore Paul Dooley, despite missing spring ball, became the starter and performed fairly well, finishing 163 of 305, 53.4%, 2,372 yards, 21 TD's and 13 int's. His overall passer rating was 133.0 which was good for fifth in the PSAC. He also had 333 yards and four touchdowns rushing as well. And Dooley's performance directly related to the outcome of this season's games. His best games were Bentley and Edinboro which were both easy wins. And he struggled against Bloomsburg and both games against Indiana which were all loses. Being only a sophomore and seeing his most significant collegiate action, it was a successful season in addition to a learning experience.

Paul Dooley was fifth in the PSAC in passing (Photo Ron Hockman)

Spelling Dooley was transfer A.J. Long. At Lock Haven, when Dooley was wearing a boot, Long was successful through the air (12 of 26 for 198 yards, 2 TD's, 2 int's) and on the ground (181 yards and 3 TD's) and received PSAC East recognition for that week. His season totals were rather pedestrian through the air going 22 of 45, 48.9%, 453 yards, 6 TD's, 3 int's. However, he was the Golden Rams' second leading rusher with 380 yards and 2 TD's on the ground. Moriarty started the PSAC championship game and played against Cheyney, going 2 of 6 for 13 yards and 1 int on the season.

A.J. Long had a huge game at Lock Haven (Photo Ron Hockman)

Pat Moriarty saw limited action in 2017 (Photo Ron Hockman)

Offensive Line

Guard Tyler Drob was the only all-region offensive lineman returning for the Golden Rams, but he ended up missing the entire season due to an injury sustained in the spring. However, the line still was manned with four seniors: Devan LaBau, Evyn Stadulis, Alex Host, and Vince Lostracco. The newcomer to the bunch was sophomore Frank Tranzilli who ended up being the only one to start and play in every game this season and earned both first team All-PSAC East and first team All-ECAC recognition.

Frank Tranzilli earned all-conference honors (Photo Ron Hockman)

Devan LaBau was a mainstay at center (Photo Ron Hockman)

Alex Host played both guard and tackle (Photo Ron Hockman)

Evyn Stadulis protected the QB's blindside (Photo Ron Hockman)

Vince Lostracco battled injuries this year (Photo Ron Hockman)

Due to injuries throughout the season, West Chester used six different starting combinations on the offensive line and who knows how many throughout games. Junior Connor Walsh proved his versatility, starting at both center and guard this year. Junior Jake Duncan started two games at right tackle before getting injured at Lock Haven. Duncan didn't play the remainder of the season although he was dressed in the playoffs. True freshman Patrick Ferry lost his redshirt season to start against Bloomsburg and Cheyney. He went on tho play in the Golden Rams' final seven games, including the postseason.

Jake Duncan garnered two starts before getting hurt (Photo Ron Hockman)

Connor Walsh started multiple positions this season (Photo Ron Hockman)

Patrick Ferry had two starts as a true freshman (Photo Ron Hockman)

After switching to the offensive line, junior Ben Smith played in nine games this season, although he also played some defensive tackle as well. Sophomore John DiPasquale saw action in six games and Jack Mummert spelled Labau at Center.

Ben Smith played offensive and defensive line (Photo Ron Hockman)

John DiPasquale was a reserve tackle for the offense (Photo Ron Hockman)

Jack Mummert played in five games (Photo Ron Hockman)

Running Back

The top concern for all opposing defenses was how to stop senior running back Jarel Elder (247 carries for 1,230 yards and 15 TD's, 23 catches for 339 yards and 2 TD's). Most weren't successful. Elder eclipsed 200 yards rushing four times this season: Slippery Rock, Shippensburg, Bloomsburg and Shippensburg in the playoffs. Probably the most significant feat was with all his 298 touches, he only fumbled once and the Golden Rams recovered it. For the season, Elder was named first team All-PSAC East, second team CCA All-Super Region 1, first team All-ECAC, and PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

Jarel Elder was the PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year (Photo Ron Hockman)

Juniors Mark Dukes (45 carries for 367 yards and 3 TD's, 9 catches for 137 yards) and Mike Class (50 carries for 177 yards and 2 TD's, 1 catch for 1 yard and 1 TD). continued to show their versatility in the Golden Ram offense.

Mark Dukes had a 44-yard TD run against Edinboro (Photo Ron Hockman)

Mike Class scored three touchdowns this season (Photo Ron Hockman)

Wide Receiver

Senior Tyler Karpinski (55 cathes for 787 yards and 7 TD's) capped his West Chester career with another season that earned him first team All-PSAC East and first team All-ECAC honors. His three 100-yard receiving games all came on the road: at Slippery Rock, Shippensburg and Cheyney. Stepping into the spotlight was redhsirt freshman speedster Rasheem James (41 catches for 674 yards and 6 TD's). He received PSAC East Offensive Athlete of the Week and ECAC Rookie of the Week for his game against Kutztown (6 catches for 142 yards and 1 TD). For the season, James was named second team All-PSAC East and ECAC Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Tyler Karpinski was WCU's leading receiver this season (Photo Ron Hockman)

Rasheem James was ECAC Offensive Rookie of the Year (Photo Ron Hockman)

Senior Marcus Sydnor (21 catches for 359 yards and 3 TD's) and junior Jordan Banks (14 catches for 132 yards and 2 TD's) also contributed, with Banks' production limited to just seven games due to an injury.

Marcus Sydnor had 2 TD's at Shippensburg (Photo Ron Hockman)

Jordan Banks missed six games due to an injury (Photo Ron Hockman)

True freshman Jalik Smith (2 catches for 35 yards and 1 TD) and redshirt freshman Elijah Hall (2 catches for 16 yards) both saw their first collegiate action while sophomore Lex Rosario (2 catches for 20 yards) also contributed.

Jalik Smith's first collegiate catch was a touchdown (Photo Ron Hockman)

Lex Rosario played in every game this season (Photo Ron Hockman)

Elijah Hall made his first college catch at the Rock (Photo Ron Hockman)

Tight End/H-back

With Cody Boozel lost for the season due to an injury, the Golden Rams would turn to youngsters at tight end. Redshirt freshman Dan Neuhaus (15 catches for 289 yards and 4 TD's) played in 12 games and got six starts while true freshman Gabe Schappell (1 catch for 28 yards) played in nine games. As H-back, junior Simon Williams (1 catch for 21 yards and 1 TD) was primarily a blocking back.

Dan Neuhaus had 2 TD catches at Lock Haven (Photo Ron Hockman)

Simon Williams had a 21-yard TD catch against Bentley (Photo Ron Hockman)

Gabe Schappell made his first college catch (Photo Ron Hockman)
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