Schaumburg hopes hard work leads to bounce-back season

Schaumburg's football team has had its ups and downs the past two seasons, going from a nearly unbeaten year to a tough season last year, when the Saxons won just one game.

But according to Schaumburg coach Mark Stilling, the Saxons are on their way up again.

"I think we had a good summer and a competitive summer," Stilling said. "There has been a level of commitment to right the ship. There has been for 12 months a roller-coaster ride of emotions, and for the kids especially. But I like the way our kids compete. We have had great days of practice. The energy level here is a good as I have ever seen."

The toughest loss for the Saxons may be running back Justice Macneal-Young, who rushed for 1,037 yards last year. This season Schaumburg will turn to Manny Little, Angel Salgado, Olijah Salley, Dakari Ferguson and Dan Galovich to get the job done.

"Justice was a workhorse," Stilling said. "But we have a group of guys with a ton of talent. Any one of these five kids a can be a threat when the ball is in their hands."

That group will have an opportunity to run behind an offensive line Stilling really likes. The front five will be made up of Payton Buchanan (6-foot-3, 265 pounds), David Drs (6-2, 180), Alex Sekera (6-2, 240), John Serio (6-1, 235) and Andy Ortiz (6-0, 230).

"It might be the biggest line we have had since I came here 10 years ago," Stilling said. "We have not lined up kids like this. They work hard and do a great job for us."

Justin Perez, who is a junior, will take over the reins at quarterback. Stilling says that Perez has made huge strides thus far.

"The big thing with him is that he has a good arm and he is very athletic," Stilling said. "He takes care of the football and that is what he need him to do most."

Tony Olson, Terry Gray, Matt Eaker and Sally figure to be targets for Perez when the Saxons go to the air.

On defense it will be an experienced secondary that leads the way for the Schaumburg.

Austin Anzelmo, who has been a two-year starter, will be a leader at safety while Galovich will be at the other safety spot. Anthony Nix and Anthony D'Orizio will be at the corners.

The linebackers will be led by Eaker. He will be joined by Julian Akogu, John Macneal, Tony Vezzetti and Ryan Michels.

The defensive line is a "raw spot" according to Stilling. It will be made up by Moe Samara, Kody Scott and Phil Avella.

"The key to our success will be how well we can hold our own up front," Stilling said. "And that is on both sides of the ball."

Schaumburg will get a chance to find out when it travels to St. Charles North for their season opener.