In the quaint town of Ravenna, where the crisp autumn air carries the scent of fallen leaves, the Bulldogs are gearing up for a season of redemption. Last year’s .500 record in the league and a 3-6 overall finish left a lingering hunger for more. This year, the Bulldogs are determined to not just match, but surpass those marks, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with.
However, this quest for improvement won’t be without its challenges. The Bulldogs will have to navigate the gridiron without some key players from last year’s squad, leaving gaping holes on both sides of the ball. Most notably, they’ll be missing the thunderous footsteps of Drew Mabrito, the heart and soul of their ground game. Mabrito’s departure leaves a sizable void in the backfield, one that will require a collective effort to fill. The Bulldogs will also feel the absence of senior Blake Homoly, a vital cog in their passing game. Homoly’s reliable and strong presence in the pocket as a QB, made him a constant threat.
With that said, this is prime time for the younger players to step up and show what they can be.
Key Players to Watch:
Dylan May, Junior, QB, FS: The Junior is poised to become a two-way juggernaut. He will not just be holding the reins, he’s will also need to be ready to command the offensive stampede. However, his leadership capability extends past the two sides of the ball. On the defensive side, this young free safety is the quarterback of the secondary, a ball-hawking maestro orchestrating a symphony of interceptions and bone-jarring tackles. This kid is a game-changer, a rare breed of athlete who can dominate on both sides of the ball and inspire his teammates with his leadership. He’s the spark that ignites the offense, the anchor that steadies the defense, and the heart that beats at the center of the team.
Derek Finlay, Senior, RB, MLB: This senior is primed to be the Bulldogs’ X-factor, the explosive element that sets their offense ablaze. He’ll be the workhorse, the battering ram that pulverizes defenses and paves the way for the Bulldog stampede. Last year, he flashed moments of brilliance, tantalizing glimpses of his potential. But this year, he’s not just aiming for good outings; he’s poised to become the unstoppable force that Ravenna needs him to be.
The Bulldogs’ journey begins on August 29th, 2024, against Beal City. The stage is set, the autumn air crackles with anticipation, and the expectations are sky-high. They’re hungry to prove that last year was no fluke, to cement Ravenna football’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with, and to embrace the challenge of reaching even greater heights.
The Bulldogs are ready to unleash their full fury, to show the world that they’re not just barking, they’re biting. This season, they’re coming for blood.
