It’s hard to not be encouraged by Carle Place’s four-win improvement from 2012 to 2013. Now, the team will be returning many of those key playmakers and will look to take the next step in their development.
Head Coach Tim Moran, entering his ninth season, will be counting on his captains to ignite the offense. Quarterback Andrew Hastings, RBs Lucas Golon, Luis Costa and Eric McCloskey—all seniors—will look to lead a powerful running attack that employs the double-wing ala Navy.
“The run game will definitely be our strength,” said Moran. “I expect to move the ball on offense.”
Moran noted that the team benefited greatly from Hastings moving to quarterback last season. Hastings had a strong season and was an All-County honorable mention. Golon was the most productive player on offense, as he rushed for 978 yards and an incredible 13 touchdowns. He was named to the All-County team for his achievements.
The lynchpin of the season will be the success of the offensive line. Moran noted that the group is currently a question mark.
“We have two returning players from last year—Josh Jacobs and Will Kercner. We have a decent group of guys,” he said.
The question will be how the three new starters will fare. That will go a long way in determining the success of the team.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Frogs will be relying on many of their offensive stars to contribute on defense as well. Golon will play linebacker, unusual for a running back even in high school.
It is one of the obstacles that a school with a small enrollment such as Carle Place will face. The players have to handle the rigors of playing on both sides of the ball, which is a strain physically in addition to mentally.
One player to watch on defense will be recent-transfer Dom Pascarella, who comes over from St. Anthony’s. Moran is hoping for big contributions from him on defense.
The Frogs will certainly look to make noise this season after last year’s 4-4 record. With the combination of experience on offense and the challenge of stopping their triple-option, the team will be a handful in Conference IV. They will present a challenge to the other upper echelon teams such as Roosevelt, Seaford, Locust Valley and Mineola.
They open the season on Sept. 13 against East Rockaway at Wheatley High School.
