When he was hired last year as the Lyons Township football coach, Kurt Weinberg brought with him from his days coaching at Highland Park an explosive spread offensive style that produced 35.5 points per game for the Giants in 2008.
The early reviews for the Lions under Weinberg’s watch were equally impressive in 2009 as LT raced out to a 3-0 record. Unfortunately, the Lions dropped five of their last seven games – mostly due to playing in the highly regarded West Suburban (Silver) Conference – to finish 5-5 last season.
Entering his second season at LT, Weinberg already feels way ahead of the game.
“I started off at square one [in 2009]; this year I feel like I am starting at square 10,” Weinberg said. “It’s definitely been easier this time around because I know what to expect. I feel more comfortable. We have a fantastic group of coaches and the kids have played a year under our system.”
Although the Lions lost several standout players like quarterback Ryan Mitchell and running back Nic Brown to graduation, plenty of talent returns this fall.
Offensively, the Lions are loaded with tall, skilled wide receivers in Dylan Fiedler, Chris Klotz, Mark Sewall and Rennick Thompson.
Six-foot-3, 190-pound Brian Kelly takes over at quarterback for Mitchell. Under Weinberg’s system, the quarterback is a dual threat position, and the athletic Kelly appears well-suited for the job. Junior running back Jaime Jones, who has tremendous speed, will be the Lions’ primary ball carrier.
The LT offensive line has considerable size and some varsity experience anchored by returning starters in left tackle Tom Callahan (6-5, 285) and center Mike Harper (6-1, 290). Left guard Brian Pieroth (6-1, 235), right guard Nick Stone (6-2, 245) and right tackle Ryan Rigo (6-6, 290) complete the line.
“All of our receivers are fast, elusive guys,” Weinberg said. “We also have a big, physical offensive line which always helps in the West Suburban Silver Conference.”
Defensively, the Lions welcome back several key players from 2009. Senior defensive tackle Blaise Davis (6-4, 280) is poised for a great season, while fellow seniors Joe Gonzalez (6-4, 225) and Kyle Shinall are also ready to apply pressure and stop the run. Lanky junior Corey Jefco is a nice addition on the line as well.
Jeremy Carlson and Frank DiGioia lead the linebacking corps, while the secondary will be stocked with young talent like sophomore Matt Harris and junior cornerbacks Will Konstant and Mike Thomas. Weinberg believes Harris, who finished fourth in the long jump as a freshman at state, has the chance to be a special player.
“Our defense gets to the ball really well,” Weinberg said. “I think we have a good mix of returning players and newcomers.”
Another standout player for the Lions is senior kicker/punter Matt Cotiguala, a Division I prospect who is regarded as one of the best kickers in the state.
While Glenbard West is the prohibitive favorite in conference followed by Oak Park and the rest of the conference, LT holds lofty, big picture aspirations.
“Our only real goal is to win a state championship,” Weinberg said. “Of course, we have smaller goals within that goal like winning conference and being able to compete with any team.
“Our group of players has worked so hard. They have not only met but exceeded my expectations. I’ve been very impressed with their attitude and work ethic.”