ConVal High School’s football preseason began less than two weeks ago, but varsity head coach Brad Davis is optimistic.
“We’ve got 25 to 28 returners, and a really strong freshman class,” Davis said. This is Davis’ first year as head coach, but having served as assistant coach for three years previous, he has had the opportunity to watch the team’s progress.
Last season, ConVal finished 3-6, with a few of their losses coming in tight games. The team’s defense, led by Davis, had been noted as a particular strength. “Our defense just always stands out,” last year’s head coach Matt Harris said after a win against Hollis-Brookline last October. “Basically, they play like brick walls. That’s how Davis coaches. He coaches a lot of energy and a lot of passion. And you can definitely see it on the field from the boys.”
At the helm of the team this season, Davis hopes to see similar results from the offense. “Our offense has changed from what it was last year, the past three years,” he said. “It’s not often you get 6-foot-3, 300-pound guys on the field. We have a really sound offensive scheme.”
Joe Benham, Davis’ assistant head coach, is the team’s offensive coordinator. The coaching team also includes Nate Gagne, Eric Phillips and JV head Zach Blohm.
Davis said that players to watch this season are juniors Wetu Selby, Jack Telofski and Henry Taylor, sophomores Kurt Dean, Gabe Michaud, Ace Stevens and Liam Kimble, and seniors Mikey Gonzalez and Henry Hartwell.
Though ConVal is hopeful about what the season holds, Davis said it’s a stronger division overall and they will face some stiff competition this year.
When asked if the team has any rivals they are particularly eager to play, he said, “the guys are hungry for Kennett.” ConVal will face players from Kennett High School in North Conway for the first game of the season on Friday, Sept. 5.
