H.S. Football's Class (A) All-Staters
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H.S. Football's Class (A) All-Staters
Class (A) All-State Nominations..,.
12/14/2006,
The Associated Press:
(AP) — Players nominated for the Pennsylvania Class (A) all-state high school football team. All Class (A) players are eligible for the team and do not have to be nominated to receive votes.
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QUARTERBACKS:
Cole Hildebrant, Pius X, Sr., 6-2, 210. Second team All-State selection in 2004. Went 172-for-267 for 2,440 yards, 28 touchdowns, 13 interceptions in 11 games. Career statistics: 465-for-795, 6,991 yards, 75 touchdowns, 27 interceptions in 29 games. School career record holder at Pius for completions, attempts, yards and TD passes.
Kolten Hoffman, West Middlesex, Sr., 5-10, 180. Led team to 13-0 record and District# 10 Class (A) championship; will finish career as Mercer County all-time leading passer (4,592 yards). Passed for 1,939 yards this season; 114-of-173, 18 touchdowns, 6 interceptions. Also rushed for 23 touchdowns. Also an outstanding defensive back.
Darryl Kerstteter, Millersburg, Jr., 6-2, 198. Completed 67-of-125 for 1,506 yards, 17 touchdowns and one interception. Rushed 157 times for 1,061 yards and 14 touchdowns. Accounted for 2,567 yards and 31 touchdowns.
Andre Campbell, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 6-1, 175. Completed 76 of 147 passes for 1,253 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Danny Camp, Rochester. 1,094 yards passing, 14 touchdowns.
Leroy George, Clairton, Sr., 6-1, 185. Had 1,114 yards rushing, 22 touchdowns, more than 600 yards passing until PIAA quarterfinals.
Ted Heitzman, Southern Columbia, Jr., 6-2, 195. Passed for 881 yards and 12 touchdowns with two interceptions for a 13-0 team, completing 58 of 104 passes. Also rushed for 421 yards and five touchdowns.
Reese Holmes, Canton, Soph., 6-3, 180. Threw for nearly 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first year as a starter. Helped a team that won one game the previous season go 7-4 and reach the District 4 playoffs.
John Love, Northern Bedford, Sr., 6-2, 235. A first-year starter, completed 100 of 212 passes for 1,660 yards, 22 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Team finished 6-4.
Marc Persing, Shamokin, Jr., 5-10, 175. Went 116-of-187 for 1,264 yards.
Mike Reese, Shenandoah Valley, Sr. 5-9, 175. Through 13 games, Reese completed 130-of-220 for 1,840 yards and 16 touchdowns. Also rushed for 201 yards on 67 carries and scored five touchdowns.
Dylan Schreffler, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-3, 210. Schreffler led the Bulldogs to the District #11 Class (A) playoffs for the first time in three seasons. Completed 120 of 236 passes for 1,995 yards and 17 touchdowns. Also rushed for 311 yards on 126 carries and scored five touchdowns.
Jake Smith, Redbank Valley, Jr., 6-1, 205. Finished first season as a starter by completing 83 of 173 for 1,124 yards with 14 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Was team's second-leading rusher with 587 yards and 11 touchdowns on 128 carries.
Ross Gargano, Kennedy Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 200. Teamed with Lee Plotts to become first duo in Pennsylvania history to both surpass 4,000 yards in a career during the same season. Finished with 4,451 yards. Moved to quarterback this season after three seasons, but still rushed for 1,256 yards on 144 carries.
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RUNNING BACKS:
Henry Hynoski, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-2, 240. First-team all-state selection last year. Through 13 games, ran for 1,862 yards and 34 touchdowns on 158 carries for a 13-0 team. Among top 10 in state history with 6,620 rushing yards. Is a two-time all-stater. Recruited by Pitt.
Josh Kleinfelter, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 5-10, 185. First-team all-stater last season. Rushed for 1,980 yards and 29 touchdowns on 262 carries. Scored 30 touchdowns. Three-year starter, his teams have made it to the District #6 final in each season, winning twice. Has 5,626 yards. Had 75 career touchdowns. Also has four interceptions on defense. Likely to go to a Division III school.
Derek Moye, Rochester, Sr., 6-5, 195. First-team all-state pick last season and second-teamer as a sophomore in 2004. Scored 31 touchdowns. Team went 12-1 and made the W.P.I.A.L. championship game. Split time between running back and wide receiver. Caught 16 passes for 430 yards and rushed for 1,017 yards on 148 carries despite usually playing sparingly in the second half as 10 of Rochester's 12 wins were by at least 22 points. Finished his career with 2,484 yards rushing, 69 receptions for 1,518 yards, and 77 touchdowns. Is considering Boston College, Penn State, Pitt and West Virginia.
Lee Plotts, Kennedy Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 200. Teamed with Ross Gargano to become the first duo in Pa. state history to each surpass 4,000 career yards rushing in the same season. Finished season with 2,074 yards on 246 carries and 27 touchdowns. Had 367 yards in a game. Ran for 4,447 yards in his career.
Zach Barket, Schuylkill Haven, Soph., 5-9, 170. Ran for 1,215 yards on 241 carries and 11 touchdowns.
Alex Bladel, Redbank Valley, Soph., 5-9, 185. Finished first varsity season with 1,373 yards and 14 touchdowns rushing on 200 carries. Also caught 17 passes for 255 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Josh Brown, West Middlesex, Sr., 5-8, 180. All-around star for the District 10 champions; ran for 656 yards and caught passes for 517 yards with 5 touchdowns. Also handles kicking (41 PATs, 1 FG) and returns punts.
Chris Cavallari, Coudersport, Sr., 5-10, 180. Had 284 carries for 1,730 yards, 18 touchdowns heading before District 9 title game. Also caught 17 passes for 213 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Jordan Clemons, Fort Cherry, Sr., 5-9, 175. Led WPIAL in rushing until final week of regular season. Finished with 1,888 yards and 20 touchdowns in 10 games. Conference player of the year. Also intercepted four passes and made 47 tackles.
Myles Crawford, Northern Bedford, Jr., 5-9, 160. Ran for 16 touchdowns and 1,375 yards on 239 carries.
Robert Gunby, Conemaugh Valley, Sr., 6-0, 185. Rushed for 1,625 yards on 274 carries playing running back and option quarterback (specialist). Scored 20 touchdowns and 124 points.
Dustin Letterman, Line Mountain, Sr., 5-10, 185. Ran for 898 yards, 12 touchdowns.
Jayson Nickson, Mercyhurst Prep, Sr., 5-9, 175. Set school record with 1,581 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns. School's leading career rusher.
Nate Reinhart, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 170. Rushed for 1,679 yards, scored 18 touchdowns, averaged 7.7 per carry for 10-2 team. Second straight season over 1,000 yards.
Nick Varga, Shenandoah Valley, Jr., 5-11, 185. Rushed for 1,064 yards on 175 carries with 18 touchdowns and caught 31 passes for 434 yards and 2 touchdowns for 12-1 District #11 championship team.
Shane Waida, Western Beaver, Jr., 5-9, 165. Rushed for 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns on 205 carries.
Matt Walter, Bishop Canevin, Sr., 6-0, 170. Gained 1,194 yards on 225 carries, caught 23 passes for 258 yards, scored 16 touchdowns. School's career rushing leader with 3,779 yards.
Jeremiah Young, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 5-10, 175. Rushed 266 times for 1,966 yards (7.4 yards per carry) and 27 touchdowns before the P.I.A.A. quarterfinals. Also had 17 catches for 254 yards.
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WIDE RECEIVERS:
Koury Kaplafka, Shenandoah Valley, Sr., 5-9, 170. Second team all-state pick a year ago; caught 41 passes for 619 yards (15.1 average) and 7 touchdowns for District #11 championship team.
Will Kelly, Loyalsock Township, Sr., 6-4, 210. Second team all-state pick last year at tight end. Made 48 catches for 769 yards, 10 touchdowns.
Andy Ostach, Blairsville, Sr., 6-5, 200. First-team all-state selection last year. Made 38 catches for 655 yards (17.2 average) and six touchdowns. Had a touchdown catch, punt return TD and interception return TD in the first quarter of a game. Missed 1 1/2 games with an injury. Four-year starter owns area career records for receptions (132), receiving yards (2,150) and touchdown receptions (20).
Wade Williams, Pius X, Jr. Caught 66 passes for 1,078 yards, 17 touchdowns in 12 games. School record for TD catches.
James Curley, Camp Hill, Sr., 6-1, 190. Caught 48 passes for 713 yards (14.9), six touchdowns.
Cameron Dudeck, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-2, 185. Four-year starter made 44 catches for 887 yards (20.2 average) and six touchdowns. Helped Tri-Valley to qualify for the District #11 Class (A) playoffs for the first time in three years. Also made 44 tackles.
Houston Klotz, Northern Bedford, Sr., 5-6, 125. Klotz caught 38 passes for 714 yards and 12 touchdowns. His yardage and touchdowns are second on the Northern Bedford single-season season record list behind Joe Nastasi.
Kyle Matter, Upper Dauphin, Sr., 5-8, 142. Made 34 catches for 780 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Clark Morris, Line Mountain, Jr., 6-1, 180, Made 48 catches for 791 yards and 10 touchdowns; ran for 684 yards and 8 touchdowns.
Kevin McNavage, Marian, Sr. 5-9, 162. Led District #11 runnerup Colts with 35 catches for 821 yards (23 yards per catch average) and seven touchdowns. Also returned three punts for touchdowns, one kickoff return for a touchdown and one interception for a touchdown.
Jason Mundie, Millersburg, Sr., 5-8, 165. Caught 13 passes for 417 yards (32.1 yards per catch) and four touchdowns. Rushed 99 times for 573 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Scott Swineford, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-0, 150. Made 19 catches for 419 yards and 6 touchdowns; also 2 punt return touchdowns, 2 kick return touchdowns, 2 rushing touchdowns, 1 interception return TD.
Blake Williamson, Chartiers-Houston, Sr., Caught 36 passes for 601 yards; scored nine touchdowns.
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TIGHT ENDS:
Colin Naugle, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 6-4, 230. Had 22 receptions, 9 for touchdowns, and averaged 23.9 yards per catch for run-oriented team that went 10-2 and reached district semifinals. Also starts at LB. Has committed to Delaware.
Jon Neithercoat, Halifax, Sr., 6-4, 200. Caught 43 passes for 626 yards (14.6 average) and 7 touchdowns.
David Schweitzer, Lourdes Regional, Jr., 6-2, 210, 18 catches for 363 yards, 2 touchdowns.
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OFFENSIVE LINEMEN:
Cody Jones, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-2, 250. An all-league first-team selection, headed an offensive line that helped team gain 5,138 rushing yards and over 6,000 total yards through 13 games.
Mike Ryan, Marian Catholic, Sr., 6-5, 305. UConn recruit who was top offensive lineman for District 11 finalist. Three-year starter.
Mike Finnerty, Old Forge, Sr., 6-3, 272. Led Blue Devils to the District #2 Class (A) championship and a share of the Lackawanna Football Conference Division III title. Team averaged 253.3 yards per game and 181.7 yards rushing per game. A three-year starter, he made the switch from tight end to tackle this season.
Doug Hersch, Meyersdale, Sr., 6-1, 210. Three-year starter at center. Anchored a line that helped Meyersdale open 11-0 and win District #5 title. games.
Matt Irvine, Glendale, Sr., 6-2, 240. Four-year starter. Key element in team posting first winning record in 20 years and making District #6 quarterfinals. Vikings averaged 221.3 rushing yards per game and produced two running backs with 791 yards or more. Being recruited by Ivy League, Division #I-AA and Division II colleges.
Anthony Jenkins, Bellwood-Antis, Jr., 6-1, 260. Key performer on both offensive and defensive lines for Blue Devils, who were 10-2 heading into P.I.A.A. quarterfinals. Two-year starter.
Dan Jordan, Redbank Valley, 6-3, 270, Sr. Guard named conference's lineman of the year. Anchored an offensive line that helped the team average 185 yards rushing per game.
Sam Kephart, Curwensville, Sr., 6-1, 290. Played right tackle for the District #9 runners-up where he anchored an offensive line that paved the way for District #9 all-time rushing leader Nick Sipes. A four-year starter. Team averaged 280 yards per game rushing and nearly 350 yards per game. Often pulled to lead plays over the left side.
Zach McCabe, Portage, Sr., 6-3, 245. Top lineman on a team that averaged 278.1 yards rushing per game. Team went 7-3, producing a 1,000-yard rusher, a 780-yard rusher and a 595-yard rusher. Also an outstanding baseball player.
James O'Connor, Shenandoah Valley, Soph., 6-0, 220. Two-way lineman helped team win its first District #11 Class (A) title since 1997. O'Connor is one of 10 players who attends Cardinal Brennan High School, but plays for the Shenandoah Valley football team under a cooperative agreement between the schools.
Brad Pellegrini, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 6-1, 200. Helped anchor offensive line that rushed for 2,462 yards and defensive line that gave up only 1 100-yard rusher all season. Helped Rockets (8-4) win share of Tri-County South title and two playoff games for first time in school history. Drawing Division II interest.
Nathan Russell, Curwensville, Soph., 6-1, 210. Moved to center early in season and made a difference in the running game. Team was averaging 198 yards rushing and 13 points before the switch. After the change, the Golden Tide averaged 290 yards rushing and 32 points per game.
Brad Scassa, Monaca, 6-2, 210, Sr. All-conference first-team pick on 5-5 team.
Tyler Wilson, Southern Columbia, Jr., 6-4, 300.
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DEFENSIVE LINEMEN:
Josh Marks, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-5, 315. First-team all-State selection last year. Made 44 tackles, 5 pass breakups; career: 210 tackles, 10 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, 10 pass breakups, 27 hurries, 13 sacks; signed early to attend Penn State.
Ross Nicholson, Kane, Soph., 6-3, 200. Also played defensive end and linebacker, and had 14 sacks, 81 tackles.
Michael Schlauch, Bloomsburg, Jr., 5-9, 230. Second Team all-state selection last year. Finished with 88 tackles and 8 quarterback sacks to lead a defense that had four shutouts. Also had two fumble recoveries.
Marcel Washington, Clairton, Sr., 6-4, 280. Outstanding blocker for W.P.I.A.L. champions, who were 14-1.
Ron Bardo, Canton, Sr., 6-4, 245. Had 35 tackles and two fumble recoveries with five sacks. Canton went 7-4, won a share of the NTL small-school title and reached the district playoffs for the first time since 1999
Chad Coho, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 6-0, 225. In first year as a starter for District #6 champions, was second on team with 94 tackles and tied for first with 4 sacks. Blue Devils allowed 180.2 yards through 12 games.
Adam Dechant, Keystone, Sr., 5-11, 220. Had 61 tackles and 5 sacks.
Rudy Evosirch, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 6-3, 212. Key two-way lineman who helped Rockets rush for 2,462 yards. Helped Rockets (8-4) win share of Tri-County South title and two playoff games for first time in school history.
Shawn Fausey, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-0, 190. Had 71 tackles, 8 1/2 sacks.
Ryan Gonder, Millersburg, Sr., 6-0, 231. Was the Twin Valley Conference defensive lineman of the year.
Steve Hvizda, Beth-Center, Sr., 5-11, 210. Defensive leader for an 11-1 team. Had 11 sacks. As a fullback, gained 482 yards and ran for nine touchdowns.
Justin Knoebel, Southern Columbia, Jr., 5-10, 205. Leads 3-time defending state champs in sacks after missing most of 2005 season with an injury.
Tony Lutz, Bishop Canevin, Sr., 6-0, 275. First-team all-conference on both lines. Had 99 tackles, 12 for losses, and seven sacks.
Matt Mylnek, Marian Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 210. Top tackler on an 11-2 team that advanced to the District #11 title game.
Eric Rollman, Schuylkill Haven, Sr., 6-1, 215. Made 85 tackles for the 4-6 Hurricanes.
Nate Ross, Canton, Jr., 5-8, 160. Had 45 total tackles and two forced fumbles.
Nick Rossignoli, Reading Central Catholic, 6-4, 210. Led team with 12 sacks and had 50 tackles for team that won 10 games and reached district semifinals. Only losses were to District #3 champs, Wyomissing and Steel-High.
Cody Shook, Juniata Valley, Sr., 6-2, 200. Had 13 sacks and 160 tackles as team reached District #6 finals, finishing season 9-3. Team allowed 8.7 points and had six shutouts.
Jeff Wiant, Clarion, Jr., 6-0, 240. Made 50 tackles, 5 sacks as defensive tackle.
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LINEBACKERS:
Nick Sipes, Curwensville, Sr., 5-11, 215. Second team all-state selection last season. Rushed for 1,995 yards and 31 touchdowns for the District #9 runner-up Golden Tide. Sipes rushed for 100 yards or more in 35 consecutive games and finished his career as the all-time District #9 rushing leader with 5,971 yards and touchdowns leader with 84. Also the defensive leader at inside linebacker with 96 tackles. As a kicker, made 26 extra points (missing 10) and two field goals. Has received interest from West Virginia, Maryland, Temple and Bucknell.
Steve Andrusky, West Middlesex. Excellent pass rusher on 13-0 District #10 champion team. Was in on 104 tackles (68 solo, 36 assisted), 3 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries. Also a running back, rushing for 616 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Josh Kotula, Windber, Sr., 5-9, 160. Second team all-state selection last year as an all-purpose player. Made 100 solo tackles and 146 stops overall for the District #5 runner-up team. Also had four fumble recoveries on a defense that had eight shutouts in 11 games and allowed only 48 points.
Brad Rapp, Clarion, 5-11, 187, Sr., 74 tackles.
Sal Ruggeri, South Side Beaver, Sr., 6-0, 185, Sr. Second-team all-state pick last season. Picked by coaches as the defensive player of the year in the Big Seven Conference for a second consecutive season. Rushed for 806 yards, scored nine touchdowns in nine games.
Matt Bashline, Keystone, Jr., 5-11, 190, Jr. Had 63 tackles, 6 sacks.
Waugh Carter, California, Sr., 6-0, 215. Rushed for 791 yards on 100 carries for 7.9 average, made 9 receptions for 272 yards. Scored 13 touchdowns and 82 points to help Trojans earn share of conference crown. Led team with 70 tackles, including 11 for losses (1 for a safety) and 2 sacks. Had 1 interception, forced 2 fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked punt. Temple, UConn interested.
Justin Falcon, Jefferson-Morgan, Jr., 5-7, 150. Rushed for 1,081 yards on 165 carries and scored 16 touchdowns, made 82 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception and returned blocked punt for a touchdown.
Cory Fromile, Canton, Sr., 5-10, 185. Had 75 tackles and five sacks. Canton went 7-4, won a share of the league small-school title and reached the district playoffs for the first time since 1999.
Nick Gallinot, Southern Columbia, Sr., 5-9, 200. Had 59 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 6 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 6 sacks. Chosen as league's linebacker of the year.
Eric Grejda, Clarion, Jr., 6-0, 210. Made 71 tackles and an interception.
Jordan Hill, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 6-3, 235. Outstanding inside linebacker and lead blocker as a fullback.
Steve Hvizda, Beth-Center, Sr., 5-11, 210. Rushed for 485 yards and nine touchdowns as a fullback. Led Bulldogs, who finished 11-1, with 17 sacks. Finished with 92 tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two interceptions.
Isaiah Jackson, Serra Catholic, Jr., 6-1, 235. On offense, gained 1,035 yards on 130 carries, scored 16 touchdowns.
Steve Justick, Bloomsburg, Jr., 6-3, 200. Made 136 tackles in 11 games. Had five sacks.
Ed Klock, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-1, 210. Made 93 tackles, 6 1/2 sacks.
Justin Letterman, Line Mountain, Sr., 81 tackles.
Josh Metkus, Shenandoah Valley, Sr., 6-1, 225. Led team with 115 tackles. Also carried 41 times for 619 yards and 7 touchdowns as fullback on offense. A four-year letterman.
Matt Schwartzmiller, Canevin, Sr., 5-9, 215. Made 140 tackles, five for losses, and had two interceptions.
Mike Serafin, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 235. Team's top tackler.
Corey Sobert, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-1, 175. Had 48 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 7 pass breakups, 8 hurries and 6 sacks through 12 games.
Cody Vroman, Canton, Sr., 5-8, 150. Had 54 tackles, two fumble recoveries and one interception for 7-4 team.
Scott Wharton, Fort Cherry, Sr., 6-0, 210. As a fullback, he rushed for 515 yards and led Fort Cherry with 434 yards receiving. Led team with 127 tackles, including 6 1/2 sacks and 27 tackles for loss. Receiving Division #I-AA and II interest.
Ryan Zarnich, Rochester, Sr., 6-4, 220. Unanimous selection on both offense and defense by coaches on all-conference team. Besides being a standout on a defense that recorded seven shutouts. Caught 11 passes for 181 yards and four touchdowns as a touchdown on District 7 finalist.
Donte Valentino, California, Jr., 5-7, 155. Second-team all-state as a sophomore and conference MVP as a junior. Missed two games with a concussion but rushed for 1,133 yards and 18 touchdowns. Averaged more than 20 yards per completion and passed for 510 yards and four touchdowns. Intercepted four passes and had 72 tackles.
Tom Admire, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-4, 175. Had 33 tackles, 11 pass breakups and 7 interceptions through 13 games. Was named as league's defensive back of the year. Also has 16 catches for 266 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Lucas Bailey, Canton, Jr. 5-10, 155. Had 33 tackles, three interceptions and one fumble recovery.
Brandon Boyd, Ligonier Valley, Jr., 5-11, 142. Second-team all-state pick last season. 40 solo tackles. 18 assists, 2 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, 1 blocked punt.
Lamar McLean, Scotland School, Sr., 5-10, 175. Made 84 tackles and 5 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. Also caught 25 passes for 535 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Jarrod Moskola, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 5-11, 170. Rushed for 899 yards and 13 touchdowns in helping Rockets (8-4) win two playoff games for first time in school history.
Nate Paterson, Juniata Valley, Sr., 5-11, 160. Strong safety missed all or part of five games with injury, but team posted shutouts and won six of the seven full games in which he played. Considered by his coach the best player on the team. Despite missed time, he led Green Hornets with four interceptions. Team allowed average of 8.7 points and 159.4 yards.
Marc Rozanski, Serra Catholic, Sr., 6-4, 185. Passed for 1,203 yards, 12 touchdowns, and ran for 960 yards, 12 touchdowns. Also an excellent defensive back.
Shane Ryan, Minersville Area, Sr., 6-0, 185. Started since late in freshman season. Helped team reach the District #11 Class (A) semifinals. Finished with a team-high 115 tackles, 53 of which were solo. He had one interception, two sacks and was also outstanding offensive with 347 yards rushing and three touchdowns. He caught 23 passes for 358 yards. Plans to attend Princeton, Bucknell, Lehigh or Amherst.
James Seidle, Clarion, Jr., 6-1, 175. 71 tackles, 2 interceptions.
Shawn Sopic, Curwensville, Sr., 6-2, 195. Had 7 interceptions and made 50 tackles and returned a fumble for a touchdown. As a quarterback, ran for 948 yards and threw for 878. Rushed for 7 touchdowns and threw for 8 more. Has received interest from Temple, Colgate, Princeton and Brown.
Scott Swineford, Line Mountain, Made 3 interceptions.
Stoney Van Horn, Lackawanna Trail, Sr., 6-0, 180. A cornerback who finished with 10 interceptions in 11 games as the Lions qualified for the District #2 Class (A) playoffs for a ninth straight season. Also a receiver who caught 23 passes for 237 yards.
Brendan West, Lourdes Regional, 5-10, 180. Two interception returns for touchdowns, also solid as a kicker and punter, return man and wide receiver.
Tony Whiteleather, Rochester, Jr., 6-0, 165. Helped lead a defense that had seven shutouts in 13 games and reached the W.P.I.A.L. championship game. Had four interceptions, two coming in the second half of a 14-6 win over Jefferson-Morgan in the W.P.I.A.L. semifinals.
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KICKERS:
Jeremy Ditzler, Iroquois, Sr., 5-7, 136. Made 7 of 9 field goals and 20-of-20 extra points. Missed only one PAT in two seasons.
Evan Celmo, Bellwood-Antis, Jr., 5-9, 145. Over the last two seasons, has connected on 7 of 11 field goals and 75 extra points. Kicked three field goals and 32 extra points this year.
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PUNTERS:
Jeffrey Miller, Meyersdale, Sr. Averaged 33.8 yards on 22 punts, including seven inside the 20, and a long of 55. Also caught 30 passes for 679 yards and 6 touchdowns.
James McCombie, Bishop Carroll, Soph., 5-10, 130. Averaged 37.96 yards on 25 punts, with a long of 63.
Paul McGinley, Redbank Valley. Averaged 35.2 yards on 26 punts.
Jordan Yohn, South Huntingdon, Sr., 6-1, 190. Averaged 36.8 yards on 19 punts, including long of 65, with eight inside the 20. Also played linebacker, making 50 tackles and 15 assists.
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COACH OF THE YEAR:
Brian Hoffman, West Middlesex. Led Big Reds to the District #10 Class (A) championship (13-0) in tough Class (A) league that included preseason state ranked teams Kennedy Catholic and Sharpsville.
Gene Matsook, Rochester.
Matt Morgan, Mercyhurst Prep.
Miller Moyer Jr., Canton. Helped the Warriors improve from 1-9 to 7-4. Guided Canton to the District Four playoffs for the first time since 1999 and helped them earn a share of league small-school title.
Jim Roth, Southern Columbia. Team is unbeaten heading into P.I.A.A. final.
Nick Sajone, Shenandoah Valley. Led team to 12-1 record, share of league title, and the District #11 Class (A) championship in his third season.
Ed Woods, Beth-Center. Led Bulldogs (11-1) to undefeated regular season and first conference title since 1994, and to 2 playoff victories before falling to eventual W.P.I.A.L. champion Clairton.
THE CHOPS...
12/14/2006,
The Associated Press:
(AP) — Players nominated for the Pennsylvania Class (A) all-state high school football team. All Class (A) players are eligible for the team and do not have to be nominated to receive votes.
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QUARTERBACKS:
Cole Hildebrant, Pius X, Sr., 6-2, 210. Second team All-State selection in 2004. Went 172-for-267 for 2,440 yards, 28 touchdowns, 13 interceptions in 11 games. Career statistics: 465-for-795, 6,991 yards, 75 touchdowns, 27 interceptions in 29 games. School career record holder at Pius for completions, attempts, yards and TD passes.
Kolten Hoffman, West Middlesex, Sr., 5-10, 180. Led team to 13-0 record and District# 10 Class (A) championship; will finish career as Mercer County all-time leading passer (4,592 yards). Passed for 1,939 yards this season; 114-of-173, 18 touchdowns, 6 interceptions. Also rushed for 23 touchdowns. Also an outstanding defensive back.
Darryl Kerstteter, Millersburg, Jr., 6-2, 198. Completed 67-of-125 for 1,506 yards, 17 touchdowns and one interception. Rushed 157 times for 1,061 yards and 14 touchdowns. Accounted for 2,567 yards and 31 touchdowns.
Andre Campbell, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 6-1, 175. Completed 76 of 147 passes for 1,253 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Danny Camp, Rochester. 1,094 yards passing, 14 touchdowns.
Leroy George, Clairton, Sr., 6-1, 185. Had 1,114 yards rushing, 22 touchdowns, more than 600 yards passing until PIAA quarterfinals.
Ted Heitzman, Southern Columbia, Jr., 6-2, 195. Passed for 881 yards and 12 touchdowns with two interceptions for a 13-0 team, completing 58 of 104 passes. Also rushed for 421 yards and five touchdowns.
Reese Holmes, Canton, Soph., 6-3, 180. Threw for nearly 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first year as a starter. Helped a team that won one game the previous season go 7-4 and reach the District 4 playoffs.
John Love, Northern Bedford, Sr., 6-2, 235. A first-year starter, completed 100 of 212 passes for 1,660 yards, 22 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Team finished 6-4.
Marc Persing, Shamokin, Jr., 5-10, 175. Went 116-of-187 for 1,264 yards.
Mike Reese, Shenandoah Valley, Sr. 5-9, 175. Through 13 games, Reese completed 130-of-220 for 1,840 yards and 16 touchdowns. Also rushed for 201 yards on 67 carries and scored five touchdowns.
Dylan Schreffler, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-3, 210. Schreffler led the Bulldogs to the District #11 Class (A) playoffs for the first time in three seasons. Completed 120 of 236 passes for 1,995 yards and 17 touchdowns. Also rushed for 311 yards on 126 carries and scored five touchdowns.
Jake Smith, Redbank Valley, Jr., 6-1, 205. Finished first season as a starter by completing 83 of 173 for 1,124 yards with 14 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Was team's second-leading rusher with 587 yards and 11 touchdowns on 128 carries.
Ross Gargano, Kennedy Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 200. Teamed with Lee Plotts to become first duo in Pennsylvania history to both surpass 4,000 yards in a career during the same season. Finished with 4,451 yards. Moved to quarterback this season after three seasons, but still rushed for 1,256 yards on 144 carries.
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RUNNING BACKS:
Henry Hynoski, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-2, 240. First-team all-state selection last year. Through 13 games, ran for 1,862 yards and 34 touchdowns on 158 carries for a 13-0 team. Among top 10 in state history with 6,620 rushing yards. Is a two-time all-stater. Recruited by Pitt.
Josh Kleinfelter, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 5-10, 185. First-team all-stater last season. Rushed for 1,980 yards and 29 touchdowns on 262 carries. Scored 30 touchdowns. Three-year starter, his teams have made it to the District #6 final in each season, winning twice. Has 5,626 yards. Had 75 career touchdowns. Also has four interceptions on defense. Likely to go to a Division III school.
Derek Moye, Rochester, Sr., 6-5, 195. First-team all-state pick last season and second-teamer as a sophomore in 2004. Scored 31 touchdowns. Team went 12-1 and made the W.P.I.A.L. championship game. Split time between running back and wide receiver. Caught 16 passes for 430 yards and rushed for 1,017 yards on 148 carries despite usually playing sparingly in the second half as 10 of Rochester's 12 wins were by at least 22 points. Finished his career with 2,484 yards rushing, 69 receptions for 1,518 yards, and 77 touchdowns. Is considering Boston College, Penn State, Pitt and West Virginia.
Lee Plotts, Kennedy Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 200. Teamed with Ross Gargano to become the first duo in Pa. state history to each surpass 4,000 career yards rushing in the same season. Finished season with 2,074 yards on 246 carries and 27 touchdowns. Had 367 yards in a game. Ran for 4,447 yards in his career.
Zach Barket, Schuylkill Haven, Soph., 5-9, 170. Ran for 1,215 yards on 241 carries and 11 touchdowns.
Alex Bladel, Redbank Valley, Soph., 5-9, 185. Finished first varsity season with 1,373 yards and 14 touchdowns rushing on 200 carries. Also caught 17 passes for 255 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Josh Brown, West Middlesex, Sr., 5-8, 180. All-around star for the District 10 champions; ran for 656 yards and caught passes for 517 yards with 5 touchdowns. Also handles kicking (41 PATs, 1 FG) and returns punts.
Chris Cavallari, Coudersport, Sr., 5-10, 180. Had 284 carries for 1,730 yards, 18 touchdowns heading before District 9 title game. Also caught 17 passes for 213 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Jordan Clemons, Fort Cherry, Sr., 5-9, 175. Led WPIAL in rushing until final week of regular season. Finished with 1,888 yards and 20 touchdowns in 10 games. Conference player of the year. Also intercepted four passes and made 47 tackles.
Myles Crawford, Northern Bedford, Jr., 5-9, 160. Ran for 16 touchdowns and 1,375 yards on 239 carries.
Robert Gunby, Conemaugh Valley, Sr., 6-0, 185. Rushed for 1,625 yards on 274 carries playing running back and option quarterback (specialist). Scored 20 touchdowns and 124 points.
Dustin Letterman, Line Mountain, Sr., 5-10, 185. Ran for 898 yards, 12 touchdowns.
Jayson Nickson, Mercyhurst Prep, Sr., 5-9, 175. Set school record with 1,581 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns. School's leading career rusher.
Nate Reinhart, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 170. Rushed for 1,679 yards, scored 18 touchdowns, averaged 7.7 per carry for 10-2 team. Second straight season over 1,000 yards.
Nick Varga, Shenandoah Valley, Jr., 5-11, 185. Rushed for 1,064 yards on 175 carries with 18 touchdowns and caught 31 passes for 434 yards and 2 touchdowns for 12-1 District #11 championship team.
Shane Waida, Western Beaver, Jr., 5-9, 165. Rushed for 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns on 205 carries.
Matt Walter, Bishop Canevin, Sr., 6-0, 170. Gained 1,194 yards on 225 carries, caught 23 passes for 258 yards, scored 16 touchdowns. School's career rushing leader with 3,779 yards.
Jeremiah Young, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 5-10, 175. Rushed 266 times for 1,966 yards (7.4 yards per carry) and 27 touchdowns before the P.I.A.A. quarterfinals. Also had 17 catches for 254 yards.
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WIDE RECEIVERS:
Koury Kaplafka, Shenandoah Valley, Sr., 5-9, 170. Second team all-state pick a year ago; caught 41 passes for 619 yards (15.1 average) and 7 touchdowns for District #11 championship team.
Will Kelly, Loyalsock Township, Sr., 6-4, 210. Second team all-state pick last year at tight end. Made 48 catches for 769 yards, 10 touchdowns.
Andy Ostach, Blairsville, Sr., 6-5, 200. First-team all-state selection last year. Made 38 catches for 655 yards (17.2 average) and six touchdowns. Had a touchdown catch, punt return TD and interception return TD in the first quarter of a game. Missed 1 1/2 games with an injury. Four-year starter owns area career records for receptions (132), receiving yards (2,150) and touchdown receptions (20).
Wade Williams, Pius X, Jr. Caught 66 passes for 1,078 yards, 17 touchdowns in 12 games. School record for TD catches.
James Curley, Camp Hill, Sr., 6-1, 190. Caught 48 passes for 713 yards (14.9), six touchdowns.
Cameron Dudeck, Tri-Valley, Sr., 6-2, 185. Four-year starter made 44 catches for 887 yards (20.2 average) and six touchdowns. Helped Tri-Valley to qualify for the District #11 Class (A) playoffs for the first time in three years. Also made 44 tackles.
Houston Klotz, Northern Bedford, Sr., 5-6, 125. Klotz caught 38 passes for 714 yards and 12 touchdowns. His yardage and touchdowns are second on the Northern Bedford single-season season record list behind Joe Nastasi.
Kyle Matter, Upper Dauphin, Sr., 5-8, 142. Made 34 catches for 780 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Clark Morris, Line Mountain, Jr., 6-1, 180, Made 48 catches for 791 yards and 10 touchdowns; ran for 684 yards and 8 touchdowns.
Kevin McNavage, Marian, Sr. 5-9, 162. Led District #11 runnerup Colts with 35 catches for 821 yards (23 yards per catch average) and seven touchdowns. Also returned three punts for touchdowns, one kickoff return for a touchdown and one interception for a touchdown.
Jason Mundie, Millersburg, Sr., 5-8, 165. Caught 13 passes for 417 yards (32.1 yards per catch) and four touchdowns. Rushed 99 times for 573 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Scott Swineford, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-0, 150. Made 19 catches for 419 yards and 6 touchdowns; also 2 punt return touchdowns, 2 kick return touchdowns, 2 rushing touchdowns, 1 interception return TD.
Blake Williamson, Chartiers-Houston, Sr., Caught 36 passes for 601 yards; scored nine touchdowns.
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TIGHT ENDS:
Colin Naugle, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 6-4, 230. Had 22 receptions, 9 for touchdowns, and averaged 23.9 yards per catch for run-oriented team that went 10-2 and reached district semifinals. Also starts at LB. Has committed to Delaware.
Jon Neithercoat, Halifax, Sr., 6-4, 200. Caught 43 passes for 626 yards (14.6 average) and 7 touchdowns.
David Schweitzer, Lourdes Regional, Jr., 6-2, 210, 18 catches for 363 yards, 2 touchdowns.
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OFFENSIVE LINEMEN:
Cody Jones, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-2, 250. An all-league first-team selection, headed an offensive line that helped team gain 5,138 rushing yards and over 6,000 total yards through 13 games.
Mike Ryan, Marian Catholic, Sr., 6-5, 305. UConn recruit who was top offensive lineman for District 11 finalist. Three-year starter.
Mike Finnerty, Old Forge, Sr., 6-3, 272. Led Blue Devils to the District #2 Class (A) championship and a share of the Lackawanna Football Conference Division III title. Team averaged 253.3 yards per game and 181.7 yards rushing per game. A three-year starter, he made the switch from tight end to tackle this season.
Doug Hersch, Meyersdale, Sr., 6-1, 210. Three-year starter at center. Anchored a line that helped Meyersdale open 11-0 and win District #5 title. games.
Matt Irvine, Glendale, Sr., 6-2, 240. Four-year starter. Key element in team posting first winning record in 20 years and making District #6 quarterfinals. Vikings averaged 221.3 rushing yards per game and produced two running backs with 791 yards or more. Being recruited by Ivy League, Division #I-AA and Division II colleges.
Anthony Jenkins, Bellwood-Antis, Jr., 6-1, 260. Key performer on both offensive and defensive lines for Blue Devils, who were 10-2 heading into P.I.A.A. quarterfinals. Two-year starter.
Dan Jordan, Redbank Valley, 6-3, 270, Sr. Guard named conference's lineman of the year. Anchored an offensive line that helped the team average 185 yards rushing per game.
Sam Kephart, Curwensville, Sr., 6-1, 290. Played right tackle for the District #9 runners-up where he anchored an offensive line that paved the way for District #9 all-time rushing leader Nick Sipes. A four-year starter. Team averaged 280 yards per game rushing and nearly 350 yards per game. Often pulled to lead plays over the left side.
Zach McCabe, Portage, Sr., 6-3, 245. Top lineman on a team that averaged 278.1 yards rushing per game. Team went 7-3, producing a 1,000-yard rusher, a 780-yard rusher and a 595-yard rusher. Also an outstanding baseball player.
James O'Connor, Shenandoah Valley, Soph., 6-0, 220. Two-way lineman helped team win its first District #11 Class (A) title since 1997. O'Connor is one of 10 players who attends Cardinal Brennan High School, but plays for the Shenandoah Valley football team under a cooperative agreement between the schools.
Brad Pellegrini, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 6-1, 200. Helped anchor offensive line that rushed for 2,462 yards and defensive line that gave up only 1 100-yard rusher all season. Helped Rockets (8-4) win share of Tri-County South title and two playoff games for first time in school history. Drawing Division II interest.
Nathan Russell, Curwensville, Soph., 6-1, 210. Moved to center early in season and made a difference in the running game. Team was averaging 198 yards rushing and 13 points before the switch. After the change, the Golden Tide averaged 290 yards rushing and 32 points per game.
Brad Scassa, Monaca, 6-2, 210, Sr. All-conference first-team pick on 5-5 team.
Tyler Wilson, Southern Columbia, Jr., 6-4, 300.
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DEFENSIVE LINEMEN:
Josh Marks, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-5, 315. First-team all-State selection last year. Made 44 tackles, 5 pass breakups; career: 210 tackles, 10 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, 10 pass breakups, 27 hurries, 13 sacks; signed early to attend Penn State.
Ross Nicholson, Kane, Soph., 6-3, 200. Also played defensive end and linebacker, and had 14 sacks, 81 tackles.
Michael Schlauch, Bloomsburg, Jr., 5-9, 230. Second Team all-state selection last year. Finished with 88 tackles and 8 quarterback sacks to lead a defense that had four shutouts. Also had two fumble recoveries.
Marcel Washington, Clairton, Sr., 6-4, 280. Outstanding blocker for W.P.I.A.L. champions, who were 14-1.
Ron Bardo, Canton, Sr., 6-4, 245. Had 35 tackles and two fumble recoveries with five sacks. Canton went 7-4, won a share of the NTL small-school title and reached the district playoffs for the first time since 1999
Chad Coho, Bellwood-Antis, Sr., 6-0, 225. In first year as a starter for District #6 champions, was second on team with 94 tackles and tied for first with 4 sacks. Blue Devils allowed 180.2 yards through 12 games.
Adam Dechant, Keystone, Sr., 5-11, 220. Had 61 tackles and 5 sacks.
Rudy Evosirch, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 6-3, 212. Key two-way lineman who helped Rockets rush for 2,462 yards. Helped Rockets (8-4) win share of Tri-County South title and two playoff games for first time in school history.
Shawn Fausey, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-0, 190. Had 71 tackles, 8 1/2 sacks.
Ryan Gonder, Millersburg, Sr., 6-0, 231. Was the Twin Valley Conference defensive lineman of the year.
Steve Hvizda, Beth-Center, Sr., 5-11, 210. Defensive leader for an 11-1 team. Had 11 sacks. As a fullback, gained 482 yards and ran for nine touchdowns.
Justin Knoebel, Southern Columbia, Jr., 5-10, 205. Leads 3-time defending state champs in sacks after missing most of 2005 season with an injury.
Tony Lutz, Bishop Canevin, Sr., 6-0, 275. First-team all-conference on both lines. Had 99 tackles, 12 for losses, and seven sacks.
Matt Mylnek, Marian Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 210. Top tackler on an 11-2 team that advanced to the District #11 title game.
Eric Rollman, Schuylkill Haven, Sr., 6-1, 215. Made 85 tackles for the 4-6 Hurricanes.
Nate Ross, Canton, Jr., 5-8, 160. Had 45 total tackles and two forced fumbles.
Nick Rossignoli, Reading Central Catholic, 6-4, 210. Led team with 12 sacks and had 50 tackles for team that won 10 games and reached district semifinals. Only losses were to District #3 champs, Wyomissing and Steel-High.
Cody Shook, Juniata Valley, Sr., 6-2, 200. Had 13 sacks and 160 tackles as team reached District #6 finals, finishing season 9-3. Team allowed 8.7 points and had six shutouts.
Jeff Wiant, Clarion, Jr., 6-0, 240. Made 50 tackles, 5 sacks as defensive tackle.
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LINEBACKERS:
Nick Sipes, Curwensville, Sr., 5-11, 215. Second team all-state selection last season. Rushed for 1,995 yards and 31 touchdowns for the District #9 runner-up Golden Tide. Sipes rushed for 100 yards or more in 35 consecutive games and finished his career as the all-time District #9 rushing leader with 5,971 yards and touchdowns leader with 84. Also the defensive leader at inside linebacker with 96 tackles. As a kicker, made 26 extra points (missing 10) and two field goals. Has received interest from West Virginia, Maryland, Temple and Bucknell.
Steve Andrusky, West Middlesex. Excellent pass rusher on 13-0 District #10 champion team. Was in on 104 tackles (68 solo, 36 assisted), 3 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries. Also a running back, rushing for 616 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Josh Kotula, Windber, Sr., 5-9, 160. Second team all-state selection last year as an all-purpose player. Made 100 solo tackles and 146 stops overall for the District #5 runner-up team. Also had four fumble recoveries on a defense that had eight shutouts in 11 games and allowed only 48 points.
Brad Rapp, Clarion, 5-11, 187, Sr., 74 tackles.
Sal Ruggeri, South Side Beaver, Sr., 6-0, 185, Sr. Second-team all-state pick last season. Picked by coaches as the defensive player of the year in the Big Seven Conference for a second consecutive season. Rushed for 806 yards, scored nine touchdowns in nine games.
Matt Bashline, Keystone, Jr., 5-11, 190, Jr. Had 63 tackles, 6 sacks.
Waugh Carter, California, Sr., 6-0, 215. Rushed for 791 yards on 100 carries for 7.9 average, made 9 receptions for 272 yards. Scored 13 touchdowns and 82 points to help Trojans earn share of conference crown. Led team with 70 tackles, including 11 for losses (1 for a safety) and 2 sacks. Had 1 interception, forced 2 fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked punt. Temple, UConn interested.
Justin Falcon, Jefferson-Morgan, Jr., 5-7, 150. Rushed for 1,081 yards on 165 carries and scored 16 touchdowns, made 82 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception and returned blocked punt for a touchdown.
Cory Fromile, Canton, Sr., 5-10, 185. Had 75 tackles and five sacks. Canton went 7-4, won a share of the league small-school title and reached the district playoffs for the first time since 1999.
Nick Gallinot, Southern Columbia, Sr., 5-9, 200. Had 59 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 6 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 6 sacks. Chosen as league's linebacker of the year.
Eric Grejda, Clarion, Jr., 6-0, 210. Made 71 tackles and an interception.
Jordan Hill, Steelton-Highspire, Soph., 6-3, 235. Outstanding inside linebacker and lead blocker as a fullback.
Steve Hvizda, Beth-Center, Sr., 5-11, 210. Rushed for 485 yards and nine touchdowns as a fullback. Led Bulldogs, who finished 11-1, with 17 sacks. Finished with 92 tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two interceptions.
Isaiah Jackson, Serra Catholic, Jr., 6-1, 235. On offense, gained 1,035 yards on 130 carries, scored 16 touchdowns.
Steve Justick, Bloomsburg, Jr., 6-3, 200. Made 136 tackles in 11 games. Had five sacks.
Ed Klock, Line Mountain, Sr., 6-1, 210. Made 93 tackles, 6 1/2 sacks.
Justin Letterman, Line Mountain, Sr., 81 tackles.
Josh Metkus, Shenandoah Valley, Sr., 6-1, 225. Led team with 115 tackles. Also carried 41 times for 619 yards and 7 touchdowns as fullback on offense. A four-year letterman.
Matt Schwartzmiller, Canevin, Sr., 5-9, 215. Made 140 tackles, five for losses, and had two interceptions.
Mike Serafin, Reading Central Catholic, Sr., 5-10, 235. Team's top tackler.
Corey Sobert, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-1, 175. Had 48 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 7 pass breakups, 8 hurries and 6 sacks through 12 games.
Cody Vroman, Canton, Sr., 5-8, 150. Had 54 tackles, two fumble recoveries and one interception for 7-4 team.
Scott Wharton, Fort Cherry, Sr., 6-0, 210. As a fullback, he rushed for 515 yards and led Fort Cherry with 434 yards receiving. Led team with 127 tackles, including 6 1/2 sacks and 27 tackles for loss. Receiving Division #I-AA and II interest.
Ryan Zarnich, Rochester, Sr., 6-4, 220. Unanimous selection on both offense and defense by coaches on all-conference team. Besides being a standout on a defense that recorded seven shutouts. Caught 11 passes for 181 yards and four touchdowns as a touchdown on District 7 finalist.
Donte Valentino, California, Jr., 5-7, 155. Second-team all-state as a sophomore and conference MVP as a junior. Missed two games with a concussion but rushed for 1,133 yards and 18 touchdowns. Averaged more than 20 yards per completion and passed for 510 yards and four touchdowns. Intercepted four passes and had 72 tackles.
Tom Admire, Southern Columbia, Sr., 6-4, 175. Had 33 tackles, 11 pass breakups and 7 interceptions through 13 games. Was named as league's defensive back of the year. Also has 16 catches for 266 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Lucas Bailey, Canton, Jr. 5-10, 155. Had 33 tackles, three interceptions and one fumble recovery.
Brandon Boyd, Ligonier Valley, Jr., 5-11, 142. Second-team all-state pick last season. 40 solo tackles. 18 assists, 2 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, 1 blocked punt.
Lamar McLean, Scotland School, Sr., 5-10, 175. Made 84 tackles and 5 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. Also caught 25 passes for 535 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Jarrod Moskola, Jefferson-Morgan, Sr., 5-11, 170. Rushed for 899 yards and 13 touchdowns in helping Rockets (8-4) win two playoff games for first time in school history.
Nate Paterson, Juniata Valley, Sr., 5-11, 160. Strong safety missed all or part of five games with injury, but team posted shutouts and won six of the seven full games in which he played. Considered by his coach the best player on the team. Despite missed time, he led Green Hornets with four interceptions. Team allowed average of 8.7 points and 159.4 yards.
Marc Rozanski, Serra Catholic, Sr., 6-4, 185. Passed for 1,203 yards, 12 touchdowns, and ran for 960 yards, 12 touchdowns. Also an excellent defensive back.
Shane Ryan, Minersville Area, Sr., 6-0, 185. Started since late in freshman season. Helped team reach the District #11 Class (A) semifinals. Finished with a team-high 115 tackles, 53 of which were solo. He had one interception, two sacks and was also outstanding offensive with 347 yards rushing and three touchdowns. He caught 23 passes for 358 yards. Plans to attend Princeton, Bucknell, Lehigh or Amherst.
James Seidle, Clarion, Jr., 6-1, 175. 71 tackles, 2 interceptions.
Shawn Sopic, Curwensville, Sr., 6-2, 195. Had 7 interceptions and made 50 tackles and returned a fumble for a touchdown. As a quarterback, ran for 948 yards and threw for 878. Rushed for 7 touchdowns and threw for 8 more. Has received interest from Temple, Colgate, Princeton and Brown.
Scott Swineford, Line Mountain, Made 3 interceptions.
Stoney Van Horn, Lackawanna Trail, Sr., 6-0, 180. A cornerback who finished with 10 interceptions in 11 games as the Lions qualified for the District #2 Class (A) playoffs for a ninth straight season. Also a receiver who caught 23 passes for 237 yards.
Brendan West, Lourdes Regional, 5-10, 180. Two interception returns for touchdowns, also solid as a kicker and punter, return man and wide receiver.
Tony Whiteleather, Rochester, Jr., 6-0, 165. Helped lead a defense that had seven shutouts in 13 games and reached the W.P.I.A.L. championship game. Had four interceptions, two coming in the second half of a 14-6 win over Jefferson-Morgan in the W.P.I.A.L. semifinals.
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KICKERS:
Jeremy Ditzler, Iroquois, Sr., 5-7, 136. Made 7 of 9 field goals and 20-of-20 extra points. Missed only one PAT in two seasons.
Evan Celmo, Bellwood-Antis, Jr., 5-9, 145. Over the last two seasons, has connected on 7 of 11 field goals and 75 extra points. Kicked three field goals and 32 extra points this year.
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PUNTERS:
Jeffrey Miller, Meyersdale, Sr. Averaged 33.8 yards on 22 punts, including seven inside the 20, and a long of 55. Also caught 30 passes for 679 yards and 6 touchdowns.
James McCombie, Bishop Carroll, Soph., 5-10, 130. Averaged 37.96 yards on 25 punts, with a long of 63.
Paul McGinley, Redbank Valley. Averaged 35.2 yards on 26 punts.
Jordan Yohn, South Huntingdon, Sr., 6-1, 190. Averaged 36.8 yards on 19 punts, including long of 65, with eight inside the 20. Also played linebacker, making 50 tackles and 15 assists.
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COACH OF THE YEAR:
Brian Hoffman, West Middlesex. Led Big Reds to the District #10 Class (A) championship (13-0) in tough Class (A) league that included preseason state ranked teams Kennedy Catholic and Sharpsville.
Gene Matsook, Rochester.
Matt Morgan, Mercyhurst Prep.
Miller Moyer Jr., Canton. Helped the Warriors improve from 1-9 to 7-4. Guided Canton to the District Four playoffs for the first time since 1999 and helped them earn a share of league small-school title.
Jim Roth, Southern Columbia. Team is unbeaten heading into P.I.A.A. final.
Nick Sajone, Shenandoah Valley. Led team to 12-1 record, share of league title, and the District #11 Class (A) championship in his third season.
Ed Woods, Beth-Center. Led Bulldogs (11-1) to undefeated regular season and first conference title since 1994, and to 2 playoff victories before falling to eventual W.P.I.A.L. champion Clairton.
THE CHOPS...