Maine South football prepares for season after finishing second in state playoffs
PARK RIDGE, Ill. — Friday night lights are back for Maine South Varsity Football’s 2022 season! The varsity Hawks had an especially successful 2021 season, finishing as runner-up in the state championship against Lockport.
The team was led by Head Coach David Inserra and supported by a talented coaching squad. Coach Inserra attributes much of the team’s success in 2021 to the strong commitment team members made to support each other. He tells, “They were a very close group who never wanted to let each other down. They pushed themselves to the highest level, and kept each other accountable. They over-achieved because they were not the biggest group of guys. Every day they put the time in, fed off each other, and brought great energy and enthusiasm. They were a fun bunch to coach.”
As the 2021 State Championship Runner-Ups, the Hawks are more motivated than ever to finish the 2022 season in the number one spot. This season, the team’s motto is “Find The Inches!!!” They’re putting in the consistent work necessary to take their game to the next level. Coach Inserra comments, “It’s not magic, it’s looking to improve or bounce back from day to day in every way we can.”
Maine South has a reputation for being fierce competitors on the football field, but most of the work is put in during the off-season. “The season is won away from the field when the groundwork gets put in place,” tells Coach Inserra. “We had 136 off-season workouts since last November. I take pride in being with my players every day of the off-season. That is where our program, strength gains, speed work and cohesiveness take shape. When the season starts much of the work has been done. Now we fine tune what we are doing and look to improve each and every day.”
The Maine South varsity squad is well equipped to take on the 2022 season with its three solid running backs, a very athletic quarterback and a strong kicking game. “Our receiving corps is deep and impressive,” tells Coach Inserra. “On defense the group has done an excellent job learning our system this summer. They have to replace nine senior starters but they are up to the task.”
The Hawks have big goals so they appreciate the big crowds that come out to support them! Park Ridge keeps the Hawks fired up, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. “Maine South Football appreciates the support and energy our community brings to us. Football has a special place in this community. Our games bring the student section, the parents, the Maine South Marching Band, our cheerleaders, the Hawkettes, Maine South faculty, and so many families from the area together in one place to celebrate Maine South. It is special, motivating and a sight to see!”
Be sure to come out to support the Hawks this season as they work to “Find The Inches” that lie between them and the state title. Access the Hawk’s 2022 season schedule at: www.maxpreps.com/il/park-ridge/maine-south-hawks/football/schedule/
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