Genesee County Spartans’ coaches talk strategy during a recent practice. From left, Defensive Coordinator Craig Tiberio, Offensive Coordinator Jermaine Henderson and Head Coach Harry Rascoe. Photo by Mike Pettinella/Genesee County Spartans.
By Mike Pettinella
Genesee County Spartans
The Genesee County Spartans are confident heading into Saturday night’s Northeastern Football Alliance Western Conference showdown against the host Lockport Wildcats.
The Spartans, 3-1 in the semipro league, travel to Niagara County for a 7 p.m. contest against the Wildcats, 5-0 in league play.
Outwater Memorial Park is located at 125 Outwater Drive. Lockport. Admission is $8. There is no charge for children 12 and under.
“We’ve seen improvement every week in all areas since our opening game (a 16-6 loss to the Wildcats),” said Head Coach Harry Rascoe following a practice session at Farrall Park. “We’re excited for the opportunity and the guys are ready.”
The Spartans’ offense was sparked by quarterback Corey Turpin, halfback Jed Reese and receivers Deyonci Farley and Rayshawn Huitt in road victories over the Rochester Chargers and Watertown Red & Black. The team’s third win was by forfeit since the East Coast Blue Devils withdrew from the league.
The defense has been stingy, giving up only 18 points in the last two games. Standout defensive lineman Gunner Rapone points to the squad’s attention to detail and hard work being put in during practice.
“We’ve been able to correct some things over the past couple games – fine tune some things – offensively, defensively and on special teams,” the Batavia High graduate said. “I think that put us in a better position to win.”
Rapone, who has 12 solo tackles and 3 ½ sacks thus far, noted that the defense has been able to adjust to different formations and react to the ball more quickly.
“We’re playing with a level of comfortability with one another; being able to rely on the guy next to you and behind you,” he said, “and know that those guys are going to make plays when the time comes. We definitely take a lot of pride in our defense.”
Farley, an Albion High grad who has caught two touchdown passes, said he believes the offense is poised for a big night.
“I think that our offense hasn’t reached its potential yet,” he said. “We have a lot of great athletes and we’re working really hard.”
The Wildcats, who have received a pair of forfeit victories, are led by QB Willie Fair III (565 yards passing) and running back Sean Marshall (140 yards rushing).
The Spartans return home on July 20 for a 5 p.m. tilt against the Ithaca Warriors at Pembroke Town Park.