By Patrick McHugh, News Staff

The first look at the 2009 football team came Saturday with the annual spring game at Parsons Field.
‘ Teammates lined up against one another and simulated game situations as the team culminated its spring practices with the intrasquad scrimmage. The NCAA allows each team to hold practices during spring with one date reserved for a spring game. Players separated onto opposing sides as officials monitored the action.
‘ The scrimmage began with seven-on-seven drills, as quarterbacks threw to receivers and running backs while linebackers and defensive backs went into coverage. Play then shifted to a full 11-on-11 look. The team also worked on kickoff and punt coverage and gave the linemen a chance to go head-to-head in trench fights.
‘ Head coach Rocky Hager said he enjoys the spring game because it gives his players the chance to gain some experience through mock-game conditions.
‘ ‘I think the spring practice has really allowed some young guys to develop,’ Hager said. ‘Fundamentally, we have advanced ourselves, especially with the younger players. I think you’re going to see some pretty good productivity out of some youngsters.’
‘ ‘ Hager’s squad could certainly benefit from the experience, as his team will take on a new look on both sides of the ball.
The team lost 13 seniors last season and the current players on the depth chart have little to no playing time on their resumes. Adding to the transition is the fact that the team will be led by new coordinators on both offense and defense.
‘ Senior linebacker Phil Higgins, the CAA’s leader in tackles in 2008, acknowledged the changes bring more scrutiny for each player to step up their play and make a good impression.
‘ ‘We got a new system on offense, new system on defense. Everybody’s practicing hard, competing hard,’ Higgins said. ‘A new offensive coordinator, a new defensive coordinator means you got to prove yourself again.’
‘ Higgins was one of many players to make an impression Saturday by racking up numerous tackles and making a solid defensive play by intercepting a pass from junior quarterback Alex Dulski and returning it for a big gain. Senior linebacker Craig Kenney and junior safety Nate Thellen each recorded sacks by wrapping up the protected quarterbacks, while senior defensive lineman Woody Romelus recorded a big loss in the backfield with a tackle in pursuit of a reverse.
Higgins said he likes the new approach of recently hired defensive coordinator Frank Forcucci because it allows him to play with reckless abandon.
‘I love it, it’s aggressive. It’s not real conservative,’ Higgins said. ‘It’s more of a ‘we’re going to come get you’ mentality. I love that.’
‘ On the offensive side of the ball the team debuted a new no-huddle, spread playbook. Offensive coordinator Brian Surace implemented the system to make up for the loss of six starters from last year’s team.
Dulski and redshirt freshman Matt Carroll alternated quarterback snaps on offense during the scrimmage and each found success.
Dulski connected with redshirt freshman wideout Jesse Sparks for a 40-yard gain on one play and later had a 15-yard touchdown on a shovel pass to senior tight end Ty Sibert. Carroll meanwhile impressed the coaches with his speed and elusiveness as he had a 19-yard touchdown run on one play. Hager said the competition between the two quarterbacks for the starting job puts the team in good shape for the season.
The team also handed out some hardware for standout performances from last year.
Running back Alex Broomfield was named the team’s 2008 offensive MVP, Higgins was named the defensive MVP and senior fullback Dan Elwood took home special teams MVP honors.
Junior wide receiver Greg Abelli was named a most improved player on offense while sophomore linebacker Mike Laperriere was named the team’s Rookie of the Year.
Other awards included the Chicken Lou’s Award given to’ tight end Brian Mandeville, the Zabilski Award given to John quarterback Sperrazza, the Chris Midgett Award given to defensive lineman Corey Thomas and the Ironman Award given to offensive lineman Tyler Perkins. All 13 seniors from last season’s team were also honored.
Hager summed up his sentiments on the spring by pointing out the promise for the future.
‘ ‘There are a lot of things you can look at and we have good reason to be optimistic, as well as pleased, with the learning that has gone on the field,’ Hager said. ‘We’re excited to get back to playing.’
The team will begin summer practice Aug. 9 and will play the season opener at Boston College Sept. 5, with the home opener Sept. 12 against Maine.