Q&A with Coach Joe Messina

By Erik Buchinger

Number of years as the head coach: 12th season.

Returning varsity athletes: Michael Sanderfoot (12), Joel Hamil (12), George Mitzke (12), Caleb Lauer (12), David Piotter (12), Zeke Tuchscherer (12), Landen Guyette (11), Ben Malliet (11), Grant Madsen (11), Nicholas Roberts (11), Garret Locy (11), Tucker Huebner (10).

Team goals/expectations: Our goal is to be at the top of conference. There are a lot of good teams, but we feel like we are one of them.

Team’s strengths: Our high work rate and energy on the field.

Team’s weaknesses: We are small in some positions. I hope we can make up for it with speed and skill on the ball.

Biggest games on the schedule: Seymour, Xavier, West De Pere, Hortonville.

What would make for a successful season: Obviously winning but also enjoying and improving every each and every game.

Why fans should be excited for this year’s team: We have a good core of players coming back with great skills. It will be fun to watch them as the season goes on.