Coach: Scott Mahoney, 14th season
Last year’s record: 8-3, lost in North 1, Group 1 final
Last year’s final ranking: 14th
Rearview Mirror: The Cardinals made their fifth finals appearance under Mahoney, but lost for the first time after four victories. Still, it’s hard not to deem the season a success. The Cardinals rebounded from a stunning loss to Manchester and rose up from the No. 6 seed to the sectional final. It was a team that played better as the season went on.
Looking ahead: For years the theme at Pompton Lakes has been big offensive linemen and strong running game. Well, Mahoney concedes that the Cardinals aren’t as big up front as they have been, but they definitely have the prototype workhorse running back in Frankie Negrini. The 210-pounder is a battering ram and he will certainly be called on to carry the offense. That said, the Cardinals won’t be a one-man show. Wide receiver John Tanis is an impressive target to go along with tight end PJ Latora. Mahoney also has a lot of depth, unlike many Group 1 schools.
Bold Prediction: The Cardinals will find out just how good they are in their first game against New Milford. Negrini could run for over 1,500 yards and Pompton Lakes could return to the sectional final.
