Muscle Connection H.S. Football Preview: Newton Falls Tigers

Newton Falls | Players: 40 | Offense: 5 \ Defense: 5 | Seniors: 6

The last time the Newton Falls football team had a winning record was 2009.

Since that time, they've been 11 and 60 and are counting of former coach Mike Gillespie to lay the groundwork to turn things around.

"We're going to start with; we want to get some discipline going, more kids out, more players, we want to play as many kids as we can, so, get more kids going," said Gillespie

Gillespie has 40 players which is more than the last couple of years and some new faces.

"Picked up some kids from the basketball team,  Adam Honeycutt has come out, he's a 6'4" basketball player, playing wideout," Gillespie said.

The Tigers return five on each side and some experience at key positions.

"Our quarterback for one, Ivan Howard. I think he has a good arm, I think it adds another dimension to our offense, so we'll be able to throw. Paul Brodrick at fullback, very good athlete. Tailback Mitchell Harley, doesn't have great speed, but has natural ability," Gillespie said.

"Brett  Bungard back at mike linebacker and Zach Brewer will play on the defensive front.  Austin Lattea played defensive end and Preston Rapczak at safety and wide receiver, he's a 6'3" wide receiver that has good hands and good ability," Gillespie said.

Gillespie ended his first stint as the Tigers head coach in 1990 but served an assistant after that.  He welcomes the opportunity to return.

"Really enjoy it. Like being around the kids and I have some coaches that coached with me in the day and brought them back to. It feels very comfortable," Gillespie said.

The Tigers kick off the season with a pair of road games at Waterloo and Jackson-Milton before their home opener on September 7, against Mineral Ridge.