Heat doesn’t melt Patriot morale By Roger Lee Summerville Journal Scene
The Fort Dorchester football team opened two-a-days on one of the hottest weeks of the summer, but the heat hasn’t curbed the team’s enthusiasm.
Patriot practice got into full swing Monday with the first double-practice session of the summer. Coach Steve LaPrad says he is pleased with the turnout for camp and that his players showed up ready for work.
“I’m impressed with their attitudes,” LaPrad said. “It’s been hot this week, but they worked hard over the summer so they are in good shape. They are excited about this season and have really gotten after it despite the heat.”
And why not, the Patriots have a lot to be excited about this year. The team returns its starting QB, most of its offensive line and some speedy running backs.
Galen Bennett returns to lead the Patriot offense during his senior year. Last year, the QB showed he is not only fast, but can also pass. In his junior season, Bennett threw for 1,084 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for 990 yards and 18 TDs.
The Patriots lost their leading rusher in Dwayne Scales, but a number of speedsters bring experience to the offensive backfield this season. The big challenge for the Patriot offense will likely be replacing the senior receivers it lost.
On defense, the Fort returns its top tackler. Linebacker Geno Porter returns for his junior year after recording 127 tackles in 2007, including 14 for a loss. He won’t be alone as several other defenders return looking to make a bigger impact this season. One challenge for the Patriot D is replacing the secondary players lost to graduation.
Contact Roger Lee @ 873-9424 ext. 213 or rlee@journalscene.com.
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