By Ava Fernandez
NEFJ Correspondent
EASTON – As Stonehill College’s football team wrapped up one of its final practices of preseason camp ahead of the season opener vs. Sacred Heart next week, the Skyhawks showed signs of depth, energy and focus on Friday.
All traits they hope will translate into a bounce-back season.
Head coach Eli Gardner – entering year No. 10 – has been pleased with what he has seen so far this season on the turf.
“We’ve had a really physical preseason–probably the most in my time here”, Gardner said following practice. “We’ve built up a good callus and we’re deeper than we’ve ever been. Its great to get a lot of 11-on-11 and situational reps.”
Much of Friday’s session was spent in organized position group work, with coaches placing a strong emphasis on intensity and execution. The defensive backs, in particular, stood out during footwork drills. New defensive backs coach, Tyler Royall – who is fresh off of his playing career at Assumption University – brought high-energy and a hands-on coaching style.
“I just want to mimic what I thought would be best for the culture,” Royall said. “Our corners are great kids. We are pushing hard on discipline and technique, just trying to get them ready to fire out next Saturday.”
The quarterback competition remains a focal point heading into the season. Players in green pinnies rotated under center, working on synchronized dropbacks and precision throwing. During full team sessions, quarterbacks and wide receivers demonstrated solid chemistry, with several completions drawing cheers from teammates and coaching staff.
Special teams also had its moments, with Langdon Laws – an incoming freshman – booming punts from the 40, 45, and 50 yard line early in the practice. That could be a big weapon in close, field position games this season.
On the offensive side, the tight ends focused on quick foot pivots and agile catches. One of them, freshman Paul Hanlon – a local player from Oxford, MA – is already taking action in his growing role.
“It’s a lot more work than highschool, but I enjoy it,” said Hanlon. “We’ve beaten Sacred Heart the last few years, and we plan to do it again. It’s a rivalry now.”
The Stonehill team’s size and energy were evident throughout practice, particularly along the offensive line, where players worked on footwork and hand technique using barrels and sleds. The team wrapped the day with fast-paced scrimmage reps, mixing in special teams and game like scenarios.
The Skyhawks are probably flying under the radar for most teams on their schedule this year, but that’s fine with them.
“We’re excited for a fresh start.” Gardner said. “A lot of these guys played their first college snaps last year. Now, we get to see them take the next step when it counts.”
