LYNN — When asked what he was looking for Friday – day one of practice – first-year Lynn Classical coach Brian Smith (’96) jumped on his answer like it was a fumbled football.
“We’re looking for guys who are excited to play the game of football,” said Smith, a former tight end, running back, linebacker, and defensive end who captained the Rams for two seasons. “That’s all we look for on day one. Then, we go from there and see where we’re at and evaluate their talent.”
Smith brings 23 years of coaching experience – most recently at Kingstree High in South Carolina. He replaced former Classical coach Brian Vaughan, who accepted the head coaching position at Arlington Catholic in March.
And with new kids and new colors, there are things for Smith to establish.
“We’re all about toughness. Our whole program is built on that and Classical has always been that way,” he said. “We want to be the toughest team every time we step on the field.”
After an Aug. 26 scrimmage against Winchester, the regular season kicks off with Lawrence at Manning Field. The following week, Classical faces perhaps its toughest test in Everett.
“They’ve controlled the GBL (Greater Boston League) for more than 20 years. We’re excited about it. And also, Turkey Day is always Turkey Day,” said Smith, referring to the annual matchup against Lynn English.
As for players poised to perform, according to Smith, look no further than Tommy Nolan, a team leader with strength and power from the linebacker and running back positions.
Other expected contributors are Doug Andrade, Wendell Rodriguez (who suffered a broken elbow last season), Einstein Martinez, the ever-so-versatile Gianni McKay on offense and defense, as well as Echeme Dede, who received high praise from his new head coach.
“He might be the strongest guy in the state today – top five, for sure,” Smith said. “We have a good nucleus of upperclassmen who have really bought into toughness and hard work.”
Wesly Pierre – who moved to Lynn from Haiti – could be a surprise, too.
“If he puts it all together – he’s never really played before – he’s got the body and physical nature of a collegiate football player,” Smith said. “Another underclassman we expect big things from is (sophomore) Angel Ortega – he’ll probably be our starting quarterback.”
Classical has six home games (five on Saturdays), compared to just three road games.
COMPLETE SCHEDULE
Sept. 6 – 5 p.m. – vs. Lawrence
Sept. 12 – 6 p.m. – @ Everett
Sept. 18 – 6 p.m. – @ Medford
Sept. 27 – 3 p.m. – vs. Cathedral
Oct. 4 – 5 p.m. – vs. Malden
Oct. 11 – 11 a.m. – vs. Tech Boston Academy
Oct. 18 – 11 a.m. – vs. Revere
Oct. 24 – 6 p.m. – @ Somerville
Nov. 27 – 10 a.m. – vs. Lynn English
