Pioneer Press previews the 2016 IC Catholic football season.
Coach: Bill Krefft, entering fifth season
2015 record: 11-2 (5-0 Metro Suburban West), lost 42-14 to Bishop McNamara in Class 3A semifinals
Offense: Junior quarterback Luke Ricobene returns to lead the offense, which runs a spread zone read. Krefft said he plans to let him throw more now that he has a year of experience under his belt, depending on the opposition. The Knights will have plenty of weapons with senior running Jordan Rowell, a Northern Illinois recruit, in the backfield and senior wide receiver Matt Jordan.
Defense: Krefft said the defense is young and athletic. Defensive back Khalil Saunders was one of several players who received significant time as freshmen last year and will be expected to step up alongside their upperclassmen as sophomores. Jordan and senior defensive back Matt Sutton are expected to lead the veterans.
Strong side: The Knights, coming off an excellent 2015 season, bring back most of their offense and should score a lot of points. The Knights were held under 30 points only twice last season. “We have a nice balance on offense,” Krefft said. “Got a lot of different ways to come out at opponents.” Their Week 1 opponent will be familiar: Bishop McNamara, which handed IC Catholic its only two losses of 2015.
Weak side: Being a small school means the Knights will contend with potential depth concerns, especially on their young defense. The Knights have almost 40 players on their roster, which Krefft said is very good for them, but injuries would leave them with limited options for replacements.
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Team tradition: The night before games, the Knights have a team meal in the fieldhouse. Before the meal, they have a leadership meeting with a guest presenter to talk to them about life beyond football. Past speakers have included pro athletes, business leaders and a Navy SEAL. Krefft said he does this to help players broaden their perspective.
Quote: “The hard work and the consistency the players have shown in the offseason and this summer has been incredible. They’ve put themselves in a great position,” Krefft said.
2016 Schedule
Aug. 26, BISHOP MCNAMARA, 7:15 p.m.
Sept. 2, St. Laurence, 7 p.m.
Sept. 9, Elmwood Park, 7:15 p.m.
Sept. 16, CHICAGO CHRISTIAN, 7:15 p.m.
Sept. 23, St. Edward*, 7 p.m.
Sept. 30, RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD*, 7:15 p.m.
Oct. 7, WHEATON ACADEMY*, 7:15 p.m.
Oct. 14, Glenbard South*, 7:15 p.m.
Oct. 21, Fenton*, 7:15 p.m.
Chris Vavra is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press