As 2016 comes to a close, Pioneer Press asked athletic directors to highlight the past year with an eye on the future. For Carmel, 2016 brought a renewed energy to the football team and a stellar season for the softball program, among other accomplishments.
Carmel athletic director Andy Bitto is also the Corsairs’ football coach. Pioneer Press contributor Patrick Z. McGavin caught up with Bitto to discuss 2016 and an outlook for 2017.
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Q: You had a slow start in football but won some dramatic games and pushed St. Charles North to double-overtime in a Class 7A playoff game. What was the most satisfying part of this year’s team?
A: The most satisfying part of the football team was the work ethic. Our schedule was tremendous. Eight out of the nine teams we played in the regular season made the playoffs. Seven out of 10 of our games could have been won or lost on the last drive. Regardless of injuries, the next man in played great. Seniors like Jake DeMarco, Joel Basara, T.J. Gavin, John Misak, and George Curran all played significant roles this season (after) barely playing as juniors. They are staples of our program and supplied us with the confidence to compete against every opponent.
Q: Looking at sports other than football, what was the highlight for Carmel’s athletic programs this calendar year?
A: In 2016, our girls gymnastics placed third in the state, softball placed fourth and boys lacrosse placed second.
Q: What was the one team that stood out in 2016?
A: Same as the first question.
Q: Was there one particular athlete who surpassed expectations on the field, or the classroom, and why?
A: Amanda Elert was our leader in softball. She holds the Carmel record for home runs and also holds the IHSA record for grand slams. But Amanda was more effective leading the team and spreading her positive energy throughout the team.
Q: Who was a coach who went above and beyond this year?
A: My softball coach, Shane Schueneman, did an excellent job with the softball program and facilities. From the beginning of the season to the end, our girls got better and better. Shane was consistent throughout.
Q: Looking back, is there anything you wish had gone differently within the program?
A: No.
Q: What are you most excited about looking forward to the new year?
A: Our girls gymnastics team is performing tremendous again. We are looking to see them make another run at the state title. Our boys and girls lacrosse teams are again poised to make a run at conference and state titles.
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press