ECC COACH SCHLIMM ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT 2001 SEASON

By Thomas J. Herzing – D9 Sports.Com Contributing Writer

ST. MARYS – Elk County Catholic coach Joe Schlimm begins his 16th season at the helm of the Maroon & Gold in 2001. The Crusaders open up the season Friday night, Aug. 31 when they host Eisenhower.

Greeting Schlimm on the first day of practice were 26 players, which is the lowest turnout that he can remember having the past 16 years.

The Crusaders return nine starters this year and a total of fourteen letter winners. Five starters were lost via graduation.

Schlimm said he is very enthusiastic this season as he has never had so many returning letter winners before. Experience will be a factor if the team is going to be successful this year as far as wins and losses go.

Four players will be counted on heavily this season to form the nucleus of what Schlimm believes is a pretty good club. They are senior RB Todd Silfies, senior Split End Joe Urmann, senior LB/QB Rocco Tettis and senior FB Craig Timm.

Timm is the top returning player stat-wise from last season after leading ECCHS with 561 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns.

Once again ECCHS will participate in the South Division of the AML, which Schlimm believes will be loaded with quality teams led by the Currwensville Golden Tide.