SOMERS, N.Y. - Three-time defending state champions, Somers Football enters the 2025 season with the steady leadership of head coach Anthony DeMatteo.
“We want to be able to compete at a high level in the state tournament,” DeMatteo said. “So if we can get there again, that’s definitely the goal every single year.”
While rosters change, some names remain familiar. Among them is quarterback-in-waiting Tristan Iglesias.
“Obviously he’s got the genes, but he’s a different kind of kid than Miguel,” DeMatteo said.
Iglesias follows the same developmental path as those before him.
“He’s a good receiver and that has been our model the last few years,” the coach explained. “Before you’re the quarterback, you play receiver, wait your turn, learn the offense and he’s next up.”
At receiver, Dean Palazzolo, Jackson Whipple, and Cam Violante return as reliable targets.
“That is very convenient for us,” said DeMatteo, who also expects Gavin Kelly to step into a bigger role this year.
Up front, the offensive line brings back a wealth of experience with RJ Peterson, Jaron Faulkner, Lorenzo D’Ambrosio, Hudson Ruby, and Ben Brenninkmeyer.
“They are a veteran group, they are a big group, and we feel good about them,” DeMatteo said.
Defensively, Faulkner leads the charge. “Jaron Faulkner is probably one of the best defensive linemen in New York State,” DeMatteo noted. The secondary also returns experience with Dylan Jimenez and Gavin Kelly, while Violante and Whipple will rotate at safety.
Somers opens the season September 6 against Iona Prep, following early-season matchups with Ramapo the past two years. “The week zero game has been very good for us,” DeMatteo said.
As for what drives the coaching staff, DeMatteo kept it simple: “Winning.” But he also emphasized the bond behind the success. “Friendship,” he said. “We’re very good friends. They are a tremendous staff.”
The Tuskers will begin their campaign for another championship against Iona Prep on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at Christian Brothers Academy.
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