Allen Canaries football coach Joel Rupp is stepping into his third season with a sense of optimism as he aims to build on last year’s successes. Recently, Rupp and his team participated in running the concession stands at J. Birney Crum Stadium during a major Drum Corps International (DCI) competition, which gathered drum and bugle corps from across the country. Rupp believes that events like this not only support the football program but also foster community spirit.
“Running the concession stands for that helps the football program a lot,” Rupp noted. “It’s also good for Allentown and our kids to see the stands packed like that.” He emphasized the importance of community involvement, recalling fond memories of packed stadiums during his own playing days at Dieruff High School.
The Canaries made headlines last season by starting strong with a 2-0 record, defeating two teams from Philadelphia. They also achieved a memorable overtime victory against their rivals, Dieruff. Despite facing a challenging season with seven losses, Rupp pointed out that the team showed considerable growth, culminating in a playoff appearance, albeit ending with a 24-0 loss to Muhlenberg Township.
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Rupp expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m extremely optimistic.” He highlighted the team’s focus on improving their passing game, a dimension that was lacking in the previous season. “We’re missing some depth, but we have everything we need for No. 1s,” he said, indicating a determination to optimize their performance.
With the graduation of key players like Kemahni Wimberly and Ja’lil Johnson, who together scored 17 touchdowns last season, the Canaries will rely on returning playmakers. Junior receivers Jaylen Walker and Michael Taylor, along with senior Zion Stokes, are expected to step up. Junior running back TeShon Gaynair, who made a significant impact last season, also returns and will bolster the defense after recording six sacks.
Despite having the smallest roster in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC), Rupp remains positive. He recalls a time when he coached with just 16 players and emphasizes the need for discipline and commitment. “You know it is my dream to have 100 kids on the sideline,” he shared, “but we’re ready to take a cupcake and roll with that.”
Program Challenges and Opportunities
Rupp acknowledged that while the current roster of 40 players is concerning, it also shows commitment. Reflecting on the offseason, he mentioned, “I was very excited coming into camp because we had 70 guys roll through here, but we’re down to just 40.” He noted that some players may have realized football was not for them, but he hopes to recruit more students once school begins on August 25, 2025. They will allow new players to join the team until Week 4, when league games start.
Assistant coaches play a vital role in the program’s development. Returning are Eric Collazo and Derek Thorne, who serve as offensive and defensive coordinators, respectively. New additions to the coaching staff include Alvin Wright, who has transitioned from middle school coach to freshman head coach, alongside veteran coach Grant Whary. Former Allen players Ivan Nieves and Isaac Williams have also rejoined the program, further strengthening the coaching team.
“I am excited about our additions because it gives us more eyes out on the field,” Rupp commented, highlighting the benefits of having an expanded coaching staff. This enhancement includes breaking down game film and providing player evaluations, contributing to a more comprehensive approach to training.
Community Engagement and Upcoming Schedule
The Canaries football program also focuses on community engagement. This spring, players and coaches participated in a one-day camp led by Eagles receiver AJ Brown, which was a significant event for local youth. Rupp praised the experience, stating, “It was good to see that. We had a Super Bowl champion here, and I don’t think we’ve had that many people on the field at the same time before.”
As the new season approaches, the Allen Canaries will kick off their schedule with a scrimmage against Pottstown at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. Their upcoming games include:
– **August 23**: Host Dobbins Vo-Tech
– **August 29**: At Martin Luther King
– **September 5**: Host East Stroudsburg North
– **September 12**: At East Stroudsburg South
– **September 19**: Host Freedom
– **September 25**: At Parkland
– **October 4**: At Allentown Central Catholic
– **October 10**: Host Whitehall
– **October 17**: At Emmaus
– **October 25**: Host Dieruff at 14:00
With a mix of returning talent and new strategies in place, Rupp is determined to make this season a memorable one for the Allen Canaries, aiming to increase both team performance and community support.
