The Palisades Pirates are gearing up for the 2024 football season with renewed determination after ending their previous campaign on a high note. Despite a challenging start, where the team recorded seven losses in their first eight games, the Pirates finished strong by winning their last two matches, securing a spot in the District 11 Class 2A playoffs. Head coach Bobby Smith emphasized the importance of commitment and growth, stating, “How we felt after games was part of growing up.”
The transformation in team attitude became evident as the Pirates outscored their opponents, Wilson and Salisbury, 68-6 in those final weeks. This not only allowed them to clinch a playoff berth but also provided valuable experience in their playoff game against Schuylkill Haven. “The biggest takeaway from our offseason and so far in the preseason is seeing on every play somebody wants to make a play,” Smith said.
Rising Leaders and Talent
With nine returning seniors and six juniors, the Pirates are poised to improve their performance this season. The team lost standout players John Haubert and Angelo Ziccardi, but they have a strong core of athletes ready to step up. Junior wide receiver/defensive back Lincoln Cook expressed the team’s commitment to improvement, stating, “We’re all working hard to be better, and we’re going to turn things around.”
Senior quarterback Jack Trickel is set to lead the offense after a promising first season as a full-time starter. He completed 129 of 242 passes for 1,461 yards with 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions last year. Trickel is focused on reducing turnovers and enhancing his leadership skills, saying, “The coaches and my teammates helped me a bunch with my confidence.” His offseason commitment, which included physical training and improved chemistry with teammates, has positioned him for a breakout year.
Dynamic Offense and Strong Defense
The Pirates’ offense boasts several talented athletes that contribute to a versatile and dangerous attack. Cook, who caught 49 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns as a sophomore, is expected to be a pivotal player this season. Coach Smith praised Cook’s development, noting, “He’s maturing. He’s running routes right.”
Senior Ashton Fitzgerald will take on a key role as the primary running back, having displayed his speed and athleticism on both the football field and the track. Fitzgerald’s performance will be crucial for the Pirates as they aim to create big plays in the running game. Additionally, seniors Silas Day and Max Woerner bring exceptional athleticism to the team, impacting both offense and defense. Day, who led the team with nine tackles for loss, and Woerner, a linebacker with three interceptions and two forced fumbles, are expected to be instrumental in the Pirates’ defensive strategy.
Palisades’ offensive line has also shown significant improvement, with junior Will Kapp anchoring the unit at center. The cohesive effort among players, many of whom will play both ways, is anticipated to enhance the team’s overall performance.
Coach Smith noted the urgency felt by the senior players: “The whole offseason, this team realized that this could be the last 10 games for the seniors.” Their experience and determination could prove vital as the Pirates navigate a challenging schedule.
The Pirates will kick off their season on August 22, 2024, with a road game against District 1 Bristol. Following this opener, they will face several formidable opponents, including Saucon Valley and Catasauqua, in the first half of the season. The early schedule, comprising five away games in the first six weeks, will test the team’s resilience and teamwork.
As the Palisades Pirates prepare for the upcoming season, their commitment to improvement and team chemistry will be key factors in their quest for success on the field. With the momentum built from last season’s strong finish, expectations are high for the Pirates as they aim to make a significant impact in the 2024 season.
