Lockport Porter Parents Football Association

08/27/2026

Lockport At Naperville Central Football Preview

By Randy Whalen

With one game under its belt, the Lockport Township football team gained some much-needed experience of meshing with each other.

Now, it's time to put that into action.

"It was the first game, and we had some mental errors," Lockport senior quarterback Griffin Russell said following the 21-14 loss to Glenbard West in the season-opener last Friday. "We have to fix it in practice. We will; we're a family, and we trust each other."

Yes, they do, and they plan to implement that this week as the Porters plan to get in the win column as they travel for a Week No. 2 matchup at Naperville Central.

"They have a really strong defense," Lockport senior defensive back Jake Manzo said of the Redhawks. But we have a great offense. It will be a tough game, but we should come out on top."

The two teams have had quite a series of exciting games in the past few years, with all of them at Lockport. In 2023, Nate Blezewski kicked a game-tying 49-yard field goal with under a second left in regulation. Then fellow senior Kevin Holland hauled in a 9-yard touchdown pass from Drew Gallagher in overtime. The Porter defense held, and they emerged with a 31-24 victory.

The following season, Naperville Central improved to 6-0, en route to an 11-2 record, with a 31-21 win as the teams faced off in what was a Southwest Valley Conference crossover. Then, last season's conference game was much more defensive. Lockport prevailed 14-7 in overtime, as Chris Miller scored what proved to be the winning touchdown, and fellow senior Nick Moerman recorded a huge sack in the OT before a huge Homecoming crowd.

The Redhawks are no longer in the same conference, which dissolved at the end of last season. Also, this season's matchup is in Naperville.

In their opener last Friday, the Redhawks fell 27-7 on the road to Wheaton-Warrenville South.

Ryan Jacobson, a junior running back, tied the game early at 7-7. But that was the only score for Naperville Central. Senior Landon Nelson is another threat at running back. Simon Hayes, a senior, takes over as quarterback. Senior Kyle Clark and junior Mark Williams are key wide receivers.

Returning junior cornerback Eron Kennedy leads the secondary. Seniors Jaxon Pytlak at defensive end and Justin Skryd at linebacker lead the defense.

Russell had a great first game at quarterback last week. He was 18-of-24 for 174 yards and a TD. Senior Khairi Sias - 9 receptions for 85 yards, and junior Jaxson Little - 6 receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown led the receivers. But after having 24 carries for 50 yards on the ground, the Porters hope to get more production out of their running game.

Last week, Lockport's defense gave up 41 carries for 223 yards and a pair of touchdowns. That meant the secondary of Manzo and the Kies twins of Josh and Matt saw a lot of work.

"Naperville Central had some turnovers in the loss to Wheaton-Warrenville South," Lockport coach George Czart said. "But coming into this season, I thought they had a good team. The last few years have come down to the end of the game.

"This season, we have to travel there. I'm looking forward to it and to showing what we can do."

Both teams have a rich history. Lockport is coming off a Class 8A State Semifinal appearance and has a trio of 8A State titles (2002, 2003, 2021). The Redhawks captured a Class 6A championship in 1999 and an 8A one in 2013.

The two teams met twice in the postseason. The Porters won 29-7 in a second-round game in 2003, and Naperville Central prevailed 28-16 in a first-round game in 2009. Both of those were in Class 8A.

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is a 1982 Naperville Central graduate. Owen Daniels, who quarterbacked the Redhawks to the 1999 State Title, played nine seasons as a tight end in the NFL, making a pair of Pro Bowls. He caught the last touchdown pass that quarterback Peyton Manning ever threw to help the Broncos win the 2015 AFC Championship Game 20-18.

Current Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed played his senior season for the Redhawks and graduated in 2018.

Being on the road, the sophomore game will be played beforehand, starting at 4:30 PM. The varsity game will kick off at approximately 7 PM. The game-time forecast is calling for temps in the low to mid 70s with light winds and no chance of rain.

08/26/2026

Ten Questions With Lockport Senior Defensive Back Jake Manzo

By Randy Whalen

Jake Manzo is a senior on the Lockport Township football team. He's a starting defensive back and had 10 total tackles and a fumble recovery in a 21-14 season-opening loss to Glenbard West last Friday.

What were your impressions of last week's opening game against Glenbard West?
"We should build on being more of a team. We have to focus on being more physical. They ran the ball down our throat. So we just have to be more physical, know our guys better, and have trust and faith in them."

Glenbard West quarterback AJ Reyford didn't throw much, going 9-of-12 for 122 yards and a TD. So I thought the pass defense was good. What were your impressions of your secondary?
"We're more than on track. The Kies twins (Josh and Matt) and I have that chemistry; we've been playing together since fifth grade. Plus we have Coach Nolan Shaw working with us every day to make sure we're the best we can be."

Your brother, Joey Manzo, was the only junior starter on the Class 8A State Title team in 2021. So I'm sure you watched their games. What do you take from that team?
"Joey was a starting defensive back, and they were great to watch. He's now an EMT in Joliet. I try to implement stuff from that team. I feel that we can complement that team and bring a title back to Lockport."

Do you play another sport?
"Yes, I also play baseball. I've played that even longer than football. I started playing tee ball when I was three or four. Then I started playing football for the Junior Porters."

So which sport do you like better?
"Football. I love the game; I love the physicality. I love the Friday Night Lights. I love the game time mentality. I've been waiting for senior year since last fall."

Which opponent are you most looking forward to playing this season?
"Lincoln-Way West (at home in Week No. 4 on Friday, Sept. 11). We've lost close games to them the last couple of years (21-17 in the final seconds last season and 40-39 in double overtime in 2024). Last year's loss hurt. We should have pulled it out. We haven't beat them on the varsity level in a few years (34-28 in New Lenox in 2022), so we want to get them in our senior year."

What have you learned from Lockport football coach George Czart?
"I have learned many things. How to be a man, how to carry myself in situations. He says that 'football always finds its weakest link.' That's a true statement in football and in life. He also reminds us that we need to have the next play mentality. Things aren't always going to go your way. You have to overcome that."

I know school just started last week, but what is your favorite class?
"My dual credit psychology class. Ms. Michelle Edwards is the teacher. I find the human mind most interesting. I find it most fascinating how people react to things."

Do you plan to play football or baseball in college?
"Yes, I've been looking at it a lot. I'm looking at both sports. I've had a few offers. I don't mind where I go, if it's near or far. But I'm also looking at my education and how it's going to affect me as I get older. "

What is the best thing about being an athlete at Lockport?
"Just the environment of everything here. The crowds at the games and the support we have. We have such a strong student body and a tight-knit group of athletes who support each other."

08/24/2026

Glenbard West At Lockport Football

By Randy Whalen

There were positives.

But some mistakes hurt. In the end, the Lockport Township football team couldn't catch up and fell 21-14 to a talented Glenbard West team in the season opener before a packed house on Friday evening at Lockport.

It was the first time that the Porters (0-1) have lost a season-opening game since the abbreviated 6-game spring season of 2021.

"It was a typical first game for us in the sense that we made too many mistakes to establish a positive outcome," Lockport coach George Czart said. "The coaches addressed that to the team that the only team that can beat us is ourselves.

"There are positives to take out. But I'm tired of taking positives out of losing. I'd rather take the negatives out of winning."

There should be plenty of winning for Lockport this season. But yes, the team has to play better.

"It was the first game, and we had some mental errors," Lockport senior quarterback Griffin Russell said. "We have to fix it in practice. We will; we're a family, and we trust each other."

Trailing 7-0 at halftime, the Porters got bad news when senior linebacker Logan Stewart went down on the first play from scrimmage of the third quarter. After 15 minutes, he was taken off the field on a stretcher.

Stewart gave a thumbs up when he was wheeled off the field. But it was a back injury, and he is expected to be out for a while.

With Stewart out of the lineup, the Hilltoppers (1-0) drove downfield and scored on second-and-goal when senior running back Ace Harris hammered in from 3-yards out. Senior Nick Duckworth added the extra point, and Glenbard West led 14-0 with 9:15 left in the third quarter.

But back came the Porters. Russell completed all four of his passes for 38 yards on a 67-yard drive. On second-and-five, senior running back Hayden Phillips (6 carries for 21 yards) ran eight yards to a first-and-goal at the one. But the Hilltopper defense tightened up and forced a fourth-and-goal situation at the two.

Going for it at that point, Lockport scored when senior wide receiver Khairi Sias darted off a jet sweep for the 2-yard touchdown, making it 14-7 with 4:01 left in the third quarter. Sias was the leading receiver with nine receptions for 85 yards.

"We brought in our rhino package with (senior defensive linemen) Cornell Bass and Nick Ontiveros in to block," Sias said of the play. "That really helped. I trusted them, and I saw it open.

"In this game, it was the little things. But we just have to keep our heads up; we just have to execute."

But it was Glenbard West that came back and executed a 7-play, 59-yard drive that culminated in another 3-yard touchdown run by Harris (17 carries for 98 yards) with 1:31 left in the third quarter. The Porter secondary, led by seniors Josh and Matt Kies, along with Jake Manzo, didn't allow AJ Rayford many opportunities.

But on that drive, the senior quarterback, who finished 9-of-12 for 122 yards and a touchdown, was 2-for-2 for 43 yards. That included a 36-yard strike to highly-touted senior tight end Brady Johnson, who has committed to Northwestern.

Trailing by 14 points once more, the Porters came back on the next drive, which covered 60 yards in just four plays. Russell connected on both of his passes for 49 yards. Both went to junior wide receiver Jaxson Little, including a great diving catch for an 11-yard touchdown on the first play of the fourth quarter.

Senior Zane Szynkowski added the extra point, and it was 21-14 with 11:53 to play in the game.

"It's just the chemistry," said Little, who finished with six catches for 81 yards. "We got behind, and we were down on ourselves. But we just keep battling.

"We have the chemistry, but it's the little things. It's 11 guys on both sides of the ball. This game is a building block for sure."

The Porters' defense then forced a three-and-out. But they also went three-and-out. On its next possession, Glenbard West got a first down. But on a fourth-and-three play, Harris was stopped for a 2-yard gain on a fourth-and-three play at the Lockport 37.

A 6-yard pass from Russell to Little moved Lockport into Glenbard West territory. But on third and three from the 42. Russell had a pass fall incomplete. The Porters were stuffed for a yard loss on fourth down with 3:28 to play. The Hilltoppers picked up a trio of first downs on the ground for a first-and-goal at the eight. They then ran out the clock.

Glenbard West, which entered the season ranked No. 6 in the Class 7A AP poll, had 223 of its 335 yards on the ground. The Porters, who came in ranked No. 10 in the Class 8A poll, were limited to 24 carries for 50 yards. Russell had a nice starting debut as he was 18-of-24 for 174 yards and added five carries for 9 yards.

"I thought Griffin had a great game," Czart said. "I was very pleased with his first game and showing. If he can build off of that, we're going to be excellent.

"There was a great crowd here for both teams. But we wanted to win, not just come in and give people a good game."

Lockport had a great scoring opportunity on its second possession, driving to a second-and-five situation at the seven. But, facing a third and eight at the 10, Russell lost six yards and had the ball knocked from his hand. It was recovered by Johnson, who doubles as a defensive lineman, at the Glenbard West 16 with 1:10 left in the first quarter.

"I need to keep two hands on the football," Russell said of the play. "Give credit to their defense; they stopped the run. We fell a little short, but winners adjust."

The Hilltoppers then ran over six minutes off the clock. But on their 13th play, on a third-and-four, they had a miscue of their own as a swing pass to the left side was instead a lateral. Manzo leaped on the ball just before it went out of bounds at his own 19 to create the turnover.

"That was big," Manzo said. "I just knew I had to get it and let the offense go to work. We need to make those types of plays and keep doing the little things."

Unfortunately, the Porters couldn't get their offense going at that point and punted. Glenbard West then went 46 yards in four plays and scored when Lynch found Johnson, who appeared to reach around Matt Kies, and hauled in the pass for an 18-yard touchdown. That made it 7-0 with 1:56 left in the first half.

Thanks in part to Russell finding Sias three times on the ensuing drive, Lockport moved to the Hilltopper 19-yard line. But a 39-yard field goal attempt right before halftime was low and wide left, leaving the score at 7-0.

The two teams don't meet up often. But they did face each other in the postseason in 2021 and 2022. The Porters won a second-round Class 8A matchup 34-0 at home in 2021 en route to the State Title. The next year, the Hilltoppers turned the tables with a 38-7 first-round 8A win in Glen Ellyn.

"This was a learning game," Lockport senior offensive lineman Philip Ponterio said of the season-opening loss. "We knew we could come back from 14-0; it's just a matter of making plays. We're more than a 14-point offense. We're all in this together."

08/21/2026

🏈 Gameday for the Varsity Porters. Kick-off will be at 6:15pm against Glenbard West. 🏈

.by.j

08/21/2026

Thanks Mercedes-Benz of Westmont for sponsoring the 1st Pasta Dinner of the 2026 Season!!!

08/19/2026

Glenbard West At Lockport Football Preview

By Randy Whalen

As season openers go, this is one of the top ones.

Glenbard West at Lockport Township at 6:15 PM on Friday, August 21.

Both teams have three State Championships in their history. Both teams had 9 wins last season, both won their respective conference last year, and both have high expectations this fall.

"Glenbard West has good players, D1 players," Lockport coach George Czart said. "They are well coached, physical and smart. You don't see mistakes happen with them. So we have to be at our best."

Yes, they do, and Lockport senior quarterback Griffin Russell is aware of how good the Hilltoppers are.

"Glenbard West has won state championships in past years," Russell said. "My dad (running back coach Ryan Russell, who is a 1999 Downers Grove North graduate) played against them when he was in high school. They have a great program and play hard-nosed football.

"This is the first game, so we have to play on the fly. But we have a very intelligent group and a victory is very achievable."

Russell will have senior Khairi Sias and junior Jaxson Little as key receivers. Seniors Hayden Phillips and Rory Radatz, as well as junior Prince Nartey, will be looked to at running back. Seniors Philip Ponterio and Marcello Thomas lead the offensive line.

Another pair of seniors, Cornell Bass and Nick Ontiveros, who moved from the offensive line, will be upfront on defense. Seniors Griffin Benson, Ayden Pehas, and Logan Stewart will be looked to at linebacker, and a trio of senior returners will be at defensive back. They are twin brothers Josh and Matt Kies, as well as Jake Manzo.

They will have to contend with a talented Hilltopper offense. Senior quarterback AJ Rayford is a second-year starter with multiple Division II offers. Veteran Glenbard West coach Chad Hetlet said: "he’ll be the best quarterback the team has had in the last 20 years with a strong arm and breakaway speed."

Bryce Ellens, a Minnesota-Duluth commit, is a big-play threat who will play running back after playing primarily defense last year, and 225-pound Amari Harris is a physical back. A big offensive line is bookended by Josiah Wallace, who has committed to Northwestern, and junior Ryder Stroup.

Also committed to Northwestern is senior tight end Brady Johnson, 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, who will also play defense. Jaylen McMiller is a threat in the return game who also plays defensive back, and senior Keyante Johnson, a transfer from Oak Park-River Forest, is a track star who can break a play.

Also looking to make an impact for Glenbard West are senior defensive lineman Phin Codinha, senior defensive back Finn Sheeley, McMiller, senior defensive back MJ Wargin and junior linebacker Reece DeHesus.

"We put our feelers out to play a good, large-class school," Czart said. "That's what happened. We were looking for a good opponent and a competitive game.

"That's the way we like it. There's a lot of tradition with the Hilltoppers."

Because of the new format, where the postseason is expanded, the first game is a week earlier than usual. Does that affect the Porters?

"Not really," Czart said. "We just take it a day at a time. I don't feel different. We just have to cross our T's and dot our I's. We'll be ready for the game."

Both teams have a trio of State Titles to their credit. The Porters won Class 8A titles in 2002, 2003, and 2021. Glenbard West captured championships in Class 5A in 1983 and in Class 7A in 2012 and 2015.

Last year, there was a 4-way tie for the Southwest Valley Blue Division title, but Lockport was the official champ. This year, the conference moves back to just being the SouthWest Suburban. After winning the conference last season, the Hilltoppers are aiming for their 14th West Suburban Silver title in the last 18 years.

The forecast is calling for highs of 80 during the day, with winds 5-to-10 MPH, but a stray thunderstorm could pop up.

No matter what the weather, football is back and the Porters will be ready.

08/19/2026

We are still in need of some dessert donations for tomorrows first Carsity dinner. Please check out the link and signup if you are able to donate!🏈

08/18/2026

Ten Questions With Lockport Senior Quarterback Griffin Russell

By Randy Whalen

Griffin Russell is a senior on the Lockport Township football team. He will be the starting quarterback when the Porters host Glenbard West at 6:15 on Friday in the season opener.

Here we are, ready for the new season! So, what is the goal for this season?
"I feel like everyone has the goal of a state title. We were three points short last year. So we want to continue that success and go one more game."

Your dad, Ryan Russell, is a longtime assistant coach for the Porter football team. How has he helped you and will he be involved in coaching you this season?
"He coaches the running backs, so he won't be directly involved in coaching me. He's definitely helped me with understanding the game of football. It's just knowing what is right and what is wrong. He's helped me be a leader for the team."

You also play baseball. So how long have you been playing those, and which sport do you like better?
"I've played baseball since I was four or five years old. I only pitch now in baseball. In football, I started playing the year before COVID, so 2019. But I didn't play quarterback until freshman year, and I've played it since. I used to play running back and fullback. I probably like football a little bit more. But I take both sports and try to help my team win."

What do you like most about playing quarterback?
"I like being that guy on the spot. The lights are on me, the pressure is on me. I like to be in that situation and have the team look to me."

So were you around the team when they won the Class 8A State Title in 2021?
"Yes, I was one of the ball boys. My favorite game of that season was the Loyola one (a 35-21 win in Wilmette). It was definitely a special moment as a fan."

Which opponent are you looking forward to playing the most this season?
"We want to take it one at a time, but definitely it's Lincoln-Way East. They are always really good. But I also wish we were playing Sandburg this season, because of the rivalry. Those are always good games."

What have you learned from Lockport football coach George Czart?
"I have learned lots. Even when I was younger, in my earlier years. He's always instilled that physical aspect of the game. You have to be prepared."

I know school just started this week, but what is your favorite class?
"I like math. I'm big with numbers, and math classes are always fun. I liked my precalculus class last year. I enjoyed it a lot and how Julie Decaire teaches."

Do you plan to play football or baseball in college?
"I definitely plan to, and I'm probably looking to play football. But I want to put myself out there with film and such after this season. So I'd say football, but I'm keeping both open."

What is the best thing about being an athlete at Lockport?
"The culture. It's very good and tight-knit. I feel that everyone helps you accomplish your goals. There's just great teamwork. Everyone is there to help you, and the community gets behind you."

08/18/2026

The Lockport Porter Football Program ended with an 8A State Semifinal appearance. What an amazing season it was. With 3 State Championships and a semifinal appearance we wanted to do something to acknowledge this. We are offering for purchase a 3x5 Lockport Football Flag. You can an choose it in either white or maroon and it shows all 4! We love them! They will be able to be purchased at any of the 4 home games while supplies last or can be pre ordered on this form and picked up at the games. Please reach out with any questions that you may have.

Show your Porter Pride! Pre-order your 3' x 5' Lockport Football flag. Flags will be available for pickup at a later date. Payment is required to complete your order.

08/18/2026

2026 Lockport Varsity Football Preview

By Randy Whalen

Last season was special for the Lockport Township football team.

With nine wins and a trip to the Class 8A State Semifinals, falling just short of the title game, this year's team is looking for more.

"It was amazing," Lockport senior defensive lineman Cornell Bass said. "It was just the chemistry we had. But this season will be even more amazing; I firmly believe that.

"It's just the leadership this year. We've all bought in, and all believe in each other, so that makes a great team. I'm ready right now to play. Everyone is primed for it. Our goal is to be the best team we can be."

Bass, a defensive end/tackle, committed to Northern Illinois University this spring. He is one of 10 key returning players from last year's team, which won the Southwest Valley Blue Division title and battled to the last second before falling to host Oswego 10-7 in an 8A semifinal.

"I expect our seniors to step up," Lockport coach George Czart said. "We have a standard here on how we want to play. If the guys do what it takes to be in games, we can be in a good position again."

Griffin Russell steps in at quarterback this season. He was Brendan Mecher's backup last season and didn't get many reps. But he's played quarterback since his freshman year and is ready for the challenge.

"Last year, we got a ton of extra practice because of the playoff run," Russell said. "They were the biggest and best practices because of the position. So everyone is amped up and focused, and it should be a good year."

Czart is confident that Russell can step up.

"I expect him to do what he's prepared for all this time," Czart said. "Our offense is designed to see what's there for the taking. Can he handle the lights when the heat is on? I believe so; he's a very smart kid."

Brennen Malloy, who was the sophomore quarterback last year, will be the backup. Chris Miller, who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and averaged five yards per carry last year, graduated.

So Russell's dad, longtime assistant Ryan Russell, who is the running backs coach, will have a bevy of new running backs who will look to step up. They include seniors Hayden Phillips and Rory Radatz, as well as junior Prince Nartey.

Khairi Sias returns at wide receiver and believes he can make more of an impact than last year.

"We're going to have an incredible season this year," Sias said. "I feel amazing, and we're capable of doing a lot; we just have to execute.

"In the offseason, I was elevating my craft. I run track, but was also doing the weight room, and that helped me a lot. I've been working with Griffin since eighth grade, and I know him like the back of my hand. I expect to get more attention this season, and I'm ready."

Senior Andrew Maloney, junior Jaxson Little, who is the younger brother of Ryan Little, the leading receiver on the 2021 Class 8A State Title team, and sophomore Chace Massat will also be counted on at receiver.

Czart says the offensive line starts with veteran senior Philip Ponterio, who stands nearly 6-foot-5 and weighs 300. Ponterio saw the Porters rally from a 1-3 start last fall to an eight-game win streak, which was tied for the third-longest in single-season school history.

"It was a chemistry thing," Ponterio said of last season's slow start. "The first few weeks were tough, but once we got our offense going, we got nine wins. All that learning made us better as a team.

"We definitely have a good squad. We have some dudes who can make some big plays and have some good chemistry this year."

Marcello Thomas also returns on the offensive line. Fellow senior Neven Vasvery is on the line too. Senior William Nowak moves from tight end to the offensive line, and junior Kuba Kruczak will also be looked to.

Bass brings up the defensive line, but he's certainly not alone. Senior Nick Ontiveros was a starter on the offensive line last year, but moves to defense this season. Seniors Benjamin Knoepfle, Scott McCarthy, and Stefan Vasilic, as well as juniors Rawad Elhaj and Kenneth McElroy, will also be counted on as defensive linemen.

Being an old linebacker who was an All-Area player at Bolingbrook in the late 70s, Czart is still the linebacker coach. He expects "a lot of guys to battle it out" for the position this season.

Those include seniors Griffin Benson, Ayden Pehas, and Logan Stewart, along with juniors Austin Bielski, Jake Durnas, and Malloy.

"It's just going to be having our guys step up and feel the chemistry and trust with each other," said Benson, who started playing in the seventh grade for the Junior Porters. "We've put in the work in the weight room in the offseason.

"We're going to be lights out on defense. I feel even better than last season."

The secondary has a trio of senior returners. Those are twin brothers Josh and Matt Kies, as well as Jake Manzo.

Last year, Matt Kies made perhaps the most memorable play of the season. In the final minute of the game, he leaped to bat down Homewood-Flossmoor’s potential game-winning 2-point conversion pass, allowing the Porters to hold on for a 21-20 second-round playoff win on November 8 at Lockport.

So he and his brother will be looked to even more this season.

“I wouldn’t say it’s pressure or anything,” Matt Kies told the Southtown. “For me, being a leader is kind of a character trait. I’ve been playing sports my whole life. I know what the coaches expect of me, and I know I’ll live up to that expectation.

"We’ve got some young DBs coming in, and I want to be able to shape them for next year and just help out in any way I can."

Senior Jimmy Sagon, as well as juniors Leonardo Ruiz and Louis Schultz, will also be counted on as defensive backs.

Malloy will fill a lot of roles as he's also the team's punter. Czart said that "three guys with strong legs" are all competing for the kicker job. They are seniors Vince Guerra, Benjamin Marcano, and Zane Szynkowski.

Almost all of the assistant coaches, who bring years of experience, are back. They are: Mark Carmen, Joe Dunlap, Jimmy Fox, Derek Freiberg, Pete Kishline, Kristopher Norton, Ryan Russell, Rob Schultz, Mike Schroeder, Nolan Shaw, Josh Vargas, and Zach Vargas.

With the playoff format expanding this season, the first game moves up a week, to Friday, August 21 against Glenbard West. That is one of four home games this season, with all of them scheduled for 6:15 PM starts.

There are 74 guys on the Lockport roster. Czart, who is entering his eighth season as Lockport head coach and 40th overall, feels good about this year.

"They are all good seasons," Czart said. "I feel positive about our team. We expect the guys to carry us into the fourth quarter and win games.

"I'm excited to get the season started. We've been working hard in the weight room, and I'm excited for the kids to show what they've worked on. It's go time."