2023 Green Football Preview: The Road to Redemption
After a rough 2022 football season plagued by injury, Green looks to bounce back.
After an unlikely run to the state semifinals in 2021, the Bulldogs faced their share of challenges last year, ending the season with a 4-7 record overall and a 2-4 record in Federal League play. With star receiver Zach Baglia showing off with an impressive 1,430 receiving yards and 14 touchdown catches last season and the eagerly-awaited return of Antonio Martin from an ACL injury, the Bulldogs are expected to make a comeback on the field. In 2022, Green High School showcased a promising young core, demonstrating resilience and determination on the field. When asked about his team's performance, Head Coach Mark Geis expressed immense pride, stating,
"Really proud of our kids, cause I mean- let's be honest.. we're rolling out there with either a lot of young kids that haven't played or old kids that haven't played. Maybe a couple experienced guys- but the amount of guts and grit that we showed…we have nothing to hang our heads about."
With a strong mix of experienced veterans and talented young players, the Bulldogs are ready to rise to the occasion and leave a mark on the upcoming season.
Dog Tags
From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these standout athletes will play an essential role in shaping the team's success on the field.
Samino Manson
New to the equation is Samino Manson, Green's new starting QB. As a first-year starting quarterback, the physical presence of Manson brings a new dimension to the Bulldogs' five-wide spread offense, allowing for greater flexibility and options on the field. During the offseason, Manson honed his throwing ability, demonstrating his commitment to lead the team to success. With a strong arm and improved skills, he is set to provide Green with an additional running threat, making the offense even more dynamic and unpredictable. The team and spectators eagerly look forward to witnessing Manson's talent unfold as he takes charge of the playbook and orchestrates the team's journey to victory, bringing fresh air and excitement to Green High School football.
Antonio Martin
Everyone knows his name. Antonio Martin, a 5'10" junior, has become a standout force on offense and defense for the Green High School Bulldogs. Despite a knee injury that sidelined him last season, Martin is set to make a triumphant return, fully ready to showcase his offensive versatility. As head coach Mark Geis put it,
"The good thing about Antonio is I don't really know what the hell he is."
Martin's increased size and strength over the off-season have opened up new possibilities for the Bulldogs' offense. Primarily lining up at the Slot WR/DB, Martin's versatility allows him to play other positions, including running back, providing the team a multi-use weapon this season. As a receiver last year, Martin recorded an impressive 74 receptions for 637 yards and 7 touchdowns, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His contributions on defense were equally impactful, earning him a spot as a 3rd team All-Ohio player with 18 tackles, 17 solo tackles, and 3 tackles for loss. With his return to the field, Martin is all set to make a resounding impact on both sides of the ball, as the Canton Repository's Josh Weir has noted.
Zach Baglia
Zach Baglia, a 6'1" junior wide receiver, is undoubtedly one of Green High School's most dynamic players. His exceptional route-running skills, imposing size, and impressive speed make him a formidable force on the field. As the top choice for 2022 quarterback Robby Klockner, Baglia played a pivotal role in the team's offensive success last season. With a monster junior year, Baglia led the area in receptions with 105 catches for 1,430 yards and an impressive 14 touchdowns. Each game showcased Baglia's consistency and ability to create game-changing moments, averaging an incredible 9.5 catches and 130 receiving yards per game. Beyond the eye-popping statistics, Baglia's impact on the team extended to his ability to draw defenders' attention, creating openings for his teammates to excel. As Coach Geis described, Baglia is a "tremendous route runner," providing a dependable target for Manson.
Michael Schaal
Returning as a standout player, Michael Schaal proved to be a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball last season. As a sophomore two-way starter on the line, Schaal totaled an impressive 41.5 tackles, seven for loss, and three sacks. Possessing raw strength and determination, Coach Mark Geis believes Schaal has the potential to be one of the best players in the Federal League upfront. This season, Schaal will start at right tackle on offense while showcasing his versatility by moving all around the defensive line, providing Green with a dominant presence on the defensive front.
AJ Fortunato
Stepping up as one of Green's top defenders last season, AJ Fortunato established himself as a formidable force on the field. Despite being just a sophomore, he made his presence known as an inside linebacker, delivering big hits and disrupting opposing offenses. Fortunato consistently had top-notch performances last season, amassing an impressive 66.5 total tackles with 59 solo tackles and 15 assists. As a junior this season, Fortunato's role on the team is expected to grow even more, solidifying Green's defense and ensuring opponents have a tough time breaking through.
What's new?
All five receivers from last year's five-wide group, Antonio Martin, Zach Baglia, Josh Just, Jarrett Taylor, and Anthony Manderine, are set to return. This should put the chemistry from last season on full display, contributing to their offensive prowess. Junior Kaden Gregory will also get reps, with Coach Geis expressing his confidence that Gregory would be a starting wide receiver on most teams.
Green is also making bold moves on the defensive end, switching from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 formation. Put on display at the August 3rd scrimmage against Wadsworth, this change takes advantage of their strong linebacker depth and takes a bit of pressure off the linemen to retain stamina.
Samino Manson's takeover at quarterback has ignited a wave of anticipation, with the big and physically imposing player showcasing improved throwing abilities during the offseason. With Manson at the helm, the Bulldogs are gearing up for a more dynamic and versatile spread offense, displaying additional running threats in Senior Liam Short and Sophomore Evan Reed against Wadsworth.
What's next?
Sporting new uniforms this season, the Bulldogs are ready to rise to the occasion and leave a mark on the upcoming season. As anticipation builds, all eyes are on the field, eagerly awaiting the unfolding of this promising chapter in Green High School football.
