The Holy Cross football team saw its 2019 season and Class S state playoff hopes end in a 20-0 loss to rival Wolcott on Thanksgiving morning at Joe Monroe Field.
The Crusaders put together a solid 7-3 season, however, that included five straight victories. Holy Cross will need to replace some players who move on due to graduation, including the versatile Marcus Payne and big man Cole Foster. Shawn Austin and Tom Ayash are also lost to graduation.
The cupboard will not be bare for Holy Cross in 2010. The 2019 Crusader CIAC roster listed 15 juniors, 14 sophomores and 12 freshmen.
The Crusaders return two players who can get behind center at the quarterback position, Drevon Yeldell and Chase Tyson. Both can run the ball, and Holy Cross will look for each player to improve their passing skills in the offseason. Pat Giancarli showed he can break off big runs, like he did when he went for 39 yards on the first play from scrimmage against Wolcott. Rashaun Mitchell is a talented wide receiver who has been a big part of the game plan of opposing defenses, including Wolcott’s. Ben Brodeur is a big body up front on the offensive and defensive lines, and Steve Stone is another versatile player the Crusaders can rely upon on both sides of the ball. Both Brodeur and Richard DeLa Cruz kicked for Holy Cross. Mah’kai Wilson made an impact on the field and will be counted upon to do the same next year.
Photo caption: Holy Cross on its sideline during the coin toss before its Thanksgiving game against Wolcott. (Copyright, Sports on CT-69)
