The Crusaders look to make a difference in the in Indepence Division of the NJAC Conference in 2009.

Coach Greg Lusardi is beginning his fifth year as Head Coach after returning to this Denville School in 2005. The Slippery Rock grad was previously Head Coach at Morris Catholic in 1984 for four years until going to the college football coaching ranks.

The second time around for Coach Lusardi should be a charm, for this self described “micro manager”. The Crusader Football slogan “Believe and Achieve” will be put to the test in the new aligned NJAC Conference.

OFFENSE

The offense has six returning starters and is lead by two senior running backs Tom Rodgers and Mark Sinatra. Sinatra will do it his way to put some fire in the running game and points on the board for the Crusaders offense.

Another four-year player contributing on this side of the ball is senior quarterback Mike Rastiello. Rastiello has Division 1 prospect Joe Yarosz at center to protect him and give him the time he needs to lead the offense.

DEFENSE

The defense also has six returning starters. Two key players returning to this side of the ball are junior linebacker Ryan Rodriguez and junior safety Chris Kimbrough. Also contributing to the defense are two way starters Rodgers and Sinatra.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The kicking job is heating up with a close competition between juniors Robbie Drexel and Craig Kimbrough. Punting duties are locked up by junior guard and linebacker Ryan Rodriguez.

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