Roster expands for Redskins heading into playoffs

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Morris varsity football coach George Dergo likes to share the playoff experience. His message is simple, if you played on the sophomore level for a season, you're going to get a postseason callup with the varsity.

"I've been doing that since I've been the head coach," Dergo said. "And we'll also call up any freshmen who have been playing with the sophomores throughout the year."

This time around, that means an additional 23 sophomore and 3 freshmen who are being added to the previous 43 player varsity roster.

"That's an average number of callups, even though our numbers were down this year," Sophomore coach Alan Thorson said. "I think we had 30 kids on the team but some don't do it for various reason. Some because they want to focus on their grades. But since he's been here, George offers that chance to every kid and most do it."

In week No. 8, sophomore offensive lineman Jimmy Pelnarsh became the first sophomore to see action in a varsity game when he suited up against Streator. The 6-2, 230-pounder has been a staple for Dergo's squad ever since.

Pelnarsh is likely not to be the only sophomore you'll see in the 2009 postseason, however. Guys like linebacker Hunter Barry, fullback Greg Struck, wing back Jake Ruettiger and end Jake Olson will also likely see some playing time.

"Barry's been an excellent linebacker for us. We have high hopes for him," Thorson said. "All of those guys will see a little bit of time here the way I see it. At least depending on the situation."

Dergo confirmed as much.

"We're always looking for guys who can step in and fill some spots for us in places we may not have a lot of depth at," Dergo said. "I know Olson's been playing on the line, but we need another tight end and we know he's a kid that can block. Ruettiger is going to be Gronek's backup, Struck fits into the rotation as a fullback and Barry is one of those parts that coach (Andy) Peterson likes to get into the game and then move around."

The three freshmen who get to put on the varsity uniform this afternoon include quarterback Danny Friend and lineman Craig Claire and Addison Shannon.

Morris freshman coach Bill Lauer thinks it will be good for all three of them just to suit up and be a part of the Redskins playoff run.

"Obviously this is a situation where a quarterback can get a tremendous amount of help," he said of Friend. "He's going to get to see the speed of the varsity game and to also see the speed at that level.

"And both Addie and Claire were with the sophomores this year. It's a situation where they have been helping out on the scout team with the varsity," he added. "It's a chance for them to get into situations where the coaches know they won't get killed in practice. It will be a good experience for all of them."

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