Harvard graduated most of its top players last year. But after going 10-2 and reaching the state quarterfinals for two straight years, the Hornets remain a preseason favorite to win conference.

“We probably graduated the most out of everybody,” Harvard’s 24-year coach Tim Haak said. “But one thing about our program is we always have kids who love the game of football and have a great work ethic.”

Big Northern East coaches pick Harvard and Hampshire as the teams to beat this fall.

Harvard returns three offensive starters in WR Caleb Johnson, OT Miguel Flores and OT Matt Melson and two defensive starters in LB Mackey McCormick and DE Phil Towne.

AMY J. VAN HORN |
RRSTAR.COM
Tyler Bielski pulls in a pass
during an Aug. 20 practice
at North Boone High School.

But Hampshire may be in a position to take the title from the Hornets. The Whip-Purs moved to a new school and an expanded district, bumping their enrollment from 651 to 892.

Three starters return on each side, including all-conference FB Joe Moore and all-conference OT Ron Bronke.

“Hampshire seems like the team to beat,” Haak said. “The new school could have a big impact.”

Burlington Central returns several skill players, while Richmond-Burton brings back many linemen. Both are expected to finish in the top half of the conference. North Boone and Marengo are improved and will try to play the darkhorse.

“Harvard and Hampshire are likely the preseason favorites,” Richmond-Burton coach Pat Elder said. “Many teams in our division will be replacing key losses from a year ago. The team that gains confidence early will likely be a player in the conference race.”

Staff reporter Emily Tropp can be reached at 815-987-1385 or etropp@rrstar.com.