Wrapping Up 2012
Published: December 27, 2012
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It is only fitting that as 2012 winds to a close two local high school football players attained all-state honors. In recent years, this has become a trend as Class A football in the Lackawanna Football Conference is recognized and respected statewide thanks to Old Forge and Riverside.
This year the Old Forge football team had amazing season where they won the Lackawanna Football Conference Division III title, went undefeated in the regular season and won 11 games total, which is now a school record.
The Blue Devils had several outstanding players and last week Brian Tomasetti and Shane Schuback were each named members of the 2012 Pennsylvania Sports Writers' Class A All-State Football Team. Both were named to the defensive team, Tomasetti as an athlete and Schuback as a linebacker.
Locally, Tomasetti is best known for his skill as a running back, where he set several single season records at Old Forge, but he was a ball hawk on defense and scored several touchdowns after intercepting passes. Schuback was dominating from his linebacker spot as he anchored one of the best defensive units in the state.
Riverside also had a player of its own setting records. Nick Dranchak completed a fine high school football career and it was one to remember. A three year starter at quarterback, he became the Vikings' all-time leading passer and led an explosive Riverside offense that could score from anywhere on the field.
They were some highlights from the football season and, with basketball just getting underway, there is one big event remaining on the 2012 schedule - the 26th annual Taylor Lions Holiday Basketball tournament. Riverside is the host team for one of longest running tournaments in the area. The girls started on Wednesday and the consolation game and championship will be held on Friday. The boys' tournament will start on Thursday night and conclude on Saturday night.
In 2012, both Riverside and Old Forge basketball fans had reasons to be proud.
The Vikings featured Jerry Kincel, one of the best players in school history. He became Riverside's all-time leading scorer. Riverside also saw the end of the Mike Morgan coaching era at Riverside. The longtime coach retired in 2012 and will be missed.
The Old Forge girls' basketball team took home the PIAA District 2 Class A title in 2012. The Lady Devils were the only Triboro area team to earn a District 2 title in 2012 and they also had an impressive showing in the PIAA Class A state playoffs.
Lauren Carey scored 40 points in the Lady Devils' second round win over Lebanon Catholic it was truly a remarkable performance for a sophomore.
The Old Forge boys' basketball team helped their longtime leader earn his 400 career win. Al Semenza earned his 400 win in the PIAA District 2 Class A playoffs against Forest City.
In the spring, the Old Forge baseball team had a solid season lead by a great pitching staff. The Blue Devils went 11-5 led by pitcher Dave Chromey. The Old Forge boys' baseball team made another run for the PIAA District 2 Class A title, but lost in the title game to Lackawanna Trail.
The highlight of the spring season for Riverside was the speed of Dave Sweetman. He was one of fastest runners in the area as he finished second in the 100-meter dash and the 200-meter dash in the PIAA District 2 Class AA Track and Field championships.
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