Green Bulldogs 2024 Football Forecast: What to expect from Green this season
Key Players and New Additions for Green’s 2024 Football Season
Finishing the 2023 season with a record of 10-4, losing to the eventual state champion Massillon Tigers in the Division II Region 5 championship, Green High School’s varsity football squad will head into their 2024 season after tough departures and intriguing additions.
Returning lettermen like Antonio Martin and AJ Fortunato will be difference makers on the field, while Jake Parsons, former Copley head coach, is now coaching their inside linebackers. Missing from the lineup Week 1 will be senior lineman Mike Schaal, who is 8 weeks and 3 days post-op after an injury in the lacrosse season; Mike earned 1st team honors in All-Ohio, All-District, and All-League.
Senior AJ Fortunato, who currently has an offer from the University of Heidelberg, will have an even bigger role as a fullback this season. Primarily lined up as a fullback to block, he’ll be essential for Green’s multiple offense. Fortunato already had his breakout season in 2023 at linebacker, he led the team with 117 tackles, including 85 solo tackles, six sacks, and 12 tackles for loss.
“I think my role has become more important as I’m an older guy…I need to become a leader for the team.” Fortunato said.
Senior Antonio Martin, returning from a knee injury, showcased his versatility last year, racking up six interceptions, 977 total yards, and 12 touchdowns across rushing and receiving. Returning from a knee injury again this season, he looks to increase his leadership role in his final season with the Bulldogs.
“I have high confidence in myself and my abilities to have the best season I’ve had yet,” Martin said.
Junior defensive tackle, Dario Lombardi, will most likely fill in the gaps left by Mike Schaal. Training extensively this offseason, he’s gotten faster and stronger. Not playing football for a year, Green’s scrimmage against Wadsworth (Aug. 9) will be his first time back in organized competition.
“Due to not being able to play football for a year I don’t really know what I can do, this offseason I’ve trained a lot to get faster and stronger…I truly believe that if you want something bad enough you can take it whether it’s a game or winning against the guy in front of you.” Lombardi said.
Spectators can expect Green’s trenches to be more physical than previous years, and maybe one of the most physical lines in the Federal League.
“We’re not the biggest but we’ll certainly keep fighting to win no matter what it takes.” Lombardi said.
As the Bulldogs prepare for another tough season, their sights are set on a deep playoff run. With experienced players returning and new coaching strategies in place, Green High School's football team is ready for anything. Their resilience and determination from previous seasons promise an exciting journey ahead. Although the path to the championship will be challenging, the Bulldogs are ready to tackle every obstacle.
“They should expect another playoff run from us…I think the way our team handles adversity would surprise anyone.” Antonio Martin said.
Here’s the essential index you need before August 23rd.
Head Coach
Mark Geis (6th year, 31-27 record)
Previous Achievements
2021: 11-4, state semifinal appearance.
2023: 10-4, regional final appearance.
Both seasons ended with losses to eventual state champions (Winton Woods in 2021 and Massillon in 2023).
Green’s Important Pieces
Antonio Martin (WR-DB, Sr.): All-Ohio second team on defense, 977 total yards, 12 touchdowns. Returning from knee injury.
AJ Fortunato (RB-LB, Sr.): Led team with 117 tackles, 6 sacks, and 12 TFLs.
Tyson Hunka (QB-DB, Jr.): Completed 62.6% passes for 571 yards, 11 TDs, 3 INTs in 6 games. Rushed for 257 yards and 2 TDs.
Evan Reed (RB-LB, Jr.): 117 tackles, 6 sacks, 12 TFLs. Will contribute at running back.
Anthony McMichael III (RB-S, Jr.): Key defensive player, expected to play a new role in the running game.
Kaden Gregory (WR-DB, Sr.): Stepping into a larger role at receiver.
Evan Georgiou (WR-DB, Jr.): Expected to have significant impact at wide receiver and in the secondary.
Dario Lombardi (OL-DL, Jr.): Returning from ACL injury sustained in Week 1 of 2023, force on both lines.
Zain Alqadhi (OL-DL, Jr.): Versatile player, larger role to play this season.
Rhon Bruce (WR-DB-P, Sr.): Putting in work over the off-season, aiming to be a key player.
2024 Season Schedule
Aug. 23: at Dover
Aug. 30: vs. Painesville Riverside
Sept. 6: vs. Tallmadge
Sept. 13: at Hoover
Sept. 20: vs. Jackson
Sept. 27: vs. McKinley
Oct. 4: at GlenOak
Oct. 11: at Louisville
Oct. 18: vs. Perry
Oct. 25: at Lake
You can view the athletic website here.
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