Bridger football staff from left: Jim Rekowski, James Matthews, Scott McMullen, Dan Bradley, Dan Rovira, Joe Petrovich and David Coleman. Missing: Todd Fisher.
By Larissa Dudkiewicz
Parents and students got a taste of what the new Bridger football season will be like after meeting the head coach and staff Wednesday night.
Dan Bradley also introduced members of his coaching staff, many of whom he’s worked with for years, during the high school meet and greet.
“You guys didn’t pick me," he said. "I chose you because I believe in you.”
In discussing his football philosophy, Bradley said he’ll rely on accountability as the framework for the program. He said it will also take some effort, discipline and resilience to create a winning program where students thrive.
“There’s a level of expectation that’s probably going to be a little higher than you’re used to,” he said.
Bradley was named Ambridge’s new varsity football coach in February after working previously at Sto-Rox. Bradley coached Sto-Rox for two seasons and guided the Vikings to the WPIAL Class A title game both years. He coached in five WPIAL championships total.
“He’s a proven winner,” Athletic Director Shawn Besong told parents before introducing the coach. “The guy knows what he’s doing.”
Parents and students got a taste of what the new Bridger football season will be like after meeting the head coach and staff Wednesday night.
Dan Bradley also introduced members of his coaching staff, many of whom he’s worked with for years, during the high school meet and greet.
“You guys didn’t pick me," he said. "I chose you because I believe in you.”
In discussing his football philosophy, Bradley said he’ll rely on accountability as the framework for the program. He said it will also take some effort, discipline and resilience to create a winning program where students thrive.
“There’s a level of expectation that’s probably going to be a little higher than you’re used to,” he said.
Bradley was named Ambridge’s new varsity football coach in February after working previously at Sto-Rox. Bradley coached Sto-Rox for two seasons and guided the Vikings to the WPIAL Class A title game both years. He coached in five WPIAL championships total.
“He’s a proven winner,” Athletic Director Shawn Besong told parents before introducing the coach. “The guy knows what he’s doing.”
Parents had the chance to ask questions with some wondering if freshmen would have the opportunity to start, as well.
Bradley said it will be based on ability and opportunity, adding that all players will have to earn their keep.
About 45 to 50 students incoming grades 10 to 12 plan to participate.
Juniors Stephon McGinnis and Tre Parker both said they met Bradley prior to Wednesday night and are looking forward to their senior year season.
Both students say they started conditioning, but Bradley plans to bring on a new weightlifting and workout schedule starting next week.
“I actually like the new coach,” said Stephon, 17, who plays slot back and defensive back. “I can tell he’s a positive coach. He has a couple wins under his belt, He’s won five titles, so I think we’ll have a better chance and a better record this year, actually.”
Tre Parker, 17, plays wide receiver and corner back, and will also be a senior in the fall.
“I think he’s cool,” added Tre, who plays wide receiver and corner back. “He’ll help us win more this year than with last year.”
Chuck Campalong, of the boosters club, said the turnout was much more than he expected.
"The coach is a great guy. He's a proven winner and it's what the community needs," he said.
Like Ambridge Connection on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Bradley said it will be based on ability and opportunity, adding that all players will have to earn their keep.
About 45 to 50 students incoming grades 10 to 12 plan to participate.
Juniors Stephon McGinnis and Tre Parker both said they met Bradley prior to Wednesday night and are looking forward to their senior year season.
Both students say they started conditioning, but Bradley plans to bring on a new weightlifting and workout schedule starting next week.
“I actually like the new coach,” said Stephon, 17, who plays slot back and defensive back. “I can tell he’s a positive coach. He has a couple wins under his belt, He’s won five titles, so I think we’ll have a better chance and a better record this year, actually.”
Tre Parker, 17, plays wide receiver and corner back, and will also be a senior in the fall.
“I think he’s cool,” added Tre, who plays wide receiver and corner back. “He’ll help us win more this year than with last year.”
Chuck Campalong, of the boosters club, said the turnout was much more than he expected.
"The coach is a great guy. He's a proven winner and it's what the community needs," he said.
Like Ambridge Connection on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and sign up for our weekly newsletter.
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