By MICHAEL FEELY

Staff Writer

Rams head coach Mike Morgan was preparing for football practice this past Wednesday, Aug. 24 and was optimistic about the coming season.

“We have very good numbers this year,” he said. “We have 30 varsity players, low 20s in JV and 25 in Pee Wee. It should be an interesting season.”

The Rams will have two scrimmages next week playing the Ventnor Pirates on Tuesday and the Galloway Renegades on Thursday. Both scrimmages are scheduled for 6 p.m. at the 42nd Street complex.

The season will start with a tribute to Lou Wagenheim, an individual who has long been identified with the Brigantine Rams. Prior to the season opener on Sunday, Sept. 11, the Rams will pay tribute to the man who founded their organization and inspired numerous young men over the years. His lifetime contribution to the island’s youth is immeasurable.

Morgan has assembled a strong all-star staff. Tommy Braco is returning as offensive coordinator and Beau Glenn, an Oakcrest teacher and Brigantine lifeguard, will be running the defense. They will be assisted by Tom Tierney, John McManus, Keith Sooey, Blake Morgan and Bill Chafe.

“We have a lot of speed this year, but not a lot of experience,” said Morgan. “This is a very coachable group of kids and they should come together quickly. We are focusing on developing all of our kids. We foster a team environment that makes their off-field accomplishments accentuate their on-field experience.”

“I am very excited,” Morgan continued. “This is the most people we have had involved in years. We have some natural leaders, particularly Jason Tarantino, Anthony Dobronte and Joe Curinga. Curinga is a great example of someone who has worked hard and shows the others how to succeed.” He also singled out newcomers R.J. Davis, Mario Penagos and Angel Jimenez.

The JVs will be led by Coach Angelo Coia and assisted by Paul Marrandino and Craig Finley. Coach Tom Trockenbrod will be leading the Peewee’s for the second year.

“We went from 17 players last year to 25 players this year,” he said. “We look a lot stronger, more versatile.”

Trockenbrod emphasized the help that parents have given him in building the Peewee program.

“We make sure that the players are having fun as they learn basic football skills. If they have fun, they will come back and bring their friends.”

He will be assisted by Bob Hoke, Will Sanchez and Kevin Dougherty.

The Rams cheerleaders this year are headed up by Head Coach Jeanine Kaplan. Sarah Flickinger is running the JV squad and Luanne Klemm is heading up the Peewee cheerleaders.

Fall is right around the corner and one of the best harbingers of that season is the opening of the fall Rams season. What better way to enjoy the cooler weather than supporting the Rams on a Sunday afternoon? Opening day is Sept. 11. Circle your calendar.