Replacing someone like all-state running back Matt Tralli is something that will be almost an impossible task but according to Croton-Harmon coach John Catano, that’s part of the business.

“Every Pop Warner team, high-school team, college team has players that go on, move away, graduate, that’s a part of life,” Catano said. “Nobody can replace on their own what Matt did. I am confident though that if the players we have this year play up to the their capabilities we will be fine.”

Considering the Tigers track record, they should be fine. A year ago, the Tigers finished the year at 10-1, won the Section 1 Class B title on their way to an appearance in the state semifinals.

The two years before that, they were sectional finalists (2009) and state finalists (’08).

An example of the Tigers’ great track record in recent years has been their play at the quarterback position. That has been kept up by senior Jesse Mainiero, who rushed for 934 yards and nine touchdowns a year ago.

Source: Patch.com