Summer Camp Brings Together Local Powerhouses
The Schuylkill Haven Hurricanes opened their summer schedule with an 11‑on‑11 camp at Rotary Field, running from Tuesday to Thursday. The event drew a handful of area squads, including the Blue Mountain Eagles and the Southern Columbia Cougars, giving each program a chance to test schemes in a full‑contact setting.
Head coach Mike Farr used the platform to underline the importance of weight‑room conditioning and collective development. “We’re building a foundation that will carry us through the grind of the regular season,” Farr said, pointing to the Hurricanes’ 12‑1 finish last year and their narrow loss in the District 11 Class AA Championship.
Returning standouts headline the roster. Senior running back Colton Reber, who amassed 38 touchdowns and 2,875 yards a season ago, is slated to lead a backfield that also welcomes back several key contributors. The coaching staff highlighted the work ethic of players such as Triston Davis, Landon Houck and Chase Leibensperger, all of whom are expected to see expanded roles.
Blue Mountain and Southern Columbia Make Their Mark
Blue Mountain showcased an explosive offense, with junior quarterback Cohen Kirby directing the attack and senior wide receiver Chase Guers emerging as a top target. Guers, already committed to West Virginia University, is joined by a cadre of other prospects who impressed onlookers with their speed and route running.
North Schuylkill, under new head coach Joseph Tomtishen, used the camp to fine‑tune a scheme that emphasizes speed and hard work. Tomtishen, who previously served as an assistant at Tri‑Valley and coached at Lebanon Valley College, brought a fresh perspective to a program that finished 8‑4 last year and advanced to the District 11 Class 3A semifinals.
The camp also served as a reunion for several players who will be departing after the upcoming season. Names such as Niko Castillo, Ethan Kline, Chase Williams, Niko Carestia and Wyatt Keefer were recognized for their contributions, while the Hurricanes look to fill the gaps with rising talent.
With the high school football season slated to begin on August 28, the lessons learned on the field this summer will shape early preparations. Coaches across the board agree that the work done at Rotary Field will set the tone for a competitive year ahead.