New Head Coach, New Outlook for Chicago Christian

A new season brings a welcome opportunity for Chicago Christian to erase the memory of last year's 4-5 record. And starting from scratch takes on even more meaning for the Knights thanks to their new head coach, Eric Washington.

Style of Play: Washington is trying to shape the Knights into a more versatile team.

"I'm not going to say that we're a strictly running football team," he said. "We're going to take whatever the game allows us to take. We'll do whatever we have to do to win."

Big Games: Every team goes into a game wanting to win. But there are a few opponents that are certain to get the Knights' blood pumping more than usual. Walther Lutheran is one of those teams because of the rivalry that developed between the two squads in their old conference. The Knights also have their sights set on beating last year's conference champion, Wheaton Academy.

 "We'll have [to play] Wheaton Academy," Washington said. "They won the conference last year and made the playoffs. So there are some bad feelings about that loss from last year."

Knights quarterback Jason Vander Lann said he's looking forward to playing Marmion Academy because it seems it's always a great match-up.

Key Players: Vander Laan brings valuable senior leadership to the team, along with his quarterbacking talents. Washington appreciates that Vander Laan has the ability to throw the ball well and to run when he has the opportunity. Washington is counting on Vander Laan to have a "special year."

Running back Stefphon Rose and offensive linemen Vince Laneve and Kyle Sendgikoski also are crucial components to the offense.

"Stefphon Rose is tough as nails. He's a kid that will run through a wall for you," Washington said. "Vince Laneve and Kyle Sendgikoski are going to be there to protect our quarterback and open up holes for the running backs."

In terms of receivers, Washington mentioned Michael Kamp and Richie Santarelli as players who are able to get open regularly. On the defensive side of the ball, Washington said Jantzen Deckinga and Calvin Vizzer are aggressive players who can have an impact.

Coach's Thoughts: "We're going to have to play well to be successful. I don't think there is such a thing as an easy game in our conference," Washington said. "But if we do the things that we need to, I believe that we have a shot."

The Goal: The Knights have set three goals for themselves:

   1.           Win the

   2.           Win conference.

   3.           Make the playoffs.

"We're focusing on Week One right now," Vander Laan said. "We've got to go out there and win it. That's one of our goals and we're going to do it."

Vander Laan said the team has worked a lot harder this offseason than in recent years.

"This is a year that everyone is looking forward to. I can't wait for it to start. Everyone wants it to start," he said. "I'm excited for this year. We're going to do some good things."

2010 Schedule:

Aug. 28 at Marengo, 5:15 p.m.

Sept. 3  vs. Eisenhower, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 10 at Aurora Central Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 17 vs. St. Edwards Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 vs. Walther Lutheran, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 1 vs. Wheaton Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 9 at Guerin College Prep, 1:00 p.m.

Oct. 15 at Marmion Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 22 vs. Immaculate Conception, 7:30 p.m.

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