Captain's Corner

The Headless Horsemen are using last year as a learning experience, eager to re-write the script in 2011.

This summer, the team displayed a new high-order commitment to the game. With performances in speed camp, Fordham University football camp, and captain's practices, it's clear this team wants to right the ship.

They’ve broken down film on their opponent, Pelham, and have a general idea of what game plan to install against the high-flying Pelicans. With captains Nick Vallo, L.J. Garrant and Tyler O’Donnell leading by action and example, a new promising season kicks off Friday.

The Horsemen boast a beefed up offensive line and an aerial game that could potentially be a difference maker this season. With a slew of weapons who could haul in Vallo’s downfield strikes, expect Sleepy Hollow to air the ball out. The Horsemen feature an every down back in L.J. Garrant, a hard and versatile runner who is being actively pursued by Patriot League schools. Garrant excels at switching gears and is always a threat to break a momentum-bolstering run.

Sleepy’s line has considerable size, beginning with 290-pound man-child Frank Curanaj. Offensive linemen Ezekiel Sierra (6-foot-2, 220 pounds) and elite blocker Anthony Multari (6-foot-2, 250) certainly form a tough unit for a high school team to pound the ball against.

In Week 1’s Captain’s Corner, one captain discusses the excitement surrounding the game, how to neutralize the opponent, and the nature of the Headless Horsmen’s offensive attack.

Nick Vallo, senior quarterback

On Sleepy Hollow’s Offense:

“We’re running both spread and under center, and we’ve got a lot of kids on this team who could catch passes and snag catches in traffic. We’re looking solid in that department. Jake Warren, Darien James, Zeek Sierra, Whitman Cossaboom, Dom Onwe, Dionel Infante. We plan to attack Pelham based on what their defense gives us. The way we plan to attack Pelham through the air is through a lot of mirror routes, since they run a Cover-3.”

On Pelham: “The way I look at it, everyone has a job to do. Pelham is a great team, we know we’re facing a considerable contender out there. We’re aware of this. If everyone does their job and we go out and execute, we should have an excellent night.

On The Excitement Surrounding The Game:

“It’s very exciting. People from school are really excited and showing tremendous support for the team. I’ve been getting text messages from people throughout the town. Many have said they’re going to be there so we expect a good portion of Sleepy fans (at Pelham High School). For the seniors, it’s disappointing that this will be our last Friday night game. So, we’re extra hyped to play this last one, and hopefully the outcome will be us on top.”

On Pelham Running Back/Wide Receiver Ke’shaun Stallworth, nephew of famed NFL player Donte Stallworth:  "He’s their running back and a key piece in their offense. Our defense has to step it up against him. Stopping him is a tall order. He runs hard and he’s really good.”