Welcome to Camp: A Preview of the 2010 Portsmouth Patriots’ Football Team

Friday's practice was relaxed but upbeat. The team is organized and precise; focused and determined; aggressive and competitive; but at their core, the Portsmouth Patriots are having fun.

This might have to do with a big change to the Portsmouth football program - new head coach, Ryan Moniz.

The Patriots are transitioning into their third new system in three years, but the change has gone over smoothly. Coach Moniz isn't just bringing his spread option offense and multiple defensive sets to the Patriots, but a new work ethic, too.

"Everybody on the team competes with each other for spots. Coach has even put up a depth chart for us, to keep us competing," Patriots' senior running back and safety Ben Willet said after practice.

A year ago, the Portsmouth Patriots missed the Division 1 playoffs with a 4-4 record. This year, Coach Moniz believes if they are discipline, unselfish, with a consistent effort, good things will come.

"There are four elements that we need to have as a team to be successful this year. We need to play physical, play aggressive, play fast and have fun. If we do that, the wins will come," Coach Moniz said, at the end of practice on Friday morning. 

On the offensive side, the Patriots are deep at skill positions. The running back position is their biggest strength, which multiple players are fighting for the starting position. Mike Dublin is a top tight end in Rhode Island. Likewise, the starting quarterback slot remains up in the air at this point due to stiff competition.

"We have a lot of athletic kids who can play multiple positions, which gives us a lot of depth," Willet said about his teammates.

Although there is a lot of excitement on the offensive side of the ball, there is more excitement on the defensive side. When asked what the favorite part of practice is, both Dublin and Willet answered, with smiles, "Defense."

"We're big upfront on defense, we move real well, we have speed, we get to the football, and we have great tacklers too," Coach Moniz said. 

The Patriots unexpectedly added fuel to the fire this preseason—a surprise addition to the defensive line. James Desmet, a transfer student from Michigan and has been able to adapt to the team's defensive system and looks to play a pivotal role in he Patriots front line.

"Desmet is a big player; he's athletic and able to learn the system quick. He adds more talent to a defensive line that was talented to begin with," Coach Moniz said.

Desmet joins his new teammates who are learning a new system, too. However, the change has not scared any players, but motivated them. Even during the off-season, players have been ready for the beginning of the season.

"This off-season, we had 35 guys in the weight room, dedicated, serious and working hard, which was different than in previous years," Dublin said of the new attitude.

"The off-season was great for us; our coaches have been very dedicated and have given us a lot of preparation. Even though the weight room was mandatory, kids wanted to go," Willet said.

The focus, determination, aggression, and competition seem to be on one game. When asked which game they were anticipating most, Willet and Dublin answered "The next one."

Fans can watch the Portsmouth Patriots take on the Rogers Vikings in a scrimmage, at Portsmouth High School, on Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Strengths: Offensive skill position depth; speed on offense and defense; a big and athletic defensive line.

Weaknesses: Transitioning into their third system in 3 years.  

2009-2010 Season Statistics

State Rank: 11

Record: 4-4

Points allowed: 163

Points forced: 170

Leading Rusher: AJ Pollock, 133.6 yards per game.

Leading Tackler: Ben Willet, 10.7 per game.