Turnaround for Donahue Academy Football in 2nd Year
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Published on Sunday, 10 October 2010 16:51
The Donahue Academy Shamrocks closed out their regular sixman footbal season in impressive fashion Friday, beating Miami Christian 28-6 on the road. The victory improved the Ave Maria school's record to 6-1 on the season -- a dramatic 
turnaround from last year's debut season when the team managed only one win.
First-year head coach Rich Scanlon liked what he saw in the last game.
"In the the last game against Miami Christian," he said, "our team has come together and we are no longer playing as individuals or for individual glory, but, rather, for the benefit of the team. In general, we are much more selfless in October than we were in August."
Senior Dan Scarnecchia (right) had a great game in Miami, scoring three touchdowns, including one on a 60-yard run. Joe Guernsey also had a TD and Nick Jaroma added a safety.
Donahue narrowly missed going to the playoffs. The team that beat them in their only loss, Cape Coral Christian, finished the season undefeated and will represent the south Florida conference in playoffs beginning next week.
Although the regular season is over, the Shamrocks will play at least one more game, hosting Canterbury School at North Park Saturday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. Several teams in the league want to continue playing games to help improve their teams, Coach Scanlon said, and there may be a few more depending on the outcome of some playoff games.
"The progress that our players have made as individuals is tremendous," Coach Scanlon said. "Technique and fundamentals have improved tremendously since August 2nd, which was our first day of football camp."
"If we have a great off-season strength training and conditioning I believe we can be a very good team again next year. I am excited about the future of this program and encouraged by the work ethic of our players."
Below left, Ava Schneider, with her dad, defensive co-ordinator Scott Schneider, at the game to cheer on her brothers Jake and Cale. Right, Joe Guernsey. (all photos by Roy Lenardson)
