2022 Season Preview: Lawrence Academy “Spartans”

<!-- wp:image {"align":"center","id":432511,"width":273,"height":276,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2022/08/nvqs5b5rqwlseoepc4zp.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-432511" width="273" height="276" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our next Preseason Team Preview is the 2022 Massachusetts Lawrence Academy "Spartans", on their quest for another NESPAC ISL League Championship.&nbsp;Lawrence Academy competes in the 16-team&nbsp;Independent School League&nbsp;(ISL), which consists of selective college preparatory schools in and around the greater Boston area from as far north as Byfield, Massachusetts to as far south as Newport, R.I. All ISL schools are members of NEPSAC, the New England Private School Athletic Council, which governs all interscholastic play for independent schools in the Northeast. Lawrence Academy is the high school home of current NFL Green Bay Packer running back A.J. Dillon. The program is known to showcase D1 - D3 talent every year. The Spartans Head Coach is Jason Swepson. This is a position he has held since 2018. Swepson served as head football coach at&nbsp;Elon University&nbsp;from 2011 to 2013, compiling a record of 10–24. Previously, he was the running backs coach under&nbsp;Tom O'Brien&nbsp;at&nbsp;North Carolina State University&nbsp;and&nbsp;Boston College. Swepson played&nbsp;running back&nbsp;at Boston College from 1989 to 1992.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview:</strong> Since 2018, the Knights have appeared in one NEPSAC Super Bowl Championship. The program had great success under former Head Coach Paul Zukauskas, a former All-American at Boston College who played five years in the NFL, and took over a turbulent Spartans program in 2011 that ended with his resignation just prior to the 2018 season. While at Lawrence Academy, Zukauskas quickly turned the Groton-based program into a juggernaut among the New England prep schools. During his leadership, the Spartans won at least a share of the four ISL titles and three straight NEPSAC bowl games. The program is on the rise again this coming season and one can expect them to be in the running for another ISL Championship and NESPAC Bowl appearance. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2021 Season Results:</strong> The Spartans had a bounce-back season last year going 7-1 in the regular season which earned them a NESPAC Bowl invite. The Spartans were defeated by a very talented Choate Rosemary team 35-7. The Spartan's play caught the attention of many within the ISL as they competed with a good core of underclassmen and senior leadership from high-caliber recruits. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Toughest Losses to Graduation:</strong> <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13373181">Ty Chan</a> (OL) Notre Dame; <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11846994">Matt Ragan</a> (TE) Boston College; <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13371484">Hollis Dirstine</a> (OL) Boston College; <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/15270112">[player_tooltip player_id='368072' first='Evan' last='Thompson']</a> Colin Reynolds (TE) Holy Cross; <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/15270095">Fenix Figueroa</a> (RB) Hobart College; <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/9742904">[player_tooltip player_id='399297' first='Ryan' last='Puglisi']</a> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Players to watch</strong>: </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310b33d082cb","name":"acf/evaluation-block","align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091b90"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310b72044ce6","name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["368071"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Known by many college coaches for his special consistent long snapping abilities, Hatfield will make it to the next level for sure. He is accurate on his snaps and was good speed after the snap to get downfield and make a play.  Already has offer or support through the admission process at Wesleyan University and another offer from University of Rochester.  Schuster can also play LB where he physical presence from the outside linebacker position and aggressive on the edge. His reaction to run support plays are quick while still holding the edge. He will likely get additional interest from schools after his senior season.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091bc9"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310b3c144ce4","name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["402958"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Hatfield is a versatile athlete. Playing safety he is a ball hawker with the ability to come up hard for run support.  When he identifies the play he reacts quickly with speed and aggression to make a play. On offense, he plays RB. At the RB position, he is seen being illusive in space.  He can cut on the dime and appears flexible and loose in his hips. He runs hard and is patient in locating the hole. Has a nice wiggle to him where he can change direction to avoid being tackled.  Finishes the run by falling forward upon contact or making the defender pay by lowering his shoulder on impact.  I like him at the RB position and project he will have a good amount of schools showingadditonal  interest during or after his senior season","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091bf1"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/GavinHatfield33/status/1464051985666252810?s=20u0026t=lQ9COzue_vtSMM0EQCaGDA","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/GavinHatfield33/status/1464051985666252810?s=20&amp;t=lQ9COzue_vtSMM0EQCaGDA </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310b97644ce8","name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["368070"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Has great instincts and can quickly identify the hole and fill it. Has the physical ability to get there to make the play. Does a nice job on zone coverages.  Aggressive tackler that can bring the hammer. Sideline to sideline speed pops on film.  Has a nice first-step quickness that can't be ignored. His closing speed and chasing down plays are imperative at the position.  He does it well. He is getting interest from Harvard, Dartmouth, and Bucknell.  More schools will likely come on board after his senior season.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091c19"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/DenzelKhasabo/status/1463165529879986192?s=20u0026t=3JLHDVKG6GzgWjZyXo-Wfw","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/DenzelKhasabo/status/1463165529879986192?s=20&amp;t=3JLHDVKG6GzgWjZyXo-Wfw </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310cb1644ce9","name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["433565"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Landolfi is a 2022 MIAA public school reclass transfer to NESPAC.   In fall 2021, he played at Hanover H.S. in Massachusetts where he was a Boston Herald All Scholastic selection.   He now brings his QB skills to Lawrence Academy (ISL), where he will certainly see a higher level of competition.  We expect him too easily translate his game over to the u0022Spartansu0022 program while also making an immediate impact that will attract additional schools at the next level.  He has already caught the attention of D1 schools.  He is getting interest from Boston College, Dartmouth College, and Harvard College.  In evaluating Michaels's 2021 film, we see Michael throws with an over-the-top delivery. Michael has very good size for a 2024 dual-threat QB at 6'1” and 185 lbs. He can be very dangerous out in the open field while seeking out big plays downfield. An athletic QB that can hurt a defense in the air or on the ground.  He can shift gears in a hurry. Displays excellent vision downfield while on the run. A tough-minded QB who wants to win.  He will likely have a slew of interest that will lead to offers after his fall 2022 jr season.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091c4a"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Mikelandolfi2/status/1504124470176399367?s=20u0026t=sd4mGn6X9Swt59fgIE3-FA","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Mikelandolfi2/status/1504124470176399367?s=20&amp;t=sd4mGn6X9Swt59fgIE3-FA </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"id":"block_6310e17c44cea","name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["433767"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"He fires off the ball quickly. He uses good leverage coming out of his def stance which allows him to shoot and maintain his gap.  Has a good burst that allows him to use his leg strength to over power his blocker.  Has a good motor and doesn't give up on plays. He uses good hand placement when shedding his blocks. He has a good frame at 6'2u0022 and moves fairly quickly at 260lbs.  He is getting IVY interest along with UMass.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"align":"","mode":"preview","anchor":"acf-block-649a051091c6e"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/domselvitelli/status/1463317361398800384?s=20u0026t=39oEQuY0cSwKL7rcnxa2Ig","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/domselvitelli/status/1463317361398800384?s=20&amp;t=39oEQuY0cSwKL7rcnxa2Ig </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>More Names to Know:</strong> 2023 [player_tooltip player_id='433566' first='JAKE' last='WARD'] (TE/DE); 2023 [player_tooltip player_id='386965' first='Dashel' last='Dunlea'] (WR); 2024 [player_tooltip player_id='384333' first='Tavian' last='Fenderson'] (WR/DB): 2024 [player_tooltip player_id='380932' first='Michael' last='Gregoire Jr']. (RB); 2024 Trent Jackson (OL/DL); 2024 [player_tooltip player_id='982973' first='Sam' last='Healey'] (OL/DL); 2024 ROLLIN HUGHES (K/P); 2024 Owen Mcvay (LB/WR); 2024 Jovan Mobley (WR/DB); 2024 [player_tooltip player_id='405403' first='Cole' last='Nelson'] (DE); 2024 [player_tooltip player_id='405405' first='Matt' last='Pierotti'] (OL/DL); 2025 [player_tooltip player_id='385340' first='Jason' last='Jefferson'] Jr (DB); 2025 Jordan Johnson (DB/LB); 2025 Garrett Lanagar (OL/DL); 2025 [player_tooltip player_id='405400' first='Derek' last='Schlupf'] (OL/DL)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/dashel-dunlea/"></a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2022 Schedule:</strong> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:table --> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table><thead><tr><td>Date/Time</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Opponent</td><td>Location</td><td>Must See</td><td>League</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Sat Sep 17 2:30 PM</td><td>@</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Middlesex School</td><td>Middlesex School<br>Football Field</td><td></td><td>S</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Sep 24 1:00 PM</td><td>vs</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Belmont Hill School</td><td>Murbach Fld @ Lawrence Acad.<br>Stadium</td><td></td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Oct 1 3:30 PM</td><td>@</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Milton Academy</td><td>Milton Academy<br>Stokinger</td><td>Must see</td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Oct 8 3:30 PM</td><td>vs</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">St. George's School</td><td>Murbach Fld @ Lawrence Acad.<br>Stadium</td><td></td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Oct 15 1:30 PM</td><td>@</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Thayer Academy</td><td>Thayer Academy<br>Stadium 1</td><td></td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Fri Oct 21 6:00 PM</td><td>vs</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">St. Sebastians School</td><td>Murbach Fld @ Lawrence Acad.<br>Stadium</td><td>Must see</td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Oct 29 1:00 PM</td><td>vs</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Tabor Academy</td><td>Murbach Fld @ Lawrence Acad.<br>Stadium</td><td></td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Fri Nov 4 2:30 PM</td><td>@</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Governor's Academy</td><td>Governor's Acad.<br>Football Field</td><td>Must see</td><td>L</td></tr><tr><td>Sat Nov 12 12:00 PM</td><td>@</td><td><img src="https://cdn.arbitersports.com/Shared/SchoolLogos/logoGeneric11.png">Buckingham Browne Nichols School</td><td>BB&amp;N - Nichols Field<br>BB&amp;N - Nichols Field</td><td>Must see</td><td>L</td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <!-- /wp:table --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Notables: Lawrence Academy </strong>&nbsp;is a private,&nbsp;nonsectarian,&nbsp;coeducational&nbsp;college&nbsp;preparatory boarding school&nbsp;located in&nbsp;Groton, Massachusetts, in the United States. Founded in 1792 by a group of fifty residents of Groton and&nbsp;Pepperell, Massachusetts&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Groton Academy</strong>, and chartered in 1793 by Governor&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Hancock">John Hancock</a>, Lawrence is the tenth oldest boarding school in the United States, and the third in Massachusetts, following&nbsp;Governor Dummer Academy and&nbsp;Phillips Academy, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Championship History: </strong> Lawrence Academy "Spartans" Football: 2014 and 2015, 2016, 2017 ISL Champions. 2014, 2015, 2017 NEPSAC Bowl Champions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/dashel-dunlea/">&nbsp;</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->