2026 PRZNY Team Previews: Iona Prep Gaels

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><span style="font-size: revert;white-space: normal;font-family: var(--wp--preset--font-family--system-fonts)">Want to stay updated with the latest news and articles from Prep Redzone NY? Follow me on Twitter </span><strong style="white-space: normal;font-family: var(--wp--preset--font-family--system-fonts)"><a href="https://x.com/PRZcory">PrzCory</a></strong><span style="font-size: revert;white-space: normal;font-family: var(--wp--preset--font-family--system-fonts)"> so you never miss a beat!</span></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Last Season (11-1)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Iona Prep navigated the storm and took home the Catholic League Championship, defeating St. Francis (Monsignor Martin). The Gaels led by Coach Spagnolo, held only one loss through the regular season, taking down teams like Paramus Catholic, Somers, Archbishop Stepinac, and St. Anthony's. The lone loss came mid season to Monsignor Farrell. The Gaels got their revenge, dominating the playoffs taking down the Friars once again, and defeating the Lions in the Championship game. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Top Prospect</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1355476"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1bc0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The Gaels have a loaded roster, but the top player easily has to be lineman [player_tooltip player_id='1355476' first='Dilen' last='Mulaj']. The 2028 Gaels Lineman is massive at 6'9" 340-Pounds. He has elite hands, and good speed. He showcases good strength and can hold down the edge well, being a leading force to run behind, and a player who can give you time off the edge to throw the ball downfield. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">X-Factors</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["741078"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1c3f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='741078' first='Mamadee' last='Sangaray'] is what I call a unicorn. He can play all over the field on defense and have an impact at multiple positions. He is an excellent tackler, and shows a high IQ, which finds him making plays across the line. He is the defensive leader in the Secondary, and I expect the future Boston College prospect to flourish once again this season for Coach Spagnolo. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1354562"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1c93"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">In a competitive league, the QB play makes all the difference. With a young star making his first start this season. He is a quick smart athlete who showcases good arm talent and a quick release. His performance will be important for this young raw offensive skill group, making him an X-Factor to watch this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["741083"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1cdd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Simmons had an elite year, and was by far the breakout player on this Gaels squad. He picked up over ten offers, and committed to Wake Forest recently. The talented Edge rusher, is elite off the line, showcasing outstanding speed and strength off the line. Simmons is by far an X-Factor, and will be a key player in helping the Iona Prep Defense limit points against talented offenses this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1203435"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1d24"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Reeves is deemed as the next man up in the backfield for Iona Prep. With the departure of Crew Davis, Reeves will be an important piece in creating a strong ground game. He is a quick physical back with solid size. I like his skillset, and if given the keys, I think he can run away with them and solidify himself as the next top Iona Prep RB. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["741080"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1d6d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Farrell is one of many key pieces of this stacked Iona Prep interior Defensive Line. He has outstanding size at 6'2" 250-Pounds, and showcases good hands, and strength. His footwork and use of tool bag off the line. Farrell holds over seven offers, and has recently committed to Delaware. He is easily a name to watch this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Names To Know</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:table --> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td>Positions</td><td>Name</td><td>Class</td><td>Notes</td></tr><tr><td>DL/OL</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1646952' first='Dashawn' last='Harley']</td><td>2027</td><td>Harley is a talented interior prospect. He is committed to URI, and has elite strength and power. </td></tr><tr><td>TE/WR</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1639318' first='Anthony' last='Menghi']</td><td>2029</td><td>Menghi is a talented offensive weapon who made an appearance on varsity late in the year.</td></tr><tr><td>WR/ATH</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='939939' first='Aidan' last='Cassidy']</td><td>2027</td><td>Cassidy is a talented athlete who picked up a few offers as of lately. </td></tr><tr><td>DB/ATH</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1365123' first='Zander' last='Poole']</td><td>2027</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1365123' first='Zander' last='Poole'] is one of the many talented DB's on this squad. Should have a massive impact. </td></tr><tr><td>LB/RB</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1641590' first='Hunter' last='DeBellis']</td><td>2028</td><td>Hunter is an incoming transfer for the Gaels, who can play on both sides of the ball making an impact for Iona Prep. </td></tr><tr><td>DL</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1476878' first='Brady' last='Morison']</td><td>2027</td><td>Morison is another talented interior lineman, who has multiple D1 Offers, and will make an impact. </td></tr><tr><td>OL/DL</td><td>Kayden Cade-Lewis</td><td>2027</td><td>A veteran Lineman who made a big impression last season, should step into a bigger role this year. </td></tr><tr><td>DL/OL</td><td>Joshua Feldickso</td><td>2027</td><td>A rotational DL piece with good strength and motor. Excellent depth prospect for Iona Prep. </td></tr><tr><td>LB/ATH</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='939436' first='Eric' last='Camacho Jr']</td><td>2027</td><td>Camacho Jr, is an excellent LB who has good coverage skills, and is a high IQ prospect. He is a name to watch this season, and a member of the Watch List. </td></tr><tr><td>WR//DB</td><td>[player_tooltip player_id='1365293' first='Mason' last='Materia']</td><td>2027</td><td>Materia is another talented two way athlete the Gaels have. He is excellent on special teams, and should make an impact as a key player this season. </td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <!-- /wp:table --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Breakout Player</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":2241530,"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a8fe0e1dbb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2241530' first='Trey' last='Newton'] is a new player to the Gaels roster, and the Upper Delaware Valley Pennsylvania prospect had an elite Freshman season, showcasing elite hands, and the ability to make high level plays with solid footwork, and good route running. As a new face to the roster, I expect him to have an elite breakout campaign this fall. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Losses</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>ATH- Brennan Pressley-Gannon</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>RB- Crew Davis-North Carolina</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>WR- Joe Wolf-Stonehill</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>WR- Eric Pirrello-Fordham</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>QB- Julian Guzman-Baseball</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>MLB- Orion Trujillo-Springfield</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>OL- Carlos Malespin-Unoin</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>OL- Anthony Dinapoli-Central Connecticut State</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Schedule</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/ny/new-rochelle/iona-prep-gaels/football/schedule">https://www.maxpreps.com/ny/new-rochelle/iona-prep-gaels/football/schedule</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2026 Outlook</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A stacked Defense and a young raw and talented offense makes up the Iona Prep squad this season. As they look to defend the State Championship, they have some tough games to work through. Matchups against Paramus Catholic (NJ), CBA-Syracuse, St. Anthony's, and Monsignor Farrell. The Catholic League is loaded with talented teams, and defending it will be hard. The Gaels can repeat this season, but only time will tell.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->