Ithica is getting a good one in Joe Spirra Joe Spirra 6'2" | 200 lbs | LB Bridgewater-Raritan | 2024 State NJ . Spirra, who had a coming out party under hall of fame coach Rick Mantz, took his game to a whole different level under Mantz’s heir DJ Catalano. Under Catalano Spirra showed more versatility from the linebacker position by blitzing and showing that he can play the passing lanes effectively. As more was expected and demanded of Spirra, the more he did.

Although he only served one season as head coach of the Bridgewater-Raritan Panthers, legendary coach Rick Mantz’s impact on the program was immense. One player in particular, Joe Spirra Joe Spirra 6'2" | 200 lbs | LB Bridgewater-Raritan | 2024 State NJ , may have benefited from Mantz arrival the most. This stout 6’1″ 200lb LB’s fingerprints were all on the Panther’s defense this season, as he racked up 86 tackles, 4 TFL, 3 Sacks, and 1 Int, breaking out in a big way as his second year as a starter. Spirra, a team captain who also plays baseball for the Panthers, played mostly in the middle. He does a really nice job of pressing his gap and sizing up ball carriers as they enter the hole. He also has shown athleticism to play outside the box, only to bounce back in the box to make plays. He is willing to chase ball carriers all over the field. I would love to see Spirra make more plays in the backfield, which I think he can do. By doing so, he will force the issue, forcing running backs to make  business decisions. By staying faithful to reading his keys, this kid ought to get it done. Coach Mantz and Spirra crossed paths at the right time. Equipped with leadership qualities and some great experience, I expect a big jump for the quarterback of the Panther’s defense this fall. Hudl