In transition year, Shaler out to earn respect

By: Josh Rizzo
Wednesday, August 7, 2024 | 6:01 AM

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Joe Rispoli doesn’t want anyone to think the Shaler football team’s transition to a new generation of players will mean a dip in performance level. Rispoli represents what the Titans hope can lead to success. They have a number of versatile players who can handle many jobs.

Rispoli, a senior linebacker, is likely to start the season as a first-year starting quarterback. But Rispoli, who also plays linebacker and running back, is comfortable playing wherever.

“I’ve been doing that since I was 9 years old,” Rispoli said. “When I was younger, I was always a lot bigger than other kids. As I started getting older, people caught up and got bigger than me. It helped me adapt to different positions.”

Shaler, which will open the season with a nonsection game Aug. 23 at Butler, will have to revamp its offense to match its outstanding production from last season. Shaler opened the season 4-0 before finishing 5-5. The Titans were 1-4 in Northeast Conference play.

Shaler’s offense was hit hard by graduation. The Titans lost their top passer, Keegan Smetanka, who threw for 1,854 yards and 12 touchdowns, and top rusher, Nate Rozzo.

The top three receivers from last season — Joe Desabato (811 yards), Kaden Orga (372) and Brandon London (367) — graduated.

Rispoli said he feels that Shaler is being overlooked.

“We want to prove people wrong,” Rispoli said. “I feel like we have no expectations. We love having zero expectations. I think we’re most looking forward to proving people wrong.”

Rispoli is one of three Shaler players in the mix to play at quarterback. Junior Aaron Aversa and sophomore Max Wiley will also be counted on to contribute to the offense and could see time under center.

Ben Yeckel and Zach Ehrenberger will return as starters on the offensive line, and Isaac McKay will play running back.

Titans coach Jim Ryan said that Shaler will have between 68 and 72 players dressing this season. Shuffling around the roster in the preseason has been important for the Titans.

“We’re seeing guys test out where their positions should be,” Ryan said. “We have some guys who will move from tailback to tight end and from tight end to wide receiver. We have a lot of good athletes and want to make the most out of all of them.”

Ryan said that Shaler has four starters returning on defense. Rispoli will play middle linebacker, while Troy Cignetti will contribute at wide receiver and defensive back.

The Titans are hoping to make major improvements to compete in a section where earning a playoff spot will be difficult. Shaler is lined up with Fox Chapel, North Hills, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland and Plum.

Rispoli said the Titans will want their defense to help set the tone.

“We play hard and play fast,” Rispoli said. “We aren’t scared. We have no expectations this year. The defense is ready to hit.”

Shaler

Coach: Jim Ryan

2023 record: 5-5, 1-4 in Class 5A Northeast Conference

All-time record: 373-449-30

SCHEDULE

Date, Opponent, Time

8.23 at Butler, 7

8.30 at South Fayette, 7

9.6 at Hampton, 7

9.13 at Plum*, 7

9.21 Woodland Hills, 1:30

9.27 at Penn Hills*, 7

10.4 Central Catholic, 7

10.11 North Hills*, 7

10.18 Fox Chapel*, 7

10.25 at Pine-Richland*, 7

* Conference game

STATISTICAL LEADERS

Passing : Keegan Smetanka*

129-198, 1,854 yards, 12 TDs

Rushing: Nate Rozzo*

143-705 yards

Receiving: Joe DeSabato*

45-811 yards

*Graduated

FAST FACTS

• Shaler has only won two conference games during the previous four seasons.

• The Titans are 10-10 over their previous 20 games.

• Shaler last made the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs in 2019.

• The Titans will play five of their first six games on the road.

Tags: Shaler