It’s no secret that Chopticon’s varsity football team has had difficulties over the last few years. With a disappointing record of 0-10 this past season, it’s obvious that spirits were low. This was until it was announced that AP World History teacher Anthony Lisanti would return as Head Coach. Lisanti was Head Coach at Chopticon for thirty-one years before leaving after the 2019-2020 season. The news of his return sent a wave of excitement throughout the school.
When asked why he came back to be Head Coach, Lisanti claimed that he saw something that he worked on was hurting, and when he was told he could fix it, he took it as a challenge. Previously, when he was head coach, Lisanti led the team to multiple winning seasons. This included 2010, 2011, 2016, and 2017. With that being said, it is understandable how the past few seasons could have influenced his return. The evidence of his past success can allow the community to feel confident in the changes he can make.
So far, the effects of the change in coaching have already been seen. Lisanti’s new motto “Restore the brotherhood” can be seen and heard all around. Different meetings and clubs have been held to strengthen the team- including Mr. Lisants’s Leadership Club. When asked about the club, he explains how everyone is welcome, not just football players, as being able to lead is a great skill to have. So far, up to forty people have attended. As well as this, Lisanti has seen around thirty-seven students in the weight room preparing. This engagement has fueled him and makes him excited for the upcoming season.
Looking forward, Lisanti is very prepared. He claims he is “never not prepared.” As for his athletes, they should expect a coach that believes in discipline and hard work. He wants the best out of them, and he cares. Therefore, they will be pushed and held accountable for their actions. This mindset is just part of the baseline of Lisanti’s plan for next season. It’s safe to say that players, families, and football fans should look forward to an exciting fall.