After four consecutive years playing in the
state title game, Mooney's season ended a bit premature for their
liking last season. With a jump up to D-III this season, the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals will
need to rely on a veteran group of players returning on offense and
defense if they hope to have a chance to make a run deep into the
playoffs this season.
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Mooney has been one of the top programs in the
state regardless of Division over the last several years winning two state
titles since 2004.
After reaching the regional finals last season
in D- IV, the Cardinals make the jump up to D-III.
Mooney returns eight starters on offense and
defense led by a solid nucleus of seniors.
“As any other successful Mooney team, senior
leadership is key,” head coach P.J. Fecko said. “The seniors are a very close
group and might be the hardest working senior group we have had at Mooney in
years.”
Mooney will be strong in the backfield with
Braylon Heard, Vinaopal and Griffin toting the ball. Donald D’Alesio and George
Lyras provide athleticism at wideout and in the secondary.
Team speed will also be key.
“This is not only the hardest working group
but also by far the fastest group we have ever had,” Fecko said.
Photo Gallery: Cardinal Mooney High School - 2009
Alex Zordich - Quarterback - Sr.
Mark Brandenstein - Fullback/Linebacker - Sr.
Ray Vinopal - RB/DB - Sr.
Karrington Griffin - RB - Sr.
Braylon Heard - RB/DB - Sr.
Braylon Heard is a West Virginia commit.
Both Heard and Vinopal were members of Mooney's D-II 4X100 State Championship relay team the past two years.
Eric Franklin - OL - Sr.
Zach Larson - OL - Sr.
Eric Vendemia - OL - Sr.
Mark Pelini - OL - Sr.
Vendemia and Franklin are the bookend tackles on the offensive line. - RB/DB - Sr.
Chuckie Gruber - LB - Sr.
John Stoops - WR/DB - Sr.
Joe Stoops - WR/LB - Sr.
Cardinal Mooney Coaching Staff - Head Coach P.J. Fecko - bottom row - center
Youngstown Mooney 2009 Schedule
