Both on and off the field, the Genesee County Spartans achieved what they set out to do this season in the Northeastern Football Alliance semipro league.
That’s the assessment of Head Coach Harry Rascoe and Board President Tammy Hathaway, who pointed to the team’s 7-3 record and an “all for one, one for all” attitude that bodes well for the 2025 campaign.
“We made great strides this year, without a doubt,” Rascoe said. “Our only losses were to (league champion) Lockport and there were no instances of misconduct. We’re only a couple players away from contending for the title.”
In its return to the football scene last season, the organization was hampered by a lack of discipline on the field.
Hathaway said that the codes of conduct put into place this season and the leadership of the team’s captains resulted in an organization that local fans could get behind.
“Speaking for the board of directors, I couldn’t be more pleased with the players’ performance in every aspect,” Hathaway said. “Hopefully, we’re building something special here.”
Recently, the team learned that nine players were named as league all-stars and have been invited to play in an East vs. West game on September 28 in Apalachin, home of the Broome County Stallions.
All-stars on offense: Wide receiver Deyonci Farley, tackle Jordan Chambers and guard Anthony Natrigo.
All-stars on defense: Linebackers Kaden Marucci and Marley English, linemen Gunner Rapone, Steve Kowalczyk and Jalen White, and defensive back/returner Jzhon Henderson.
Rascoe said the team’s awards banquet is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. October 5 at T.F. Brown’s Restaurant in Batavia. For more information, contact Rascoe at rascoeh@yahoo.com or go to the Spartans’ Facebook page - Genesee County Spartans.
The Genesee County Spartans’ season came to a disappointing end on Saturday night with a 28-3 loss to the undefeated Lockport Wildcats in the Northeastern Football Alliance Western Conference semifinals at Lockport’s Outwater Memorial Park.
Genesee County’s offense was unable to put anything together against the Wildcats, who take a 10-0 overall record into the semipro league’s championship match next weekend against the Southern Tier Stallions.
Southern Tier, now 9-1 overall, blanked Ithaca, 38-0, in the Eastern Conference semifinal.
The title match is set for 7 p.m. next Saturday in Lockport.
The Spartans’ only score came in the second quarter on a 27-yard field goal by Batavia High graduate Julia Petry.
Petry’s kick cut Lockport’s lead to 6-3 at the time but the Wildcats went on to score two more touchdowns before intermission – one on a 70-yard pass from league MVP Willie Fair III to Sean Marshall and the other on a 25-yard pass from Fair to Jordan Evert.
Lockport converted both two-point conversions to take a 22-3 lead at halftime.
The only scoring in the second half came on the game’s final play on Fair’s third TD pass.
The Spartans finish the season with a 6-3 league record (7-3 overall), with all three losses coming at the hands of the Wildcats.
“It was difficult for us to get untracked against Lockport. You have to give them credit; they have a solid team,” Rascoe said. “Our defense, on the other hand, played very well except for a couple of breakdowns.”
Spartans’ QB Corey Turpin, under pressure all game, completed just six of 23 passes for 81 yards. He was intercepted twice, fumbled twice and was sacked twice. Halfback Jed Reese carried the ball 10 times for 42 yards.
Genesee County’s top receivers, Deyonci Farley, Rayshawn Huitt and Tai Reffell-Pugh, were limited due to injuries suffered during the contest.
Defensively, the Spartans put up a fight but were victimized by a couple big plays. Defensive back Jzon Henderson came up with two interceptions – one in the end zone to thwart a Lockport drive in the fourth quarter -- and Dontre Woods also picked off a pass.
Despite the loss, Rascoe said he was pleased with the way the team and the organization came together this season, and he’s looking forward to offseason workouts starting in November.
“We have really turned things around in terms of good sportsmanship and recruiting good players, on and off the field,” he said. “We look to be even better next year when we add more local talent.”
Rascoe credited the team’s board of directors for its hard work and support -- Tammy Hathaway, Lauren Donovan, Victor Thomas, Otis Thomas and Jermaine Henderson – and thanked the businesses and individuals who sponsored the team this season.
Placekicker Julia Petry swings into one during Genesee County Spartans’ practice session at Farrall Park in Batavia. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
Genesee County Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe is looking at two “keys” to knocking off the undefeated Lockport Wildcats this weekend and advancing to the championship game of the Northeastern Football Alliance semipro league.
“Not turning over the ball and pressuring their quarterback,” Rascoe replied when asked what the Spartans need to do to defeat the Wildcats in the Western Conference semifinal scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday at Lockport’s Outwater Memorial Park, 125 Outwater Drive.
The Spartans take a 6-2 record into the game, with both losses coming at the hands of Lockport, 8-0 in league play.
Genesee County lost to the Wildcats, 16-6, in their opening game (although the score was 8-6 with less than two minutes to play), and then fell, 36-14, to Lockport on July 13 in a game marred by six Spartans’ turnovers.
Rascoe, speaking during a practice session on Wednesday at Farrall Park in Batavia, said it’s imperative that the offense hold onto the ball.
“We’re going to have to sustain drives on offense – the defense can’t be on the field the whole time -- and we’ve got to contain (Lockport quarterback) Willie (Fair III).”
Fair, while completing less than half of his pass attempts, has thrown for about 850 yards and 11 touchdowns this season – with several of those TDs coming on long passes after broken plays.
“He’s got a great arm,” Rascoe said. “He can throw pretty much the length of the field so it’s hard to cover receivers on those broken plays. That’s why we have to win the battle in the trenches and get to him.”
Rascoe said he expects defensive back Jzhon Henderson to play on both sides of the ball – splitting the ball carrying duties with standout halfback Jed Reese (363 yards rushing in five games as three of the Spartans’ victories were by forfeit).
“This is the playoffs; there’s no more offense and defense. We’re going to put our best 11 guys on the field to compete with them. We know they (the Wildcats) are already overlooking us, so we’ll play the underdog.”
Quarterback Corey Turpin, who has thrown for 680 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions, said he has to be efficient for the Spartans to win.
“We can’t give them extra opportunities,” he said. “It’s up to me to not turn the ball over, to execute and go in there with confidence. I feel that this is the game where we put everything together.”
Defensive Coordinator Craig Tiberio said the Spartans match up well against Lockport in terms of talent, so it will come down to discipline.
“More than anything, it’s the attention to detail and everyone doing their job,” Tiberio said. “If we can clean up the missed tackles and the few potential interceptions that we dropped, we’ll be right there.”
Tiberio said the Spartans’ front four of Gunner Rapone, who has 6 ½ sacks thus far; Jalen White, Ryley Elliott and Steve Kowalczyk “is the best in the league.” He also praised linebacker Kaden Marucci, who leads the league in tackles and has two interceptions and four fumble recoveries.
“Marucci has had a super year and has been nominated for Defensive Player of the Year,” he said, noting that Rapone earned that honor in 2023.
Linebacker Marley English leads the team with three interceptions.
Genesee County Spartans' projected starting lineup for this Saturday’s game:
Corey Turpin, Genesee County Spartans quarterback. Submitted photo.
Offense
Quarterback: Corey Turpin; Running backs: Jed Reese, Jzon Henderson; Tight end: Rob Thurston Jr.; Wide receivers: Deyonci Farley, Rayshawn Huitt; Center: Tim King; Guards: Austyn Fernandez, Anthony Natrigo; Tackles, Baylee Vercruysse, Jordan Chambers. Kicker: Julia Petry.
Defense
Front four: Gunner Rapone, Jalen White, Ryley Elliott, Steve Kowalczyk; Linebackers: Nick Santos, Kaden Marucci, Marley English; Secondary: Max Rapone, Dontre Woods, Jzon Henderson, Cody Wenner or Amir Cleveland. Punter: Deyonci Farley.
Last Saturday’s, August 3, Rochester Chargers at Genesee County Spartans’ game has been canceled, meaning that the Northeastern Football Alliance squad will have a long layoff before its semifinal playoff game on Aug. 10.
Head Coach Harry Rascoe announced that the Rochester team has decided not to travel to Genesee County after being eliminated from playoff contention last weekend.
The Spartans will receive a forfeit victory, raising its final regular season record to 6-2 and overall mark to 7-2.
Lockport went undefeated in the semipro league’s Western Conference and will host the semifinal playoff match against the Spartans at 7 p.m. on Aug. 10. That game will be played at Outwater Memorial Park, 125 Outwater Drive, Lockport.
The semifinal winner will advance to the championship match, likely against the Eastern Conference-leading Southern Tier Stallions, on Aug. 17.
Genesee County Spartans’ wide receiver Deyonci Farley is on his way to a touchdown after taking a pass from quarterback Corey Turpin during Saturday’s 12-6 win over the visiting Ithaca Warriors. Photo by Lauren Donovan.
Press Release:
In a game that came down to the final play, the Genesee County Spartans defeated the Ithaca Warriors, 12-6, on Saturday night in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action at Pembroke Town Park.
Linebacker Marley English and defensive backs Jzon Henderson and Max Rapone stopped Ithaca quarterback Joshua Mims just three yards from the end zone as time ran out to secure the victory for the Spartans, now 4-2, and still alive for a playoff berth in the league’s Western Conference.
The top two teams in each conference will advance to the playoffs. The Lockport Wildcats lead at 7-0, followed by the Spartans at 4-2 and Rochester Chargers at 3-3.
The Spartans are off until Aug. 3 when they will host Rochester for a 5 p.m. contest. Rochester has a home game next Saturday against the unbeaten Wildcats.
“We escaped with a win tonight, but we’ll have to be much better against Rochester and, hopefully, for the playoff game against Lockport,” said Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe. “We need to avoid turnovers and capitalize on our opportunities. Tonight’s game should not have been that close.”
Against Ithaca, the Spartans’ points came as a result of a field goal, safety, touchdown and point-after-touchdown kick.
Julia Petry opened the scoring midway through the first quarter by kicking a 22-yard field goal, capping a short drive set up by Marley’s interception at the Ithaca 25.
Neither team scored again until the 3:55 mark of the third quarter when Spartans’ defensive tackle Gunner Rapone and English tackled David Crow, Ithaca’s other QB, in the end zone for a safety, making the score 5-0.
The safety came one play after Genesee County was thwarted on four straight running attempts from the 1-yard line.
The Spartans increased their lead to 11-0 with four minutes left in the fourth quarter when QB Corey Turpin connected with wide receiver Deyonci Farley for a 34-yard TD. Farley caught the ball in the right flat, avoided a defender and sprinted to the end zone. Petry’s extra point kick made it 12-0.
Ithaca struck back quickly, however, when Mims hit Patrick Twum for a 45-yard touchdown. A pass for the two-point conversion fell incomplete, leaving the score at 12-6.
Genesee County ran six plays, taking two minutes off the clock, but turned the ball over on downs with 1:31 to play. Taking over at the Spartans’ 40, Mims completed a couple passes to get the ball to the 8-yard line, stopping the clock with five seconds left.
From there, Mims scrambled before taking off down the middle of the field and running into the trio of Spartans’ defenders who combined for the potential game-saving tackle.
Statistically, Spartans’ running back Jed Reese had a busy night, carrying 22 times for 106 yards. Turpin completed nine of 13 passes for 114 yards, a TD and two interceptions.
Defensively, Henderson and lineman Steve Kowalczyk had interceptions, linebacker Kaden Marucci recovered a fumble and Gunner Rapone recorded a sack.
Rascoe, noting his team’s statistical advantage, credited both lines for “controlling the line of scrimmage” but said he’s looking for his team’s skill position players to dominate going forward.
Local youth football players and cheerleaders were recognized at halftime on “Youth Football Night” at Pembroke Town Park. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
The undefeated Lockport Wildcats had an un-Fair advantage on Saturday night on their way to defeating the visiting Genesee County Spartans, 36-14, in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action.
Veteran quarterback Willie Fair II passed for four touchdowns and ran for another TD to lead the Wildcats, now 6-0 in league play, past the Spartans, who drop to 3-2. Both teams compete in the league’s Western Conference.
Against Lockport, the Spartans were victimized by six turnovers – three fumbles and three interceptions, the big-play ability of Fair, who converted two 4th-and-20 situations into touchdowns, and a 75-yard kickoff return for a TD by Darren Thompson.
“Just too many mistakes on both sides of the ball,” said Spartans’ Head Coach Harry Rascoe. “We were unable to contain Fair, who can throw the ball 70 yards in the air, and we committed too many turnovers.”
Fair completed just 10 passes but four of them resulted in points as Jordan Evert and Sultani Campbell each had two TD receptions. The Wildcats’ ground game was effective with Fair gaining 53 yards on 11 carries and Sean Marshall picking up 52 yards on 11 carries.
For the Spartans, QB Corey Turpin completed 16 of 29 passes for 100 yards, with receivers Tai Reffell-Pugh and Deyonci Farley finding the end zone. Halfback Jed Reese carried 10 times for 42 yards.
The Spartans are back in action at 5 p.m. Saturday against the Ithaca Warriors, 4-2 in the Eastern Conference, at Pembroke Town Park.
This Saturday’s game has been designated “Youth Football Night” with all youth football program players and cheerleaders wearing their jerseys/uniforms admitted at no charge.
Caleb Rigdon of the Tri-State team looks to dribble past Noah Schoonover of the Batavia team during the finals of the Adult Division tournament. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
Press Release:
Photos from Genesee County Spartans' 3-on-3 basketball tournament fundraiser on Saturday (July 6) at Ri-Dan’s Sports Park on West Main Street Road, Batavia. Twelve teams competed - six in the Youth Division and six in the Adult Division.
Photo of adult champion Batavia squad, from left, Russell Craft of Albion, Mike Jamil of Batavia, and Noah Schoonover of Batavia. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
Photo of youth champion Alexander Central School squad with two Genesee County Spartans players. From left, Brian Calderon, Isaiah Wright, Kingston Woods, Duke Snyder, Justin Brooks, Nick Marzolf, and Jalen White. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
A 3-on-3 basketball tournament fundraiser to benefit the Genesee County Spartans is scheduled for this Saturday, July 6 at Ri-Dan’s Sports Park on West Main Street Road, Batavia.
Youth competition (three age groups) was set for 9 a.m. to noon with adult competition (18+) set for noon to 3 p.m.
The Spartans, 3-1, play again on July 13, traveling to Lockport - hoping to avenge a June 1 loss to the Wildcats.
Jubilant Genesee County Spartans’ players celebrate after raising their record to 3-1 in the Northeastern Football Alliance. Photo by Lauren Donovan.
Press release:
The Genesee County Spartans improved its record to 3-1 on Saturday night with a 15-6 victory over the host Watertown Red & Black in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action.
Quarterback Corey Turpin passed for 230 yards, halfback Jed Reese ran for 94 yards on 23 carries and a pair of touchdowns and wide receiver Deyonci Farley caught five passes for 143 yards to lead the Spartans.
“This is the biggest win in our organization’s history,” said Head Coach Harry Rascoe. “Our first-ever game was there (against Watertown), and we didn’t fare very well. The score of this game was not indicative of the way we controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.”
Genesee took a 6-0 on its opening drive, with Reese running it in from five yards out. On the extra point attempt, Keith Neureuter picked up a bad snap and burst over the goal line for two points to make it 8-0.
The Spartans upped their lead to 14-0 on their first drive after intermission, set up by a long pass to Farley from Turpin, who completed 14 of 25 attempts. Reese scored from a few yards out to set up the extra point kick by Julia Petry.
Rascoe credited injured QB Alex Rood for his effort filling in as offensive coordinator for Jermaine Henderson, who could not make the trip to Watertown.
The Red & Black, 2-2, scored with about three minutes left in the game.
Defensively, Jzhon Henderson and Tre Woods had interceptions, and Gunner Rapone, Max Rapone and Steve Kowalczyk recorded sacks. Kaden Marucci was in on 11 tackles.
Next up for the Spartans is a home contest against the Rochester Chargers at 5 p.m. this Saturday at Pembroke Town Park. Genesee defeated the Rochester squad, 19-12, on June 8 at Franklin High.
A 3-on-3 basketball tournament fundraiser to benefit the Spartans is set for July 6 at Ri-Dan’s Sports Park on West Main Street Road. To register for the event, which includes youth and adult divisions, go to bit.ly/SpartansBball
Wide receiver Deyonci Farley hauls in a pass from quarterback Corey Turpin over a pair of Watertown defenders during the Genesee County Spartans’ 15-6 victory last Saturday. Photo by Lauren Donovan.
Defensive linemen Steve Kowalczyk (56) and Gunner Rapone attempt to deflect a pass during the Genesee County Spartans’ 19-12 win over the Rochester Chargers. Photo by Lauren Donovan.
Press release:
Quarterback Corey Turpin threw for a pair of touchdowns on Saturday to lead the Genesee County Spartans to a 19-12 victory over the host Rochester Chargers in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action at Franklin High School.
The Spartans, 1-1, built a 19-0 lead with scores in each of the first three quarters.
Turpin connected with Deyonci Farley and found Rayshawn Huitt for a score to make it 12-0 at halftime before halfback Jed Reese burst into the end zone to put the visitors up 18-0. Kicker Julia Petry converted on the extra point to round out the Spartans’ scoring.
Genesee racked up 300 yards of total offense with Turpin passing for 150 and Reese running for 100.
Defensively, the Spartans held the Chargers, 1-1, to 200 yards of total offense, with three interceptions – two by Kaden Marucci and one by Marley English – and four sacks.
“The game marked a huge improvement from our first game (a 16-6 loss to Lockport), which I really felt we let slip away,” said Head Coach Harry Rascoe. “We controlled the line of scrimmage for most of the game. Credit to our secondary of Tre Bucci, Max Rapone, Jazon Henderson and Cody Wenner for holding down a very talented passing offense.”
Rascoe also credited coordinators Jermaine Henderson (offense) and Craig Tiberio (defense) for coming up with solid game plans.
The Spartans are off this weekend but will receive a forfeit victory since the East Coast Blue Devils have withdrawn from the league.
The team is back in action at 7 p.m. June 22 at the Watertown Red & Black.
The Genesee County Spartans will be looking to get their offense in gear this Saturday when they travel to Franklin High School to take on the Rochester Chargers in Northeastern Football Alliance semipro action.
Corey Turpin will be handling all of the quarterback duties for the Spartans due to an injury to the team’s other QB, Alex Rood. Head Coach Harry Rascoe said that Rood will be out for at least eight weeks – likely all season.
The Spartans dropped their season opener last weekend, 16-6 to the Lockport Wildcats.
“Our defense played very well against Lockport, now we just to need get our offense clicking,” said Rascoe, noting that the Spartans held the Wildcats to just 118 yards passing and 90 yards rushing.
The Chargers received a forfeit victory last week as they were scheduled to play against the East Coast Blue Devils, which has opted out of the NFA this season.
Game time on Saturday is 5 p.m. Franklin High is located at 950 Norton St., Rochester.
Admission is $10. Youths 10 and under will be admitted at no charge.
Genesee Spartans’ halfback Jed Reese looks for running room during Saturday’s semipro game against the Lockport Wildcats at Pembroke Town Park. Photo by Lauren Donovan.
The Genesee County Spartans gave the Lockport Wildcats all they could handle on Saturday afternoon before falling, 16-6, in their Northeastern Football Alliance semipro opener at Pembroke Town Park.
The Spartans’ defense kept the Wildcats, who went 9-1 last season, in check for most of the game except for a 60-yard touchdown pass from strong-armed quarterback Willie Fair III to Jason Thurman on the opening drive and a four-yard TD run by Fair with 1:18 to play.
Lockport was able to run for both two-point conversions.
Genesee’s offense sputtered in the first half, losing the ball twice on botched snaps, but put together its only scoring drive to begin the third quarter.
Halfback Jed Reese (Notre Dame graduate) gained 12 yards on two plays up the middle before wide receiver Deyonci Farley picked up 10 yards on a sweep.
On third down, quarterback Alex Rood threw a deep ball intended for wide receiver Rayshawn Huitt, who drew a pass interference penalty – putting the ball at the Lockport 7-yard line.
The Wildcats stiffened on the next two running plays and a false start penalty on the Spartans moved the ball back to the 15. From there, Rood found Huitt in the end zone for a touchdown, pulling Genesee to within two at 8-6.
Another pass intended for Huitt for the two-point conversion fell incomplete, however.
Both teams punted three times until the Spartans took possession at their own 47 with 4:39 to play. Following a couple of short gains, Rood hit Farley for a first down but a fumble on the play and long return gave the ball back to Lockport at the Spartans’ 26, setting up the visitors’ final scoring drive.
Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe said he was proud of the way the defense shut down the 6-5, 250-pound Fair for most of the contest. LB Marley English had an interception for Genesee.
“This was the best QB in the league and one of the best teams,” he said. “We’re close and we’re going to get better.”
Fair credited the Spartans for their defensive game plan.
“I want to take my hat off to their defensive coordinator (Craig Tiberio),” he said. “His schemes and stuff were a little tricky and we didn’t make the right adjustments.”
Reese said he saw a lot of good things, mentioning the Spartans’ effort and togetherness.
“This is our second season, and we will improve. I really like the way that everyone is more positive (this season) and willing to work with each other,” he said. “We’re playing like a team, not a bunch of individuals.”
The Spartans next game is against the Rochester Chargers at 5 p.m. Saturday at Franklin High School in Rochester.
The Genesee County Spartans open their Northeastern Football Alliance semipro season this Saturday afternoon against the visiting Lockport Wildcats.
Kickoff for the “Iron Reps Gym Night” contest is scheduled for 5 o’clock at the Pembroke Town Park field on Route 77.
Head Coach Harry Rascoe said he feels good about the team’s chances this season. He bases his optimism on what he’s seen in practice and the squad’s 34-6 victory over Auburn in a scrimmage game a couple of weeks ago.
“We’re looking for big games from our quarterbacks, Alex Rood and Corey Turpin, and for the defense to put pressure on Lockport’s QB, Willie Fair,” Rascoe said. “Willie (who is listed at 6-foot-5, 260 pounds) is a great quarterback with a great arm. If we stay disciplined and win the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, we’ll be OK.”
Steve and Christy Deleo, owners of Iron Reps Gym in Le Roy, will take part in the coin toss. The Deleo family has signed on as “silver” sponsors of the Spartans.
“Bronze” level sponsors this season are House of Bounce, Wescott Motors, T.F. Brown’s Restaurant and Get Sealed. Additional supporters are Extended Sound, TJ Henderson, Perfect Piece LLC, WBTA, Ri-Dans, and Go Art!
The team was supposed to have an eight-game schedule, but it has been cut to six due to the East Coast Blue Devils not playing in the league this season. Rascoe said the Spartans may pick up another match along the way and is also hoping that a playoff game is in the mix.
Tickets are $5 per person and free for kids 11 and under.
If its performance during a scrimmage game last Saturday afternoon at the Town of Pembroke football field is any indication of future success, this season’s version of the Genesee County Spartans will do very well in the Northeastern Football Alliance semipro league.
The Spartans rolled past the Auburn Pride, 34-6, getting a pair of touchdowns from running back Jed Reese and TD passes from quarterbacks Alex Rood and Corey Turpin.
“The 34 points is the most we’ve ever scored, so from that aspect it was a great tune-up for the season opener on June 1 (against the visiting Lockport Wildcats, 3:30 p.m.),” Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe said. “Overall, our new organizational push to create a better team on and off the field really showed.”
Receivers Jazon Henderson and Rayshawn Huitt caught touchdowns passes while fellow wideout Deyonci Farley led all players with in receiving yards, said Rascoe, noting the QB competition will continue right through to the first regular season game.
On defense, Anthony Natrigo recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, while Cody Wenner and Max Rapone each had an interception and Karen Marucci and Matt Dillon forced fumbles. Gunner Rapone led the way in tackles, with newcomers Ryley Elliott and Jalen White also leading the way.
New kicker, Julie Petry, was good on four of five extra point attempts.
Supported by a newly formed board of directors that is committed to establishing a sense of pride in the organization, the Genesee County Spartans are back for a second season of competition in the Northeastern Football Alliance.
Harry Rascoe, (photo at right), vice president/head of football operations and head coach, said all members of the semipro team – players, coaches, directors and game-day volunteers – will be held to a higher standard for the 2024 campaign, which gets underway on June 1 against the visiting Lockport Wildcats.
The Spartans will be playing their home games at the Town of Pembroke football field, just down the road from Pembroke High School on Route 77. All home games will be on Saturdays, starting at 3:30 p.m.
In an interview with The Batavian on Tuesday, Rascoe acknowledged the disciplinary and behavior issues that surfaced toward the end of last season. He said all those associated with the club will be required to abide by two codes of conduct – one instituted by the Spartans and the other developed by the NFA.
“It’s not just a question of talent – and we definitely have some talented players, it’s much more than that,” Rascoe said. “We need a good core of coaches and men; people of character as we look to emulate the (Batavia) Muckdogs (baseball team) as a respected, staple of the community.”
Rascoe said 39 players are under contract for the season, many of them from Batavia High, Notre Dame and other local schools. The team’s kicker is Julie Petry, who made her mark as the Blue Devils’ placekicker during the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
“We’re glad to have Julie on the team, considering the job she did while at Batavia,” Rascoe said.
Jed Reese
Key skill players on offense include running backs Jzhon Henderson, whose father, Jermaine, will be serving on the board and also assisting with the defense, and Jed Reese (photo at left), a Notre Dame grad who played at Mansfield University last season.
Currently, Alex Rood (Batavia) and Corey Turpin from Buffalo are battling for the starting quarterback position.
“We also have signed 6-3 and 6-4 receivers in Deyonci Farley of Albion and Julio Gambino of Buffalo,” Rascoe noted. “Last year, we lacked possession receivers who could run.”
Rob Thurston Jr., another Batavia graduate, is the tight end.
Rascoe said the club has put in a new offense, similar to Batavia High’s system that features a short-to-intermediate passing game.
Gunner Rapone
On defense, Gunner Rapone (Batavia) returns after capturing NFA Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023.
Kaden Marucci
Kaden Marucci, another former Blue Devil, is a stalwart on the defensive side of the ball.
Rapone (photo at right), Rood, offensive tackle Jordan Chambers (Gouverneur) and lineman Baylee Vercruysee (Medina) have been named co-captains.
Jermaine Henderson, who was a Division I running back at the University of Maine after a fine career at Batavia High, said he’s witnessed the team coming together as a unit during practice.
The Spartans host a scrimmage game against the Auburn Pride at 3:30 p.m. on May 11.
“The team’s morale is great and the environment, overall, has really improved,” he said.
Board President Tammy Hathaway said she’s confident that county businesses will rally around the Spartans. She said the team’s sponsors include House of Bounce, Iron Reps Gym, Get Sealed, Ridans Sports Bar and Ken Mistler, and more will be announced over the next few weeks.
Board President Tammy Hathaway and Director/Defensive Assistant Jermaine Henderson. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
“We are building on the best of what we learned last year and will be adding on to make this a team that the community can be proud of,” she said.
Rounding out the coaching staff are Craig Tiberio, defensive coordinator; Jon Grand, defensive assistant, and Burton Howell, offensive coordinator. Lauren Donovan is the board secretary and marketing/media coordinator.
Also on the board of directors are Marc Anthony Bucci, treasurer; Terry Smith, player accountability; Otis Thomas and Victor Thomas.
The Spartans’ final fundraiser is scheduled for May 25 – a golf tournament at Davis Country Meadows in Pavilion.
Genesee County Spartans’ schedule:
May 11, scrimmage, Auburn Pride
June 1 Lockport Wildcats
June 8 at Rochester Chargers
June 15 at East Coast Blue Devils
June 22 at Watertown Red & Black
June 29 Rochester Chargers
July 13 at Lockport Wildcats
July 20 Ithaca Warriors
July 27 East Coast Blue Devils
Genesee County Spartans’ roster:
No. Name Position (If determined) 0 Jedidiah Reese RB 1 Tai Reffell-Pugh 2 Alex Rood QB 3 Deyonci Farley WR 5 Rayshawn Huitt 6 Patrick Krantz DB 7 Gunner Rapone DT 8 Ryley Elliott DL 9 Marley English LB 10 Eric Snell OLB 11 Max Rapone LB 12 Corey Turpin QB 13 Kaden Marucci LB 14 Jzhon Henderson RB 15 Devan Flanagan 17 Nick Santos 19 Jalen White 20 Jzon Richardson WR 21 Delonta Curry LB 22 Cody Wenner WR 23 Kristopher Geising C 24 Michael Jamar Floyd DT 25 Dontre Woods LB 28 Keith Neureuter DE 29 Marcos Velazquez 33 Robert Thurston Jr. TE 40 Matthew Dillon LB 41 Nick Figlow 44 Brian Calderon 45 Amir Cleveland S 52 Jordan Chambers OL 54 Nick Mitchell 56 Steve Kowalczyk OL 60 Thomas Richmond 70 Timothy King OL 71 Anthony Natrigo OL 75 Austyn Fernandez OL 78 Baylee Vercruysse LB 93 Randy Reiner DL
The Genesee County Spartans are in “bounce back” mode heading into Saturday night’s home Northeastern Football Alliance semipro game against the Ithaca Warriors.
Kickoff is set for 7 o’clock at the Genesee Community College field located behind the Richard C. Call Arena.
The Spartans were on the losing end of a 28-0 score last weekend at Lockport, failing to capitalize on a couple of excellent scoring chances in the opening half when they trailed by only 8-0.
“The game wasn’t as lopsided as the score suggests,” Head Coach Harry Rascoe said. “An interception right before the half when we were driving really hurt us, and right after intermission, a fumble thwarted another drive.”
Rascoe said the team was missing a few key players against the Wildcats, but expects them to be back in action on Saturday.
“Tight end Howie Wilson was unable to play due to injury, but he’ll return, as will our captain and standout lineman Adam Hausfelder,” Rascoe added. “We’re revamping the offense a bit to give quarterback Joe Canzoneri more opportunities to showcase his skills.”
Against Lockport, Alex Rood was the signal caller, completing 10 of 20 passes for 75 yards, while Tyler Budzinack, filling in for Wilson, caught six passes for 50 yards. The Spartans couldn’t get the ground game going, however, rushing 20 times for just 46 yards.
On defense, defensive end Gunner Rapone forced a fumble and he and fellow Batavia High graduate Kaden Marucci combined for several tackles.
Admission for this weekend’s game is $5 per person with children under 12 admitted at no charge. The contest has been designated as Dan’s Tire & Auto Night.
The Genesee County Spartans greeted about 600 fans for their home opener Saturday at GCC. Photos by Jim Burns.
The fledgling Genesee County Spartans defeated the New York Falcons, 13-0, in non-league semipro football action Saturday afternoon at Genesee Community College.
Head Coach Harry Rascoe’s squad shook off a sluggish first half as quarterback Alex Rood and halfback Jed Reese ran for touchdowns after intermission to turn back the Buffalo-based Falcons, who compete in the Gridiron Developmental Football League.
It was the first official game of the season for the Spartans, a member of the Northeastern Football Alliance.
“We had a couple of opportunities in the first half but kept on pounding the ball on the ground to finally take control,” Rascoe said, noting that the quartet of Rood, Reese, Rob Williams Jr. and Brandon Bethel combined for 200 yards rushing.
Rood scored on a 10-yard run in the third quarter and Reese capped a long drive with a five-yard scamper in the fourth quarter. Marc Montana kicked the point after touchdown after Rood’s score but missed the second attempt under windy conditions.
In the first half, the Spartans threatened early in the second quarter, using runs by Reese, Rood, Williams and Bethel to get to the Falcons’ 20 before an interception thwarted that drive. With about five minutes left, the home team advanced to the Falcons’ 2 but failed to capitalize.
“We were in the red zone four or five times and came up short; that’s something we definitely need to work on,” Rascoe said. “But our defense, behind (defensive ends) Gunner Rapone and T.J. Henderson dominated.”
Rapone was a force throughout, recording numerous tackles and combining with Henderson for four sacks. Defensive backs Brooks Boyle and Tre Woods each had an interception.
An enthusiastic crowd of about 600 turned out for the “Iron Reps Gym Game” at GCC’s new field, which is located behind the Richard C. Call Arena.
“On behalf of the players, a special thanks to all the fans who attended,” Rascoe said. “It really means a lot to see all the community support.”
The Spartans return to action at 7 p.m. next Saturday at Lockport.The next home game (all home games are at GCC) is at 7 p.m. June 17 against Ithaca.
Defensive ends T.J. Henderson, left, and Gunner Rapone set the tone for the Spartans in the 13-0 victory.
QB Alex Rood looks to escape the Falcons' rush.
RB/WR Jed Reese breaks into the clear. Reese scored tallied a second-half TD.
Genesee Region football fans will have their chance to root for the home team -- the Genesee County Spartans -- sooner than expected.
Spartans Head Coach Harry Rascoe announced that the first-year semipro squad will open its season this Saturday, with kickoff set for 2 p.m. at Genesee Community College’s new football stadium (located behind the Richard C. Call Arena).
“We had a team drop out of our league and we were able to pick up a game on Saturday against the Buffalo-based New York Falcons of the Gridiron Developmental Football League,” Rascoe said. “We’re excited to finally get out in front of the community.”
The non-league game is sponsored by Iron Reps Gym of Le Roy. Admission is $5. Children under 12 will be admitted at no charge.
Rascoe said the offense will be guided by quarterback Joe Canzoneri, who will be looking to get the ball into the hands of runners and receivers Rob Williams, Alex Rood, Brandon Bethel and Jed Reese.
The defense is led by defensive ends T.J. Henderson and Gunner Rapone, who combined for four sacks, three forced fumbles and 10 tackles in an exhibition game two weeks ago in Watertown.
“We lost the game, but it was a good learning experience,” Rascoe noted. “We definitely will be able to build from it.”
The remainder of the Spartans’ schedule is as follows:
June 10 – at Lockport, 7 p.m. June 17 – home vs. Ithaca, 7 p.m. June 24 – home vs. Broome County, 7 p.m. July 15 – at Broome County, 7 p.m. July 22 – home vs. Lockport, 7 p.m. Aug. 5 – at Ithaca, 7 p.m.
For more information about the team, including how to become a sponsor, go to the team’s Genesee County Spartans Facebook page or contact Rascoe at rascoeh@yahoo.com.
Head Coach Harry Rascoe, left, and Drew Crofts, assistant athletic director at Genesee Community College, promote the Genesee County Spartans’ use of the new football field at GCC this season.
The Genesee County Spartans football club travels north this Saturday for a non-league game against the host Watertown Red and Black.
“Watertown is a powerhouse in the Gridiron Developmental Football League and an awesome organization, but if we play Spartans football – hard-nosed and disciplined – I feel we can play with any team in the country,” said Head Coach Harry Rascoe.
That’s a strong statement considering that Rascoe and his coaching staff have had only a couple months to recruit players and conduct practices in preparation for their inaugural season in the Northeastern Football Alliance.
Rascoe said that the team’s quarterbacks – Joe Canzoneri and Alex Rood – will each play two quarters against Watertown as the competition for the starting job continues.
“This weekend will allow us to get a look at both QBs and see some players at different positions in a real game. We are excited to play finally after weeks of practice,” he said.
Canzoneri is a 2010 graduate of Batavia High School and a three-year starter at QB for the Blue Devils. He attended GCC for two years. Today, he owns his own barber shop on Ellicott Street.
“I joined the team because I wanted to see if I still have it or not,” he said, noting that he held a couple passing records at BHS.
Rood graduated from BHS in 2020, went on to play quarterback at Geneva College and now competes in track and field at Brockport State College.
“This is a great opportunity to continue playing at the semi-pro level,” he said.
When the squad’s regular home season gets underway on June 17 (opponent to be determined), the game will take place at the new synthetic turf football field behind the Richard C. Call Arena at Genesee Community College.
GCC Assistant Athletic Director Drew Crofts said the college is eager to show off the facility.
“It was completed last summer and it’s something we’re very proud of,” he said. “A lot of people don’t know that it’s here; it’s kind of a hidden gem.”
Crofts said the plan is to host different teams on the field, which also serves as the venue for the college’s lacrosse and soccer teams.
“We’re excited about having the Spartans play here. The team is great for the community, so we’re hoping they draw big crowds.”
Rascoe, a GCC graduate, said his staff and players “are pumped to be the first football team to play at the new stadium.”
“We can’t thank the community and all of our sponsors enough for the support,” he added.
The remainder of the Spartans’ schedule is as follows:
June 3 – at Auburn June 10 – at Lockport June 17 – home vs. TBD, 7 p.m. June 24 – home vs. Broome County, 7 p.m. July 15 – at Broome County July 22 – home vs. Lockport, 7 p.m. Aug. 5 – TBD Aug. 12 – home vs. Auburn, 7 p.m.
GENESEE COUNTY SPARTANS ROSTER 0 Jedidiah ReeseRB/WR 1 Marc Montana K 2 Alex Rood QB/RB 3 Jzon Richardson Sr. RB/WR 4 Tyler Budzinack WR/DB 5 Josh Bradley WR 6 Patrick Krantz DB 7 Gunner Rapone DE/OL 8 Joe Canzoneri QB 9 Dame Butler Sr. DB 10 Eric Snell TE 11 Corey Nicholas WR/DB 12 Evan Cummings WR/DB 13 Alan Riggi WR/DB 14 Kier Moore WR.DB 16 Marley English DE/LB 17 Daryl Leach DB/LB 20 Brandon Bethel FB/LB 21 Delonta Curry LB/DB 22 Cody Wenner DB 23 Rob William Jr. RB 24 Kris Geising DB 25 Tre Woods DB 26 Dillon Szpaicher LB/DL 27 Baylee VerCruysse OL/DL 28 Keith Neureuter DB 29 Dylan Bordonaro WR 32 Brooks BoyleLB/DB 33 Robert Thurston Jr. TE 39 Howie Wilson TE/DE 40 Matt Dillon LB 42 Kyle Dougherty LB/DL 44 Ethan Jennings LB/DE 45 Amir Cleveland DB 46 AJ Spearance LB 52 Jordan Chambers RT 53 Alton Rupp C 56 Steve Kowalczyk DT 58 Jon Grann LB 65 Chezeray Rolle DT 67 Travis Mosher DT 68 Adam Hausfelder OL/DL 70 Tim KingOL/DL 71 Anthony NatrigoFB/LB 75 Austyn FernandezOL/DL 78 Randy Reiner DL 88 TJ Henderson DE/TE 92 Matt Mead OL/DL 98 Steve Stink OL/DL 99 Rylee Elliott OL/DL
COACHING STAFF Harr Rascoe, Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator Craig Tiberio, Defensive Coordinator Burton Howell, Special Teams/Offensive Assistant Cody Vohs, Line Coach
For more information about the team, including how to become a sponsor, go to the team’s Genesee County Spartans Facebook page or contact Rascoe at rascoeh@yahoo.com.
Alex Rood, left, and Joe Canzoneri will be under center for the Spartans as they compete in the Northern Football Alliance.
All signs are pointing toward a successful return of semiprofessional football to the Batavia area.
Harry Rascoe, head coach of the Genesee County Spartans, announced that an eight-team schedule has been finalized for the squad, which will feature around 50 players – some of them former Batavia and Notre Dame high school athletes – from throughout Western New York.
“We are looking at eight games – four home and four on the road – and have secured several sponsors for our first season,” Rascoe said. “Opening day is June 3 at Auburn. Our first home game is set for June 17 against Ithaca.”
The Spartans will compete in the Northeastern Football Alliance against clubs from Auburn, Lockport, Ithaca and Broome County.
Rascoe said he is working with Batavia High School officials to have the Genesee County team’s home games at Van Detta Stadium. All home games will be on Saturdays at 7 p.m.
Fundraising is a key component to getting the venture off the ground, he said, adding that a “Meet & Greet” is scheduled for 6-11 p.m. on Feb. 11 at Ri-Dan’s on West Main Street Road. The event will include basket raffles and cash drawings to help defer expenses.
Rascoe said he will be coordinating a final tryout for roster spots on Feb. 26 at a practice location in Rochester.
“We’re seeing great competition at all positions,” he said, adding that players range from graduating seniors to those in their early 30s.
The schedule is as follows:
June 3 at Auburn; June 10 at Lockport; June 17 vs. Ithaca; June 24 vs. Broome County; July 15 at Broome County; July 22 vs. Lockport; Aug. 5 at Ithaca; Aug. 12 vs. Auburn.
For more information about the team, including how to become a sponsor, go to the team’s Genesee County Spartans Facebook page or contact Rascoe at rascoeh@yahoo.com.
