By Andy Hutchison

WESTPORT — The defending Class LL State Champion Staples High football team is set to kick off the new season’s campaign Friday. 

Many players may be different this year, but the title aspirations remain the same for Coach Adam Behrends and company.

“The goal is to compete in every game and play disciplined, physical football. Our goal is to win another FCIAC Championship and state title,” Behrends said.

Winners of the FCIAC’s season championship last fall, the Wreckers went on to edge West Haven for state bragging rights, capping off a memorable campaign.

Gone are some key players from that Wreckers lineup, including standout quarterback Caleb Smith. 

There may be some big shoes to fill, but this year’s version of the Wreckers is one that can continue the high level of play, Behrends believes.

Nick Weil takes over as Staples starting quarterback this fall.

Team captains are Davis Crandall (linebacker/tight end), Kody Goldman (linebacker/running back), Charley Leahy (defensive end/tight end), Nathan Smith (wide receiver/defensive back) and Eddie van der Merwe (offensive and defensive lineman).

Other key players to watch are Shane Sandrew (wide receiver/defensive back), Anthony Armentano (running back/defensive back), Brady Dennett (offensive and defensive lineman), Michael Loya (wide receiver/defensive back), Justin Halky (wide receiver/defensive back), Jarett Deluca (running back/linebacker) and Callum McLean (linebacker and tight end).

The season kicks off Friday, Sept. 13, when Hamden visits for a non-conference clash at 7 p.m. 

Other games of note this season include a Sept. 27 visit from Maloney High of Meriden, which qualified for the Class L playoffs last year, and with Greenwich High for the annual Thanksgiving Day matchup at 10 a.m. Nov. 28 at home. Class L champ New Canaan will host the Wreckers at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19.

(Game schedules are subject to change; click for the latest updates.)

Andy Hutchison has been covering school sports — including Staples athletics — as well as news and feature stories in Fairfield County, since the 1990s.