Under the radar

August 27
Under the radar

By Don McGlynn dmcglynn@theabingtonjournal.com

Most people are aware of Lackawanna Trail’s star tackle Kyle Locker, but this season, opposing teams will have another Lion threat to deal with on defense, senior starter James Booth.

Right, Matt Aten hands off to Sean Fricke.

Abington Journal/Alice Stuffle

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Booth’s minutes were limited last season, but now thanks to some extended time in the weight room during the off-season, Lakeland Coach Rob Deremer is seeing the athlete as his best kept secret.

“He (Booth) is looking like a superstar,” said Deremer. “He’s a six feet -five inches, 250- pound strong kid and quick, coachable, ‘Yes sir, No sir.’ He is somebody you need to watch because I can see him going on to college and doing very well.”

“I don’t know why he didn’t play a lot last year, but with him and Locker in, my front line is going to be pretty hard to stop.”

“I worked hard during the off-season. I hope we can all do well and play hard. I have high expectations for this season,” said Booth.

Taking the snaps this season will be another newcomer, freshman quarterback Matt Aten. Aten was the third string quarterback at the start of practices, but due to some injuries, he has found himself getting ready to start the season opener.

“Everyone will have a few freshmen come up and make the team, but to start, I am very surprised,” said Deremer.

“He sort of fell into it, but he’s doing extremely well and looking outstanding. It’s surprising, because I have older upperclassmen as my front line, and he’s taken control of the huddles and the offense, he’s really taken control.”

Even though he is a freshman, Aten is no stranger to the gridiron; he has been playing since he was six years old. Last year, he mainly played running back for the freshman team with some time spent as quarterback, but when he was called upon to take the lead, he didn’t let that bother him.

“I was surprised at first, but I’m just doing what’s best for the team,” said Aten. “I think we’re going to have a good team this year, and I think people can expect a good year from Lackawanna Trail.”