By Bobby Narang
The high school football season will start to move into full swing next week with the first official day of practice Monday, Aug. 8,
Many teams are looking forward to another full season of normal schedules, including Downers Grove South.
The Mustangs are aiming to make some noise in the West Suburban Gold following a 5-5 record last season, but must overcome the graduation of two-way star wide receiver Eli Reed.
Downers Grove South head coach Mark Molinari said he’s leaning on a group of seniors to lead the way, led by quarterback Ryan Dawson, tight end/defensive lineman Mack O’Halloran, and emerging wide receiver Brandon Amaniampong
“We played a lot of sophomores last year, but obviously our seniors are going to lead us,” Molinari said. “Brandon, Mack, and Ryan Dawson, are three of those seniors. Brandon is a kid who didn’t get ton of playing time last year, but colleges really like him. He will get a chance to play some offense. Ryan Dawson is a three-year starter, so I feel good about our offense. Hopefully, our defense will fly around.
Even so, the Mustangs have a tough schedule of opponents to start the season.
The Mustangs open the season against defending Class 7A State champion Wheaton North followed by Glenbard West, Downers Grove North, and Willowbrook.
“We took some growing pains last year but our sophomores, but we’re seeing some of the fruits of the hard work,” Molinari said. “Our schedule is challenging. We’ll find out how we are right away.”
Molinari is hoping for O’Halloran to be a key player after he played in just five games last season, and only 10 total games in his career due to a shoulder injury and the shortened COVID-19 season.
The 6-foot-4, 230-pound O’Halloran, who has seven college offers, said he’s excited for the upcoming season.
“It’s very upsetting, just to know I’ve missed so many games,” O’Halloran said. “But I’ve always been setting goals for myself the whole time during my process.”
His shoulder finally healthy, O’Halloran is ready to build off his five-game effort from his junior season.
“I was little nervous going into summer camp about how my shoulder would respond, but it’s held up,” O’Halloran said. “I’m 100%. I can get back to playing. I had some doubt but after the first couple of weeks after the surgery because I didn’t know if I would be back to 100%. As time went on, I got more comfortable. It’s felt amazing to get out there and play after having so much doubt.
“I’m more than excited for the season to start. I can’t wait to get out there and have a full, healthy, season. Hopefully, our team can make some noise, and I can also give everyone a chance to see who I am.”
Molinari projects O’Halloran to be a vital two-way player, especially following the graduation of Reed.
“Mack is healthy and running,” Molinari said. “We’re hoping he has a really good season. He will play offense and defense. If he plays well, there will be a lot more opportunities for him. Mack will be a real big deal on defense, too.”
O’Halloran said he’s been encouraged by his play this Summer at 7-on-7s and college camps.
“I’ve definitely got faster,” he said. “I ran track this past Spring which really helped me out. I learned how to use my body. When I was a freshman, I was a big kid trying to figure it out. I feel a lot quicker right off the snap of the ball. I’m moving a lot quicker than my sophomore year.”