Veteran Leadership Has Wissahickon Eyeing Another Deep Playoff Run
Wissahickon enters the 2026 season looking to build on one of the program’s most successful campaigns in recent memory.
The Trojans finished 9-2 last season, winning nine of their first 10 games before falling to Unionville in the opening round of the District 1 Class 5A playoffs. Along the way, Wissahickon defeated quality opponents including Upper Dublin, Archbishop Carroll, Upper Moreland and Hatboro-Horsham while averaging nearly 37 points per game.
The only regular-season blemish came in a 33-27 overtime loss at Plymouth-Whitemarsh, proving just how close the Trojans were to an unbeaten regular season.
Head coach Rory Graver now welcomes back an experienced senior class loaded with talent in the trenches, the backfield and throughout the defense. While Wissahickon must replace several key graduates—including Evan Tolmie, Quentin West, Dom Harvey Sheppard, Nate Alkire and Xavier Johnson—the returning core gives the Trojans every reason to believe another championship run is within reach.
The formula is simple.
Protect the football, dominate the line of scrimmage and let one of the area’s most experienced defenses dictate the pace of games.
Offensive Identity Begins Up Front
Wissahickon’s offense starts with one of the most experienced offensive lines in District 1.
The Trojans return senior linemen Hassan Freeman, Henry Nagata, Scott Youngblood, Billy Stout and Shawnmykle Valentine, giving the coaching staff outstanding continuity in the trenches.
Few teams enter the season with five returning linemen who have played significant varsity football together.
That experience should allow Wissahickon to establish the running game, control possession and protect a new quarterback following the graduation of Evan Tolmie.
The offensive line also reflects the philosophy Graver wants his team to embrace.
“Our success will come from protecting the football, executing at a high level, and dominating the line of scrimmage.”
With five veteran linemen returning, the Trojans have an excellent opportunity to do exactly that.
New Quarterback Will Benefit from Veteran Support
Replacing Tolmie is the biggest offensive question entering the season.
The new quarterback will inherit an offense with experienced running backs, returning skill players and arguably the team’s greatest strength up front.
That supporting cast should make the transition considerably smoother.
Rather than asking the quarterback to win games by himself, Wissahickon can lean on its rushing attack, play-action passing game and veteran offensive line while allowing the new signal caller to grow into the position.
Protecting the football will remain the top priority.
The Trojans do not need spectacular quarterback play every week. They need efficient decision-making, accurate throws and the ability to keep the offense on schedule.
If the quarterback settles into the role quickly, Wissahickon has the surrounding talent to remain one of the Suburban One League’s most balanced offenses.
Sampson and Chambers Lead the Ground Game
Senior Quasir Sampson returns as one of the offense’s featured playmakers.
Sampson possesses the combination of speed, vision and toughness that makes him dangerous both between the tackles and on the perimeter.
He will be joined in the backfield by fellow senior Tyree Chambers, giving Wissahickon a veteran one-two combination capable of wearing down defenses over four quarters.
Having two experienced backs allows the Trojans to rotate carries while maintaining production.
Both players also contribute significantly on defense, making depth at running back especially valuable throughout the season.
Behind a veteran offensive line, Sampson and Chambers should have opportunities to consistently move the chains and control the tempo of games.
An effective rushing attack will also create favorable situations for the passing game.
Kim Gives Offense Versatility
Senior Ryan Kim returns as one of the offense’s most versatile players.
Whether lining up in the slot, in the backfield or as a return specialist, Kim gives Wissahickon another weapon capable of creating explosive plays.
His versatility allows the coaching staff to move him around the formation and create favorable matchups against linebackers and defensive backs.
Kim also provides valuable experience for a first-year starting quarterback.
Reliable slot receivers often become a young quarterback’s best friend because they offer high-percentage throws underneath while still possessing the ability to create yards after the catch.
Look for Kim to be heavily involved in both the passing game and special teams throughout the season.
Offensive Balance Will Be the Goal
Although Wissahickon loses several talented offensive contributors, the returning experience suggests the Trojans can remain balanced.
The offensive line should allow the running game to set the tone, while the veteran backs and versatile skill players provide multiple options for the coaching staff.
The key will be limiting turnovers.
A team with an experienced defense and strong kicking game does not need to force risky plays offensively.
Sustaining drives, winning field position and capitalizing in the red zone should continue to be the offensive blueprint.
If Wissahickon consistently controls the line of scrimmage, the offense should again rank among the more productive units in the conference.
Defense Returns Experience at Every Level
If the offense is built around the offensive line, the defense is built around experience.
Wissahickon returns starters across all three levels, giving defensive coordinator Dave Sowers a veteran unit capable of playing aggressively.
The Trojans’ defensive philosophy centers around communication, relentless effort and creating pressure.
“We aim to be fundamentally sound tacklers who play with a relentless effort. Communication is key to our success. We will play fast, create pressures, and play with passion.”
That identity fits a defense returning numerous experienced seniors.
Front Four Sets the Tone
The defensive line has the potential to become one of the team’s biggest strengths.
Senior Hassan Freeman and Henry Nagata return after contributing on both sides of the football, while junior Kevin Isales gives the Trojans another experienced presence up front.
The line’s ability to control the point of attack will determine how aggressive Wissahickon can become defensively.
Generating pressure with the front allows linebackers to attack downhill while reducing the amount of time defensive backs must remain in coverage.
The Trojans want to create disruption without relying exclusively on blitzes.
If the defensive line consistently wins individual matchups, the rest of the defense becomes considerably more dangerous.
Veteran Linebackers Provide Leadership
Few teams in District 1 return a linebacker corps as experienced as Wissahickon’s.
Senior Andrew Rowen returns at middle linebacker after serving as the quarterback of the defense.
Senior Joe Casalinuovo anchors the weak side, while Sampson returns as the outside linebacker.
Junior La’ Rod Potter gives the Trojans another athletic playmaker on the edge.
That group combines experience, athleticism and physicality.
Their communication will be particularly important against the spread offenses frequently seen throughout the Suburban One League.
The linebackers also have the versatility to pressure quarterbacks, defend the run and drop into coverage.
That flexibility gives the coaching staff numerous options when designing defensive game plans.
Experienced Secondary Returns
The secondary also returns significant experience.
Senior Avery Godoy and Kyleeh Washington provide veteran leadership at defensive back.
Chambers returns at strong safety, while Kim anchors the free safety position.
That continuity should allow Wissahickon to communicate effectively against complex passing attacks.
Experienced secondaries often eliminate explosive plays simply by recognizing formations and route concepts before the snap.
The Trojans expect that experience to translate into improved coverage, more takeaways and fewer assignment errors.
Combined with an aggressive pass rush, the secondary has the potential to become one of the team’s defining strengths.
Defense Wants to Dictate Games
Wissahickon does not want to react to opposing offenses.
The Trojans want to dictate the action.
Playing fast, tackling well and creating consistent pressure are central themes throughout the defensive philosophy.
The returning veterans understand those expectations after spending multiple seasons in the program.
Communication will be especially important.
The coaching staff believes a defense that communicates effectively can play faster, avoid breakdowns and capitalize on opportunities to create turnovers.
If Wissahickon consistently wins first down, the defense has enough experience to force opponents into uncomfortable passing situations.
Reliable Special Teams Could Be Difference
Special teams may quietly become one of Wissahickon’s greatest advantages.
Junior Ben Hinchcliffe returns after establishing himself as one of the area’s top kickers and punters.
His ability to flip field position gives the Trojans an advantage that often goes unnoticed until close games.
Senior Joe Casalinuovo returns as the long snapper for both punts and field goals, providing continuity throughout the kicking operation.
Kim once again headlines the return game.
The coaching staff believes special teams will be a major factor every week.
A dependable kicking game can determine playoff races by winning hidden yardage, pinning opponents deep and converting scoring opportunities.
Few teams enter the season with the level of continuity Wissahickon possesses in this phase.
Players to Watch
Quasir Sampson, Sr., RB/OLB: Dynamic two-way athlete expected to lead the rushing attack while making plays at outside linebacker.
Tyree Chambers, Sr., RB/SS: Physical runner and veteran defensive leader who provides toughness in all phases.
Ryan Kim, Sr., Slot/FS/PR: Versatile playmaker capable of impacting the game on offense, defense and special teams.
Andrew Rowen, Sr., MLB: Leader of an experienced linebacker corps and the quarterback of the defense.
Joe Casalinuovo, Sr., WLB/LS: Veteran linebacker who anchors both the defense and the special teams operation.
La’ Rod Potter, Jr., OLB: Athletic edge defender expected to take another step forward.
Hassan Freeman, Sr., OL/DL: Two-way lineman who anchors both the offensive and defensive fronts.
Henry Nagata, Sr., OL/DL: Veteran lineman expected to help control the line of scrimmage.
Scott Youngblood, Sr., OL: Experienced offensive lineman who provides stability and leadership.
Billy Stout, Sr., OL: Returning starter on one of District 1’s most experienced offensive lines.
Shawnmykle Valentine, Sr., OL: Veteran blocker expected to help establish the running game.
Kevin Isales, Jr., DL: Returning defensive lineman who adds athleticism and experience to the front.
Avery Godoy, Sr., DB: Veteran defensive back expected to help lead the secondary.
Kyleeh Washington, Sr., DB: Experienced cover defender returning for another varsity season.
Ben Hinchcliffe, Jr., K/P: One of the area’s premier specialists whose leg can consistently influence field position.
My thoughts on Wissahickon
Wissahickon has all the ingredients necessary to remain one of District 1 Class 5A’s top contenders.
The Trojans must replace several accomplished graduates, including their starting quarterback, but the overall experience returning throughout the roster is impressive.
The offensive line is among the team’s greatest strengths and should allow Wissahickon to establish a physical identity built around the running game and ball control. Sampson, Chambers and Kim provide experienced playmakers capable of producing explosive plays while helping ease the transition at quarterback.
Defensively, the Trojans return veteran leaders at every level. The combination of an experienced front, athletic linebackers and seasoned secondary gives Wissahickon the personnel to play the aggressive, attacking style it prefers.
Special teams could become the hidden advantage that separates the Trojans in close games. With Hinchcliffe handling both kicking duties and Casalinuovo returning as long snapper, Wissahickon possesses one of the more reliable special teams units in the area.
The challenge now is taking the next step after last year’s 9-2 finish ended sooner than expected in the District 1 playoffs.
With an experienced senior class, a dominant offensive line and a defense built on communication and relentless effort, Wissahickon has the talent to contend for a Suburban One League American Conference championship and make another deep run in the District 1 Class 5A postseason.
Head Coach: Rory Graver
Assistant Coaches:
Dave Sowers
Steve Fulmer
Brandon Gilliard
Chase Rieger
Dan Nardo
Andy Noga
Tyler Yaculak
Ryan Brennan
Wesley Queen
Nick Sowers
Team Name: Wissahickon Trojans
District: 1
Class: 5A
League: Suburban One League, American Conference
2025 Record: 9-2
8/22 @ Upper Dublin (5A) 7:00 pm W 21-16
8/28 @ Upper Merion (5A) 7:00 pm W 52-28
9/05 Archbishop Carroll (3A) 7:00 pm W 38-14
9/12 @ Sun Valley/Northley (4A) 7:00 pm W 27-14
9/19 @ Interboro (4A) 7:00 pm W 41-21
9/26 William Tennent* (6A) 7:00 pm W 35-0
10/03 @ Plymouth-Whitemarsh* (6A) 7:00 pm L 27-33 OT
10/10 Upper Moreland* (5A) 7:00 pm W 28-27 OT
10/17 @ Hatboro-Horsham* (5A) 7:00 pm W 42-7
10/24 Springfield-Montco* (4A) 7:00 pm W 56-14
10/31 Unionville (5A) 7:00 pm L 14-27 Dist. 1 Class 5A 1st Round
2026 Schedule:
Date Opponent Kickoff
8/22 Abington (6A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 Upper Dublin (5A) 7:00 pm
9/03 Upper Merion (5A) 7:00 pm
9/10 Archbishop Carroll (3A) 7:00 pm
9/18 @ Chichester (4A) 7:00 pm
9/25 Academy Park (5A) 7:00 pm
10/02 @ Upper Moreland* (5A) 7:00 pm
10/09 Hatboro-Horsham* (5A) 7:00 pm
10/16 @ William Tennent* (6A) 7:00 pm
10/23 Harry S. Truman* (6A) 7:00 pm Senior Night
10/30 @ Springfield-Montco* (4A) 7:00 pm
Key Starters Lost:
Evan Tolmie
Quentin West
Dom Harvey Sheppard
Nate Alkire
Xavier Johnson
Cole Lilienfeld
Jason Murray Jr.
Zion Ford
Dylan Shanter
Nolan Carter
Offensive Starters Returning:
Sr. RB Quasir Sampson
Sr. RB Tyree Chamber
Sr. Slot Receiver/RB Ryan Kim
Sr. OL Hassan Freeman
Sr. OL Henry Nagata
Sr. OL Scott Youngblood
Sr. OL Billy Stout
Sr. OL Shawnmykle Valentine
Defensive Starters Returning:
Sr. OLB Quasir Sampson
Jr. OLB La’ Rod Potter
Sr. MLB Andrew Rowen
Sr. WLB Joe Casalinuovo
Sr. DB Avery Godoy
Sr. DB Kyleeh Washington
Jr. DL Kevin Isales
Sr. DL Hassan Freeman
Sr. DL Henry Nagata
Sr. SS Tyree Chambers
Sr. FS Ryan Kim
Special Team Starters Returning:
Ben Hinchcliffe Jr. K/P
Joe Casalinuovo Sr. LS
Ryan Kim Sr. PR
Key Newcomers:
Jr. WR/RB/DB Isaiah Mulbah
Sr. RB/LB Pascal Plyter
Sr. Slot/DB CJ Merriweather
Sr. TE/OLB Brody Micenec
Jr. WR Peyton Shaffer
Jr. WR/DB Ethan Barkley
Jr. QB Evan Dixon
Sr. DL Nick Tate
Soph. DB Rowan Bellas
Jr. WR/DB Kyle Intal
Soph DB Matt Warren
Sr. OL Tyler Baritz
Soph. OL Evan Clementi
Jr. OL Damir Williams
Soph. DL Jerrel Pounds
2026 Offensive Outlook: Offensively, our success will come from protecting the football, executing at a high level, and dominating the line of scrimmage.
2026 Defensive Outlook: Defensively, we aim to be fundamentally sound tacklers who play with a relentless effort. Communication is key to our success. We will play fast, create pressures, and play with passion.
2026 Special Teams Outlook: Special teams will be a key phase of our success this season. We return one of the best kickers/punters in the area and our LS for both FG and Punts. We expect to have a strong, reliable kicking game that helps us control field position each week.