Wildcats standout defensive lineman returns home from the Academy very impressed.
By Eddie Dwyer, Copyright July 2012
Senior Dave Katusha, Saint Ignatius' man in the middle along the defensive line, told the corner on Tuesday that he has made a commitment to further his education and football career next year at the Air Force Academy.
"My dad and I drove out there this past weekend and I just loved it," said the 6-foot-2, 270-pound Katusha, who made 54 tackles last season, including 28 solos, 19 tackles for losses, three sacks and two forced fumbles. "The Academy and the facilities are so impressive. The coaches were really nice, they spent a lot of time with me."
A major factor during the Wildcats' run to a record 11th Division I state championship last season, Katusha was recruited as both a nose tackle and a defensive end. He emphasized that it feels great to have his commitment made and off his back before the start of another promising season at Saint Ignatius.
Katusha, who also considered Ohio University and Bowling Green State University, will be part of one of the strongest defensive lines in the area. Dave will team with seasoned veterans Matt Gawlik and Kevin Kavalec up front. Kavalec, a Boston College recruit, is coming off an All-Ohio season.
"Dave really came on last year as a junior and was a major force," said Wildcats head football coach Chuck Kyle '69, who has begun his 30th season at his alma mater. "And he is still coming. Dave has strong skills and a good mindset. He's ready for the challenge of being a Cadet."
*Just a reminder that Katusha and Co. will complete their final mini camp with a five-day session from July 23-27. Then it's on to the real nitty gritty when two-a-days begin on July 30.
As we reported last month, the Wildcats' pre-season schedule will include a practice session/drills competition with the highly regarded Solon Comets on Aug. 7 at Wasmer Field, a scrimmage at Twinsburg on Aug. 10 and the annual Jamboree scrimmage with the Canton McKinley Bulldogs on Aug. 17 at our home away from home, legendary Fawcett Stadium. The season opener is Aug. 25 against the defending Division III state champions from Youngstown Cardinal Mooney. The kickoff from Browns Stadium will be 7 p.m. Mooney is loaded again, my friends.
A happy and safe 4th of July to one and all!