The Rams are eager to build on last season, which ended with a .500 record and an early playoff exit. The fall 2023 season saw the team enduring a roller coaster of ups and downs, battling hard for every win.
“An obvious goal for this team is to go 13-0 and win a state championship,” senior captain Dean Mangiocavallo said. “This involves us going 1-0 every week and earning the results our hard work deserves. The standard we set for ourselves and our teammates will be crucial in meeting our expectations.”
This season, the Rams have set high expectations, aiming to elevate their performance under the new leadership of Head Coach Dave Albano. The Rams will benefit from the return of many starters, particularly in the trenches, where most of the team’s experience lies. Leading the charge is Mangiocavallo, joined by returning seniors captain Nick Hart and Ryan Collins. Completing this seasoned group are juniors Ben Quinn and Jayden Moreale and sophomore Brooks Koepke.
“Our goal is to minimize the mistakes we made last year and grow from them, both as a team and a family,” Hart said. “We lost two experienced linemen to injuries, and replacing them will take time. The bond we had last season was special, but like every new year, we have to build new connections.”
The Rams’ skill positions also feature many young, experienced players, with junior Jackson Magley captaining the offense. Magley’s targets this season will include sophomores Patrick Dell’Aglio and Zayne Carswell; juniors Joey Sommer, Justin Novak and Mason Wilson; and seniors Dustin McFarlane and captain Will Varanelli.
“As always, we have a tough schedule, but with the game experience our juniors and seniors bring, big things are possible,” Varanelli said. “The level of offensive firepower and defensive talent we have is more than enough to dominate our conference. The sky’s the limit.”
In the backfield, Magley will be joined by senior Gideon Ochieng and sophomores Matt Skrapits and Jayden Aguilar.
Defensively, the Rams face a similar scenario, with many familiar faces returning. The focal point will be junior linebacker Joey Bosotina. “Joey is the quarterback of our defense,” Albano said. “He gets everyone in the right positions.”
Despite the coaching change, the Rams hold high expectations for a deep playoff run and a potential state championship. Coach Albano brings a mix of tradition and a fresh, passionate approach to the program. “I am thrilled to be part of the Randolph football tradition,” he said. “I hope to blend the old with the new and unite this team to be successful both on and off the field.”
This season, the Rams will face new opponents, including Warren Hills, Orange and Mendham. A confident Bosotina said, “Despite the coaching changes, my teammates and I are prepared to be one of the best teams in Morris County.”
The Rams kick off their season against Morristown on Friday, Sept. 6, at 7:00 p.m. at Bauer Field.
