Herricks Highlanders will rely on returning QB Grau

Mike Florio

The Herricks High School Highlanders are looking to build off of last season’s 3-5 record. 

To do so, head coach Michael Yoo will rely on senior quarterback and third year starter Chris Grau. 

Last year Grau threw for 610 yards, four passing touchdowns, four interceptions, all while rushing for 418 yards and seven touchdowns. 

Conference: I (11th Seed)

The Highlanders will have four players who will be starting for the third straight season — all of whom are now in their senior year. 

Joining Grau on that list is left guard, Alex Kang, left tackle, David Aaronson and wide receiver, Nick Mangia.

Other returning starters: 

LB, Michael Procops (senior), WR, Mike Saleme (junior), RB, Joey Carmody (junior), DT, Alex Stephen (senior), DE, Steven Zheng (senior).

Impact Players: Alex Kang, offensive line. “ He may be one of the top offensive lineman in the county,” Yoo said. “He’s big and moves really well.”

Chris Grau, Quarterback. “He’s got a really good receiver in Mike Saleme to throw the ball to,” Yoo said. 

Key Losses: Gavin Dowd (All-County-Honorable Mention).  Playing football at the University of New Haven.

Mark Marciano (All-Conference).  Playing Lacrosse at the University of Vermont.

Schedule: 9/12 at Massapequa (No. 3)

9/19 vs Oceanside (No. 7)

9/26 at Valley Stream Central (No. 13)

10/3 at Baldwin (No. 5)

10/10 vs Plainview JFK (No. 8)

10/16 at Freeport (No. 6)

10/23 vs Valley Stream Central  (No. 13) **homecoming

10/31 vs Port Washington (No. 14)

Homecoming: 10/23 vs Valley Stream Central

Two Key Games: 

Week 1 at Massapequa

Week 2 vs Oceanside

“Two most important because they’re the first two games,” Yoo said. “We take it one week at a time.”

Keys to victory: 1)  Be physical up front.

2) Stay on the field.

“If we can be a little lucky and stay healthy, we can compete,” Yoo said. 

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