MUSTANGS GEARING UP FOR THE SEASON: 2023 GRAND VALLEY FOOTBALL PREVIEW

East Palestine, OH-In the heart of Orwell, Ohio, the Grand Valley Mustangs are gearing up for an exciting football season that promises to be one of transformation and determination. After a challenging 2022 season, the Mustangs are ready to take the field once again, fueled by lessons learned and an unyielding drive to succeed.

The 2022 season wasn’t all the Mustangs had hoped for, ending with a 2-8 record. However, this was a significant improvement from their previous year, where they finished with a 1-7 record. Beyond the numbers, the Mustangs showed remarkable growth on the offensive front, and much of this progress can be attributed to their senior quarterback, Nate Boiarski. Boiarski’s impressive performance included amassing 1,225 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, leaving a legacy that would be tough to replicate.

With Boiarski’s graduation, the Mustangs are preparing to pass the torch to an emerging star, Sammy Goforth. An incoming junior, Goforth showcased his skills in the previous season, taking a few snaps as a sophomore. Now, he’s set to lead the team as the starting quarterback. Known for his agility and elusiveness, Goforth’s dynamic playing style promises to keep opposing defenses on their toes. As he steps into this pivotal role, the Grand Valley community is eager to witness his growth and impact on the field.

The Mustangs won’t be short on talent in the receiving department either. Returning to the field is Robert Rogers, who concluded the 2022 season as Ashtabula County’s top receiver. Rogers tallied an impressive 819 receiving yards on 56 receptions, with an astonishing 11 touchdowns to his name. His ability to create openings and his exceptional leaping skills have earned him the moniker “Grasshopper,” making him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

As the Mustangs embark on the new season, the backfield will be fortified by the presence of John Foss-Peters and Kam Cottrell. Both players are known for their hard-nosed, downhill running style, making them effective on inside runs as well as sweeps. With their combined prowess, they’re poised to make a significant impact on the Mustangs’ offensive strategy.

The offensive line, a cornerstone of any successful football team, will be anchored by senior Trevor Mullen and sophomore Austin Miller. Their experience and dedication are expected to provide the stability and protection needed to maximize the team’s offensive potential.

This season marks the Mustangs’ final year in the CVC conference before returning to the NAC conference for the 2024-2025 year. The team is also set to face new opponents, including Conneaut, Wickliffe, Berkshire, and Kirtland. While the upcoming schedule is filled with exciting matchups, one game that stands out is the clash against their rivals, Pymatuning Valley, in week 3. This game carries not only the promise of victory but also the prestigious Battle of the Valley Trophy.

When asked about their approach to the upcoming season, head coach Clint Nims emphasized the need for mental and physical toughness, along with a determination to finish strong. This sentiment encapsulates the Mustangs’ determination to overcome challenges and leave an indelible mark on the field.

Football enthusiasts in Orwell and beyond are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season, with expectations running high for the Grand Valley Mustangs. As they bid farewell to the CVC conference, this year promises to be a memorable swansong, filled with grit, passion, and the pursuit of victory. Make sure to catch all the thrilling action as the Mustangs charge forward, making history on the field. You can follow their journey on the home of High School sports in Ashtabula County, www.YSNlive.com.