LOWELLVILLE, OH-  In an exclusive interview on the “YSN Live” podcast, Lowellville Rockets head football coach Andrew Mamula opened up about his team’s recent performances, the challenges ahead, and his confidence in the team’s future.

“I think I’ve seen you in passing, but I don’t think I’ve ever actually had a conversation,” Mamula said, expressing his appreciation for the podcast’s coverage. Mamula noted the improved performance of their recent opponents, the Campbell Memorial Red Devils, acknowledging the commendable work of Coach King.
Mamula couldn’t hide his pride when discussing his team’s resilience, especially during their recent game against Campbell. “Offensively, we felt good. We were moving the ball… We have a great back in Geno Perry, so we fed him the rock,” Mamula said. The coach highlighted key moments, including a critical stop right before halftime that set the tone for the game’s second half.

Highlighted was Mamula’s aggressive play-calling strategy. From onside kicks to bold fourth-down attempts, his approach is fueled by necessity and pragmatism. “I’d rather just give our kids a chance to do the things we practice,” Mamula explained. “Punting the ball is risky… So we just try to avoid doing those things.”

Looking ahead, Mamula is optimistic about his sophomore quarterback, Ricky Willrich, who he described as having the mentality of a veteran. “Mentally, he gets the game as a sophomore, and it’s hard for seniors to get the game,” he said, praising Willrich’s understanding of plays and arm talent.

As the Rockets prepare to face the Western Reserve Blue Devils, Mamula is aware of the talent and challenges they bring, emphasizing players like Nathan Hemberger and Jack Darnay. “They’re three difference makers… we have to account for if we want to have any success against them,” he noted.

Despite the tough road ahead and a competitive conference slate, Mamula continues to instill confidence in his players. When asked about maintaining success, he pinpointed the need for stronger defense and better special teams performance. “Defensively, we got to get stops… We have to be more disciplined in our coverages,” he emphasized.

Ending the interview, Mamula addressed the skepticism surrounding Lowellville’s ability to sustain success following the departure of key players. “There’s some inexperience this year…but I think we can coach it to the point where we can be competitive,” he asserted. “We don’t want to fall back into the pack; we want to be near the top.”

With determined leadership and a clear focus, Coach Mamula and the Rockets aim to continue their winning ways and remain a strong contender in the MVAC conference.

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