The Chiefs' program struggled last year, its first, against bigger and more established teams in the South-West Conference. This year, new head Coach Rico Brogna takes over the team and the Chiefs will play in the Pequot League against teams from several Berkshire League schools, as well as several co-op teams from smaller schools in the eastern part of the state.

Nonnewaug finished last year with a 0-10 record. The coach and team hope to erase those memories. Brogna, a retired Major League baseball player, comes onto the scene with a solid background.

Besides his background as a professional baseball player, Brogna has also had coaching stints in football in Waterbury and baseball at the college level at Post University.

The Chiefs lost to graduation quarterback Andrew Chapman, receiver Joe Peck, Mike Kenny and defensive standout Mike Kuzma.

Brogna is looking to the returning seniors to provide the leadership his team needs this season. Senior quarterback Spencer Cortese, senior wide receiver/ safety Matt King and senior offensive and defensive lineman Sean Gorman lead the list.

Juniors who will have to step up after a year's experience on the varsity level include captain linebacker John Haggerty, linebacker Anthony Sousa and linebacker James Francis.

Also joining the team and expected to make an impact will be junior quarterback/rover Ethan Downs, junior wide receiver Zak Dominello and junior linemen Zachary Kaylor-Young.

Also new to the varsity line-up are sophomore linebacker and backup quarterback Mark Simmons and sophomore defensive back P.J. Scappatura.

Coach Brogna noted that there are not a lot of veterans on the team, but the returning players have shown a good work ethic with lots of enthusiasm. He is stressing fundamentals this season and has installed a new system that the players have to learn.

Brogna has focused more on techniques and skills, than on schemes. While it may be a rebuilding season for the Chiefs, they enthusiastically looking forward to playing more competitive games in the Pequot League this year.

Nonnewaug opens the season with a home game Saturday, September 13, against Weston in a non-league contest.