High School Football

BY GREGG SARRA

Diashawn Miller rolled right, recognized the defense and took off upfield. The junior quarterback will be making those kinds of decisions all season at Elmont. His athleticism is what prompted coach Jay Hegi to move Miller to quarterback midway through last season. That offensive adjustment proved beneficial when the Spartans reached the playoffs for the fourth straight year at Hofstra.

Miller throws well and can spread the field. His ability to throw on the run and to get the ball deep will help stretch the defense and open the Spartans running game. The early morning Elmont football practice had a ton of enthusiasm as the top-seeded Spartans get ready for the Nassau Conference opener in a few weeks.

Senior halfback Justin Mayers is considered the top back in the conference. He is a slashing type runner with excellent vision. But don't be fooled, it didn't take more than a comment from the defensive scout team to see Miller bring it on the ensuing play. You could hear the popping of the pads in Garden City.

This Elmont team is huge. The offensive line operates behind senior tight end Nikita Josephs, a 6-foot-4 245-pound kid who can really move and tackle Kevin Michel, a 6-foot-3 290-pounder who likes to get downfield and lay people out. Practice was loaded with personality and chatter and these Spartans know they have a ton of talent. "The season can't start soon enough," said Miller. "We're ready to go."

The drive to the title was made a little easier when Lawrence, the conference champion, was moved into Nassau Conference III. But by no means is it a walk over. The Spartans know Garden City is a perennial title contender and Hewlett and Carey are also looking for their shot at the crown.