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1999 Season Results (7-3, 6-0 PSAC)

December 21

 Mike Mitros Snow Bowl Bound; joins McFillin and Ingram
Kevin Ingram earns place on AP Little All-American Squad

FARGO, ND - West Chester University senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) has been selected to play in the 2000 Snow Bowl.

Mitros will join senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) and senior center Matt McFillin (Philadelphia/Archbishop Ryan) in the game which will be contested for the sixth time in Fargo, ND.

Mitros was named as a replacement after one of the previously selected quarterbacks was unable to play. It is believed this is the first time three players from the same team have played in the same Snow Bowl game.

The Division II Senior All-Star Game will be played on the campus of North Dakota State University in the Fargo Dome on January 15, 2000. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.

Mitros, McFillin and Ingram will play for the East Team which will be coached by former Golden Ram and Minnesota Viking All-Pro Joe Senser.

The honor will cap a stellar career by Mitros, who was named the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South Player of the Year. He was also named to the PSAC East Second Team in this season.

Mitros set the school record with his 94th career touchdown pass vs. Kutztown in the season finale, surpassing the 89 recorded by Dave MacDonald. He also set the WCU record for career 200-yard games by throwing his 27th vs. the Golden Bears on November 13. In addition to these marks, Mitros holds virtually every passing record in Golden Ram history.

He is the all-time WCU career leader in the following passing categories: touchdowns (94), 200-yard games (27), pass attempts (1402), completions (819), completion percentage (58.4) and yardage (9834).

Mitros has also taken part in more plays (1716) than anyone in WCU history. He has amassed more yards of total offense (9714) and total touchdowns (111) than any previous Golden Ram.

Mitros did not stop at the WCU record books, clawing his way atop the PSAC passing ranks as well. He is the all-time leader in conference history with his 94 scoring tosses, and he ranks second in the PSAC in pass attempts (1402), completions (819), passing yards (9834) and total offense (9714).

In 1999, Mitros completed 228 of 361 pass attempts for 2862 yards and 29 touchdowns.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) has been named an Associated Press Little All-American for the second straight year. The honor was released by the AP on December 21.

Ingram’s stellar season has included numerous awards. He was named to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc., NCAA Division II All-America Football Team for the second straight year. That award was presented by the Division II College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).

The honor for Ingram comes on the heels of his earning a place on the 1999 American Football Coaches Association Division II Burger King All-America squad. Ingram was selected to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc. Division II All-America Northeast Region Football First Team for the second straight season, a prerequisite for earning a place on the national ballot. He was also named the 1999 PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

Ingram was a Northeast Region and an NCAA Division II First Team All-America in 1998. He finished his career at WCU in 1999 by rewriting the Golden Ram record books.

Ingram holds the records for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

In 1999, Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

Last week Ingram was chosen to the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South All-Star Team for the second consecutive season. He was the lone West Chester University representative on the squad.

December 16

 Mike Mitros named ECAC D-II South Player of the Year
Ingram garners two more honors

CENTERVILLE, MA - West Chester University senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) has been named the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South Player of the Year.

Mitros, who was named to the PSAC East Second Team in 1999, was also the ECAC II South Rookie of the Year in 1996. (Editor’s note: Mitros was not selected to the 1999 ECAC II All-Star Team.)

Mitros set the school record with his 94th career touchdown pass vs. Kutztown in the season finale, surpassing the 89 recorded by Dave MacDonald. He also set the WCU record for career 200-yard games by throwing his 27th vs. the Golden Bears on November 13. In addition to these marks, Mitros holds virtually every passing record in Golden Ram history.

He is the all-time WCU career leader in the following passing categories: touchdowns (94), 200-yard games (27), pass attempts (1402), completions (819), completion percentage (58.4) and yardage (9834).

Mitros has also taken part in more plays (1716) than anyone in WCU history. He has amassed more yards of total offense (9714) and total touchdowns (111) than any previous Golden Ram.

Mitros did not stop at the WCU record books, clawing his way atop the PSAC passing ranks as well. He is the all-time leader in conference history with his 94 scoring tosses, and he ranks second in the PSAC in pass attempts (1402), completions (819), passing yards (9834) and total offense (9714).

In 1999, Mitros completed 228 of 361 pass attempts for 2862 yards and 29 touchdowns.

BROOKINGS, SD - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) has been named to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc., NCAA Division II All-America Football Team for the second straight year.

The honor was announced on Wednesday, December 15, by the national committee in Brookings, SD. The Division II College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) created, coordinated and vote upon the All-America Team.

The honor for Ingram comes on the heels of his earning a place on the 1999 American Football Coaches Association Division II Burger King All-America squad. Ingram was selected to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc. Division II All-America Northeast Region Football First Team for the second straight season, a prerequisite for earning a place on the national ballot. He was also named the 1999 PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

Ingram was a Northeast Region and an NCAA Division II First Team All-America in 1998. He finished his career at WCU in 1999 by rewriting the Golden Ram record books.

Ingram holds the records for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

In 1999, Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

CENTERVILLE, MA - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) was named to the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South All-Star Team for the second straight year.

The honor was announced on Tuesday, December 14, by the ECAC Office in Centerville, MA. Ingram was the lone West Chester University representative on the squad.

December 15

 Mike Mitros Named ECAC D-II South Player of the Year

Ingram Garners Two More Honors

CENTERVILLE, MA - West Chester University senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) has been named the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South Player of the Year.

Mitros, who was named to the PSAC East Second Team in 1999, was also the ECAC II South Rookie of the Year in 1996. (Editor’s note: Mitros was not selected to the 1999 ECAC II All-Star Team.)

Mitros set the school record with his 94th career touchdown pass vs. Kutztown in the season finale, surpassing the 89 recorded by Dave MacDonald. He also set the WCU record for career 200-yard games by throwing his 27th vs. the Golden Bears on November 13. In addition to these marks, Mitros holds virtually every passing record in Golden Ram history.

He is the all-time WCU career leader in the following passing categories: touchdowns (94), 200-yard games (27), pass attempts (1402), completions (819), completion percentage (58.4) and yardage (9834).

Mitros has also taken part in more plays (1716) than anyone in WCU history. He has amassed more yards of total offense (9714) and total touchdowns (111) than any previous Golden Ram.

Mitros did not stop at the WCU record books, clawing his way atop the PSAC passing ranks as well. He is the all-time leader in conference history with his 94 scoring tosses, and he ranks second in the PSAC in pass attempts (1402), completions (819), passing yards (9834) and total offense (9714).

In 1999, Mitros completed 228 of 361 pass attempts for 2862 yards and 29 touchdowns.

BROOKINGS, SD - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) has been named to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc., NCAA Division II All-America Football Team for the second straight year.

The honor was announced on Wednesday, December 15, by the national committee in Brookings, SD. The Division II College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) created, coordinated and vote upon the All-America Team.

The honor for Ingram comes on the heels of his earning a place on the 1999 American Football Coaches Association Division II Burger King All-America squad. Ingram was selected to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc. Division II All-America Northeast Region Football First Team for the second straight season, a prerequisite for earning a place on the national ballot. He was also named the 1999 PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

Ingram was a Northeast Region and an NCAA Division II First Team All-America in 1998. He finished his career at WCU in 1999 by rewriting the Golden Ram record books.

Ingram holds the records for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

In 1999, Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

Ingram Honored by ECAC

CENTERVILLE, MA - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) was named to the 1999 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South All-Star Team for the second straight year.

The honor was announced on Tuesday, December 14, by the ECAC Office in Centerville, MA. Ingram was the lone West Chester University representative on the squad.

December 7

Kevin Ingram named AFCA All-America

WACO, TX - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) has been named a 1999 American Football Coaches Association Division II Burger King All-America.

This honor comes on the heels of Ingram earning a place on the 1999 Daktronics, Inc. Division II All-America Northeast Region Football First Team for the second straight season.

Ingram was also named the 1999 PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.

The Burger King Division II Coaches All-America Team is comprised of players from NCAA Division II and NAIA institutions.

The AFCA has selected an All-America team since 1945 and currently selects teams in all four of its divisions.

Ingram was a Northeast Region and an NCAA Division II First Team All-America in 1998. He finished his career at WCU in 1999 by rewriting the Golden Ram record books.

Ingram holds the records for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

In 1999, Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

December 3

Kevin Ingram named to Daktronics, Inc. Division II
Northeast Region All-America Football First Team

ALLENDALE, MI - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) has been named to the 1999 Daktronics, Inc. Division II All-America Northeast Region Football First Team for the second straight season.

Ingram, who was named the 1999 PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year, will now go on the national ballot.

The award was announced on Friday, December 3, by Northeast Region coordinator Tim Nolt, the Sports Information Director at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI. The honor was created by and voted upon by the NCAA Division II Sports Information Directors.

Ingram was a Northeast Region and an NCAA Division II First Team All-America in 1998. He finished his career at WCU in 1999 by rewriting the Golden Ram record books.

Ingram holds the records for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

In 1999, Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

November 30

Ingram and Daniels garner Top PSAC East honors for 1999

12 Golden Rams earn spot on PSAC East All-conference Team

LOCK HAVEN, PA - Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) and West Chester University head football coach Rick Daniels have been named the 1999 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division Offensive Player of the Year and Coach of the Year, respectively.

The honors were announced on Tuesday, November 23, by the PSAC Office in Lock Haven, PA.

In addition to earning PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year honors, Ingram was one of 12 Golden Ram players to claim All-PSAC East accolades.

For Daniels, the PSAC East Coach of the Year award was his fourth during his 11-year career at WCU, and his second consecutive. Daniels previously won the honor in 1998, 1992 and 1989 - his rookie season.

Boasting the second-most wins in WCU history (74), Daniels has compiled a .626 winning percentage (74-47-1). He has produced nine winning season and never has lost more than six games in any one year. His Golden Rams have claimed four PSAC East titles (1989, 1992, 1994, 1999) and have made three trips to the NCAA Division II Playoffs (1989, 1992, 1994).

After an 0-3 start, the Golden Rams won their final seven games of 1999, including six straight in PSAC East play. WCU ended the year 7-3 overall and 6-0 in the PSAC East.

Ingram finished his career at WCU by rewriting the Golden Rams record books. He holds the record for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU, and he is second all-time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278). Ingram finished fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

In 1999, Ingram caught 82 passes for 1050 yards and 16 touchdowns. He averaged 12.8 yards per catch and 116.7 yards per game.

While Ingram did not reset the single-season receiving marks, he did post the third-highest touchdown catch total, the fourth best yardage season and the third best reception year. He is the only Golden Ram player to catch more than 80 balls, record over 1000 yards and catch more than 10 touchdowns twice in a career.

Ingram was named All-PSAC East First Team Offense for the second straight year.

Joining Ingram on the First Team Offense were three seniors - TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg), center Matt McFillin (Philadelphia/Archbishop Ryan) and LT Vance Row (Ellicott City, MD/McDonough School).

Spinka recorded 18 catches for 203 yards and two touchdowns - one a memorable 51-yard jaunt against Millersville for the PSAC East title. This is his third All-PSAC East selection after earning Second Team honors in 1998 and First Team honors in 1996 as a rookie. He ended his career 10th in receptions (110) and 17th in receiving yards (1036).

Row and McFillin, meanwhile, teamed up to allow the WCU offense to average 458 yards per game. The Golden Rams averaged 163.9 yards on the ground and 294.1 through the air. McDonough is a three-time All-PSAC East First Team selection (1997 and 1998), while McFillin was named for the first time.

The PSAC East Second Team Offense was represented by WCU senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) and senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West).

Lowe caught 45 passes for 664 yards and two touchdowns. He averaged 14.8 yards per catch and 66.4 yards per game. He moved up the WCU record ladder as well, finishing fifth in receptions (163) and seventh in receiving yards (2076).

Lowe’s selection was the second of his career after earning All-PSAC East Second Team honors in 1997.

Maybe the best quarterback ever to play at WCU, Mitros was named All-PSAC East Second Team for the second time in his career. He was All-PSAC East Second Team in 1998 and the PSAC East Rookie of the Year in 1996.

Mitros set the school record with his 94th career touchdown pass vs. Kutztown in the season finale, surpassing the 89 recorded by Dave MacDonald. He also set the WCU record for career 200-yard games by throwing his 27th vs. the Golden Bears on November 13. In addition to these marks, Mitros holds virtually every passing record in Golden Ram history.

He is the all-time WCU career leader in the following passing categories: touchdowns (94), 200-yard games (27), pass attempts (1402), completions (819), completion percentage (58.4) and yardage (9834).

Mitros has also taken part in more plays (1716) than anyone in WCU history. He has amassed more yards of total offense (9714) and total touchdowns (111) than any previous Golden Ram.

Mitros did not stop at the WCU record books, clawing his way atop the PSAC passing ranks as well. He is the all-time leader in conference history with his 94 scoring tosses, and he ranks second in the PSAC in pass attempts (1402), completions (819), passing yards (9834) and total offense (9714).

In 1999, Mitros completed 228 of 361 pass attempts for 2862 yards and 29 touchdowns.

The defense was represented by six Golden Rams earning All-PSAC East honors - five for the first time. Senior FS Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) repeated as a Second Team member. He battled through an injury-plagued season to record 45 tackles, two interceptions (returned 19 yards) and one recovered fumble. He was named All-PSAC East Second Team in 1998.

Sophomores OLBs Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) and Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) were also named All-PSAC East Second Team for their outstanding seasons. Thomas posted 34 tackles, 12 tackles for loss (-38 yards), three sacks (-16), one interception (he returned for a 23-yard touchdown), three pass breakups and five blocked kicks (2 field goals and 3 PATS).

Kersey had 37 tackles, six TFLs (-25), three sacks (-18), one pass breakup and a recovered fumble.

Red-shirt freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia, PA/Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO) earned a Second Team honor as a rookie by recording 32 tackles, nine TFLs (-83) and 5.5 sacks (-72).

The First Team featured senior DT Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) and junior CB Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown). DiSanto, a former offensive lineman, posted 36 tackles, seven TFLs (-12) and one recovered fumble. Johnson had 26 tackles and four pass breakups.

November 20

FARGO, ND - West Chester University senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) and senior center Matt McFillin (Philadelphia/Archbishop Ryan) have been selected to participate in the 6th Annual Snow Bowl in Fargo, ND.

The Division II Senior All-Star Game will be played on the campus of North Dakota State University in the Fargo Dome on January 15, 2000. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.

One of the leaders in the nation in receiving yards and receptions per game, Ingram set the WCU career record in both categories in 1999. This season, Ingram has recorded 953 receiving and all-purpose yards, 74 catches and 13 touchdowns. He is averaging 119.1 yards per game in both all-purpose and receiving yardage, and he collects over nine passes per game from senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner).

McFillin is leading a WCU squad which has averaged over 47 points per game over the past six contests. The offense is clicking at 448.6 yards per game and 6.3 yards per play. WCU has posted 1408 rushing yards and 2629 passing yards.

The duo follow in a tradition of Golden Ram players competing in the Snow Bowl. Lee Woodall (1993), Dave MacDonald (1994), Chris Mooney (1996) and Ben Tonon (1997) all have played in the Division II showcase.

This year’s East team will be coached by former WCU Golden Ram and Minnesota Viking All-Pro Joe Senser.

EDINBORO, PA - Senior OL Vance Row (Ellicott City, MD/McDonough School) has been selected to the 1999 GTE Academic All-America District II (College) Football Team. The honor was announced on November 14 by the GTE District II Committee in Edinboro, PA.

Recipients must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher, be a starter or significant reserve, and be at least a sophomore athletically and academically. Candidates are voted on by members of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSida).

Row is leading a WCU squad which has averaged over 47 points per game over the past six contests. The offense is clicking at 448.6 yards per game and 6.3 yards per play. WCU has posted 1408 rushing yards and 2629 passing yards.

Row boasts a 3.38 GPA in Criminal Justice at WCU.

As a District II selection, Row will now go on the national ballot which will be announced on December 7. The College District II consists of all non-Division I or I-AA four-year programs in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia and the District of Columbia.

November 17

 Golden Rams Take PSAC East Title
Outright with 55-30 Win

Mitros named PSAC East and ECAC II South Offensive Player of the Week

WEST CHESTER, PA – Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Monsignor Bonner) threw for 287 yards and tied a school record with six touchdown passes as the Golden Rams of West Chester University defeated the Golden Bears of Kutztown 55-30 to capture the 1999 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division title at John A. Farrell Stadium on November 13.

The title is the Golden Rams first since 1994, and their first outright since 1992.

More of the Same for Mitros

Mitros led WCU to 543 yards of total offense. His 287 passing yards came on 29 completions to six different pass-catchers. He also scored the Golden Rams first touchdown of the day on a one-yard run with 9:14 remaining in the first quarter. Mitros’ 302 yards of total offense upped his season total to 2925, placing him fourth in the final Division II rankings.

For his outstanding performance, Mitros was named the PSAC East and the Eastern College Athletic Conference Division II South Offensive Player of the Week.

Sophomore backup QB Tim Bigelow (Camp Hill/Camp Hill) was impressive in limited action. Bigelow came off the sidelines to complete two of his three pass attempts for 25 yards.

Receivers go out in Style

Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) grabbed eight catches for 97 yards and three touchdowns, while senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/C.B. West) put

together another outstanding afternoon. Lowe grabbed six balls for 86 yards and a 33-yard touchdown.

Ingram wrapped up his senior season ranked second in Division II in receptions per game. In nine games he hauled in 82 passes, averaging 9.1 receptions per contest. Lowe finished his career fifth all-time at WCU in receptions.

Career Day for DeFilipo

Sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) rushed for a career high 157 yards on 21 carries, averaging 7.5 yards per rush attempt vs. the Golden Bears. He also caught a 15-yard Mitros touchdown pass with 3:30 left in the first half.

Junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) carried the ball nine times for 51 yards and snagged five Mitros passes for 29 yards. Sophomore RB Robert Akens (Philadelphia/Germantown Academy) scored the Golden Rams final touchdown of the season, barreling seven yards to end the game. Akens was also on the receiving end of a 16-yard Bigelow pass late in the game.

Team Defense

The WCU defense was led by sophomore OLB Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Dougherty). Kersey recorded a team-high seven tackles against the Golden Bears, while seniors Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) and Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) contributed five tackles apiece. Jesson recorded a four-yard sack against Kutztown.

Freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO) collected three tackles on the afternoon, two going for a combined loss of -18 yards.

Junior DB Curtis Callands (Philadelphia/George Washington) notched four tackles while also recovering an inadvertent Golden Ram on-side kick in the second half. Kutztown failed to field a popped up kickoff by WCU.

Cruising Down the Homestretch

The Golden Rams will carry a seven-game winning streak with them into the 2000 season opener against New Haven. After losing its first three games, WCU reeled off seven straight wins to finish 7-3 overall (6-0 PSAC East). Over that seven-game streak, the Golden Rams outscored their opponents 339-134.

The Final Records

Mitros and Ingram have each left permanent marks on the WCU record books. Fellow seniors Lowe, and tight ends Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) and Mike Spinka (Muhlenburg/Temple) have also climbed up the career receiving charts.

Mitros set a school record with his 94th career touchdown pass vs. Kutztown, surpassing the 89 recorded by Dave MacDonald. He also set the WCU record for career 200-yard games by throwing his 27th on Saturday. In addition to these marks, Mitros holds virtually every passing record in Golden Ram history.

He is the all-time WCU career leader in the following passing categories: touchdowns (94), 200-yard games (27), pass attempts (1402), completions (819), completion percentage (58.4) and yardage (9834).

Mitros has also taken part in more plays (1716) than anyone in WCU history. He has amassed more yards of total offense (9714) and total touchdowns (111) than any previous Golden Ram.

Mitros did not stop at the WCU record books, clawing his way atop the PSAC passing ranks as well. He is the all-time leader in conference history with his 94 scoring tosses, and he ranks second in the PSAC in pass attempts (1402), completions (819), passing yards (9834) and total offense (9714).

Ingram holds the record for career receptions (235) and yards (3159) at WCU. He is second all time at WCU in touchdown receptions (45) and points scored (278), and he moved into fifth all-time in all-purpose yardage (3507).

Ingram also put a dent into the PSAC record books. He finished second in overall touchdown receptions (he is recognized as the regular-season all-time leader), third in receptions and yardage, and seventh in points scored.

Lowe moved up the WCU record ladder as well. He finished fifth in receptions (163) and seventh in receiving yards (2076).

Truitt and Spinka cracked the WCU record books in receptions and yards as well. Truitt finished 12th in receptions (97) and 13th in yards (1063), while Spinka ended his career 10th in receptions (110) and 17th in receiving yards (1036).

November 10

Kevin Ingram sets career receiving yardage record;
Mike Mitros inches closer to TD mark

CHEYNEY, PA - Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) returned the opening kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown and senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) connected on four touchdown passes as the West Chester University Golden Rams clinched at least a share of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division Championship on Saturday by defeating the Wolves of Cheyney University 56-23.

WCU improved its record to 6-3 on the year with its sixth straight win. The Golden Rams are a perfect 5-0 in PSAC East play and can win the title outright this Saturday when they host Kutztown.

Regional Climb

It is getting interesting. The Golden Rams moved up to eighth in the NCAA Division II Northeast Region this week with the victory over Cheyney and losses by Hillsdale, Ashland and New Haven.

The Regional Rankings are as follows: 1) Slippery Rock, 2) Northwood, 3) Shippensburg, 4) Shepherd, 5) Millersville, 6) IUP, 7) New Haven, 8) WCU, 9) Fairmont State, 10) Hillsdale.

Northwood must play at tough Michigan Tech this week, while Shippensburg and IUP square off in the PSAC season finale. New Haven hosts NCAA I-AA power Jackson State.

Goal No. 1 accomplished

The first goal for the 1999 WCU football team was to capture the PSAC East flag. The have at least a share of the title, but now the quest is to drag it home all for themselves.

The win over Cheyney began quickly as WCU scored a pair of touchdowns just 41 seconds into the game after DeFilipo's return was followed by a four-yard touchdown pass from Mitros to senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman). That play was set up by sophomore DB LeRoy Miller's (York Haven/Red Land) 25-yard interception return down to the Cheyney four on the Wolves first play from scrimmage.

Ingram wound up with eight catches for 121 yards and the lone touchdown. He became the all-time career leader at WCU with 3062 receiving yards. Ingram is also now second all-time in the PSAC in career touchdown receptions with 42.

Mitros tied the WCU record for career 200-yard games by recording his 26th. He can break Dave MacDonald's record next week vs. Kutztown. He is also one touchdown pass shy of the WCU career record held by MacDonald (89).

Mitros and his mates

Mitros finished the game by completing 22 of 35 pass attempts for 238 yards and four touchdowns. In addition to Ingram, he spread his completions around to six other receivers. Senior tight ends Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) and Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle), and senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) each caught touchdown passes.

Truitt made the score 27-0 in the second quarter on an eight-yard grab in the back of the end zone. He snagged three passes for 20 yards on the day and converted 4 of 5 extra point attempts.

Spinka and Lowe each grabbed one ball on the afternoon. Lowe put WCU up 33-0 at intermission by hauling down a 32-yard pass from Mitros, while Spinka capped the Golden Rams scoring with an 11-yard catch from Mitros midway through the fourth quarter.

Sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) turned in one of his best performances of the season. He had five recepetions for 47 yards and returned one kickoff 30 yards.

Getting a Reed

Known mostly for his smash-mouth blocking, junior FB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) scored on a two-yard run in the first-quarter that put the Golden Rams up 21-0. He also caught two passes for nine yards.

But it is his lead blocking which opened up the lanes for DeFilipo to earn 83 yards rushing on just 10 carries. DeFilipo complemented the opening kickoff return by scoring on a two-yard run in the fourth quarter, and he registered two points on a conversion run following Ingram’s touchdown catch that gave WCU a quick 14-0 lead.

DeFilipo finished the game with 166 all-purpose yards and 14 points on two touchdowns and a two-point conversion.

Junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights), who was sick and saw limited action, piled up 44 yards on just nine carries and scored on a 15-yard bruising run to open the fourth quarter.

Getting a Reed II

Freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO) - no relation to Scott - produced an outstanding day. He recorded five tackles, including two for losses totalling -17 yards. He had an 11-yard sack and a six-yard TFL.

For his efforts, Reed was named the PSAC East Defensive Player of the Week for the first time in his career.

Junior OLB Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) had a sack of six yards, while senior SS Rocky Ullman (West Chester/Henderson) netted a four-yard sack against the Wolves. Kersey finished the day with four unassisted tackles, while Ullman posted two.

Saftey Dance

Senior DT Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) was credited with a safety against the Wolves when he sniffed out a swing pass Cheyney was developing in its own end zone. The unassisted tackle also went for a one-yard tackle for loss.

Junior MLB Mike O’Neill (Norwood/Bonner) topped the Golden Rams with five unassisted tackles, while red-shirt freshman OLB Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol), junior CB Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown) and senior FS Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) each collected four. Ray had a pair of TFL’s for -5 yards and Johnson broke up a pass.

Senior DE Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon) was credited with a two-yard TFL and senior DT Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) posted a pair of unassisted tackles, one going for -2 yards.

Junior DB Curtis Callands (Philadelphia/George Washington) and sophomore Micah Artz (Myerstown/Eastern Lebanon) each checked in with a two-yard TFL. Artz was credited with three tackles (2-1), while Callands had three unassisted hits.

November 7

 Reed named PSAC Defensive Player of Week

LOCK HAVEN, PA - Freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO) has been selected the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division Defensive Player of the Week.

Reed posted five tackles in West Chester’s 56-23 win at Cheyney on Saturday, November 6. The honor was announced on Sunday, November 7.

Reed also accumulated a pair of tackles for losses totalling -17 yards. Among the TFL’s was an 11-yard sack.

The Golden Rams improved to 6-3 on the season with their sixth straight win, and clinched at least a share of the 1999 PSAC Championship. They are 5-0 in the PSAC.

Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) was named to the PSAC Weekly Honor Roll for his eight-catch, 121-yard afternoon. He scored on a four-yard touchdown pass just 41 seconds into the game, and he set the WCU career receiving mark by becoming the first Golden Ram ever to break the 3000-yard plateau.

November 3

WCU Soars Past Golden Eagles 62-20;
Rams climb into poll

Mike Mitros surpasses Dave MacDonald as the all-time passing yards leader

WEST CHESTER, PA – Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) guided the West Chester University Golden Rams past Clarion University in record-setting fashion on Saturday afternoon, October 30.

Mitros thrilled the John A. Farrell Stadium crowd by connecting on 26 of 37 attempts for 409 yards and five touchdowns in a 62-20 dismantling of the Golden Eagles in a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference mandatory crossover game. The victory lifted WCU to 5-3 on the season and to its fifth straight win since beginning the season 0-3.

Mitros set a WCU career record for passing yards with 9306 passing. The former leader, Dave MacDonald (1991-94), threw for 9080.

Mitros spearheaded a Golden Rams offense which piled up an astonishing 648 yards of total offense against Clarion. Propelled by the current five-game winning streak, the Golden Rams cracked the NCAA Division II Northeast Regional rankings at #10. Head coach Rick Daniels and his club can clinch a share of the PSAC East title with a victory at Cheyney this Saturday.

Mitros also picked up 41 rushing yards on nine carries, bolstering his total offense yardage to 450 for the game. He passed MacDonald to set a new WCU career total offense record.

Mitros’ 409 yards against the Golden Eagles supplanted his 393 a week ago against Millersville as the third-highest total of his career. He has now tossed five touchdown passes in back-to back outings, and he has produced 12 total offense touchdowns in two games.

In a word, the senior’s performance over the last five games has been sensational. Over that stretch, he has completed 69% of his passes for a total of 1715 yards and 15 touchdowns. Mitros has thrown for 2334 yards in WCU’s eight games.

Ingram, who was honored before Saturday’s game as the 1998-99 WCU Male Athlete of the Year, caught 10 balls for 90 yards and three scores. In the process, he moved past Bill Hess (1985-88) into second place all-time at WCU in career receiving yardage. His total of 2941 leaves him just 42 yards shy of all-time career record-holder Brian Penecale (1992-95).

He caught TD passes of 6, 15 and 20 yards on the afternoon, while Mitros also found sophomore Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) with a 16-yard scoring strike. He ended up with two catches for 23 yards on the afternoon.

Lowe hauled in nine catches for a game-high 168 yards, including a 53-yard strike. He tied his career best with the 168 yards, matching his output vs. East Stroudsburg last season.

Red-shirt freshman TE Ryan Koch (Muncy/Muncy) and freshman WR Donovan Reifinger (Germansville/Northwestern Lehigh) each caught the first passes of their career. Koch’s was a 16-yarder late in the game, while sophomore backup QB Tim Bigelow (Camp Hill/Camp Hill) found Reifinger all alone for an 11-yard completion and a first down on a fake punt.

Senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) grabbed two balls for 26 yards, and senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) snared one 12-yard pass. He also caused a fumble after a Clarion interception, giving the Golden Rams the ball back deep in Clarion territory after what was a WCU turnover.

Way to Much

Junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) accounted for 159 all-purpose yards on the afternoon, 95 of which came through the air on three receptions. Muchler turned a screen pass into a 45-yard gain late in the first half, setting up a crucial Golden Ram score before intermission. He also scored on a 39-yard pass from Mitros and a 22-yard bullrush. He pounded out 64 yards on the ground on just four carries.

How impressive were his numbers? Muchler averaged 23 yards every time he touched the ball.

Sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) finished his day with eight carries for 68 yards and a five-yard score with 5:13 left in the opening quarter, while sophomore TB Robert Akens (Philadelphia/Germantown Academy) bolted four times for 19 yards and a one-yard TD.

Cozza leads surging defense

Senior FS Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) recorded a team-high 10 tackles against Clarion, leading the Golden Rams to a second-half shutout of the Golden Eagles.

Junior SS Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) followed closely with eight, while red-shirt freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatham H.S. in Denver, CO) and sophomore CB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) each contributed five. Two of Reed’s tackles went for a loss, including a 17-yard sack.

October 26

Mitros throws for 393 yards, five TDs
Rams in control of PSAC East title

WEST CHESTER, PA - Behind the arm of senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner), the West Chester University Golden Rams avenged last year’s heartbreaking loss to Millersville by prevailing 40-35 Saturday night under the lights of John A. Farrell Stadium. The WCU offense racked-up 552 yards of total offense on the evening.

Mitros completed 24 of 42 attempts for 393 yards and five touchdowns to cap off Homecoming. The Golden Rams are now a perfect 4-0 in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division and 4-3 overall. After losing their first three contests, the Golden Rams now own a four-game winning streak.

Mitros Keeps On Rolling

Mitros continued his exceptional play against Millersville. His total of 393 passing yards was the third highest in his stellar career, while his five TD tosses were the second most. He accounted for all six WCU touchdowns, adding a one-yard run with 6:34 remaining in the third quarter.

Mitros did a tremendous job spreading the ball around, distributing his 24 completions to seven different receivers. The signal-caller now boasts a 137.61 pass efficiency rating on the season while averaging 275 passing yards per game. In the four WCU victories, Mitros has thrown 10 touchdowns against just two interceptions.

Ingram Does It Again

Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) was again the main beneficiary of Mitros’ performance. Ingram caught eight passes for 134 yards and a season-high three touchdowns. His TD catches went for distances of 14, seven and eight yards in length.

In the process he upped his career receiving yardage total to 2851, putting him just 15 yards behind Bill Hess (1985-88) for second all-time at WCU. Ingram needs only 133 yards receiving to surpass Brian Penecale (1992-95) as West Chester University’s all-time leader.

Ingram’s fellow receivers also put together productive evenings for the Golden Rams. Senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) recorded four receptions to the tune of 54 yards. Lowe is also moving up the WCU record charts. He is now eighth all-time at WCU in both career receptions (147) and yards (1790). Sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) collected two passes for 45 yards, including a 26-yard touchdown.

Spinka Sails For Six

Senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) took a Mitros pass over the middle and converted it into a 51-yard touchdown. Spinka left the Marauder defense in his wake as he motored untouched down the middle of the field. Later in the game he grabbed a 14-yard reception, completing his two-catch, 65-yard night.

Complementing Spinka nicely was senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle). Truitt finished his evening with four catches for 37 yards. He also booted the extra point following WCU’s final touchdown with 13:59 remaining in the game.

Ground Game Looks Solid

WCU compiled 159 rushing yards against Millersville thanks largely to junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) who led the way with 13 carries for 76 yards.

Sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) continued to look impressive as he rumbled 47 yards on 10 carries, while junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) rushed six times for 44 yards, giving him a superb 7.3 yards per carry.

Defense Gangs Up On Marauders

The Golden Rams saw 22 different players pitch in with tackles on Saturday night. Senior free safety and co-captain Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) was tops on the club with seven, all of which were unassisted.

Sophomore CB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) recorded five tackles, while red-shirt freshman Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatham H.S. in Denver, CO) and junior SS Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) each chipped in with four. Sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) and red-shirt freshman Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol) each sacked Marauder quarterback Drew Folmar.

Sophomore CB Shariff Blackwell (Chester/Chester) had the distinction of making the first interception of a Folmar pass in 187 attempts.

October 18

First win at Bloomsburg in 10 seasons
Rick Daniels claims 70th victory

BLOOMSBURG, PA - Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) completed 23 of 32 pass attempts for 276 yards and two touchdowns as the West Chester University Golden Rams cruised by the Huskies of Bloomsburg University on Saturday afternoon 35-17.

The victory was the first by WCU at Bloomsburg since 1989, and the 35 points represented the most scored by the Golden Rams vs. the Huskies since 1987.

The win jetted the Golden Rams to a perfect 3-0 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division mark and a 3-3 overall record. WCU has won three straight games since starting the season 0-3.

The Magnificent Mitros

Mitros was outstanding against the Huskies. He completed his 23 passes to six different receivers, including seven to senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle).

Mitros also produced one of the best rushing days of his career. He carried the ball an unusual eight times for 54 yards, just two behind the team leader - junior Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) - who rushed 16 times for 56 yards and a two-yard score.

Mitros also scored on a five-yard quarterback draw in the third quarter to give the Golden Rams a 28-17 lead.

Truitt finished the day with a team-best 86 receiving yards and a 12-yard touchdown in the second quarter that propelled WCU to a 7-3 lead.

Ingram is Indomitable

Senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) quietly put together another outstanding afternoon. He caught nine passes for 85 yards with a 12-yard TD, and made a 26-yard leaping grab in the midst of three Bloomsburg defenders.

Ingram now has 201 career receptions at WCU, moving him into sixth all-time in the PSAC. He became just the seventh player in PSAC history and the first Golden Ram to break the 200-catch barrier, and his career yardage total of 2717 puts him at 11th in the PSAC.

In addition to Ingram and Truitt, senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) grabbed three passes for 44 yards, while sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) snared a 33-yard pass from Mitros. Senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) also caught a pass for six yards.

No stopping the Don

Sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) posted two catches for 22 yards, but his biggest contributions have been chewing up large chunks of yardage. He had 53 yards rushing on 13 carries and scored his fourth touchdown in two games on a one-yard plunge. He also had a 24-yard kickoff return.

Junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) chipped in 25 yards on three rushing attempts, while red-shirt freshman Joe Shay (Lancaster/Lebanon Catholic) rolled up eight on two runs.

Cozza’s comeback

The Golden Rams received a big boost from the return of senior FS Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock), who was injured at Delaware and then missed three straight games.

The team’s defensive signal caller checked in with eight tackles (5 unassisted-3 assisted) and an interception he returned seven yards. The pick was the 10th of his career, tying him with Ed Luckey (1990-92) and Don Cooke (1979-81) for sixth all-time at WCU.

Kersey makes a curtain call

After his outstanding game at Mansfield last week, junior OLB Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) shared the Golden Rams tackle lead with eight (5-3). Sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) had five tackles, including two for -6 yards, while sophomore OLB Jason McKendry (Ambler/Wissahickon) turned in an unassisted tackle and an assist.

Changeable parts

The Golden Rams ability to use multiple players minimizes individual statistics while maximizing the team’s efficiency, talent and experience. The Golden Ram tackle total was spread out over 25 different players in the strong performance vs. Bloomsburg.

Sophomore CB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) registered seven tackles (2-5) against Bloomsburg, and was crucial in breaking up a pair of pass attempts. He also returned a kickoff 14 yards.

Senior DTs Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) and Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) posted four tackles each, while red-shirt freshman Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatham H.S. in Denver, CO) recorded a 12-yard sack among his three tackles.

Senior DB Troy Wright (Washington, DC/Woodrow Wilson) added six tackles (4-2) and senior DT Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon) contributed a four-yard sack.

Daniels gets win #70

Head football coach Rick Daniels picked up his 70th career win - all at West Chester University - at Bloomsburg on Saturday. It came against close friend, former boss and one-time WCU player and head coach Danny Hale.

It was Daniels’ second win at Bloomsburg as head coach and first since the 1989 season.

Getting their kicks

Sophomore punter Ron Minck (Dover/Dover) and red-shirt freshman kicker Justin Schacher (Richboro/Council Rock) have been solid all season for the Golden Rams.

Schacher has converted 18 straight extra points over the past three games since missing his final attempt at Shippensburg on September 25. He was 5 for 5 at Bloomsburg last Saturday.

Minck is averaging 37.7 yards per punt this season, but his towering kicks have permitted just three returns for 17 yards. He has 25 punts this season, and on five occasions he has fielded bad snaps and reeled off field-position-saving punts. (Note: The Golden Rams punting has a 34-yard return credited against it from the blocked punt for a touchdown at Delaware. This is charged to the team, not the individual player.)

Against Bloomsburg he averaged 41.7 yards per kick.

 October 11

Ingram sets WCU career reception mark
Thomas blocks another kick

MANSFIELD, PA - The West Chester University Golden Rams exploded for five first-half rushing touchdowns en route to a 42-6 stomping of the Mansfield University Mountaineers on Saturday in Mansfield, PA.

The win improved the Golden Rams record to 2-3 overall and 2-0 in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division. They are tied for first with Millersville University which defeated Bloomsburg 31-21.

The win was the 28th consecutive by the Golden Rams over the Mountaineers who have never defeated WCU on the gridiron. The Rams produced 490 yards of total offense.

De-Filipping Out

The Golden Rams scored five straight touchdowns to start the game, including three consecutive scores by sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant).

The second-year running back crossed the goal line three times over the final seven minutes of the second quarter to give the Golden Rams an insurmountable 35-0 lead at intermission. DeFilipo, who carried the ball 14 times for 95 yards, scored on a pair of one-yard runs and a five-yard dash.

DeFilipo’s afternoon was complemented by junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) who ran the ball 14 times for 65 yards. He gave the Golden Rams the early lead with a two-yard TD rumble, and he caught a 16-yard pass to add to his all-purpose afternoon.

Another day, another record

Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) picked apart the Mansfield secondary by completing 21 of 30 pass attempts for 261 yards and one touchdown. He hit senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) 11 times for 122 yards and fired a 47-yard TD strike to the new WCU record holder.

Ingram’s touchdown catch fittingly made him the all-time career leader in receptions at WCU. He now has 192 catches during his WCU tenure, passing both Billy Hess (182, 1985-88) and Brian Penecale (191, 1992-95) on Saturday vs. the Mounties.

Mitros also etched another notch in his locker of records. He set the WCU mark for career pass attempts vs. the Mountaineers by increasing his four-year total to 1214. Dave MacDonald (1202, 1991-94) had held the original mark. Mitros also climbed over MacDonald into fourth all-time in the PSAC.

Mitros’ 261 yards shot him over the 8000-yard mark for his career, making him just the second Golden Ram and sixth PSAC player to accomplish that feat. MacDonald, the WCU record-holder, has over 9000 yards for his career.

Mitros also ran for an eight-yard score, dropping back to pass only to see an open lane to six points.

Moving Targets

In addition to his favorite receiver, Mitros connected three times each with senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) and senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West). Truitt accumulated 55 yards, while Lowe had 35. Senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) grabbed two passes for 20 yards.

Junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) continued paving the road with his stellar blocking. He added nine yards rushing on two carries and caught a 13-yard pass.

Sophomore RB Leo Schulz (Chalfont/Central Bucks West) also caught a pass (9 yards) from backup sophomore QB Tim Bigelow (Camp Hill/Camp Hill).

Staunch defense

For the second straight week the West Chester University defense turned in a strong performance. Against the Warriors of East Stroudsburg the week before, the Golden Rams permitted just a field goal following a turnover deep in their own territory.

At Mansfield, WCU gave up a touchdown only after a fumbled punt return was recovered by the Mounties at the WCU eight-yard line - and WCU up 35-0 late in the third quarter.

Senior DB Troy Wright (Washington, DC/Woodrow Wilson) led the Golden Rams in tackles with six (5 unassisted-1 assist), while sophomore CB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) also totaled six tackles and killed a Mansfield drive with a twisting interception at the WCU one-yard line.

Sophomore CB Shariff Blackwell (Chester/Chester) turned in four tackles (1-3) and broke up two passes, while junior DB Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) recorded three tackles (1-2), one going for a two-yard tackle for loss.

The Golden Rams received a solid game from a pair of junior defensive backs. Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown) checked in with two tackles (1-1) and Curtis Callands (Philadelphia/George Washington) had two assists and an interception.

Along the defensive line

Sophomore DE Raheem Islam (Philadelphia/Central) posted six tackles (2-4) - one for a two-yard loss - and broke up a pass as the WCU defensive line pestered the Mansfield quarterback all afternoon.

Senior DT Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) complemented Islam’s output by totaling three unassisted tackles and a one-yard TFL. Senior DT Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) posted a pair of unassisted tackles which went for losses. He had a three-yard sack and a three-yard TFL.

Senior DE Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington) registered a two-yard TFL, while senior DE Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon) assisted junior Brad Landis (Lancaster/Conestoga Valley) on a three-yard sack.

The linebackers

Sophomore Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) led the WCU linebacking corps with five tackles (3-2). He collected three tackles for loss for -13 yards, earning a pair of sacks on two of those hits for -12. Red-shirt freshman Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol) totaled three tackles (2-1), including a 13-yard sack, and broke up a pass.

The lost yardage seemed to never end for the Golden Rams. Sophomore LB Greg Schwartz (Auburn/Schuylkill Haven) turned in three total tackles (2-1) and a six-yard sack, while sophomore MLB Micah Artz (Myerstown/Eastern Lebanon) scrawled out three tackles (1-2) and a two-yard TFL.

Freshman MLB Brandon Neely (Willow Grove/Upper Moreland) was credited with three tackles, including a pair of two-yard TFL’s.

The Great Deflector

In one of the more remarkable season-long stories for the Golden Rams, sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) continues to get a hand in the way of the opposition’s kickers. The young linebacker has blocked five kicks in 1999 - three field goals and two extra points.

Against Mansfield he rejected the Mounties lone field goal try and recorded five tackles (2-3). He recorded three tackles for losses for -7 yards.

Boomers

Sophomore punter Ron Minck (Dover/Dover) continues to improve for the Golden Rams. He averaged 50 yards per punt on two kicks, blasting one which hit the crossbar and bounced through the uprights.

October 5

Golden Rams Thump ESU 49-3

Mitros, Thomas named PSAC Players of Week
Mitros sets WCU competion mark

WEST CHESTER, PA - It is tough to decipher who had the better day in West Chester University’s 49-3 demolishing of East Stroudsburg University on October 2.

The offense or the defense?

The Golden Rams offense unleashed 534 yards of total offense on the Warriors of ESU in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division opener, while the defense suffocated the Warrior’s offense by allowing just 117 yards.

The Golden Rams won their home opener to pick up their first win of 1999. WCU is now 1-0 in the PSAC East and 1-3 overall.

The defense, led by sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley), recorded a phenomenal 11 tackles for losses for -46 yards, including seven sacks.

Thomas has been the most dominating Golden Ram on defense in 1999. The second-year player entered Saturday’s game with four blocked kicks on the season. He didn’t get any on Saturday vs. the Warriors, but what he did accumulate earned him the PSAC Eastern Division Defensive Player of the Week award.

Thomas totaled six tackles (5 unassisted-1 assisted) on the afternoon, including two tackles for losses equalling -6 yards. One of his TFL’s was a blistering five-yard sack which gave the ESU quarterback no time to move once he took the snap.

Thomas also broke up a pass, and then saved his biggest play for early in the second quarter after a long WCU offensive drive ended in a missed field goal. Thomas rectified that situation by pulling down an ESU pass and returning the interception 23 yards for a touchdown.

The Sack Gallery

In addition to Thomas, six other Golden Rams found time to reach the ESU quarterback and drag him down for a loss. Junior DB Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) roared into the backfield for a six-yard sack to go along with his five tackles (4-1), while sophomore DE Raheem Islam (Philadelphia/Central) posted a nine-yard sack, a one-yard TFL and four total tackles (3-1).

Senior DE Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington) contributed three tackles (2-1) and a one-yard sack on the afternoon, while freshman Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO) and red-shirt freshman OLB Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol) each turned in seven-yard sacks. Senior DE Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon) also pitched in with a sack - a five-yarder. He totaled two hits on the afternoon.

Junior MLB Mike O’Neill (Norwood/Bonner) did not get a sack, but he did contributed a one-yard TFL among his three total tackles on the afternoon.

Young guns making an impact

Three young Golden Rams have been making the most of their playing time in 1999. Against East Stroudsburg last Saturday, sophomore MLB Micah Artz (Myerstown/Eastern Lebanon), freshman MLB Brandon Neely (Willow Grove/Upper Moreland) and sophomore OLB Jason McKendry (Ambler/Wissahickon) combined for 12 tackles.

Artz posted five hits (4-1) and a one-yard TFL, while Neely had four tackles (2-2) and McKendry checked in with three.

Neely has moved rapidly up the depth chart at middle linebacker for the Golden Rams. The true freshman is expected to see his first start this week against Mansfield.

Jesson in Time

Senior DT Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) has been superb at stuffing the run in 1999. So much so that teams tend to run away from him, leaving his tackle totals a little misleading.

But Jesson comes up with the big play when called upon, and against East Stroudsburg he bounced on a loose ball to set up the Golden Rams with good field position. He also had an unassisted tackle.

Rolling in Minck

In 1998, then-freshman punter Ron Minck (Dover/Dover) would boom kicks to get the Golden Rams out of bad field position. He also bobbled several snaps which put the Golden Rams in dire straits.

But in 1999, Minck has not only reeled off bombs, he has saved the Golden Rams by turning dribbling snaps from center into punts ranging from average to miraculous.

On Saturday against ESU he did it again, this time picking up the bouncing ball and reeling off a 56-yard rainmaker. On the afternoon, Minck averaged a stellar 46.3 yards per punt, had no returns against him, and saved WCU from a potentially disastrous situation deep in its own territory.

He also saved the Golden Rams on kickoffs, stopping three potential kick returns by making touchdown saving tackles.

Record setting performances

The offense, meanwhile, used seven straight touchdowns to smash the Warriors after ESU had built an early 3-0 lead.

Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) set the record for completions in a career with his first connection. He passed the original record holder Dave MacDonald (644, 1991-94) on Saturday afternoon by upping his career total to 673. He also climbed to third in the PSAC all-time.

Mitros was 29 for 38 on the afternoon for 375 yards and two touchdown passes - both to senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman). He hit Ingram with a six-yard scoring strike and a 26-yard rocket.

Mitros’ huge afternoon also elevated him over MacDonald into second place all-time at WCU in career passing yards with 7967.

He passed Al Niemela (1985-88) to move into second all-time at WCU, and he needs 33 more to become just the second WCU quarterback to reach 8000 career passing yards.

Mitros is now six all-time in PSAC history in career passing yards.

Mitros hit Ingram 15 times for 227 yards, including a bizarre 79-yard connection that should go into the Sports Blooprs file, and should be credited to sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts).

Play of the Year?

Mitros’s intention was a quick slant to Wilkerson roughly 10 yards up the field along the hash marks. Instead, the ball was tipped by an ESU defensive lineman and somersaulted end-over-end high into the air (like a short punt) deep into the Warrior secondary.

As an ESU defensive back was about to make the interception, Wilkerson, who had a clear view of the play, buried his head and rammed into the defensive back about to make the interception. He realized once the ball was tipped, there would be no offensive interference penalty.

As the ESU safety jumped in the air to catch the ball, Wilkerson pummeled him in his midsection, bending the safety forward over Wilkerson’s back with the ball not quite cradled in the defensive back’s hands.

The thrust of Wilkerson’s hit jolted the ball out of the hands of the safety and on to the helmet of a trailing ESU linebacker. The ball popped off the helmet, then floated into the hands of an alert Ingram who scrambled out of the pile at midfield and raced for what seemed like a certain touchdown.

Ingram, who is recovering from a pulled hamstring and limited practice time, was caught at the one-yard line.

Wilkerson finished the afternoon with four catches for 31 yards, while senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) added four catches for 30 yards.

Lost in the shuffle

Lost in the outstanding performances of the WCU defense and the Golden Rams mighty passing offense were three productive afternoons by junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights), senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) and sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant).

DeFilipo rushed for 78 yards on just 11 carries, averaging 7.1 yards per attempt. He scored the game’s final touchdown on a 15-yard run and had a 23-yard kickoff return.

Muchler, who pounded Shippensburg for almost 150 yards the week before, had just 33 yards on eight carries, but his runs were more devastating as he rushed for three touchdowns - two one-yard dives and a nine-yard rumble.

Lowe, on the other hand, had his typical afternoon - seven catches for 96 yards while being overshadowed by Ingram. Junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) added 37 yards on the ground to go along with his outstanding blocking.

Converting the PATs

Freshman kicker Justin Schacher (Richboro/Council Rock) converted all seven of his PAT attempts against the Warriors.

September 28

 Golden Rams Rally, But Still Fall To Shippensburg

Muchler rumbles 147 yards & Ingram snares 10 passes
Miller posts 10 tackles for WCU

SHIPPENSBURG, PA - The West Chester University Golden Rams football team surged back from a 21-0 first-quarter deficit to forge a 24-24 tie in the third quarter, but the Red Raiders of Shippensburg countered with a couple of late touchdowns to defeat the Golden Rams 48-30 at Seth Grove Stadium last Saturday afternoon.

The loss to Shippensburg was the first by WCU since 1982, and it left the Golden Rams 0-3 entering their home opener this Saturday afternoon vs. East Stroudsburg University.

Smash and Dash

The Golden Ram offense finally became untracked against the Red Raiders as junior RB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) topped WCU’s rushing attack with a career high 147 yards on 24 carries. The attempts and yardage were both career highs for the converted tight end. Muchler also caught one pass for 16 yards and burrowed his way to a two-yard touchdown run.

Muchler’s running was complemented by sophomore Don DeFilipo’s quick scampering into the Ship secondary. DeFilipo averaged 9.8 yards per carry on Saturday, running for 59 yards on just six carries. He had a 17-yard kick return as well.

Hitting his stride

Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) found his targets all afternoon, including senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman). Ingram grabbed 10 passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns, helping Mitros finished the day 22 for 44 with 274 yards and three touchdowns.

Ingram wasn’t his only receiver however. Sophomore Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) scored on a 14-yard delivery from Mitros, ending the day with three catches for 42 yards.

Mitros spread the passing around to included eight different receivers.

Senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) grabbed two balls for 44 yards, while senior TE Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) had two catches for 24. Senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) also collected two receptions for 11 yards.

Red-shirt freshman RB Joe Shay (Lancaster/Lebanon Catholic) and sophomore FB Leo Schulz (Chalfont/Central Bucks West) rounded out the receiving corps. Shay caught a seven-yard pass, while Schulz touched one for five yards. He also returned a kick 13 yards.

Returning the favor

Senior DB Troy Wright (Washington, DC/Woodrow Wilson) continued to be impressive on kick returns for the Golden Rams, returning five kicks a total of 114 yards.

Living in Minck

Sophomore punter Ron Minck averaged 39 yards per punt on the afternoon to improve his average. Minck, who has been solid all season for the Golden Rams, boomed seven punts on the afternoon, including a 59-yarder.

Freshman kicker Justin Schacher (Richboro/Council Rock) converted three of four PATs and connected on a 24-yarder.

Making the most of his time

Sophomore DB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) led the Golden Rams secondary by recording 10 unassisted tackles - a single-game high for the young defensive back. Among his 10 tackles was a two-yard TFL. He also returned two kickoffs a total of 49 yards.

The secondary also featured solid games from junior SS Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh), who accumulated nine tackles (7-2), and sophomore CB Shariff Blackwell (Chester/Chester) who turned in seven (6-1).

Holding the line

The defensive line was led by senior Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) who collected four unassisted tackles. Senior DE Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington) posted three unassisted tackles and a one-yard TFL, while freshman Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/Chatfield, Denver, CO) reached the quarterback once for an eight-yard sack. He also had three solo hits on the day.

Sophomore LB Jason McKendry (Ambler/Wissahickon) turned in a solid performance by recording four unassisted tackles - one being a one-yard TFL. Red-shirt freshman OLB Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol) earned four tackles as well (2-2), while sophomore OLB Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) collected three unassisted tackles (including a five-yard TFL).

Sophomore MLB Josh Lombardo (Shillington/Governor Mifflin) had earned three unassisted tackles in the contest.

September 21

 Two Late Touchdowns Lift Delaware Over Golden Rams

Matt Jesson Records 10 tackles, lands on PSAC Honor Roll

NEWARK, DE - The University of Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens scored a pair of touchdowns within five minutes at the end of the third quarter and early in the fourth to breathe a sigh of relief and beat the Golden Rams of West Chester University 29-10.

The Golden Rams held a 3-0 lead in the first half before falling behind 14-6 at intermission following a 46-yard touchdown pass and a blocked punt for a score.

Still, the Golden Rams pulled to within four at 14-10 following their own blocked punt which set up a touchdown pass from senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) to sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts).

Although the Golden Rams fell to 0-2 on the season, WCU played well against the #10 in Division I-AA Blue Hens. The Rams were also without senior All-American receiver Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman), and they lost senior free safety and team captain Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) and starting sophomore tailback Brian Bradley (Norristown/South Philadelphia) in the first half.

Jesson steps up to the plate

The Golden Rams defense played extremely well against the powerful Blue Hens. Senior DT Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) led all Golden Ram tacklers with 10 (8 unassisted/2 assists), including two for losses of four yards. He earned a spot on the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll for his effort.

Senior DT Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington) also posted a big game, earning three tackles for losses totalling nine yards. One of his TFL’s was a two-yard sack. For the afternoon, Rollins posted five tackles (1/4). Sophomore DE Raheem Islam (Central/Philadelphia) chipped in six assists and shared in a tackle for loss (-1 yard), while senior DT Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock) turned in five tackles (1/4).

The Golden Rams were also bolstered by freshman DE Rashieem Reed (Philadelphia/ Chatfield H.S. in Denver, CO), who had three tackles (2/1) and senior DT Scott Cook (Shillington/Governor Mifflin), who checked in with a pair of assisted sacks for -3 yards. He totaled three assisted tackles on the day.

Former Blue Hen Joe Zack (Bensalem/Bensalem), now a senior defensive end with the Golden Rams, recorded two tackles (1/1) on his return trip to Newark, DE.

Secondary thoughts

Sophomore DB LeRoy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) led the secondary in hits with six (3/3) on the afternoon, while senior DB Troy Wright (Washington, DC/Woodrow Wilson) and junior DB Logan Umberger (Lebanon/Cedar Crest) each had four tackles (2/2).

The seconday needed to step up big after losing Cozza, who registered four tackles (1/3) before dislocating his shoulder in the second quarter. He is expected to miss three weeks with the injury.

Junior CB Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown) collected three unassisted tackles, while junior SS Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) earned three tackles (1/2) and recorded an interception.

Reuben Ray returns

Red-shirt freshman linebacker Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol), another Delaware transfer, was solid all afternoon for the Golden Rams. He topped all linebackers with six tackles (3/3) and was credited with a one-yard sack.

Junior MLB Mike O’Neill (Norwood/Bonner) turned in five tackles (3/2), while sophomore OLB Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty) had three (2/1) and sophomore MLB Micah Artz (Myerstown/Eastern Lebanon) posted three assists. Sophomore OLB Greg Schwartz (Auburn/Schuylkill Haven) added two assists.

Rejecting the kicks

Sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) earned a pair of tackles (1/1) and a two-yard tackle for loss, and he blocked his second extra point try of the year. Thomas now has three blocked kicks in 1999 after smacking back an IUP field goal and PAT attempt in the season opener.

Spearding the wealth

Mitros completed 15 of 30 pass attempts for 149 yards and one touchdown - a 14-yard strike to Wilkerson who ended the day with two catches for 21 yards and a 12-yard kickoff return.

Mitros connected with six different receivers during the contest, hitting senior TE Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) three times for 28 yards and senior WR Bill Lowe (War-rington/Central Bucks West) four times for 40 yards. Lowe also had a 14-yard punt return.

Multi-talented

Mitros’ passes were not limited to the wideouts and tight ends. Junior FB Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) caught one pass for four yards to go along with his game-high 34 rushing yards on nine carries. Junior RB Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) snared three passes for 21 yards and picked up six yards rushing.

Don De-Filling-In

Sophomore RB Don DeFilipo (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant) filled in for the injured Bradley, who suffered a season-ending broken leg on the first play from scrimmage. DeFilipo rushed four times for 24 yards, including an 18-yard burst. He also caught two passes for 35 yards.

The Wright Way

In addition to his four tackles, Wright broke up a pass and returned two kickoffs a total of 68 yards. He gave WCU great field position with a 46-yard return in the second half.

Miller speeding along

Miller also added to his defensive totals with some key special teams play. He returned three kickoffs 42 yards and was credited with a 15-yard punt return after blocking a Delaware punt. Sophomore OLB Jason McKendry (Ambler/Wissahickon) picked up the ball and rumbled another 19 yards to help set up WCU’s lone touchdown. He also had an unassisted tackle.

Getting their kicks

Freshman kicker Justin Schacher (Richboro/Council Rock) is perfect in his brief stint with the Golden Rams. The rookie kicker converted his first PAT and nailed his first field goal attempt - a 21-yarder.

Sophomore punter Ron Minck (Dover/Dover) posted just a 29.2 average over five kicks, but the second-year player allowed just one return and buried the Blue Hens inside their own 20 three times.

 September 8

 IUP Rally Hands Golden Rams Tough Loss In Opener

Young WCU defense stands strong
Duane Thomas earns place on PSAC Weekly Honor Roll

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY - The West Chester University Golden Rams built a 9-0 halftime lead, but the Indians of IUP rallied for a pair of touchdowns in the second half to steal a 12-9 victory on Saturday, September 4, at George P. Miller Stadium in Indiana, PA.

The win leaves the Golden Rams 0-1 in 1999 as they prepare for the University of Delaware on September 18.

The Golden Rams jumped out to the 9-0 lead on a three-yard bull-rush by junior fullback Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) and senior TE/K Tom Truitt’s (Feasterville/LaSalle) 20-yard field goal at the end of the first half.

The WCU offense produced 313 yards, while the defense was stellar in stopping the Indians throughout the game. WCU blocked four kicks on the day - two field goals and two extra points.

Sophomore OLB Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley) and junior SS Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth-Whitemarsh) led the Golden Rams on the defensive end. Thomas - who was named the Killinger Foundation Player of the Game and to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll - recorded four tackles, three TFL’s for -12 yards and one six-yard sack. He also blocked an IUP field goal. Borusiewicz turned in 10 tackles (8U-2A) and a four-yard tackle for loss.

Senior DT Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock)

earned a pair of TFL’s for -6 yards as part of a four solo, four assist afternoon, while senior FS Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock) and junior MLB Mike O’Neill (Norwood/Bonner) each collected six solo hits and an assist. Cozza also had a fumble recovery and an interception.

Junior CB Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown) posted an interception while earning six tackles (5-1).

The WCU defense lived in the IUP offensive backfield for a large part of the game. Senior defensive ends Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon) and Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington) each earned a solo hit and an assist. Collins’ solo tackle went for -2 yards, while Dawson claimed a four-yard TFL. Red-shirt freshman DE Scott Barker (Dover/Dover) had a pair of unassisted tackles in his first collegiate game. One of his hits was a six-yard TFL.

Senior QB Mike Mitros (Glenolden/Bonner) completed 16 of 35 passes for 196 yards. He hit sophomore WR Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts) four times for 69 yards and senior WR Kevin Ingram (Levittown/Truman) three times for 49 yards. Senior WR Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West) led all WCU receivers in catches with six, accumulating 65 yards.

Sophomore TB Brian Bradley (Norristown/South Philadelphia) compiled 86 rushing yards on 16 attempts, averaging 5.4 yards per carry.

August 1

Golden Rams Boosted by Powerful Returning Offense

Mitros-to-Ingram assault set to begin on September 4
Young defense could be a surprise

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY - What can the West Chester University offense do for an encore?

In 1998, the Golden Rams led Division II in passing offense thanks to the aerial assault of Mike Mitros and Kevin Ingram. What’s scary is that they are both back, along with most of the offense which surfed through the schedule on a scoring wave.

Now with a young, rapidly maturing defense, the 1999 Golden Rams have eyes glancing toward a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division crown and a berth in the NCAA Division II National Championships.

In 1998, the Golden Rams recorded an 8-3 overall mark, and a 5-1, second-place finish in the PSAC East. The Mitros-to-Ingram connection yielded the most devastating single-season pass combination in WCU, PSAC and ECAC Division II history.

Nationally, Ingram led the country in receptions (10.45) and receiving yards per game (152.2), as well as touchdown catches (21). Mitros was the National Champion for total offense (316.2), throwing for 3437 yards and 32 touchdowns.

The duo returns for a senior season surrounded by supporting cast members who could also earn All-Conference honors.

Senior Mike Spinka (Temple/Muhlenburg) is expected to start at tight end, while senior Tom Truitt (Feasterville/LaSalle) returns for his fourth year as the number two man. Spinka posted 30 catches for 332 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Truitt - the one with the glue stick fingers - had 199 yards and two TD’s on 16 grabs.

On the opposite side of Ingram is speedy senior Bill Lowe (Warrington/Central Bucks West). An All-PSAC East selection two years ago, Lowe had an overshadowed season consisting of 60 catches for 691 yards and three touchdowns.

The Golden Rams also are being bolstered by 6-foor-2, 190-pound sophomore Adrian Wilkerson (Pottstown/O.J. Roberts). As a rookie last year, Wilkerson collected 25 catches for 382 yards and four touchdowns.

The running backs are young, powerful and speedy. Sophomore Brian Bradley (Norristown/South Philadelphia) is slated as the top leftside runner, while junior Scott Reed (Pottstown/St. Pius X) will man the rightside. Both players can run, block and catch. Junior Jason Muchler (Clark Summit/Abington Heights) - a converted tight end - will serve as a backup.

The offensive line will be anchored by juniors Derek Barlow (Williamsburg, VA/York) and Gary Blanch (Philadelphia/Archbishop Ryan), seniors Vance Row (Ellicott City, MD/The McDonough School), and Matt McFillin (Philadelphia/Archbishop Ryan), and red-shirt freshman Jason Cserpnyak (Bethlehem/Southern Lehigh).

Barlow returns as the starting right tackle, while McFillin will handle center and Row the left tackle spot. WCU will also be helped by Blanch at right guard and the expected emergence of Cserpnyak at left guard.

The defense is young, but the Golden Rams are expected to be even more improved after a solid 1998 campaign.

The secondary will be anchored by senior co-captain Matt Cozza (Churchville/Council Rock). The free safety led the Golden Rams in tackles (87) and interceptions (3).

Juniors Paul Borusiewicz (Norristown/Plymouth White-marsh) and Lamont Johnson (Philadelphia/Norristown) will return as starters at the strong safety and cornerback positions, respectively. Borusiewicz had 57 hits and eight pass breakups, while Johnson earned 40 tackles and seven PBU’s.

Sophomore weakside cornerback Leroy Miller (York Haven/Red Land) is expected to start after totaling 13 tackles, a sack and one tackle for loss in a limited role last season. One of the fastest players on the team, Miller will also return kicks.

The young linebacking corps will feature three sophomores as starters entering summer camp: Brian Kersey (Philadelphia/Cardinal Dougherty), Micah Artz (Myerstown/Eastern Lebanon) and Duane Thomas (Ephrata/Conestoga Valley). The Golden Ram linebackers are so deep that sophomore Josh Lombardo (Shillington/Governor Mifflin), junior Mike O’Neill (Norwood/Bonner), sophomore Greg Schwartz (Auburn/Schuylkill Haven) and red-shirt freshman Reuben Ray (Bristol/Bristol) could earn significant playing time.

The defensive line will see the return of senior Matt Jesson (Havertown/Haverford) at tackle and sophomore Raheem Islam (Philadelphia/Central) at defensive end. Seniors Chris DiSanto (Holland/Council Rock), Craig Rollins (Willow Grove/Abington), Jake Dawson (Blue Bell/Wissahickon), Joe Zack (Bensalem/Bensalem) and Scott Cook (Shillington/Governor Mifflin), and red-shirt freshman Scott Barker (Dover/Dover), are all expected to battle for playing time during summer camp.

The Golden Rams kickoff the 1999 season on Saturday, September 4, at IUP. The game is one of two for WCU under the lights. The 10-game schedule features three road trips to start the year as the Rams visit Delaware and Shippensburg on September 18 and 25, respectively.

WCU’s first home contest will also be the PSAC East opener as East Stroudsburg comes to town on October 2. The Golden Rams travel to Mansfield (Oct. 9) and Bloomsburg (Oct. 16), before returning to Farrell Stadium for three of their final four games.

The Rams host Millersville for Homecoming under the lights at 7 p.m. on Oct. 23, then return to close out the season against Clarion (Nov. 6) and Kutztown (Nov. 13). The Golden Rams visit backyard rival Cheyney on October 30.

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