Madison Warhawks Aim for Fourth Consecutive State Playoff Appearance

The Madison Warhawks are gearing up for a promising new season, with Head Coach Justin Counts reflecting on an impressive 2023 campaign. The Warhawks finished the regular season 9-1, clinched the region title, and reached the state semi-finals before falling to Freedom. Coach Counts is proud of how his young team stepped up last year, overcoming the loss of key players from the previous state finalist squad.

In the offseason, players showed impressive dedication in the weight room, stepping up their leadership and fostering a competitive atmosphere. This effort is expected to create fierce competition for playing time, pushing everyone to perform at their best.

The 2024 schedule is challenging, featuring matchups against Stone Bridge, Lake Braddock, South County, Marshall, and Robinson. Coach Counts welcomes the tough competition, believing it will prepare his team for the postseason.

On the personnel front, the Warhawks face the challenge of replacing standout players from last year’s squad. Defensively, the team will miss Luke Jarvis, the Regional Defensive Player of the Year, but the returning defensive core is expected to be a major strength. Key defensive players include linebackers Jack Ambruzs (6’0, 220 lbs), Charlie Backman (5’11, 210 lbs), and Luke Salvosa (5’10, 190 lbs), along with free safety Quincy DeWispelaere (6’1, 185 lbs) and strong safety Joe Gore (6’1, 185 lbs).

Offensively, the Warhawks graduated their entire receiving corps and two offensive linemen, including three-year starters Cord Yates and Darren Knicely. However, with the return of quarterback Cael Yates (5’9, 190 lbs) and running back Dominic Knicely (5’9, 190 lbs), the team is in good hands. Cael Yates is noted for his strong arm and dual-threat capability, while Dominic Knicely, committed to Coastal Carolina, is touted as the most dynamic player in the region with his ability to score every time he touches the ball.

Coach Counts is confident that the returning defensive unit will be the backbone of the team, providing stability as the offense adjusts to new personnel. Look for the Warhawks to rely on their seasoned defensive line, featuring players like Caden Green (6’2, 240 lbs), Alex Gates (6’0, 200 lbs), Oscar Espanol (6’0, 195 lbs), and Heath Tunstall (6’2, 220 lbs).

With a blend of experienced returners and emerging talent, the Madison Warhawks are poised for another successful season. Under Coach Counts' leadership, the Warhawks are ready to take on the toughest competition and make another deep playoff run.

Key Players 

Dominic Knicely, RB/WR - 5’9, 190 

Cael Yates, QB - 5’9, 190 

Jack Ambruzs, LB - 6’0, 220

Charlie Backman, LB - 5’11, 210

Luke Salvosa, LB - 5’10, 190

Quincy DeWispelaere, FS - 6’1, 185

Joe Gore, SS - 6’1, 185

TJ George, CB - 5’9, 170

Henry Maiden, CB - 5’11, 185

Caden Green, DL - 6’2, 240

Alex Gates, DL - 6’0, 200

Oscar Espanol, DE - 6’0, 195

Heath Tunstall, DL - 6’2, 220