As a senior, Satchel Stauffer has realized his role as well as other differences on this year's team, especially those from last year's team.

It certainly has been a transition on several fronts.

"Yes, it has been a different year," said Stauffer, a lineman and linebacker for the Roughies. "Last year as a junior, I was piggybacking with the seniors and kind of in the background.

"This year, I am the guy who the younger players look up to and and in a leadership role. I know I can't hang my head when something goes wrong and I have to be the one to set the example for everyone."

Stauffer, a co-captain, has noticed a recent positive swing in overall play and confidence with his teammates, notably with a two-game winning streak that has elevated their record to 3-3 heading into this weekend.

"A couple of games ago, we were struggling and things were getting grim," said Stauffer. "Now, we are starting to play more like a team. We do have high hopes for the rest of the season."

Head coach Phil Dorn knows Stauffer will be a constant for the remainder of the season.

"He is a leader and a true captain," said Dorn. "He really does everything for us out there. We knew he would be one player we could count on for this season."

In turn, Stauffer has appreciated the coaching change this fall from former coach Tom Falzone to Dorn.

"They are two different coaches," said Stauffer. "Each of them does things differently and they are both good coaches. I think we have been able to connect with coach Dorn and his coaches than we did with Falzone and his staff.

"Coach Dorn's staff seems to have more experience and we have some guys who just recently graduated from college. The younger guys seem to be adjusting better."

Stauffer also credits his teammates who have battled through a decimated offensive line that has been riddled with injuries as well as other positions. However, the situation has opened doors for others.

"We lost some key people and our whole line has been banged up," said Stauffer. "But this has allowed some of the younger guys to step in and help. The underclassmen have really stepped up their game.

"Last week, we had a really good Thursday practice before the Northern Lehigh game. We had a good start, but then we made some mistakes. But I feel like we have learned from them. It would be great for us to finish around or above .500, and it would prove a lot of people wrong who predicted us to win two games this season.

"This can also be a big boost for all of the younger guys on the team and really help them for the future."

As far as his own future, Stauffer is undecided on his college choice and major. He would like to continue his football career. Most of his time is with his studies and sports - wrestling and track, too as well as being a member of the Varsity C and student council.

Stauffer also sees plenty left in this current football season.

"We knew this would take a while," he said. "But I feel like we are putting this all together. I know I'll do whatever I can."

A true leader couldn't be any clearer.