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Govs searching for leaders in opener

Friday, September, 21 By Dan Guttenplan

The sound of the public address announcer alone could bring Governor's Academy football coach Mark Gerry a feeling of comfort last season.

"At starting quarterback, senior Brian Day ... At starting tailback, senior Tim Langmaid."

Actually, that sound could've brought any coach comfort. Two Division 1 prospects in one backfield.

Langmaid, who rushed for 1,200-plus yards and 13 touchdowns eventually accepted a lacrosse scholarship to the University of Delaware.

Day, who was drafted in the sixth round of the 2007 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders, accepted a scholarship to play hockey at Colgate University.

That's a lot of talent in one backfield, and it's all gone for GA this fall.

"They were the heart and soul of the team," Gerry said. "We're still hoping to find an identity. Hopefully, we'll find it in a hurry."

The sense of urgency stems from the fact that GA opens its season this afternoon (2:15 p.m.) against Middlesex School. The Independent League rival fell to GA last fall, 21-7.

Replacing Day at quarterback will be a two-man rotation in the form of senior Will Bryson and sophomore Mike Orloff. Langmaid's carries will likely go to senior Andy Somerville and junior George Tsakergis of Newbury. Day's favorite target, Amesbury's Herbie Kent, returns for his final season. He is one of the lone Govs who can lend a dose of experience to a relatively green squad.

"That will be one of fun parts of (this afternoon's) game," Gerry said. "There has to be some pleasant surprises. I can't say who it will be, but somebody will have to step up."