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By Mike Flanagan
Hometown Weekly Sports Editor
Last season was a tough one for Medfield High football; the team lost to DS on Thanksgiving and failed to qualify for the postseason.
In 2019, though, the Warriors hope to change that - and they certainly have the talent to do it. Leading Medfield this season will be four senior captains in wideout/safety Jimmy Cosolito, running back/linebacker Cam Giunta, tight end/defensive end Luke Slavik, and running back/wideout/safety Sam Joline.
Cosolito, who will be making the transition from quarterback to wide receiver, says he and his teammates are looking to build something special this season by coming together as one.
“I would say the general goals for the season are to not only win, but to become the closest-knit group of guys the program has ever seen,” said Cosolito when asked about his team’s general expectations. “We will grind together, eat together, and most of all, win and lose together. We want everyone to feel like their second home is on the football team, and that everyone is a brother. We also want to bring the energy back to the sport and show everyone what the sport is all about. If all goes to plan with no injuries, I think this year could be very special. The captains and team are all very close friends and want nothing more but to win.”
One key storyline entering the season revolves around Sam Joline, who is coming off a serious knee injury that forced him to miss the entirety of the spring athletic season. Cosolito says his return will only lead to good things for the Medfield defensive corps.
“Sam flies around and makes plays when we need them most,” said Cosolito. “He never stops and is one of the hardest workers I know. He’s coming back from a knee injury, but when he’s full force, it’s gonna be scary to have him in the secondary.”
Another name to remember is that of wideout/cornerback James Wilder. The three-sport star in football, hockey and lacrosse brings with him the ever-necessary physical edge that coaches and teammates believe could be an X-factor this season for the Warriors.
“James [Wilder] is a big name,” said Cosolito. “He was a playmaker for us last year and one of the hardest hitters in the program. We all expect to see big things from him. He’s a great kid with one of the biggest hearts and biggest passions for the game.”
Injuries dismantled Medfield’s depth at the quarterback position last season. In 2019, junior Ryan Murray will look to lead the offense to new heights as the team’s play caller under center.
"Ryan Murray started at quarterback last year,” said Cosolito. “The captains and I have been working with him a lot this summer, and he seems to have gotten his feet under him. He knows the game and is always thinking about how he can improve himself and his teammates.”
Medfield will kick off its season on September 13 at Dedham.
For funny and insightful sports analysis, follow Mike Flanagan on his personal Twitter @fLAno0.
