HS football preview: Columbia has positive attitude in quest to contend

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Columbia has endured a rough stretch.

The Cougars have posted three consecutive one-win seasons. Last season, Columbia had two wins, but was forced to forfeit

a 28-20 road victory over Memorial of West New York in its second game on the schedule.

But optimism abounds for head coach Gary Mobley’s team. With an experienced roster, the Cougars are in high spirits.

“We have some guys who really have the right attitude,” said Mobley, entering his fourth year at the helm. “They really want to be true teammates; guys that have a true understanding of what we’re looking for as far as our offensive and defensive concepts and strategies. The teamwork, the camaraderie and the brotherhood of this team has impressed me the most, and I think that will bode well for us in the future.”

Mobley said the team returns a good group of juniors and seniors, with about 30 players who gained significant playing time a year ago. In fact, Mobley has about 14 seniors, the most he has had in his tenure.

Leading the way will be senior split end/outside linebacker Abdul Kone, who has received collegiate scholarship offers from the University of Albany and Towson University.

Other key returnees are senior offensive tackle/inside linebacker Max Mooore, senior offensive guard/linebacker Brentilton Mercier and junior two-way tackle Justin Anderson, a starter since his freshman year.

The Cougars also boast a promising group of skill positions, such as junior wide receiver/cornerback Michael Caines, junior slot back/cornerback Kai Arrington and sophomore running back Stephen Henry.

Nick Aaron will be the starting quarterback. The junior started a few games last season. Mobley hopes Aaron can bring stability at the position. Columbia last season used four quarterbacks.

The Cougars’ goals are to have a winning season and qualify for the sectional playoffs.

“Our goals never change. Our goals are to win the (Super Football Conference-Liberty Blue) division, secure a playoff berth and have success in the postseason and gets this program in the process of fighting for a state championship. We shoot to have winning record this year, and I think that will bode well for us in our future.”

Schedule

Sept. 7, at Newark Central, 1 p.m.

Sept. 13, Memorial, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20, at Bloomfield, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27, West Orange, 7 p.m.

Oct. 5, at Montclair, 2:30 p.m.

Oct. 11, Newark East Side, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18, at Bayonne, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25, at East Orange Campus, 7 p.m.

Nov. 1, Livingston, 7 p.m.