The Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association's annual East-West all-star game does not get nearly the attention the annual Big 33 game does, and perhaps for good reason. While the state's top high school talent generally plays in the Big 33 game representing the state against bordering rivals (Maryland replaces Ohio this year), that generally leaves the talent pool a little more shallow for any potential in-state all-star game. However, Penn State fans may want to pay at least a little bit of attention to this year's in-state high school all-star game because there are a few future Nittany Lions on the roster.
Blackhawk running back Cole Chiappialle and North Allegheny wide receiver Greg Garrity are on the roster for the West team, coached by Ellwood City head coach Don Phillips. The East team includes two more Penn State-bound players. Council Rock North defensive end Curtis Cothran and Downingtown West tight end Justin Schmitt will also be slated to play in the game. Schmitt will actually be playing on his home field and by his high school rival's coach. This year's all-star game will be played at Downingtown West High School and the head coach for the East team is Downingtown East head coach Mike Matta.
The large majority of the rosters for both teams are filled by Division 2 players, with the bulk of those players heading to PSAC schools such as IUP, Slippery Rock, Bloomsburg and California University of Pennsylvania. But aside from the Penn State recruits there are a few others heading to Division 1 programs in the fall.
Clairton wide receiver Terrish Webb, North Allegheny offensive lineman Jeremy Gonzalez and Chambersburg offensive lineman Aaron Reese (West) will be heading to Pittsburgh. ArchBishop Wood kicker and punter Nick Vasso (East) will be playing close to home at Temple. Gateway quarterback Thomas Woodson (West) is heading to Akron and Cathedral Prep kicker John Chereson is on his way to Notre Dame.
You can view the entire roster for the East and West teams here. The game is scheduled for Sunday, May 5 with each team participating in two practices the weeks leading up to the game.
High school seniors are permitted by NCAA rules to participate in one all-star football game before joining their future NCAA programs.
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