DuPage County notes: Colin Gillespie, Benet grab much-needed fast start

Benet coach Pat New quickly realized the importance of a fast start when he looked at his team’s schedule.

The Redwings, coming off a 6-4 season without a wealth of returning starters, are slated to close out the regular season against Loyola and St. Rita on the road followed by hosting Nazareth.

The Ramblers, under coach John Holecek, won the Class 8A state championship last season. St. Rita has an emerging star in running back Kaleb Brown and Nazareth captured the 7A state title last season.

“We knew how difficult our last few games would be, facing the defending 7A and 8A state champions at the end of the season,” New said. “Getting off to a good start was important because we needed to create momentum.”

The Redwings (3-0) have accomplished the first part of their season objectives, defeating Naperville North, Moline and St. Ignatius — all by seven points or more. Five of Benet’s six remaining opponents have won two of their first three games. The Redwings travel to De La Salle (2-1) on Sept. 20.

“Obviously we’re excited about winning our first three games,” Benet quarterback Colin Gillespie said.

The senior sparked the Redwings with his tough play after suffering a broken nose against Moline. He returned to lead the Redwings with two rushing touchdowns and caught a TD pass from backup quarterback Michael O’Connor.

“Colin is pretty tough and probably could’ve returned in the Moline game,” New said. “Our backup quarterback Michael O’Connor also has led us to [many] touchdown drives.”

Gillespie, who passed for 1,461 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, said the Redwings' preparation in the summer carried over to the fall, which helped the adjustment of numerous newcomers.

“I think we had a great offseason and worked really hard in the weight room and on the field to prepare the guys that are starting for the first time this year,” Gillespie said. “We were only returning three starters on offense, so I think a crucial part of our success so far has been executing well and picking up new plays and concepts.”

Improved offensive line fueling Trojans

Downers Grove North senior quarterback Drew Cassens is becoming a household name in the Chicago area. Running back Josh Lumpkin is a player to watch after a solid showing in the first three weeks, including a 42-yard touchdown run in a 28-26 loss to York Sept. 13.

But Cassens and Downers Grove North coach Joe Horeni both made a point to mention the improvement by the offensive line, especially in the run game. The Trojans (2-1) play at winless Proviso West Sept. 20 before facing off against Hinsdale Central (3-0), Glenbard West (3-0) and Oak Park-River Forest (1-2)

“The line has definitely come prepared, both physically and mentally,” Cassens said.

“Our offensive line has done a nice job,” Horeni said. “They’ve all come out hungry and they strive to get better every day. One thing that’s really nice about them is that they are all very smart…I’ve been really proud and happy with how they’ve started this season.”

Horeni also noted the consistent play of middle linebacker Drew Bielawski for helping the Trojans allowing just 14 points in their first two games.

“Drew was voted a captain, which is a tremendous honor,” he said. “I’ve never had a junior elected captain. He’s not a super vocal guy, but just goes about his business and is a really hard worker.”

Strong defense

Lemont’s defense is one of the stingiest among area teams. The Indians have allowed just 18 points this season, including just six in the last two weeks. Lemont posted a 26-0 victory over TF South in Week 3, building momentum for a strong run against during a soft spot in their schedule. The Indians next three opponents — Oak Forest, TF North and Tinley Park — have a combined 2-7 record.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Benet

Sophie Gregus had 13 kills, Kyla Kenney nine kills and two blocks, Hattie Monson 12 digs and Sam Buckley 32 assists for Benet (10-0) in a 25-21, 25-16 win over Downers Grove North on Sept. 13. Rachel Muisenga had 27 assists and Gregus eight kills in a 25-11, 25-16 win over St. Charles East on Sept. 11. Kenney had eight kills and Muisenga 24 assists in a 25-8, 25-21 win over Joliet Catholic on Sept. 10.

BOYS SOCCER

Benet

Nick Renfro scored two goals and Nico Picha had a goal and an assist for the Redwings in a 5-0 win over Marian Central on Sept. 14.