CALDWELL, N.J. -- Emerging as a disruptive force in the Cougars secondary in the second half of last season, John Vecchiarelli comes into 2025 as a starter, player to watch and leader as sprint football team captain.

The two-sport athlete is also a member of the Caldwell lacrosse squad and has earned All-Academic honors in both sport. Now he's ready to parlay that strong second half into a big junior season among a veteran group in the defensive backfield that includes fellow captain Yves Jean, JJ Hinnant, Jamaury Thompson and Gabe Nunez plus a few newcomers.

Vecchiarelli spoke with CaldwellAthletics.com leading up to tomorrow night's opener at Penn.

What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the field?
Our main goal is to win a lot of games and be exceptional on and off the field.

What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?
We have a few core values. Toughness is a big one. We aspire to be the most physically and mentally tough team in the CSFL.

What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?
One thing I want our fans to know about us is that we are committed to winning as many games as possible to compete for a championship.

Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why
I would like to highlight sophomore linebacker Damien Tavares as someone to watch out for this season. He is coming off an amazing rookie season as a freshman and is looking even better than last year.

What is one personal goal you're striving for this season?
One goal I have is to be a leader and accumulate more wins than last year.                           

What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a team captain?
I am looking forward to displaying my leadership abilities and being someone that my teammates can talk to no matter what.