Jeff Moeller, sports correspondent

Rising Richmond Hill senior lineman Cole Roy has made one of his goals for the season perfectly clear.

“I plan on helping my team host a home playoff game and have a deep playoff run next year,” said Roy. “I have been working on building chemistry with the younger players.”

Roy, who will play left tackle for the Wildcats this summer, was a second-team, all-region choice last season. He will be part of a seasoned line this fall, and believes it will make their task less arduous.

“I do believe it is easier to play with a veteran line,” said Roy. “The offensive and defensive line are 2 groups that have to work together to be successful. The chemistry that has been built between the guys up front means everything.”

Roy admittedly has made the adjustments since he started for the first time last season. But he soon learned how instinctive it is to play on the line.

“It’s extremely fast paced and you need to be super focused,” explained Roy. “I would say I became the most comfortable on the field this most recent spring. Last year, my junior year, was my first year starting, so it was a little slow. But coming into my senior season, I feel the most confident and comfortable that I’ve ever been.”

He also began to appreciate and recognize all aspects of the game.

“It was about football IQ,” said Roy. “For me, it was learning not just my position, but how the backfield works and everything else around me. When I started to understand how each play forms, that’s when everything clicked for me.”

Head coach Matt LeZotte believes Roy can have an impactful campaign ahead.

“Cole Roy has established himself as the anchor of the unit,” said LeZotte. “With his experience, physicality, and leadership, Roy is poised for a breakout senior campaign and is expected to be a major producer as the line sets the tone for our offense.”

Roy began playing the rec game at age six, and he saw it as a way to bond with friends. One of his lasting football memories was a victory last year.

“Our game last year against Camden County was really memorable to me,” reflected Roy. ‘’With it being homecoming, having the entire school there, and getting my first win against Camden in my high-school career meant everything.”

Brimming with confidence and motivation for the season, Roy has taken a leadership role this summer. He is narrowing down his college choices among Wingate College, Shorter University, Ripon College and plans to play football next season. He will pursue a degree in sports management.

“I know some of the younger players will have a big role this year,” said Roy. “I have also worked on the ‘We vs. Me’ ideal, stressing the team concept.”

Roy knows his team has high expectations.

“I believe the team is more hungry than ever,” said Roy. “We are a senior-heavy team that played a lot of games last year.”