Central Michigan University Athletics
CMU Tight Ends Dominated By Fresh Faces
8/13/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 13, 2001
MOUNT PLEASANT - For the second straight football season, Central Michigan University will have to replace its starting tight end.
Two years ago, Mark Swetz was the graduating senior while last fall it was Eric Salani.
Coach Mike DeBord and his Chippewas will look to a group of young and inexperienced but talented players for the tight end slot this season.
"This is a position where we'll have to develop some young people during training camp," DeBord said. "We have some prospects who don't know the system or our technique. We'll have to see which of these players are strong enough to compete as freshmen."
Sophomore Adam Supianoski (Manistee) is the "veteran" of the group, playing in nine games in 2000, and emerged from spring ball as the starting tight end. He's a 6-3, 235-pounder who is a solid blocker but has yet to catch a pass.
The remainder of the tight ends could be dubbed the "Kiddie Corps," as the four have not played a down of college football.
Sophomore Drew Donaldson (Royal Oak/Shrine), a 6-4, 215-pounder, is a walk-on while 6-4, 255-pound Caleb Anthony (Ludington), 6-3, 230-pound Tory Humphrey (Saginaw) and 6-6, 235-pound Dave Kurzen (Massillon, OH/Tuslaw) are incoming freshmen. Humphrey was recruited as a defensive lineman but made the change to tight end prior to the start of drills on Aug. 9.
Monday marked the first practice where the team could wear full pads. While the team's attitude pleased DeBord, he noted the team has some strides to make before opening day.
"I have liked the level of entusiasm that I've seen on the field," said DeBord. "We were inconsistent on both sides of the ball but you're going to have that this early in the season. We're getting great effort, though, and the consistentcy will come with that kind of effort."
The Chippewas launch the 2001 season at home on Aug. 30 against Eastern Kentucky. Kickoff is Kelly/Shorts Stadium is set for 7:30 p.m.
