The Roncalli football team welcomed John Rodenberg to the sidelines of Bob Tully Stadium as the team kicked off their season against Franklin Central on August 28th. Rodenberg stepped in as the new head coach for the team in February of 2020 and has already compiled an 8-1 record. Previously head coach at Covington Catholic in Kentucky and Cincinnati Moeller in Ohio, Rodenberg has taken home three state titles, and now hopes to add a fourth to his resume through the Roncalli program. 

“I have exactly three goals for the team. For them to be the best person that they can possibly be, to win the Circle City Conference, and take home a state championship this year,” Rodenberg said. 

Not only has he set goals on the field, but off the field as well. Rodenberg has greatly implemented the teachings of Pope Saint John XXIII to the team, hoping that they can grow individually as they grow as a player. 

“I spent 29 years coaching at different Catholic schools, and the last two years at a public school, so once I came to Roncalli it truly felt like I was at home again. The values and philosophies fit into my coaching style, which I am extremely grateful to be able to share with these boys.”  

Not only does he have an extensive coaching background, but Rodenberg also has a strong group of players. With 15 players having starting experience and a sectional title from last season, the team has a lot to offer on the field this year. This was apparent when the team opened its season beating Franklin Central 36-6. Senior Baron Huebler had a career high of 32 carries for 266 yards, becoming the first person to carry for 200 yards since 2015. 

Huebler, along with Owen Volk, Dominic Brown, Ryan Papandria, Ryan Henry and Sean Sinovic have led the team as senior captains. 

“We all have really had to step up this year, especially since it’s such a different dynamic than we are used to playing in. With a limited number of fans, each of us has made sure to support each other more than ever during games,” Henry said.