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Finally, the Lely Trojans football team gets to hit someone else.

It has been since early June at a football camp in Orlando that the Trojans did battle with anyone but themselves.

Still Lely has to travel miles to get the chance as it plays at Tampa Catholic at 7 p.m. Friday in a pre-season game.

“I think we’ll just throw things at the wall and see what sticks,” Lely Coach Steve Pricer jokingly said of his Trojans scheme for the contest.

Pricer is a bit more relaxed this season after his first shot at varsity coach in 2007. He had been an assistant for more than 30 years, but it was his first chance to hold the reigns.

“I think some of the seniors, although they were great kids, bought into the coaching staff,” Pricer said. “It was a transitory year.”

The Trojans went 5-5 on the season, losing in a tie-breaking playoff game to the Immokalee Indians that left Lely out of state playoff competition.

Graduating 22 seniors in 2007 made a lot of positions available, including the entire starting offensive backfield, linebackers and strong safety positions.

“All the kids worked hard since the spring game and many had a great week (this week) in getting ready to play,” Pricer said. “We’ll play as many as four running backs, two quarterbacks and many faces on defense. This is what a preseason game is for. It is a good opportunity to get everyone on film.”

Dennis Marcelin will have his first start at quarterback.

“He has looked really good in practice this week,” Pricer said. “Sean O’Regan (of Marco) has been doing well and will get some snaps.”

His “running backs by committee” will include Frankie Pugh, Darien Hall, Johny Faustin and Quentin Antoine. Since Lely has depth in defensive back, it gives Pricer the chance to see what Antoine can do as a running back. He’ll still play some defensive back and on special teams.

Acener Estilien is back at tight end. When a two tight-end offense is used the other will be Nick Thorstenson of Marco.

Pricer fells better about this year’s kicking game. Estilien will do the punting and Jerry Reyes will kick off, boot field goals and kick extra points.

The offensive line is led by Matt Calcagnini, center, of Marco and Cotorey Seals, right tackle.

Errol Boyd at strong safety has shined, Pricer said and he has been very pleased with the linebacking corp that includes Emmanuel Eduoard, Neil Keaney, Moises Stael Dantes, Mario Mendosa and Mike Snyder of Marco. Free safeties include Donald Resau and Wayne Niznik of Marco.

“I expect we will mix up our offensive plays as we always do,” Pricer said. “We aren’t the kind of team that can play smash-mouth football.”

The Trojans will stick with its 3-4 defense but will offer multiple looks, Pricer said.

“We are happy with where we are right now,” he said. “I think we’ll get a good performance out of the team.”