Mason Hoping to Improve Under New Head Coach

George Mason High (Bull Run District)

Coach: Tony Green (First Year)

2011 Record: 1-9 (0-6 District)

Key Departures: Stephen Lubnow, Vance Romero, and Dimitri Venets

Returning Offensive Starters: 4

Returning Defensive Starters: 4

Key Games: Aug. 30 vs. JEB Stuart, Oct. 26 vs. Clarke County

Tony Green is no stranger to the football program.

Green, who coached at Mason in the mid-1990s, has returned to lead the Mustangs after Tom Horn stepped down from the head coaching position in the spring. Like Mason, Bishop O’Connell High where Green was the interim head coach last season, suffered a 1-9 record. Green is hopeful that this year’s Mustang team will have more success against Bull Run and non-conference foes.

“I am excited about the way the kids are competing,” Green said. “We can improve in all areas. I think the Mustangs will do very well this season.”

With some familiar contributors held over from last year’s team, the Mustangs return some experience in some key areas. Green said he has been impressed with his players through camp and hopes the effort the last couple of weeks will carry over into the season. He said the strength of the team is the togetherness they have shown during camp.

“On a team like Mason, all players are key,” Green said. “I have no idea about who is not here. I know that everyone here is a big addition.”

Reigning offensive MVP Henry Darmstadter said the team’s transition from one coach to another has gone over well. Darmstadter, a senior kicker, said the team has grown closer and have bought into Green’s philosophy. The kicker said he is excited to get his senior season underway and get more wins than the previous year.

“I think we have a shot of doing very well,” Darmstadter said. “We just have to play as a team and we should do fine.” 

Click here for the Mustangs’ 2012 varsity football schedule.