Nov. 5, 2001

EASTON, Pa. (www.lafayette.edu) - The Lafayette football program's senior class is full of on-the-field leaders, but several have distinguished themselves with their contributions outside the limelight. With limited playing time, they have emerged as role models for a program on the rise. They will not be in uniform to witness the inevitable turnaround of the program, but they are integrally responsible for initiating it.

"This group is a perfect example of what a team is about," said Leopards' head coach Frank Tavani. "These are the kind of athletes that give you strength to come to practice every day and want to win every game."

Quarterback Chad Ritchie is an ideal illustration for Tavani's mantra. After settling into a backup role this season, Ritchie has worked on other areas of his game in an effort to contribute and has seen time at receiver as well as on special teams.

"Our class is full of mentors who are helping to guide some of the younger players," Ritchie said. "A large number of them are making contributions on the field."

"Chad has come into his role with class and dignity," Tavani said. "He is a huge part of our offense in terms of our 'thunder attack' (short yardage goal-line offense)."

Senior Harry Armstrong possesses a knowledge of the game that has helped him guide his teammates.

"Harry is a positive role model because he has such a knowledge for the game," Tavani said. "He is going to be a tremendous coach someday, and his perseverance through tough situations will help him guide others in years to come."

Armstrong saw success at quarterback as a sophomore, including memorable heroics in the Bucknell game in which he completed a 36-yard touchdown on fourth down for a 22-21 win. For his efforts in that game, he earned the 1999 George McGaughey Award as the Lafayette MVP versus Bucknell.

Tight end Collin Crotty has not only faced adversity with his senior class, but with personal injuries in recent years.

"Collin has had a set of unfortunate injuries after performing extremely well in preseason camp," Tavani said. "Through it he has remained committed and is a true competitor." Fullback Matt Kulp had high aspirations for his collegiate career after a successful high school campaign at Manheim Central.

"Matt has been such a positive force for the team in many aspects," Tavani said. "He has also performed well on special teams."

"All of these kids have shown the kind of commitment to the program that shows younger athletes what it takes to succeed," Tavani said. "They have overcome barriers to lead by attitude and example."

"Our class has faced a lot of adversity," Ritchie said. "We entered our freshman year with high hopes and saw the next few years filled with a lot of changes. In the end we stuck together and that commitment brought us together as a team."

In any rebuilding program, it is essential to pass along lessons learned to the incoming classes. Tavani noted how members of the senior class took it upon themselves to show the freshmen what it would take to get the job done.

"All of these kids are leaders by example," Tavani said. "They practice like they play, giving 100 percent all of the time. They are great role models for the younger kids."

"A lot of the seniors in particular have taken the time to show the younger players how to react in certain situations, how to handle the pressure of playing, how to prepare for games, and how to practice to perform well," Ritchie said. "These are all vital elements in making the next step."

"I think the program is headed in the right direction," Ritchie said. "It has come a long way in just these past two years."

The Leopard football team is on its way to becoming a successful program. Looking back on the season, Lafayette could easily be on the plus side of its Patriot League record. The team has lost four league contests by a combined total of 18 points, including one overtime game and three contests decided by four points or less.

Regardless, the seniors have never hung their heads but instead rally behind a starting lineup full of underclassmen.

"Despite the record, this group has set a new standard of commitment and investment to our program," Tavani said.