RallyNorth.net

Leavitt out at least two weeks

When Central Catholic opens the season tomorrow, it will be doing so without its most dangerous weapon.

Mike Leavitt, who is on pace to be one of the most prolific backs in area history, will miss at least the first two games of the season due to a hamstring injury, according to Central Catholic coach Chuck Adamopoulos.

During preseason camp, Adamopoulos said he hoped Leavitt would be ready for the opener against Lawrence. But the senior has yet to take the practice field after suffering the injury while training during the offseason.

The All-Scholastic and two-time Eagle-Tribune All-Star was second in the region last year with 1,500 yards rushing and 20 touchdowns while leading Central Catholic to a share of the Merrimack Valley Conference title. He trailed only two-time Eagle-Tribune Player of the Year Andrew Foote in yards (1,838) and touchdowns (25). He also started at defensive back, making 71 tackles and six interceptions. "It will be tough without Mike," said Adamopoulos. "But we are confident he will be back."

Last season, the 5-10, 190-pound power back became only the fourth area back in the last 12 years to rush for 1,000 yards in his sophomore and junior year. He accumulated 1,153 yards and 14 touchdowns as a sophomore.

After their cross-town rivals, the Raiders will face a battle in Catholic Conference foe St. John's Prep. The Eagles downed Central 27-17 last year and return an impressive group including 1,300-yard back Derek Coppola of North Reading.

Central is already without last year's other top back, Chris Morales. who rushed for 817 yards. The current returning rusher is senior Mike Smith (170 yards last year).