After starting the 2017 football season 3-2, the Palatine Football team is ready to get back to their winning ways.

“My team goals would have to be win conference, as well as beating Fremd,” said senior wide receiver Johnny O’Shea.

The Pirates suffered an early season loss to the Stevenson Patriots, but that would prove to only be a minor setback for team, as they bounced back with a 33-10 win against the Wheeling Wildcats, as well as a 35-12 Win against the Evanston Wildkits.

“Our team goal is to go 1-0 every week and of course to beat Fremd,” said senior quarterback DJ Angelaccio

Angelaccio led the Pirates to the State semi-finals last season after all-state quarterback Zach Oles went down in the first round of the playoffs.

“My biggest improvement from last year would definitely be my confidence, I’m delivering the ball on time and with speed and more accurately this season compared to last,” said Angelaccio, “My personal goals for the season would be to be the best leader I can be on the team, as well as be an all-conference player.”

If one things for sure, it’s that the Pirates have high expectations for this season and have set many personal goals.

“My personal goal for this season would be 60 tackles, and a handful of interceptions as well as touchdowns,” said senior safety Jake Moertl.

Moertl is coming off of a fantastic season, recording 10 interceptions, and being ranked near the top of the list for best corners in the state as a junior. Not only were the interceptions a key piece to his game, he also recorded over 50 tackles.

The Pirates host Barrington this upcoming Thursday, and there’s no doubt that the Pirates will be looking to capitalize off of the fire from their passionate 28-21 win over Schaumburg last week.