The Cumberland Valley Hitmen are ready to shock football fans with new and improved team focus and goals.

The Hitmen are a non-profit, semi-professional football team officially recognized by the Great Eastern Football Association. Heading into their second year as a team, the players are optimistic about their expectations for the season.

“From the first practice we came together, we are more of a cohesive unit than last season,” said Ron Kerr, head coach and offensive coordinator.

Last season, the Hitmen finished with a 5-5 record, just missing the playoffs. Clint Fogelsanger, theteam’s president and tight end, attributed this to the team being new to the league.

“We had a lot of guys that had not played together before and had to establish that relationship, leadership and trust with each other,” Fogelsanger said.

“Once we hit mid-season, that all started to really come together, but, unfortunately, it was too late.”

The Hitmen are excited for fans to see the team’s improvement since last season.

“There is a lot of good leadership and teamwork,” wide receiver Jermell Fleming Jr. said. “No whining on the field and no fighting with each other. This year is going to be about picking each other up.”

Fleming said the lack of unity is what led the team to miss the playoffs last season, but the newfound positivity and atmosphere will motivate players to end the season victorious.

The Hitmen’s first game of the season is on March 19 at 1 p.m. at Tiger Stadium in Shippensburg. Admission is free.

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