SPRINGFIELD, Mass., September 29, 2006 -- The Springfield College football team looks to improve upon its already impressive record (3-0) this weekend at home against Utica College (2-1). A big contributor to SC’s undefeated start so far has been the play of the Pride’s defense, and more specifically that of sophomore Tom Caporale.

Caporale, an outside linebacker from Closter, N.J., is currently 3rd on the team in tackles, accumulating 18 in the first three contests. Of the 18 tackles, 13 are assisted and five are solo. To go along with the impressive number of tackles, Caporale has one interception and one pass break-up on the young season.

Caporale and the Pride defense have held opponents to 429 rushing yards in the first three contests. The defense played a big role in defeating then-11th-ranked Union College (38-30) in the opener, Montclair St. (27-15), and most recently Alfred University (41-34).

Before Springfield College, Caporale had an impressive career at Northern Valley Demarest HS in New Jersey, where he was a 3-sport athlete competing in basketball, lacrosse and football. Caporale, a First Team All-League and All-County performer in football, compiled 153 tackles his senior year and an impressive 311 for his career.

Tom, the son of Thomas and Catherine Caporale, who reside in Closter, hopes to one day teach and coach a football team of his own.

SC is currently ranked #1 in the New England Division III Coaches Poll, and has cracked into the National polls -- currently ranked 25th by d3football.com, and 20th by Don Hansen’s Football Gazette.

The Pride is next in action Saturday afternoon at 1 pm against Utica College (1-2) at SC’s Benedum Field.

published: 09/29/2006