Chicago-Area High School Football News and Scores | Season Pass

Dundee-Crown might have a number of question marks entering the 2012-13 season, but who the team will lean on in crunch time is one area where the Chargers already have an answer.

Seniors Brandon Rodriguez (6-1, G) and Dylan Kissack (6-3, F) were the team’s top two scoring options last year, and both players are back to lead the way as Dundee-Crown tries to improve on last season’s 16-11 record and runner-up finish in the Fox Valley Conference’s Valley Division.

Rodriguez is a dynamic playmaker who frequently filled up the stat sheet as a junior while averaging 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.0 steals. Meanwhile, Kissack is a four-year varsity member who averaged 9.8 points as a junior and provides a healthy dose of versatility as a capable contributor both inside and out.

“This is Dylan’s fourth year on the varsity and we’re hoping he continues to expand his game,” Dundee-Crown coach Lance Huber said. “He’s a very heady player who has a good understanding of what he can and can’t do.

“With Brandon, we’re hoping he can to build on his game as well and become the best player he can be.”

After Rodriguez and Kissack, junior Cordero Parson (5-10, G) is the only other player on the roster who saw significant playing time last year.

Among the group of returners expected to take on expanded roles are seniors Trent Muscat (6-2, F), Jack Buckley (5-10, G) and Latrell Crenshaw (6-1, G).

“I’ve been very pleased with the performance of Trent Muscat and Jack Buckley,” Huber said. “Latrell Crenshaw has been making strides and we think he could do some good things.

“Those guys have all picked up the pace in practice and we’re looking forward to seeing how they progress throughout the year.”

Senior JT Beasley (5-8, G)  is another returner who could play a big role for the Chargers, and senior Tyree Williams (6-2, F) also figures to be in the mix.

Given the lack of varsity experience at a number of positions, things could be a work in progress for Dundee-Crown. But with two proven leaders and ample athleticism up and down the roster, challenging two-time defending league champion Huntley for supremacy in the FVC Valley isn’t out of the question.

“I really like the effort we’ve been displaying in practice,” Huber said. “Hopefully that’s something that will continue throughout the year. If the guys put in the work that’s necessary, good results could come.”