BY WILLIAM PORTER
Canton Central School Athletic Director

On fields across St. Lawrence County, the rumblings of a new football season have begun. Nowhere in the Northern Athletic Conference are the winds of change stronger than at Canton High School. The new-look Golden Bears football team has begun its offseason workout program and is enjoying the burst of energy that comes with fresh leadership.

Senior Quarterback Charlie Todd looks to be a threat with both his legs and his arm again this season.

 First-year Head Varsity Coach Rico Dobbs is looking to make waves in the top-heavy Section X football division.

“Nothing changes if nothing changes,” said Coach Dobbs. “We have had fantastic leadership from coaches in years past, and I feel we are in a position to build off that leadership and create an identity that is Golden Bears football.”

Canton is coming off a 2-6 season in 2023. Dobbs views a revamped football staff and a new season as an opportunity to be excited.

First-year Offensive Coordinator Jake Fenlong will make the leap from JV to Varsity play-calling duties.

“We have some talented players returning and some impressive new faces on offense,” said Fenlong. “We are going to look to be a more balanced offense this year and get the ball into our playmakers’ hands.”

Former Golden Bears standout quarterback Jake Fenlong takes over play calling duties in 2024.

Those exciting returners include last year’s starting quarterback, Charlie Todd who provides a dual threat for the Bears in the backfield with his arm and his legs. In years past, the Golden Bears have struggled to protect the quarterback, something Dobbs says has been a point of emphasis this summer.

“Our participation from the offensive line has been incredible in our offseason workouts. That type of commitment to getting better has really set the stage for our summer schedule,” said Dobbs.

 Chad Kenna, the lone returning coordinator from the 2023 team, will lead the defense in 2024. Coach Kenna notes a strong returning core of seniors will provide a base for the Golden Bears’ defense.

“Returning a strong upper class combined with the additions of the junior and some impressive sophomore teammates will bring great knowledge and energy to the defense,” said Kenna.

Senior John Wilcox is the embodiment of the blend of knowledge and energy. Wilcox may play snaps at all three defensive levels for the Bears in 2024. Wilcox’s combination of speed and size allows for this versatility.

“John will bring a lot of experience and aggression to our defense,” said Dobbs. “John could really be put in any position defensively and excel. His work ethic and leadership are great examples for his teammates. I am excited for him to have a dominant year on both sides of the ball.”  

Senior running back and defensive lineman John Wilcox looks forward to being a weapon on both sides of the ball for the Bears.

Among the fresh faces to the 2024 Golden Bears is Special Teams Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach Alex Bush.

“The addition of high energy and extremely knowledgeable coaches like Coach Bush has lit a fire under our guys,” said Offensive Coordinator Fenlong. “I am thrilled and very excited for the opportunity ahead of us,” says Bush. “The coaching staff and players are inspiring to work with and push me to coach and prepare to the best of my abilities.”

Dobbs and the 2024 Golden Bears football team will kick off their season at home on Sept. 7 at 1:30 pm against the Potsdam Sandstoners. Coach Dobbs is thankful for the opportunity to lead this group of young men.

“I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to coach the team I once played for and cannot wait to see our hard work pay off,” he said.

The Golden Bears hope to play the role of spoilers in the 2024 season.