Allen Canaries football coach Joel Rupp is entering his third season with a renewed sense of optimism. Recently, Rupp and his team operated the concession stand at J. Birney Crum Stadium during the Drum Corps International (DCI) competition. This annual event draws drum and bugle corps from across the country, filling the stands and creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with music. Rupp noted the experience was impactful for both the program and the community. “Running the concession stands for that helps the football program a lot,” he stated.
Rupp expressed his desire to replicate that crowd excitement for the Canaries this upcoming season. Last year, the team generated enthusiasm by starting with a 2-0 record, including a thrilling overtime victory against their rival, Dieruff.
The previous season ended with a challenging record of 3-7, but Rupp believes progress has been made. “We got everything we need for No. 1s; we’re just missing some depth,” he said. Despite a disappointing 24-0 loss to Muhlenberg Township in the Eastern Conference playoffs, Rupp remains “extremely optimistic” about the upcoming season.
Building From Last Season
The Canaries finished the previous season with some notable successes, particularly highlighted by their late-season win over Dieruff. This marked a significant turnaround from their winless season in 2023. Rupp’s enthusiasm for the new season is palpable, especially regarding the team’s passing game, which he believes has improved significantly. “We’ve been practicing on getting the ball out quick and fast,” he explained.
Although the team graduated key players like Kemahni Wimberly and Ja’lil Johnson, who combined for 17 touchdowns in the last season, several returning playmakers are eager to step up. Junior receivers Jaylen Walker and Michael Taylor, as well as senior Zion Stokes, are expected to play crucial roles. Additionally, TeShon Gaynair, a junior running back who made a significant impact in the win over Dieruff, will also contribute defensively after recording six sacks last year.
Despite having the smallest roster in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC), Rupp is not deterred. He recalls his own experiences as a player and coach, where teams often faced similar challenges. “You know it is my dream to have 100 kids on the sideline,” Rupp said. “But you have to turn up that discipline and be able to really count on the guys who have been here.”
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Rupp acknowledged some disappointment regarding the current number of players in the program. “I was very excited coming into camp because we had 70 guys roll through here,” he said. However, as the team moved through heat acclimatization week, that number dwindled to 40. Some players realized they were not suited for football, reflecting the increased level of discipline and high standards now expected of Allen football players.
Looking ahead, Rupp plans to recruit additional players once the school year begins on August 25, 2025. “We normally don’t do that, but we’ll allow people to join us until Week 4,” he noted. This flexibility could bolster the roster, which has already shown commitment from its current members. “The good news is that while we only have 40 kids, they are all committed to the program,” he added.
Coaching staff changes also mark the new season. Returning coaches Eric Collazo and Derek Thorne will continue in their roles, while new faces like Alvin Wright and former players Ivan Nieves and Isaac Williams join the team. Rupp is optimistic that the enhanced coaching staff will contribute to improved performance. “I am excited about our additions because it gives us more eyes out on the field and will help with in-game adjustments,” he said.
The players recently had a unique opportunity to participate in a one-day camp run by Philadelphia Eagles receiver AJ Brown. The event brought together youth from the city, enhancing community involvement and providing invaluable experience for the players. “We had a Super Bowl champion here, and I don’t think we’ve had that many people on the field at the same time before,” Rupp remarked.
As the new season approaches, the schedule is set, with all games starting at 19:00 unless noted otherwise. The Canaries will have their first scrimmage on August 11, 2025, against Pottstown at 10:00. The official season kicks off with a home game against Dobbins Vo-Tech on August 23.
The Canaries are ready to embrace a new season filled with potential, looking to build on last year’s progress and foster a strong community spirit around their football program.
