The Merrimack College football team concluded its spring session with the annual spring game at Duane Stadium on April 19, where the “Merrimack” squad faced off against the “Warriors.” The event marked the end of a month-long period in which players practiced three times each week.
The spring session is considered an important part of preparation for the upcoming season, providing players with necessary practice and experience. Head coach Mike Gennetti said, “I feel like it went really well. We got out of it healthy for the most part, and guys got a lot of work. Spring is necessary for all these guys to get the reps that they need, and they did a great job. I’m proud of the effort, proud of the accountability, the attention to detail that they’ve displayed. But we’ve still got a lot of work to do in preparation for the fall.”
Gennetti, who will begin his third season leading Merrimack’s program this fall, emphasized that gaining experience and repetitions remains key for player development. “I think it comes down to just reps and experience,” Gennetti said. “There’s a lot of things to improve on. We got to watch the tape and make those adjustments. But I think from an experience and rep perspective, all these guys need continued work. And I think the more situations that we can put them in, the better off they’re going to be.”
Attendance at Friday’s game included students, community members, recruits and high school juniors invited by coaching staff. Activities during the event featured food options such as “Augie’s On The Go” and contests like a punt-catching challenge at midfield.
Reflecting on community support during spring activities, Gennetti said: “It was electric, a great atmosphere… A lot of positives in the spring game.” He also encouraged ongoing support: “Keep coming out and supporting us… These guys love having you here, and the more we can have them engaged, the better.” Looking ahead to next season—which includes road games against Wake Forest, Tarleton State, Dartmouth and Delaware—Gennetti added: “I’m hoping to put the most competitive and ferocious team on the field as I possibly can… we’re excited for the season.”
