Allen Canaries football coach Joel Rupp expressed a strong sense of optimism as he enters his third season leading the team. Recently, Rupp and his players volunteered at the concession stand during a major Drum Corps International (DCI) competition at J. Birney Crum Stadium. This annual event attracts drum and bugle corps from across the country, filling the stadium with fans and vibrant music.
“Running the concession stands for that helps the football program a lot,” Rupp remarked. “But it’s also good for Allentown and our kids to see the stands packed like that.” He reminisced about his own playing days, noting how the atmosphere reminded him of why he loves football. The sense of community and support from parents and volunteers left him feeling proud of the program.
The Canaries are looking to build momentum after a season marked by both excitement and challenges. Last year, the team began with a thrilling 2-0 record, including wins against two Philadelphia programs, and concluded their regular season with a notable overtime victory over their rival, Dieruff. Despite these successes, the team faced seven losses, six of which saw the defense concede over 35 points.
Rupp is determined to improve upon last year’s performance, stating he is “extremely optimistic” about the upcoming season. “We got everything we need for No. 1s; we’re just missing some depth,” he explained. “I’m very excited about our passing game. We didn’t really have that last season.” The team has focused on quick passing drills to maximize their offensive potential, especially given their limited number of linemen.
While the Canaries lost key players like Kemahni Wimberly and Ja’lil Johnson, who scored a combined 17 touchdowns last season, Rupp highlighted the returning talent. Junior receivers Jaylen Walker and Michael Taylor, alongside senior Zion Stokes, are expected to play crucial roles this year. Junior running back TeShon Gaynair, who made a significant impact during last year’s comeback against Dieruff, is also back. He will bolster both the offensive and defensive units after recording six sacks last season. Defensive end Kymanhi Moss and defensive back Elijah Watkins will also be key contributors.
Despite having the smallest roster in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC), Rupp remains focused on his team’s potential. He shared his aspirations, saying, “You know it is my dream to have 100 kids on the sideline, but I remember when I was an assistant under coach [Mel] Thomas, and we went into a game with 16 kids one year.” Rupp emphasized the importance of discipline and reliability among the players who remain committed to the program.
As the season approaches, Rupp reflected on the current roster size. “I was very excited coming into camp because we had 70 guys roll through here and dipped their toes into the program in the offseason,” he noted. However, the team is currently down to just 40 players. Some participants left after realizing they were not suited for the demands of football, which Rupp attributes to the heightened standards now in place for Allen athletes.
Rupp remains hopeful about increasing numbers as the school year begins on August 25. “We normally don’t do that, but I’ll be able to walk the halls and see some of the guys we haven’t seen,” he said, suggesting that new recruits could join until the fourth week of league games.
The coaching staff will also see some changes this season. Returning coordinators Eric Collazo (offensive) and Derek Thorne (defensive) will be joined by new faces, including Alvin Wright, who has transitioned from middle school coach to freshman head coach. Grant Whary, a longtime area coach, will assist him. Rupp expressed enthusiasm about the additions, commenting, “I am excited about our additions because it gives us more eyes out on the field and will help with in-game adjustments.”
The team had a unique opportunity earlier this spring when players and coaches participated in a one-day camp run by AJ Brown, a receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles. “A lot of the city youth were involved with that, and many of our players helped out,” Rupp said. “It was an overall great experience to have that kind of crowd at J. Birney Crum Stadium, and what a great guy AJ Brown is.”
Looking ahead, the Allen Canaries’ schedule features a scrimmage on August 12 against Pottstown followed by their first regular season game against Dobbins Vo-Tech on August 23. The games will typically start at 7 p.m., with the notable exception of the match against Dieruff on October 25, which is scheduled for 2 p.m.
As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, Rupp’s focus on discipline, commitment, and community engagement may well set the tone for a promising season.
