Exeter’s Sam Orzolek: Body Zone Physical Therapy Defensive Player of the Week

By Mike Drago Last updated Oct 19, 2021

Body Zone Physical Therapy Defensive Player of the Week

Exeter’s defense was at its best in the fourth quarter Friday against Berks Catholic, and senior tackle Sam Orzolek was in the middle of it all. The Eagles held the potent Saints’ offense without a first down in the final quarter, allowing Colin Payne and the offense the chance to come back for a 33-21 victory.

“I was so thrilled to see Sam leading his teammates to victory Friday night,” said Exeter coach Matt Bauer after Orzolek was named Body Zone Physical Therapy Defensive Player of the Week .

Orzolek had a team-high 12 tackles, including three three solos. He recorded two tackles for loss and was in on a sack.

Berks Catholic led 21-20 after three quarters but was limited to 28 total yards in the fourth quarter. Its final four possessions ended on a pair of punts, a turnover on downs and an interception. The turnover on downs, at the Exeter 29, set up the Eagles’ clinching score.

The Eagles defense intercepted three passes and allowed just nine first downs. Orzolek and the defensive line contained the Saints’ running game, allowing only 144 yards on 37 attempts. They recorded seven tackles for loss and held the Saints to 2 yards or less on 13 plays.

“Sam Orzolek is a truly special young man,” Bauer said of the 6-foot, 215-pound defensive tackle. “He is mature beyond his years and always puts the needs of others first. He was voted captain by his peers for good reason, and I am thankful that our younger players have had the opportunity to be mentored by Sam.”

Players considered for Body Zone Physical Therapy Defensive Player of the Week honors are nominated by their coaches or by members of the MikeDragoSports.com coverage team.

Also nominated this week:

Christian Cacchione, FS, Berks Catholic
Roman Marinello, SS, Boyertown
Brett Organtini, LB, Conrad Weiser
Ryan Souder, LB, Daniel Boone
Sheldon Gerant, DE, Fleetwood
Trey Rock, LB, Gov. Mifflin
Pierce Mason, LB, Hamburg
Gavin Lenart, LB, Wilson
Ryker Jones, LB, Wyomissing

Selected earlier this season as Body Zone Physical Therapy Defensive Player of the Week:

Week 1: Brett Organtini, LB, Conrad Weiser
Week 2: Eden Johnson, S, Gov. Mifflin
Week 3: Josiah Jordan, CB, Berks Catholic
Week 4: Matt Kramer, LB, Wyomissing
Week 5: Ryan Souder, LB, Daniel Boone
Week 6: Nevin Carter, CB, Wyomissing
Week 7: Nate Goodman, Gov. Mifflin