When Niskayuna’s Cameron Grasso steps on the field, he’s always a threat to score.
“I wouldn't be able to do the things I do without my teammates behind my back, the coaching staff being able to give me the ball and having the ball in my hands,” said Grasso, who has played quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back for the Silver Warriors this season.
Whether it’s offense, defense or special teams, the junior jack of all trades for Niskayuna will find his way into the end zone. It’s been that way since his freshman season.
“With his playing ability and the way he presents himself on and off the field, if he speaks up or says something, the kids are going to listen and follow his lead,” said Brian Grastorf, head coach for Niskayuna.
The gridiron always seems destined for him, especially as the grandson of legendary Bishop Maginn football coach Joe Grasso.
“My grandfather coached for 40 some years when I was young,” Grasso said. “Just knowing all his experience and then him passing that on to my dad and then my dad passing that on to me, it's really valuable.”
It’s an experience he now shares daily with his father, Mike, who serves as Niskayuna’s offensive coordinator. After winning two Sectional Championships in Class A as an underclassman, Grasso is facing a whole new challenge this year playing in Class AA.
“This year, I try to take a little bit more of accountability and a leadership role,” Grasso said.
Grasso and the Silver Warriors will have their toughest task to date facing undefeated Christian Brothers Academy this week. It’ll be a reunion of sorts for Mike and Cameron Grasso with Brothers head coach Bob Burns. Mike Grasso served on Burns’ staff while coaching at Troy High School.
“We're pretty good friends, and Cam was my ball boy at Troy high. So I've known him a long time too,” Burns said. “Cam's a good player. We're going to have to contain him the best we can.”
With 11 touchdowns so far this season, this is another opportunity for Grasso to continue to add to his already impressive resume. The do-it-all player is looking to shine once again this Thursday night.
“We know obviously we got a tough opponent this week against CBA. But each day we're looking to get better as a team and improve,” Grasso said.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Thursday on Spectrum News 1.