Shaler's Holtz makes a 'buddy' and major mark at Big 33 game

Shaler's J.P. Holtz had an interesting experience in the Big 33 football game. By Brad Everett.

"Seneca Valley coach Don Holl thought he had finally seen the last of Shaler Area football star J.P. Holtz. This was after Holtz scored two touchdowns against Holl's team in a WPIAL Class AAAA Northern Seven Conference game last October.

Holl was wrong. But he couldn't have been happier.

Holtz, who will soon begin his college career at Pitt, took part in Saturday's Big 33 Classic in Hershey. Holtz, a tight end, caught a third-quarter touchdown pass for Pennsylvania, which lost to Ohio, 24-21, in overtime. Holl was the offensive coordinator for the Pennsylvania team.

"We had seen enough of him on the other side," Holl said. "Without a doubt, having him on our side was much better."

It was a busy week for Holtz, who, like the rest of players, spent the week in Hershey doing as much off the field as on it. Among the experiences was staying with a host family in the area, as well as being paired up with a "buddy.""