Cape football looks forward to a great year

The Cape Henlopen football team has a new look on the sideline and a tough schedule to play in the 2025 season. The Vikings ended the 2024 season at 5-6, losing to Sallies 35-0 in the state tournament quarterfinals. 

Former Wesley College coach Christopher “Chip” Knapp takes over the helm after the departure of Mike Frederick. Knapp has more than 30 years’ experience on the sidelines. With the Wolverines, Knapp served as an offensive coordinator, assistant head coach and head coach. After his stint at Wesley, he coached the Dover Senators to three DIAA state championship runs. 

The Vikings, even though losing 13 seniors to graduation, have veterans returning in most positions.

The quarterback spot is filled by junior Jameson Tingle, as he returns as one of the best QBs in the state. Senior Mikey Thompson will serve as a better-than-average backup.  

Tingle threw 110-for-172 for 1,340 yards, 17 touchdowns and only four interceptions last season. Thompson holds for extra points and field goals. 

Ozmeer Batson will lead a group of talented running backs, which also includes Dell Richards and Ty Handy. 

Dell Richards will be used all over the field, including tight end as a dynamic skill player.

A talented offensive line will be led by returning captain Liam Ramsey and two-way standout Tre Batson.

Mikiah Jackson looks to improve on a good freshman season (nine receptions for 140 yards) at wide receiver. Aiden Lehmuth will add depth at wide receiver. 

The defense will be led by returning all-state players Dell Richards (59 tackles) and Ty Handy (34 tackles). Added coverage will be given by Andrew Messick. Robbie Payton (42 tackles) will lead the linebacker corps, and Navin Duffy and Tre Batson are also returning starters. Javi Morales will add speed and power on the defensive line.

Duffy is also one of the best punters in the state, averaging 31.16 yards per kick with a long of 78 yards. 

“Things are progressing well,” said Knapp. “I believe the guys are buying in. They seem excited about the system on the offense, and I think the defense looks better than anticipated as far as their execution right now. But we’ve got a long way to go. I know we lost a lot on the line, but like in any situation year to year, guys have to step up and take on the role of a starter, and guys are doing that right now.”

Knapp continued, “We have a good group on all levels of the defense. Tre Batson has been a monster in practice, and Robbie Payton is showing the same aggressive play he has done in the past. Ty Handy, to me, has really stepped up and has shown to be one of the most improved guys on the defense.”

Knapp is very high on Tingle’s ability at quarterback.

“I have coached and worked with a lot of quarterbacks who have had a lot of success. I had a couple of All-Americans at Wesley. Jameson is just as talented as they were,” he said. “He checks off a lot of boxes in terms of physical and mental ability. I’m very excited to see him play. His backup Mikey is a very good player as well.”

Knapp’s coaching staff includes Ben Ashby, Dwight Tingle, Jason Hunt, Steve Walsh, Jason Pease, Zach Horstmyer, Mike Tesno, Scott Vaillancourt, Jack Frederick, Terrique Riddick, Jaden Davis, JoJo Kirby and Mark Mayer. 

“The support I’ve had from the administration, the booster club, coaching staff, custodial staff, everyone, has been excellent,” said Knapp. “So far it’s been a real pleasure to coach here.”