A big man with a big personality, Frank Tranzilli is an offensive lineman for the North Penn Knights. With a height of 6 foot 2 inches, a weight of 275 pounds, and a talent that has transcended expectations, he dominates defensive linemen week after week and has played a big role in the Knights advancing in the PIAA District 1 playoffs.
“He is an extremely hard worker who continues to get better each week, making my job as quarterback much easier” commented senior quarterback Austin Shearer.
Wide receiver Justin Hudimac had similar things to say about the offensive lineman. “I’m comfortable running the ball up the middle when I’m behind Frank. He’s a great player that works hard every day.”
Currently a junior, Frank prioritizes work ethic in order to achieve his long term goal.
“I started playing football in second grade because most of my family had played growing up, and I was looking to follow in their footsteps. My uncle Mike played at Fordham University, and I’m hoping to play in college as well. I’m not sure where though, I just have to keep working hard.”
He grew up in a household of five, but with a personality like Frank’s, his family extended to include his coterie of friends as well. Growing up, he spent much time playing basketball, baseball, and football with friends who were all very close in age. As he transitioned into high school, he began developing new relationships with the North Penn Knights squad.
“My relationship with the rest of the team is very good. Everyone is very close, and we all look out for each other. The team chemistry is awesome. We are all working very hard and taking it one week at a time. No one is getting ahead of themselves, and we are treating each game as if it is our last.”
Tranzilli’s teammates have nothing but good things to say about his character and work ethic on and off the field.
“Frank is one of the biggest reasons why we have a great running attack. He is a tough football player that has used his experience from preceding years to lead our offensive line,” said defensive tackle Nick Muth.
Captain Nick Wright commented “Frank is a returning starter, which is a huge advantage because he has the experience we need in order to win games. He is one of the strongest kids in the weight room, and he has a lot of dedication, which we need on this team.”
Tranzilli spends his free time doing many different things. Academics, he said,” is obviously a priority.” But when his face is not buried the books, he enjoys eating, lifting weights, spending time with his friends and family, and then “eating some more.”
When on the football field, since he is not the one carrying the ball or catching the pass, he rarely gets recognition over the PA, but he is surely one of the most valuable players on a Knights squad that looks to continue its run at a district title tonight at Pennsubury High School.