St. Charles North Quarterbacks Embrace Timeshare Strategy

In the ongoing timeshare at quarterback for St. Charles North, sophomore Dashel Von Qualen considers himself a big-play threat alongside senior Landon Conroy. Both quarterbacks showcase their talents during the first two weeks of the season, leading to impressive results for the North Stars.

“I think it’s great,” Von Qualen stated. “We have a yin-and-yang thing going. If we have the hot hand, we keep it. If someone’s not making plays, we switch it.”

Von Qualen demonstrated his explosive potential Friday night, contributing to a 56-21 nonconference victory against South Elgin. His first three passes resulted in touchdowns. He also ran for 96 yards on six carries. Von Qualen completed 4 of 4 passes for 153 yards and scored on a 35-yard run. Conroy added value by completing 4 of 6 passes for 120 yards and a TD, with 45 yards and a TD on eight carries.

Other notable performances included Jameson Walters’s 94-yard kickoff return for a TD and two 39-yard receptions, one for a TD. Tommy Vendl achieved a 1-yard TD run and a 71-yard TD catch. Freshman running back Jeremiah Torres returned a kickoff for an 89-yard TD for South Elgin, while Carter McDonald contributed a 1-yard TD run.

Conroy has patiently awaited his opportunity to start, showing willingness to collaborate with Von Qualen for the team’s benefit. “It’s working well,” said Conroy. “We’re 2-0, putting up stats, making the team better. It’s fun and adds a competitive advantage for us.”

“At North, we’re all about team players. Selflessness is a core value everyone needs,” Conroy noted.

The cooperative approach impresses North Stars coach Rob Pomazak, who appreciates both quarterbacks accepting their roles. “We’re lucky to have Landon and Dash in the lineup,” Pomazak said. “They’re both accommodating because it could easily turn competitive. These first two weeks have been great, giving us a fastball, change-up dynamic.”

Conroy initiated the scoring Friday for the North Stars with a 57-yard pass and an 18-yard TD run on subsequent plays, followed by a 10-yard TD pass to Jackson Weasler. Von Qualen then took over with three TD passes — 39 yards to Walters, 35 yards to Jack Leigl, and 71 yards to Vendl.

“I think it gives teams two different scenarios to prepare for,” Von Qualen explained. “We’re both starter caliber, making it difficult for opponents.”

Despite both quarterbacks vying for the starting position, winning remains the priority. Von Qualen emphasized the importance of selflessness and trust, noting, “We’re here to win.”