GROVE CITY - The number was staggering, even to him.

Twelve interceptions.

That's a career for most high school football defensive backs - the high school game won't be confused with the Arena Football League as running the ball is the No. 1 method of transport.

But Alfreno, using his speed, leaping ability and nose for the football, made the most of his opportunities.

"It came normal to me," Alfreno said. "When the ball was in the air, I thought of myself as the receiver and it was my job to go get it."

Alfreno, now a junior, started the season at cornerback, but moved to safety after an injury to Joe Ennis following the second game of the season.

In the first game, Ennis had two interceptions at the safety spot.

But Alfreno made an immediate impact. He was second in the state in interceptions last season.

"That's a lot," Alfreno said. "I never thought I would have that many."

No one is thinking 12 again. That may be too much to ask, as teams are sure to be wary of Alfreno roaming the secondary.

But that's OK. Grove City coach Jeff Bell said there are plenty of other dangerous defensive players on the field for the Eagles.

"We have enough players on defense that they can't be just worried about him," Bell said. "We have two real good corners and two good defensive tackles."

Alfreno, though, is not just a one-trick pony. He is also a threat at wide receiver and tailback for the Eagles.

Last year, Alfreno averaged 7.2 yards per carry and also caught 19 passes for 238 yards and five scores.

He has caught at least one pass in every varsity football game he has played.

This year, he is looking for even bigger things.

Alfreno will be used in those dual roles again this season, but he may see more time at tailback.

Grove City will also motion him out of the backfield to try to exploit mismatches from the opposing defenses.

Alfreno showed a glimpse of what he can do inn a loss to Harbor Creek Friday, rushing for 142 yards and catching passes for 105 more.

What the Harbor Creek defense saw was a bigger Alfreno, who at 6-foot-1, added 20 pounds of bulk to his frame without sacrificing agility.

"I feel a big difference," Alfreno said. "I took basketball off (last season) and hit the weight room all winter. I put on 20 pounds, but I kept my speed. That was the key."

Alfreno doesn't care in what way he gets the football - by handoff from quarterback Jim Jaskowak or a by pass from him - as long as he can get into the action.

Grove City, though, won't be riding Alfreno on every play. Like on defense, the offense features several dangerous options in addition to Alfreno.

"That can only help him," Bell said. "He realizes it's not all on his shoulders, and that makes it better for him. I don't think he is feeling any pressure, which is nice."

Alfreno, who is also a stellar baseball player for the Eagles, worked out with Jaskowak and receivers Tim Waxenfelter and Adam Rudolph whenever he could in the offseason.

Alfreno and Jaskowak are very familiar with each other, having played together since midget football.

"Jimmy looks real good this year," Alfreno said. "He is hitting guys on the numbers."

Alfreno was a major factor for the Grove City baseball team in the spring, both as a pitcher and a shortstop. He led the team in home runs as a sophomore.

But Alfreno hasn't decided which sport he is most fond of - yet.

"Whatever season it is, that's my favorite," Alfreno said.