Article by Phoenix Writer Jazmeen Osae-Kwapong ’26
On November 15 in a true show of skill and unwavering determination, the Boys’ JV Football Team fought hard against St. Joseph by the Sea and claimed the NYCHSFL AA Championship title.
The Firebirds were able to overcome St. Joseph by the Sea in the final game with a 21-14 victory winning the league championship, and redeeming their previous loss against the team during the regular season.
The combined efforts of the defense and offense during the game were key in securing the league title. On defense, sophomore Jack O’Leary masterfully countered the rival team’s plays with two interceptions while freshman Andrew Weilbacher and sophomore Michael Imperiale each also put a stop to their opponents by intercepting the opposing side’s passes.
On offense, the boys battled fiercely to ensure a victory on the field. Sophomore Brett Keiley contributed to the team’s success by scoring a touchdown in an impressive 45 yard run, and sophomore Doug Cristales skillfully scored a touchdown in a 5 yard run. Brayden Farrelly, the team’s quarterback, scored on a 20 yard run that sealed the score and concluded the hard won game.
A great sense of excitement was felt in the team’s accomplishment of not only defeating a season rival, but also becoming league champions. Brayden Farrelly commented, “The championship win made me feel a happiness I have never felt before. It made me think of all the hard work I put in and how it all paid off.”
The exceptional performance in this game truly is a testament to the diligence of the team and promises their future success. Mr. Fechtmann, the director of athletics, remarked, “Their success makes me very proud of their hard work all season long. We are looking forward to these players moving up to the varsity level next year.”
While the team was able to earn the championship title, the regular season was not without its setbacks. Injuries and game losses were discouraging and tested the team’s resolve, but they proved to be perseverant. The boys were able to adapt well, and although they were in a lower seed during the playoffs, they recovered and proved themselves in the final games.
Despite being the No. 5 seed, the team was able to beat No. 4 seed St. Xavier and No. 1 seed Xaverian, in the quarter and semi finals, and then move on to defeat No. 3 seed St. Joseph to win the championship. Mr. Citrano, head coach of the team, reflected, “The boys put a lot of time into this team and the assistant coaches were dedicated. Winning the championship made the effort and time spent worth it.”
