GRIDIRON 2025
GRIDIRON 2025
Content |
| Credits
SPORTS EDITOR:
Scott Kindberg
WRITERS:
Braden Carmen
Scott Kindberg
Matt Spielman
Christian Storms
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Braden Carmen
Scott Kindberg
Matt Spielman
Christian Storms
Tim Frank
Shelly Phillips
ADVERTISING:
Anna Vik
David Kircher
Janice Gee
Julie Swartz
Meredith Patton
GRAPHIC DESIGNER:
Jessica Stappenbeck
Tesla Grobaski
PREVIEW 2025
Celebrating Champions
Team Schedules
High School Previews
Trojans
Capozzi, Gowanda
Devin Hewes, CL/W/B Payton Bradley, Salamanca (No. 4) Chase Bonta, Jamestown
Carter Capozzi, Gowanda
GRIDIRON 2025
Celebrating Champions
By Scott Kindberg skindberg@post-journal.com
Chuck Funke felt equal parts satisfaction and relief as he stood in the tunnel at the home of the Buffalo Bills on an early November day in 1979.
The longtime Section VI football chairman’s duties that day were to be sure the teams participating in the first-ever high school postseason games got into the locker room, got lined up and were ready to go.
“Everything’s got to go right on time or we’re not going to get these games in,” he told the late Post-Journal sports editor, Jim Riggs, in 2002, “so I was the bad (guy) in the tunnel.”
For the record, Clymer won the first game of five that day, downing Randolph 6-0, but the outcomes were never what Funke most remembered as he carried out his assignments.
“Still, after doing this all these years, I like to see the looks of kids playing there for the first time,” he said. “It’s amazing, it really is. One of those (looks) a year and I’m good for another 10 years.”
Funke passed away in 2010, but his words still ring absolutely true today. If you’re a high school football player in Western New York, there is no greater thrill than to walk down the same tunnel that many of the NFL’s greatest have.
Noted former Jamestown head coach Wally Huckno in 2002: “I’ve seen those same eyes at Ralph Wilson Stadium, the University of Rochester (for the regionals) and at the Carrier Dome (for the state championship), … but I think Ralph Wilson Stadium (now Highmark Stadium) is still the one that is overwhelming for the kids. They know they’re in a pro stadium.”
Fast-forward to this fall.
Forty-six years after Section VI postseason games were first played at One Bills Drive in Orchard Park, a new stadium is under construction across the street and is scheduled to open in 2026. Whether or not the relationship between the Bills and Section VI continues in the new venue after this year remains to be seen.
For now, though, we can all take satisfaction in knowing that there have been enough “wow” moments from players and teams in The Post-Journal/OBSERVER circulation areas to fill many highlight reels.
In this November 1979 file photo, Jamestown’s Don Apperson (18) tips away a pass intended for a Grand Island player during the Section VI Football Federation playoffs at Rich Stadium.
Below is just a sampling.
Enjoy the trip down memory lane.
1979
Clymer 6, Randolph 0
It wasn’t an offensive show, but it WAS the first game of what has turned into a November tradition that is closing in on a half-century old.
“They scored on a screen pass,” recalled Randolph coach Pat Slater in 2002. “I remember it vividly.”
Added Clymer coach Howard McMullin: “It was a great experience for them. … I don’t think being there had any effect on the outcome of the game. Once the game began, it was just a football game.”
Jamestown 34, Grand Island 6
Jamestown rushed for more than 200 yards and the defense did the rest en route to a suprisingly easy victory over Grand Island in the Red Raiders’ first of many appearances at the home of the Bills.
Bob Boutelle scored two rushing touchdowns; Vince Davis and Sam Restivo had
In this November 1979 file photo, from the left, Randolph coach Pat Slater, Clymer coach Howard McMullin and Jamestown coach Joe Sanfilippo pose for a photo during Section VI media day at what was then known as Rich Stadium.
In this November 1979 file photo, Clymer celebrates its 6-0 victory over Randolph in the first Section VI Football Federation playoff game ever played at Rich Stadium.
one apiece; and quarterback Randy Ordines connected with Ron Giordon on a 6-yard TD pass. Jamestown’s defense took care of the rest, allowing only a fourth-quarter score.
1986
Jamestown 13, Orchard Park 12
It’s a play that still lives on in Jamestown football history nearly 40 years later.
Facing fourth-and-goal at the Quakers’ 8-yard line early in the fourth quarter and trailing 12-7 in the Section VI Football Playoffs, Jamestown quarterback Jim Painter faded back to pass, but couldn’t find an open receiver, forcing him to
scramble around in the backfield while waving to his receivers.
Desperate, Painter finally rolled to the right — he is a left-hander — and lofted a pass to Jim Ingerson, who was running toward the right corner of the end zone. Although he initially bobbled the ball, Ingerson pulled it in while somehow keeping his feet inbounds for the touchdown.
The win, the second for Jamestown against Orchard Park in 1986, improved its final record to 9-0 for the first undefeated and untied season since 1964.
1994
Falconer 39, Eden 7
Senior Tim Rissel rushed for 140 yards on 17 carries and scored three touchdowns, including one on a 76-yard burst, to lead the Golden Falcons to a dominant victory over Eden.
Fred Carder tossed a pair of touchdown passes, one a 27-yarder to Chris Muscarella and the other a 95-yard connection to Dana Washer, and ran for another.
“Sometimes you get the breaks and sometimes you don’t,” Falconer head coach Bill Race said. “We came here this year to gain back some respectability and to play some good, hard-nosed football.”
1998
Salamanca 24, Eden 7
In legendary head coach George Whitcher’s final season, the Warriors avenged an 8-6 Week 1 loss to the Raiders to claim the school’s seventh sectional crown in the Class C title game.
Dan Earley scored on a 68-yard run and he tossed a 26-yard pass to tight end Chad Bartoszek. Adam Weitzel also found paydirt.
“Is he a complete player,” Whitcher said of Bartoszek. “He’s either catching passes for us or he’s throwing some key blocks. He’s the complete package. He’s really matured a lot. Last year he was a big kid. This year he is a big football player. He gave us some big plays last year, but nothing like he’s given us this year.”
2000
Jamestown 23, Lancaster 0
Sheldon Battle did everything but drive the bus to the Class AA title game. continued on page 6
FEATURE STORY
continued from page 5
Offensively, he rushed for 35 yards on seven carries and caught a pass for 17 more, but it was on defense that he was all-world.
The 6-foot-1, 225-pounder spent most of the time in Lancaster’s backfield, finishing with 14 tackles, including 3.5 sacks and one tackle for a loss.
“Sheldon, wow, did he kick it in tonight,” Jamestown coach Wally Huckno said. “That was one of the terrific performances by a player on both sides of the ball. Defensively, he was just a man among boys. He was just unstoppable.”
Meanwhile, running back Aaron Leeper provided the big plays, rushing for 142 yards on 25 carries and scoring three touchdowns.
Three weeks later, Huckno’s crew came home with a state title.
2001
Clymer 34, Maple Grove 21
Jehuu Caulcrick rushed for 152 yards on 23 carries, scored two rushing touchdowns, returned a fumble 55 yards for another and recorded a sack that resulted in a fumble that was returned for yet another TD to lead the Pirates to a come-from-behind victory.
Maple Grove led 21-18 until the midway point of the fourth quarter when Chris Legters forced a fumble and Caulcrick returned it for the touchdown to put the Pirates ahead to stay.
“It was an incredible game,” Clymer coach Howard McMullin said. “How can it happen? It did. Incredible.”
2003
Eden 48, Southwestern 33
Before the Section VI Class B championship game, Southwestern coach Jay Sirianni predicted that the fans at Ralph Wilson Stadium were “probably going to see the two best running backs in Western New York.”
Sirianni was right.
In the year of the running back in WNY, Keien Williams of Eden and the Trojans’ Dustin Bowser staked their own individual claims to the position’s top spot by combining for nearly 600 rushing yards and nine touchdowns.
Ultimately, the Raiders prevailed 48-33, behind Williams, who rushed for 300 yards on 31 carries and five touchdowns.
Bowser, for his part, carried the ball a whopping 46 times for 274 yards and scored on TD runs of 7, 13, 5 and 2 yards.
“We’re two good backs,” Bowser said. “Everyone knew it was going to be a battle. I think everyone got what they suspected, a show from both teams.”
GRIDIRON 2025
2006
Falconer 7, Silver Creek 6 Isaac Gatewood hit Darren Oakes for a 19-yard touchdown pass and fullback Adam Erickson added the 2-point conversion as the Golden Falcons advanced to the Far West Regional with a one-point win over the Black Knights, the defending Class C champions.
For Falconer, it was the school’s fourth sectional championship.
“I can’t explain it, it was like a miracle,” Erickson said. “I never thought this team would go this far, but they are proving me wrong.”
Added Coach Dan Krenzer: “Before the 2-point conversion, I asked the seniors if they wanted to do it (go for two) and they said, ‘Let’s do it.’ Then I said, ‘No regrets? And they all said, ‘No regrets.’”
Cattaraugus-Little Valley 26, Maple Grove 22
Cattaraugus-Little Valley senior Matt Crandall turned in a record-setting performance, rushing for 383 yards on 40 carries and scoring two touchdowns to lift the Timberwolves to victory in the Section VI Class D title game.
“He was a man among boys, no doubt about it,” Maple Grove coach Curt Fischer said. “When a kid is doing things like that, it’s going to be a long night for just about everybody.”
2008
Maple Grove 48, Clymer 13
Chris Secky completed 10 of 10 passes for a Section VI Football Federation/Ralph Wilson Stadium record 266 yards and three touchdowns to propel the Red Dragons to a dominating 48-13 victory over Clymer in the Class D championship game.
Using the NFL’s formula, Secky’s performance earned him a perfect 158.3 quarterback rating.
The rest of the Red Dragons were pretty good, too.
Senior Joe Caporale caught TD passes of 49 and 90 yards and returned a punt 75 yards for another score, helping Maple Grove build a 41-0 halftime lead. For good measure, Jake Larson tacked on three short rushing touchdowns and senior Josh Micek hauled in a 46-yard aerial for yet another score.
“How do you stop that?” Clymer coach Marc Heiser said. “You can’t practice against it, because we don’t have guys who can do that sort of thing. A passing game like that is every coach’s nightmare in high school.”
Noted Red Dragons’ coach Curt Fischer: “(Secky) is just a great athlete. He’s the athlete that wants the ball when the pressure’s on. That makes him more of an athlete. He wants that chance to be
‘the man.’”
Southwestern 21, Silver Creek 0
While Southwestern was steady, but not spectacular, on offense in the Class C championship game, linebackers Jeff DeVlieger and Ryan Buzzetto were tremendous.
DeVlieger, a senior, collected 14 tackles; Buzzetto, a junior, added 12; and defensive tackle Jasen Carlson, another junior, added six tackles, a sack and a forced fumble as the Trojans limited the Black Knights to 106 total yards and just six first downs.
“I thought our defensive line did a great job on their offensive line,” Southwestern defensive coordinator Kevin Salisbury said. “Our linebackers ran to the football and we gang-tackled all over the field.”
Three weeks later, the Trojans captured their first state championship.
2009
Southwestern 21, Eden 8
With a Section VI Class C championship and a 25-game winning streak hanging in the balance, the Trojans stopped Eden on a fourth and 1 from the 1-yard line and immediately turned around and marched 99 yards for the clinching touchdown to secure a win at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Quarterback Zack Sopak threw for 184 yards and ran for 124 more and a touchdown, while running back John Mistretta carried the ball 18 times for 114 yards and a 24-yard TD with 1:24 remaining.
“Our goal at the beginning of the season was to win a sectional championship,” Southwestern coach Jay Sirianni said. “We never said anything about a state championship. Nothing, because you cannot do that. You will fail 99 percent of the time. Once you’re past the section now, you can start focusing on a three-game season.”
Three weeks later, the Trojans claimed their second straight state title.
Randolph 21, Maple Grove 20
The Cardinals held a nearly 3-to-1 edge in time of possession, built a lead and held on for a 21-20 win over the Red Dragons in the Section VI Class D title game.
Maple Grove had a chance to tie the game after pulling to within a point after a fourth-quarter touchdown, but a poor snap resulted in a missed extra point and the Cardinals hung on for the victory en route to their eventual state championship.
“To win by one point is amazing,” Matt Hettenbaugh said. “We’ve got 18 seniors on our team and we didn’t want to quit. Every game could be our last game and we play like it is.”
2010
Fredonia 12, Southwestern 10
Shane Smith connected with Tyler Buckley on a 10-yard touchdown pass with
Jamestown head coach Tom Langworthy has guided the Red & Green to Section VI championships in 2013, 2014, 2021 and 2022.
25 seconds remaining to send Fredonia to a stunning 12-10 victory over two-time defending champion Southwestern in the Section VI Class C title game.
The Trojans, who had beaten the Hillbillies 27-20 four weeks earlier, had its WNY-record 38-game winning streak snapped and finished 9-1, its first setback since the 2007 season.
“It means a lot,” Fredonia coach Bob Ball said, “because we have so much respect for that program, for their coaches and their kids. I can’t say enough good things about Southwestern over the years. To be able to come up and make plays to beat them, we feel very good about it.”
Added Smith: “I had to show why I was a captain. I had to take senior leadership and find a man and hit him.”
continued on page 22
Randolph head coach Brent Brown led the Cardinals to Section VI Class D titles in 2013, 2014, 2021 and 2022.
2025 SCHEDULE
9/05 vs JFK 7pm
9/12 vs Wilson 7pm
9/19 @ Newfane 7pm
9/26 @ Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
10/02 vs Gowanda/Pine Valley 7pm
10/10 @ Silver Creek/Forest 7pm
10/17 @ Randolph 7pm
10/24 vs Allegany-Limestone 7pm
CATTARAUGUS-LITTLE VALLEY timberwolves
GRIDIRON 2025
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Before Mark Benton took over the Cattaraugus-Little Valley football program, the Timberwolves went two full seasons without a victory. In his first year as head coach, he breathed some life back into the program and even picked up a victory, while playing respectably against formidable opponents.
“Last year was our first year here taking over a program ranked last in the entire state,” Benton stated.
“We definitely made some strides. Changed the attitude, the culture, the discipline. We won a ballgame, we came close to winning a second ballgame and then we have a good majority of those boys coming back this year.”
KEY LOSSES: Cattaraugus-Little Valley brings back a lot, but will miss a few important seniors like quarterback DJ Szata, top receiver Josiah Lenahan and defensive standout Noah Fuller.
“DJ Szata, he played in the Big 30 football game along with Josiah Lenahan, Noah Fuller and Chase Marshall,” Benton said about last year’s top players. “Those four were the key kids and all played in the Big 30 game.”
KEY RETURNEES: The Timberwolves bring back their top two
defenders from last season, Grady Merrill and Dylan Swanson. Then, on the offensive side of the ball, Swanson should figure big into the rushing game and Tucker Barrick will take over at quarterback.
“Tucker Barrick has got to step up as a quarterback,” Benton said about this group. “Also Theron Crawford, they’re juniors and sophomores playing quarterback. Dylan
Swanson is a running back. He was our best running back last year. Then, on the line, we’ve got a really big-sized line, probably the biggest we’ve had here in years which will be led by Grady Merrill, Devan Otto and Bryson Hill.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS D:
Entering the second season of the Mark Benton-era of football, the Timberwolves have the goal of con-
Head Coach: Mark Benton
Assistant Coaches: Joe McMurdy, Rob Miller and Kory Gross
Seniors: Noah Ulinger, Sean Manganiello, Gabe Lee, Quinn Janora, Dylan Wentz, Dylan Swanson, Bransen Gabel, Grady Merrill, Donnie Wright, Chase Nephew, Brice Corbin, Mike Lee, Bryson Hill, Devyn Emmons Juniors: Ny Boswell, Dylan Terhune, Trenton Wulf, Tucker Barrick, Blayk Taylor, Brayden Whited, Devan Otto Sophomores: Theron Crawford, Riley Vosburgh, Caleb Aguiar, Diondrae Diaz, Braxton Rubin
Linemen: In the first row, from the left, are Donnie Wright, Braxton Rubin, Brice Corbin, Diondrae Dia, and Chase Nephew. In the back row are Brayden Whited, Devan Otto, Grady Merrill, Bryson Hill and Mike Lee.
CATTARAUGUS-LITTLE VALLEY TIMBERWOLVES
tinuing to move the program in the right direction.
“Consistency,” Benton stated about what he wants to see from his squad. “We want to be competitive. Those days of losing 72-0 are hopefully well behind us. We didn’t have any last year. We want to think we’re very far removed from two years ago and build up from last year.”
The expectation is not yet earning victories over league opponents, but closing the gap with more respectable decisions.
“Our goal is really (to) be competitive,” Benton stated. “We’ve got some teams which are going to be very difficult. We still want to be able to compete. We were able to do that last year. We hung around for a lot of the game last year.”
New blood, like Newfane, figures to be a problem in the division, while old staples such as Randolph will always be difficult, but the Timberwolves hope to test each team.
“I’m happy with our preseason so far,” Benton added. “We’re definitely bigger, stronger, faster and more athletic than we were a year ago. With all that said and done, being year two, the progression has gone as well, if not better, than I had
hoped for.”
KEY GAME: It has been quite some time since Cattaraugus-Little Valley began the season with a victory, but this year Benton believes the Timberwolves have that opportunity when they host JFK.
“JFK comes in here for a nonleague game,” Benton said about Week 1. “This program hasn’t won a game at home in several years. It would be nice if we could get the first game at home. That would be a real good building block.”
GOOD LUCK CATTARAUGUS/LITTLE VALLEY HAVE A GREAT FOOTBALL SEASON!
Running backs and linebackers: In the front row, from the left, are Caleb Aguiar, Blayk Taylor, Gabe Lee and Riley Vosburgh. In the back row are Devyn Emmons, Ny Boswell and Dylan Swanson. Not pictured is Quinn Janora.
Wide receivers & defensive backs: In the front row, from the left, are Dylan Terhune, Sean Manganiello, Trent Wulf and Ny Boswell. In the back row are Dylan Wentz, Noah Ulinger and Bransen Gabel.
Quarterbacks: Theron Crawford, left, and Tucker Barrick
2025 SCHEDULE
9/05 @ Springville 7pm
9/12 vs Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
9/26 vs Portville 7pm
10/03 vs CSP 7pm
10/10 vs CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
10/16 @ Salamanca 7pm
10/24 @ Dunkirk 7pm
FREDONIA hillbillies
GRIDIRON 2025
LAST SEASON: (1-7, 1-6 Class C South)
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Last season was about as bad as it gets for Fredonia. The Hillbillies have been one of the better football programs in Western New York over the past decade, but last season was a far cry from what Fredonia became known for under head coach Greg Sherlock.
Following a tight 26-18 victory in a downpour at Silver Creek to begin the year, Fredonia lost all seven remaining contests on the schedule, all by at least 20 points. The season ended with a new low, the program’s first loss to Dunkirk since 2016, on its own Orange Bowl field. Dunkirk raised the inaugural Central Connection Cup trophy after beating Fredonia 45-22 to end the season for both teams.
KEY LOSSES: As bad as Fredonia was last year, it certainly wasn’t the fault of starting running back Luca Gullo. Even with
defenses stacking the box against the run, Gullo managed more than 100 yards per game, with 843 total yards and six touchdowns on the season.
This year, Fredonia won’t just
have to replace Gullo, but also three starting linemen, as well. Fredonia will be without Bryce Bacher, Colin Crowell, and Ian Storey on the line this year, making things even more challenging for an offense that struggled a year ago.
Head coach: Greg Sherlock
Assistant Coaches: Jordan Sherlock, Justin Sherlock, Matt Polvino, Steve Gromala, Dominic Hitchcock, Jason Whitfield, Romer Mendez, and Chad Mason.
From left to right: Starting quarterback Donovan Dowdy, running backs Shane Ferguson and Markell Davis, and backup quarterback Gavin Piazza. Not pictured is running back Ayden Wronski
FREDONIA HILLBILLIES
KEY RETURNEES: If Fredonia turns things around this year, it will start at the quarterback position. Donovan Dowdy will be counted on to produce much more in year two as Fredonia’s starting quarterback.
“He had the job fully last year. He’s gotten a lot taller; he’s reading things a lot more; he’s put in a lot of time,” Sherlock said.
The Fredonia running game will be a committee approach between Markell Davis, Shane Ferguson and Ayden Wronski. On the offensive and defensive lines, Zach Davis will be leaned on a lot, as Sherlock commended the work he put in all year in the weight room. Ayden Katta, Brennan Lincoln, Keyshawn Thomas and Bennett Shephard all return with experience, as well.
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH:
Fredonia faces a challenging Class C South schedule, including rival Southwestern, now combined with Frewsburg, and last year’s state runner-up, Salamanca. Former state champion Coach Ty Harper takes over Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton this year, too, featuring a high-powered offense full of returning players.
The league also includes Harper’s former program, Clymer/Sherman/Panama, as well as Springville, while Silver Creek/Forestville and Allegany-Limestone dropped down to Class D. Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove also figures
to be in the mix this year, as well, along with Portville, which is now combined with Section V’s Bolivar Richburg and Cuba Rushford.
“This is probably the toughest Class C division in the entire state,” Sherlock said.
KEY GAME:
Beginning the year with a win is Fredonia’s only focus entering this fall. The Hillbillies travel to Springville in Week One with hopes of starting off on the right foot.
“We need to get back on the horse,” Sherlock said. “That’s our only focus right now, trying to get back to the winning ways. If you focus heavily on week by week and not worrying about everyone else, that’s the best recipe for success.”
From there, if Fredonia does win, it will need to carry that success over into the next week. A year ago, the only thing Fredonia stacked up week after week was loss after loss. Week 1 is Fredonia’s first chance to rewrite that narrative and return to what the program considered normalcy over the better part of the past decade.
“We’re committed to the kids all year round. If they want it, hopefully they will see that,” Sherlock said. “We’re focusing on the kids that really want to be here that are going to give us their full effort. … We have some great kids here and we want to focus on them.”
Linemen: Front row, from left to right: Yabdiel Clemente, Breydon Kuzdale, Ayden Katta, Joshua Schwertfeger, and Bennett Shephard. Back row, from left to right: Max Cuthbert, Logan Dowdy, Keyshawn Thomas, Riley Mourer and Zach Davis.
Receivers/tight ends: Front row, from left to right: Ryan Johnson, Joe Lancaster, Jason Rosario, Cameron Piazza and Cayden Rizzo. Back row, from left to right: Cannon LeGrano, Brennan Lincoln, Lavonce Donaldson, Tyler Johnson and Pauly Tabone.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
HENRY JAMES
Seniors: Josiah Cruz, Jada Foreman, Jericho Thagard, Cole Anderson, Carter Rizzuto, Nate Sanchez, Mosiah Ramos, Tyler Salvaggio, Luis Diaz, Evan Maloney, Chase Bonta, Joseph Seiler, Aiden Malloy, Gavin Ford,
Nick Martin, Eligh DeLeon, Asziah Watson, Joseph Perry, Juelz DeJesus.
Juniors: Christopher Melquist, Angel Martinez, Jimmy Graves, Braiden Kennedy, Kam Monroe, Jeremiah
Pizzaro, Masen Miller, Nicholas Elardo, Andre Graham, Jovany Malave-Serrano, Kalun Hodgkin, Austin
Hamrick, Christian Smith, Nelson Pinero, Angel Davis.
Sophomores: Drew Bloomquist, Jackson Gray.
Freshmen: Alaric Richards.
7
9/5 vs Williamsville North 7pm
9/13 @ SJCI 2pm
9/19 vs Lancaster 7pm
9/27 @ Orchard Park 2pm
(OR LESS)*
10/3 vs Bennett 7pm
10/10 @ Hutch-Tech 7pm
10/18 @ Niagara Falls 2pm
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: The Red & Green finished 6-5, but head coach Tom Langworthy’s crew was playing its best football late in the season, resulting in a trip to the Section VI Class AA championship game.
been able to adapt as coaches to our players, and I think that’s what you have to do at the high school level.”
“We definitely had some ups and downs,” said Langworthy, who is in his 18th season at the helm, “but I was proud to see how much better we got throughout the season. We really started to peak at the end of the year, and I thought it was a good lesson for our players and coaches. … It’s about growth over the course of the season.”
KEY LOSSES: Receiver/defensive end Carson Panebianco; outside linebacker Cole Bloomquist; defensive lineman Tommy Pratton; receiver/defensive back Ayden Samuelson; and lineman Zeus Wilson-Earll are among the players lost to graduation.
“They are great kids,” Langworthy said. “They poured their heart and soul into the program. We miss them. We always feel we carry those guys with us in the following year. … You’re kind of standing on other people’s shoulders and you try to continue to carry the torch, and not only continue the tradition, but make it better.”
KEY RETURNEES: “We have
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Head Coach: Tom Langworthy
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JAMESTOWN red & green
10/24 vs Lockport 7pm HENRY JAMES
Jamestown started 2-4, but it won four of its last five games, the loss coming against Lancaster 28-21 at Highmark Stadium. Behind a stout offensive line, Chase Bonta rushed for 1,939 yards and 26 touchdowns, helping the Red & Green lead the division in scoring.
“The last few years, with the personnel we’ve had, we’ve tried to run the ball, be more physical and work on our play-action passing,” Langworthy said. “That’s one thing I’m proud of because we’ve always
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some great returnees,” Langworthy said.
In addition to Bonta, they include the five starters on the offensive line — Asziah Watson, Joe Perry, Eligh DeLeon and Andre Graham; wide receiver/Jada Foreman; linebacker/running back Luis Diaz; wide receiver/defensive back Jericho Thagard; and wide receiver/defensive back Josiah Cruz.
The starting quarterback will be sophomore Jackson Gray, who played the position last year on the junior varsity.
“I’m really happy with his work ethic and his attitude,” Langworthy said. “I think he’s going to have a great year and help us.”
Having Bonta in the backfield and a strong offensive line certainly helps.
“Chase is definitely one of the top guys around,” Langworthy said. “He should have a great season on both sides of the ball. We feel like he can catch the ball in the passing game in addition to running the ball.”
Another key to the ground game will be H-back Kam Mon -
JAMESTOWN RED & GREEN
roe, who will join the experienced offensive line in an effort to open running lanes.
OUTLOOK FOR AA: Langworthy said the Red & Green “can play with anybody.”
“Our goal is to make it back to the stadium and win,” he added. “It’s a big challenge for any team. Right now, it’s about building our habits, building our culture, building how we’re going to do things and how we’re going to practice. … We feel if we can continue to do that, we’ll be where we need to be at the end of the season.”
KEY GAME: “If you look at the recent history in AA, it’s Jamestown, Lancaster, Orchard Park and Bennett, and not (always) in that order,” Langworthy said. “Niagara Falls, I think, will be really good.
“The league games are really important. The first league game is at home against Lancaster in Week 3. That’s a big game for us. We’re looking forward to that, but we’re definitely not overlooking Week 1 against (nonleague) Williamsville North.”
Captains Eligh DeLeon and Chase Bonta
Quarterback Jackson Gray
JAMESTOWN RED & GREEN
Above are the Jamestown linemen. Kneeling, from the left, are Juelz DeJesus, Aiden Malloy and Joseph Perry. Standing are Cole Anderson, Nick Martin, Gavin Ford, Eligh DeLeon and Asziah Watson.
Above are the Jamestown receivers: Kneeling, from the left, are Angel Davis, Joseph Seiler, Jericho Thagard and Mosiah Ramos. Standing are Jovany Malave-Serrano, Christian Smith, Jada Foreman, Josiah Cruz, Nate Sanchez and Carter Rizzuto.
Above are the Jamestown running backs. From the left are Luis Diaz, Chase Bonta and Tyler Salvaggio.
JAMESTOWN RED & GREEN
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 @ Akron 7pm
9/5 vs. Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
9/19 vs Wilson 7pm
9/26 @Allegany-Limes/Hinsdale 7pm
10/02 @ Catt Little Valley 7pm
10/10 vs Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
10/17 @Newfane 7pm
10/24 vs Randolph 7pm
GOWANDA/PINE VALLEY panthers
GRIDIRON 2025
Goddard, Mychael Williams, Weston Bolen, Gavin Crooks, Cameron Howard, Porter Lemke, Noah Lauer, Jayden John, Alanson Stafford, Kaiden Spruce, Kaiden Helman, Laiken Stafford.
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: The Gowanda/Pine Valley Panthers had an up and down season, but earned a playoff win over Wilson and even led eventual Class D state champion Clymer/Sherman/Panama at halftime in the Section VI Class D semifinals before being shut out in the second half and eliminated.
“Last year was a very successful year for us in a lot of ways,” Ebling stated. “We had about 33 kids on the team last year, which is an alltime high since I’ve been here. We made it to the sectional semis and ran into CSP which was a great team, but the kids battled. The team we were in Week 1 to the last week were completely different. The CSP game we were up at halftime and down by only a touchdown going into the fourth quarter.”
KEY LOSSES:
While the Panthers bring back a lot of key players, there were a few big names lost to graduation on both sides of the ball.
Mason Wilson was the Class D Lineman of the Year, while Brayden Smith was named to the league’s First-Team offense as Gowanda/Pine Valley’s top receiver.
“Mason Wilson was an offensive tackle and
defensive end for us (and) he was Lineman of the Year for us,” Ebling added. “Losing a kid like that is definitely a challenge, but I know I’ve got a lot of kids on this team hungry to take that spot and make it happen for us.”
“Brayden Smith was our leading receiver,” Ebling continued. “He was a three-year starter. (We’re) definitely going to miss him. We have guys that are ready to step up and take that role, too.”
KEY RETURNEES: Gowanda/ Pine Valley returns a lot of talent to the most important position, as Carter Capozzi enters his senior season as not only one of the top quarterbacks in Class D, but also in Section VI.
“Carter Capozzi is No. 1,” Ebling said about his returning players. “Three-year starter at quarterback for us. A lot of people know his name in the section, which a lot of people should know his name. He’s
Head Coach: Brett Ebling Assistant Coaches: Jerard Capozzi, Justin Fish, Bob Slisz and Aaron Slade
Roster: Jayden Fish, Reggie Irion, Carter Capozzi, Zane Rogers, Lukas Barrett, Tristin Luther, Donald Stevens, Jude Hales, Cayden Redford, Kyan Austin, Jaden Knopf, Drew Reid, Winter Mentley-Peters, Lucas Washy, Damien Cedri, Joe Fernandez, Camryn Slade, Dalen Stevens, Matt Grill, Isaiah Washington, Logan O’Neil, Logan
GOWANDA/PINE VALLEY PANTHERS
an all-time leader. He was voted a captain.”
On the defensive side of the ball, Gowanda/Pine Valley brings back the Class D co-Defensive Player of the Year in Camryn Slade, who also was named to the allstate squad.
“Camryn Slade is the leader of my defense,” Ebling stated. “He’s the heart and soul of the defense. He was first-team allstate as a linebacker for Class D. He’s coming back. Winter Mentley-Peters is kind of my Swiss-army knife. Those are my three seniors coming back. Then we’ve got a bunch of guys stepping up. We only graduated six seniors out of a team of 33 kids, so it’s a lot of experience coming back.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS D: With several of their best players entering their senior seasons, the Panthers have set lofty goals.
“Expectation for this team is just to get better,” Ebling stated. “We don’t have a game circled. I’m not like that. Honestly, we just focus on practice that day, and if we take care of what we need to take care of, practice and get better by game time it doesn’t matter who we play.”
There are no easy games in Class D, and with Clymer/Sherman/Panama moving up to Class C, the door is open for a new team to take over the division.
“The league is always competitive. Class D is no joke,” Ebling added. “We might be the smallest league in Section VI, but I would take Class D over any league out there. There are some new teams coming down, like Newfane and Silver Creek/Forestville, and Allegany-Limestone is coming up from 8-man.”
KEY GAME: The Panthers are focused
on the first game, which is a nonleague road trip to Akron. Then, the quest to Class D glory begins the following week at Pine Valley when the Panthers entertain new league opponent Silver Creek/Forestville.
“The team we’re looking out for most is Silver Creek/Forestville because they’re our first league game,” Ebling said about the schedule. “Would I like to say Randolph in Week 8? Sure, but that’s in Week 8. We’ve got to get a lot better before Week 8, that’s for sure.”
While Gowanda/Pine Valley takes everything game by game, there are the looming expectations for a squad that brings back a lot of talent.
“There is a big expectation on this team,” Ebling added. “The expectation is great, the prediction is great, but the result is what counts, and you have to earn that expectation. We just focus on us and try to get better each day in practice. We have our goals, but take it one day at
time.”
a
Linemen: Kneeling, from the left, are Dalen Stevens, Logan Goddard, Porter Lemke, Noah Lauer and Kaiden Helman. Standing are Matt Grill, Jayden John, Isaiah Washington, Weston Bolen, Kaiden Spruce, Cameron Howard, Alanson Stafford and Laiken Stafford.
Running backs and linebackers: Kneeling, from the left, are Damien Cedri, Cayden Redford and Lucas Washy. Standing are Winter Mentley-Peters, Camryn Slade, Zane Rogers and Jaden Knopf.
Receivers and defensive backs: Kneeling, from the left, are Kyan Austin, Tristin Luther, Donald Stevens and Jude Hales. Standing are Drew Reid, Joe Fernandez, Lukas Barrett and Reggie Irion.
Quarterbacks: Carter Capozzi, left, and Jayden Fish.
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 vs Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
9/12 vs Allegany-Limes/Hinsdale 7pm
9/19 vs Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
9/26 vs Newfane 7:05pm
10/3 vs Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
10/10 @ Wilson 7pm
10/17 vs Catt-Little Valley 7pm
10/24 vs Gow/Pine Valley 7pm
Assistant
RANDOLPH cardinals
GRIDIRON 2025
Seniors: Kamren Anderson, Izaias Dowdy, Mason Finch, Hunter Foster, Cooper Freeman, Dallas Green, Gavin Larson, Kevin McElwain, Jaxon Morrison, Reagan Smith
Juniors: Nathan Adams, Hayden Bruyere, Carter Conley, Garritt DiMaria, Kaleb Durow, Alex Garland, Christian Hayes, Davion Johnson, Chris Smith, Donovan Stafford, Daniel Thompson
Sophomores: Easton Pence, Mitchell Plaskett
Freshmen: Grady Huntington, Syrai Johnson, Josiah Neal
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON:
Thirteen-year defensive coordinator Nate Armella takes over as head coach this season after the retirement of longtime head coach Brent Brown.
“It’s been pretty seamless for the most part, being familiar with the program. The assistants are all the same,” Armella said. “We’ve been doing this together for a while. The biggest change has been jumping over to the other side of the ball.”
Armella will now call the offense while turning the defensive playcalling over to Ike Morrison, a 1998 Randolph graduate who played football at Mercyhurst University.
“I’ll call the offense with Jeff Pagett and Chad Slade. They’ve been on that side of the ball for as long as I’ve been here,” Armella said. “Ike has a really good football mind. He has a son coming up through. Ike’s going to be there for the long haul so we’ll be doing this together for a while.”
An 0-2 start turned into a 5-3 finish to the regular season in Brown’s final season as head coach at Randolph in 2024.
The Cardinals fell to Falconer/ Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove 27-17 in a game that actually needed two days to be completed due to weather. Randolph led 14-7 after the first quarter Friday night, but the game was suspended during the second quarter. On Saturday, the Herd ended on a 20-3 run to win the season opener.
“Falconer was really good and got banged up,” said new Randolph head coach Nate Armella, who ran Brown’s defense for the past 13 seasons. “I think they
would’ve had a better season that they ended up having.”
Randolph lost 48-0 to eventual state champion Clymer/Sherman/ Panama a week later. The Cardinals got things going in the right direction with a 49-19 nonleague win over East Aurora/Holland and a 45-8 win over Cattaraugus-Little Valley to even their record at 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the league.
The highlight of Randolph’s season came in Week 5 with a 54-17 win over Franklinville/Ellicottville.
“We went into that game and weren’t really tested since Week 2,” Armella said. “We went in with
some question marks and kind of rolled them.”
After beating league foe Wilson 49-0, the Cardinals’ final nonleague game was a 33-8 loss to Class C state runnerup Salamanca. Randolph beat Gowanda/Pine Valley 20-18 in its final regular-season game to clinch the No. 2 seed in Class D and a bye in the quarterfinals.
“To go 0-2 and bounce back, go 4-1 in the league, that group of guys wasn’t going to lay down and fold after going 0-2,” Armella said. “They were willing to put in the work.”
Head Coach: Nate Armella
Coaches: Shawn Clark, Carson Conley, Steve McElwain, Brennan Morrison, Ike Morrison, Jeff Pagett, Chad Slade
Randolph’s quarterback is Jaxon Morrison.
RANDOLPH CARDINALS
In the semifinals, Franklinville/Ellicottville turned the tables on the regular-season matchup with a 32-6 win in Randolph.
“Obviously that last game, the playoff game, you’d like to have back,” Armella said. “We didn’t come out and play like we did the first time against those guys. That’s a credit to them for making adjustments.”
KEY LOSSES: Connor Braley was a Class D first-team all-star and honorable-mention all-state selection after running for 1,009 yards and eight touchdowns.
“Connor has been the workhorse,” Armella said. “That’s definitely a big loss.”
Domanik Clark was a first-team all-star at defensive back.
“Dom Clark was steady on both sides of the ball,” Armella said. “Defensively, he was the guy I leaned on the last couple of years.”
Nate Hahn was a first-team all-star on the offensive line and Baker Huntington
was a first-team all-star at tight end.
“Nate Hahn came to us as a sophomore and ended up, in three years, turning into a really good football player on the offensive and defensive lines,” Armella said. “Baker had what I thought was a really good senior year. He ended up playing at a high level at defensive end and did what was asked of him at tight end.”
Second-team offensive lineman David Malone and honorable-mention offensive/ defensive lineman Allen Root also graduated.
KEY RETURNEES: Senior Jaxon Morrison, a second-team Class D all-star last year, is back for his third season as Randolph’s quarterback.
The Cardinals have always been a runfirst team, but in the last couple of seasons have seen their pass attempts per game go up a little bit.
“We have high expectations there. He’s been working hard. We had a good 7-on-7 season,” Armella said of his quarterback. “We’ve tried to make things easy
for him in terms of simple reads. He really can make all the throws.”
Kevin McElwain is Randolph’s leading returning rusher after running for 510 yards and nine touchdowns a season ago. He was also a Class D first-team all-star and honorable-mention all-state selection at linebacker. Junior Alex Garland will also see time toting the rock.
“It’ll be between Kevin and Alex Garland. They’re both really good runners. Alex is a kid we haven’t shown in the backfield the last couple of years,” Armella said. “He’s worked hard in the weight room and put on some size. He’s really fast. Kevin will probably be the workhorse for us.”
Senior Reagan Smith is another option in the backfield.
“To be honest, I think our strength is still in our running backs. I think we have a good group of backs. I would say we’ll be a little more balanced,” Armella said of the offense. “Running the football is still going to be our identity. If they’re stacking the box and inviting us to throw
the football we’ll certainly try to make them pay for it.”
Izaias Dowdy, a 6-foot-4, 265-pound lineman, and Hunter Foster return on the offensive line.
“He’s really athletic, has great footwork,” Armella said of Dowdy. “He’s a three-year guy and we have high expectations for him too.”
Dowdy was a second-team Class D allstar and Foster received honorable mention a season ago.
It’s an open competition,” Armella said of the offensive line. “We’ve had some guys step into the roles and we’ll see how the scrimmage goes to see what the lineup will look like.”
Carter Conley, a second-team Class D defensive lineman a year ago, will play tight end alongside Grady Huntington.
“He’s a mad scientist,” Armella said of Conley, who is listed at 6-foot-4, 235 pounds. “Throughout the day he knows how many calories he’s taken in, how much has to be protein. I wouldn’t be
Randolph’s running backs, in front, from left, are: Christian Hayes and Alex Garland. In back are: Kevin McElwain and Reagan Smith.
Randolph’s receivers, in front, from left, are: Gavin Larson and William Olofson. In back are: Garritt DiMaria and Carter Conley.
RANDOLPH CARDINALS
surprised if he has a career in exercise science.”
Gavin Larson, a senior wide receiver, and Easton Pence, the only football player in Randolph’s sophomore class, also figure to make an impact for the Cardinals.
“We expect Gavin Larson to step in at the X receiver. He’s had a good offseason. He’s undersized, but he’s tough and knows what’s expected as a receiver for Randolph football. He’s up to the task,” Armella said. “Easton Pence is undersized, but he’s probably going to play guard for us. The cool thing is, when you look at some of the runs we’ve made, it hasn’t always been huge guys up front, but strong, fast and physical.”
Cooper Freeman, the reigning Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Athletic Association Division II boys soccer Player of the Year, will replace Griffin Nelson as the Cardinals kicker and punter.
“We had talked in the offseason. He kicked back in midgets and kind of missed it. With Griffin graduating he thought he’d give it a shot,” Armella said. “He’ll kick off and kick PATs. He has the
title and playoff seedings.
“I don’t know what it is about Randolph-Gowanda lately; it’s down to the wire and exciting,” Armella said. “I think it will probably be much the same this year.”
KEY GAME: Randolph will once again open its season against Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove at Bill Race Field in Falconer.
“I don’t know if it matters,” Armella said when asked if he liked only hav -
ing one nonleague game. “When I first started all we played was league games. You might have had a crossover with two D divisions.
“I do like that it’s Falconer again because I think they’ll have some talent coming back,” Armella added of the Herd. “You have to be prepared to play Curt (Fischer) because he’ll make you defend the field. That will be a good test for us in Week 1.”
leg that if we get down in there we can certainly kick a field goal.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS D: It is a little bit of an unknown season in Class D.
Defending state champion Clymer/ Sherman/Panama is gone while Allegany-Limestone/Hinsdale, Newfane and Silver Creek/Forestville are in to make up the seven-team league along with Randolph, Franklinville/Ellicottville, Cattaraugus-Little Valley and Gowanda/Pine Valley.
“Gowanda, I would say, is the preseason favorite, but I have to believe the league is wide open,” Armella said. “If you give teams a couple or three weeks, they are going to establish themselves as front runners. Newfane and Wilson bring a lot of talent back. Silver Creek had a down year last year but was really young. I don’t know a whole lot about Allegany-Limestone. Franklinville/Ellicottville lost a lot, but they have three levels and will reload. They’ll have things where they need to be.”
The Week 8 game between Randolph and Gowanda/Pine Valley could once again be important in deciding a league
GOOD LUCK
Randolph’s linemen, in front, from left, are: Hayden Bruyere, Easton Pence and Josiah Neal. In back are: Mason Finch, Hunter Foster and Izaias Dowdy.
FEATURE STORY
continued from page 6
Silver Creek 21, Randolph 14
Sparked by three long touchdown-producing plays and several time-consuming drives, Silver Creek raced out to a 21-0 lead and then held on for a 21-14 victory over Randolph in the Section VI Class D championship game.
Senior running back Zach Williams rushed for 133 yards on 32 carries, senior quarterback Cody Hehir ran for one TD and passed for another, and senior Frank Sterlace added a 66-yard TD dash on the game’s third play. When added together, it was just enough to prevent the Cardinals from claiming their fourth sectional title in six seasons and their 22nd straight win.
2014
Jamestown 34, Orchard Park 14
Three touchdowns in a little more than three minutes of the first quarter staked Jamestown to a 21-0 lead against the Quakers and propelled it to a 34-14 Class AA victory.
Before intermission, Jamestown scored on a 46-yard pass from quarterback Nikk Holland to wide receiver Zack Panebianco, on interceptions by Joe Ramos and Kyle Liuzzo, and on a 23-yard run by Devan Jackson.
The Quakers didn’t know what hit them.
Three weeks later, Jamestown captured its fourth state title in program history.
Randolph 28, Franklinville/Ellicottville/West Valley 0
Bryce Morrison ran for two scores and connected with Derek Young on a 14yard TD before halftime, and the Morrison-Young combination was successful again after intermission on a 99-yard throw and catch to send the Cardinals to the Class D crown.
“It never gets old,” head coach Brent Brown said. “You’re happy for this group of kids because last year we lost five or six pretty experienced, talented seniors and I think this bunch was wondering if they could get to this point. They wanted to get (here), but (by) winning now you get into the state tournament. You have one tournament down and you have another one coming.”
Three weeks later, the Cardinals won that one, too.
2015
Maple Grove/Chautauqua Lake 29, Bennett 28
Dustin McCaslin kicked the extra point after a 4-yard touchdown run by Brad Benson to give Maple Grove/Chautauqua Lake a 29-28 victory over Bennett in overtime in the Section VI Class C champion-
GRIDIRON 2025
captured
ship game.
The snapper was freshman Zach Fischer, who was appearing in his first varsity game after the regular snapper was injured in the fourth quarter and didn’t return. Benson finished with 129 yards rushing and two TDs for the winners, who made several huge defensive stands at the end of regulation and in overtime to stun Bennett, which was ranked second in the state.
2016
Dunkirk 45, Cheektowaga 36
Alton Ingram ran for 226 yards on 28 carries and three touchdowns to lead the Marauders to their first-ever Section VI Class B title.
Juan Damas added 107 yards on seven carries, and he and Ingram added seven tackles apiece to spark the defense.
“I’m just so proud of my guys,” Dunkirk coach Mike Sarratori said. “That was a good Cheektowaga team and our kids came to play and they refused to quit. I’m just so happy for the city. The whole city is here and it’s just an amazing feeling right now. I don’t know what else to say. These kids didn’t quit and they could’ve quit being down two touchdowns early. But we’ve been doing that for three years. … These kids are just fantastic kids.”
2019
Southwestern 53, Wilson 21
Tywon Wright rushed for 346 yards and scored five touchdowns to lead the Trojans to a 53-21 victory over Wilson in the Section VI Class C championship game.
“I was trusting my line, trusting my blocking and just being the player I can be,” he said. “ … I always have to give love to them, because without them I wouldn’t be the player I am.”
Southwestern found itself tied 21-21 early in the third quarter, but scored 32 unanswered points to win going away to claim its first sectional crown since 2011.
For the season, Wright amassed 1,675
Southwestern running back Tywon Wright rushed for 346 yards and scored five touchdowns to lead the Trojans to a 53-21 victory over Wilson in the Section VI Class C championship game in 2019.
yards on 146 carries and scored 25 touchdowns. In his last three games, he was even more impressive, totaling 774 yards and 12 TDs.
Clymer/Sherman/Panama 22, Franklinville/Ellicottville 0
Cameron Barmore caught TD passes of 67 and 69 yards from Gerrit Hinsdale and John Swabik respectively to lift second-seeded Clymer/Sherman/Panama to a dominant 22-0 victory over No. 1 Franklinville Ellicottville in the Section VI Class D championship.
How good was No. 2?
Well, he turned a slant pass from Hinsdale on the game’s third play into a 67yard touchdown; made a great adjustment on Swabik’s halfback pass in the third quarter for a game-changing 69-yard TD; made three initial tackles and five assisted stops; and had one sack.
“He’s the most dominant player on the field every time he touches the field,” C/S/P head coach Ty Harper said. “He’s as good a player as anyone in the state at any level, and he showcased that today.”
2023
Salamanca 36, Medina 23
Lucus Brown caught three passes for 80 yards, including a pair of game-changing touchdowns, as Salamanca defeated Medina 36-23 in a wild Section VI Class C championship game.
“He’s a special kid. He’s grown in front of our eyes,” Warriors head coach Chad Bartozek said of Brown postgame. “He has so much talent that you have to keep giving him opportunities.”
Salamanca’s Zach Trietley scored on a 61-yard screen pass from Jaxson Ross, and Maddox Isaac ran for an 11-yard touch-
Salamanca’s Lucus Brown makes a finger-tip touchdown catch that helped the Warriors win a Section VI Class C title in 2023.
Clymer/Sherman/Panama poses for a team photo after winning the Section VI Class D championship in 2024.
down in the first half; Arlen Newark’s 25yard field goal gave the Warriors a 17-16 lead with 9:43 left in the third; and Ross and Isaac combined to complete 14 of 26 passes for 308 yards and three TDs.
The win marked the 10th sectional title for Salamanca and its first since 2001.
2024
Clymer/Sherman/Panama 33, Franklinville/Ellicottville 8
Clymer/Sherman/Panama held the Franklinville/Ellicottville to just 193 yards of offense en route to another sectional title.
The Wolfpack forced two turnovers and held Franklinville/Ellicottville to just 4 of 13 on third and fourth downs, while converting 11 of 16 in those situations themselves, on the way to their second straight sectional title.
“I think we hang our hat on playing great defense and being a physical football team,” C/S/P head coach Ty Harper said. “Coach (Chris) Payne does a phenomenal job coaching that side of the ball. I’m not surprised they came out and played as well as they did.”
Noted senior Bryce Hinsdale: “I watched my brother (Gerrit) do it, so this is really special. I know it’s really special to the team and the coaching staff. We put in the work every week and it’s good to have it pay off.”
Dunkirk
its first Section VI championship in 2016.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025
SCHEDULE
9/5 vs. Tonawanda 7pm
9/12 vs. Port/Cuba-Rush/Bolivar-Rich 7pm
9/19 vs. Springville 7 pm
9/27 vs. CSP 1:30pm
10/3 vs. Southwestern/Frewsburg 7 pm
10/10 @ Fredonia 7pm
10/17 vs. Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
10/24 vs. Salamanca, 7 pm
Assistant
CHAUTAUQUA LAKE/WESTFIELD/BROCTON
Seniors: Nate Betts, Ragen Crandall, Carson Fairbank, Brayden Gibbs, Devin Hewes, Trent Houser, Nick Jacobson, Kieffer Maytum, Hunter McKay, Anthony Mitchell, Asher Olson, Phillip Powell, Clayton Smith, Caleb Swanson, Tayvier Wells
Juniors: Thandon Bensink, Parker Covert, Lance Franklin, Walter Lukasiak, Trent Ramm, Johante Wells
Sophomores: Alex Bourgeois, Jordin Eddy, Tristen Gibbs, Jonathan Head, Chase Houser, Michael Jauss, Ian Kindermann, Tyler Olsen, Ricky Rivera, Lane Scarpine, Hunter Stow, Greyson Wellman, Aiden Woodis
Freshmen: Josh Swan
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON:
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton lost its opener to eventual Class C state champion Salamanca 38-14 last season.
The Eagles then put together a string of six straight victories, including a 28-0 shutout of Southwestern and a 44-7 win over Falconer/ Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove.
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton lost to Portville/Cuba-Rushford 24-7 to close the regular season. After a 41-28 win over Alden — a game during which they trailed 14-0 after the first quarter — the Eagles lost to Portville/Cuba-Rushford 32-17 in the sectional semifinals.
In March, Ty Harper — Clymer/Sherman/Panama’s three-time state-champion head coach — was hired at Chautauqua Lake and named the Eagles’ new head coach.
“A point of emphasis in camp for us this year is that we want to become a physical football team. As the season wears on and you are playing the best teams, the weather starts to change, and you have to be able to play a physical style of football to beat the best teams,” Harper said. “The sweet spot in football has been doing the finesse things, spreading it out, throwing the ball and using athletes, but when push comes to shove and you have to run the ball down someone’s throat, you have to be able to run the ball down some -
Head Coach: Ty Harper
Coach: Travis Bensink, Kevin Denny, Drake DiDomenico, Richie Langer, Chris Payne, Kyle Petersen, Devin Pope
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton’s linemen, in front, from left, are: Lance Franklin, Phillip Powell and Kieffer Maytum. In back are: Anthony Mitchell, Tayvier Wells, Ragen Crandall, Walter Lukasiak and Trent Houser.
THE HERD
T ANS
TI
FALCONER/CASSADAGA VALLEY/MAPLE GROVE
9/5 vs. Randolph 7 pm
9/13 vs. Cly/Sher/Pan 1:30 pm
9/19 vs. Fredonia 7 pm
9/26 @ Salamanca 7 pm
10/2 @ Springville 7 pm
10/9 vs. Portville/CR/BR 7 pm
10/17 vs. CL/West/Broc 7 pm
10/24 @ Southwestern 7 pm
FRANKLINVILLE/ ELLICOTTVILLE
9/6 vs. CSP 1:30pm
9/12 vs. Newfane 7pm
9/18 @ Allegany-Limestone 7pm
9/26 vs. Catt-Little Valley 7pm
10/3 @ Randolph 7pm
10/10 vs. Gow/Pine Valley 7pm
10/17 vs. Wilson 7pm
10/23 vs. Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
JAMESTOWN
9/5 vs Williamsville North 7pm
9/13 @ SJCI 2pm
9/19 vs Lancaster 7pm
9/27 @ Orchard Park 2pm
10/3 vs Bennett 7pm
10/10 @ Hutch-Tech 7pm
10/18 @ Niagara Falls 2pm
10/24 vs Lockport 7pm
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
VES
L
TIMBERWO
HILLBILLIES
CATTARAUGUS-LITTLE VALLEY
9/5 vs. JFK 7pm
9/12 vs. Wilson 7pm
9/19 @ Newfane 7pm
9/26 @ Franklinv/Ellicottv 7pm
10/2 vs. Gowanda/Pine Valley 7pm
10/10 @ Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
10/17: @ Randolph, 7pm
10/24: vs. Alle-Lime/Hinsdale 7pm
FREDONIA
9/05 @ Springville 7pm
9/12 vs Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
9/19 vs Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
9/26 vs Portville 7pm
10/03 vs CSP 7pm
10/10 vs CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
10/16 @ Salamanca 7pm
10/24 @ Dunkirk 7pm
RANDOLPH
9/5 @ Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
9/12 vs Allegany-Limes/Hinsdale 7pm
9/19 vs SC/Forestville 7pm
9/26 vs Newfane 7pm
10/3 vs Franklinv/Ellicottv 7pm
10/10 @ Wilson 7pm
10/17 vs Catt-Little Valley 7pm
10/24 vs Gow/Pine Valley 7pm
CHAUTAUQUA
WESTFIELD/BROCTON
9/5 vs Tonawanda
9/12 vs PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich
9/19 vs Springville
9/27 vs. CSP
10/3 vs. Southwestern/Frewsburg
10/10 @ Fredonia
10/17 vs Falconer/CV/MG
10/24 vs. Salamanca
SOUTHWESTERN/ FREWSBURG
9/6 @ Cleveland
9/12 @ Fredonia
9/18 vs PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich
9/26 vs Springville
10/3 vs CL/Westfield/Brocton
10/10 @ Salamanca
10/17 vs CSP
10/24 vs Falconer/CV/MG
9/5 @ Olean
9/12 @ Springville
9/19 vs CSP
9/26 vs Falconer/CV/MG
10/3 vs PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich
10/10 vs Southwestern/Frewsburg
10/16 vs Fredonia 10/24 vs CL/Westfield/Brocton
FOOTBALL SCHEDULE 2025
CHAUTAUQUA LAKE/ WESTFIELD/BROCTON
Tonawanda 7pm
PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich 7pm
Springville 7pm 1:30pm
Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
Fredonia 7pm
Falconer/CV/MG 7pm Salamanca 7pm
SOUTHWESTERN/ FREWSBURG
Cleveland Hill 2pm
Fredonia 7pm
PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich 7pm Springville 7pm
CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
Salamanca 7pm 7pm
Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
SALAMANCA 7pm
Springville 7pm 7pm
Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
PortvCuba-Rush/Boli-Rich 7pm
Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
Fredonia 7pm
CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
CLYMER/SHERMAN/ PANAMA
9/6 vs Franklinville/Ellicottville 1:30pm
9/13 vs Falconer/CV/MG 1:30pm
9/19 @ Salamanca 7pm
9/27 vs CL/West/Broc 1:30pm
10/3 @ Fredonia 7pm
10/11 vs Springville 1:30pm
10/17 @ Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
10/24 @ Portville 7pm
GOWANDA/PINE VALLEY
9/5 @ Akron 7pm
9/12 vs Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
9/19 vs Wilson 7pm
9/26 @ Allegany-Limestone 7pm
10/2 @ Catt-Little Valley 7pm
10/10 vs Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
10/24 vs Randolph 7pm
DUNKIRK
9/5 @ Depew 7pm
9/12 vs Albion 7pm
9/19 @ Iroquois 7pm
9/25 @ East Aurora/Holland 7pm 10/3 vs Lackawanna 7pm
10/10 @ Olean 7pm
10/17 vs Maryvale 7pm 10/24 vs Fredonia 7pm
SILVER CREEK/ FORESTVILLE
9/5 vs Medina 7pm
9/12 vs Gowanda/Pine Valley 7pm
9/19 vs Randolph 7pm 9/26 @ Wilson 7pm
10/3 vs Newfane 7pm
10/10 vs Catt-Little Valley 7pm
10/17 @ Allegany-Limestone 7pm
10/23 @ Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton’s quarterback is Brayden Gibbs.
one’s throat. Hopefully by the end of the season we’ll have that element.”
KEY LOSSES: Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton’s biggest losses — literally and figuratively — came on the offensive and defensive lines.
Mason Maring was a Class C South firstteam all-star and second-team all-state of-
CHAUTAUQUA LAKE/WESTFIELD/BROCTON
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton’s running backs are Thandon Bensink, left, and Clayton Smith.
fensive lineman while Yazan Abuhmeidan was a Class C South second-team all-star defensive lineman.
While Harper entered the 2024 season at Clymer/Sherman/Panama with a lot of skilled players returning, the Wolfpack had five new starting offensive linemen.
“I think that’s a fair comparison to
GO EAGLES!
make, but the caveat is that those C/S/P guys played in that same system for three or four years. We’ve really tried to cram an entirely new offense and defense into five months with these kids,” Harper said. “They’re not as experienced in what we’re trying to do as some of those kids were. They have been really coachable. … The offensive line has done a really good job in the past two weeks. (Chris) Payne does a great job coaching them up.”
KEY RETURNEES: Chautauqua Lake/ Westfield/Brocton is loaded with returning players at the skilled positions.
Quarterback Brayden Gibbs was a Class C South first-team all-star and third-team all-state quarterback. Nick Jacobson was a Class C South first-team all-star and second-team all-state wide receiver while Devin Hewes was a Class C South firstteam defensive back.
“If we can get everybody on the same page, the sky is the limit. It really plays to the creativity that you can have as a play caller. It’s fun to be able to move these kids around and utilize their different skillsets. They all do things differently,” Harper said. “If we can get this offense running smoothly, it’s potentially a matchup problem for defenses.”
Thandon Bensink was a Class C South second-team all-star and honorable-mention all-state running back while Carson Fairbank was an honorable-mention allstate kicker who also plays wide receiver and defensive back.
“Carson is crucial to what we want to accomplish. … He has shown great leadership and has been at just about every workout we’ve had. He’s definitely the most vocal leader that we have,” Harper said. “We’re counting on him in every facet of the game. He’ll play quite a bit on offense at receiver and running back, start in the defensive backfield, and handle kicking and punting.”
Clay Smith will be the Eagles’ primary fullback, a position they didn’t use much in the past couple of years.
“I love Clay Smith,” Harper said. “In our system, Clay is going to have a nice year for us.”
Asher Olson was a Class C South honorable-mention all-star despite getting injured halfway through the season.
“In terms of guys who jump off the tape, Asher was having a tremendous season and tore his ACL against Southwestern,” Harper said. “I’ve never seen a kid
Employees left to right: Matthew Freeburg, Devin Hewes, Trent Houser, Carson Fairbank, Thandon Bensink
work so hard to rehab an injury. I’ve only been around him these past few months, but for him to be fully cleared in July after tearing it in October speaks volumes about him and his work ethic. If we accomplish our goals it will be on the backs of kids like Asher Olson.”
Trent Houser and Tristen Gibbs were Class C South second-team all-stars at linebacker, who are also featured offensively — Houser on the line and Gibbs at end.
“Watching the film before I had the opportunity to meet any of these guys, it’s very obvious they have some great athletes. They have some kids who did some things really well on film,” Harper said. “Their offense was pretty explosive last year. That generally starts with the quarterback. A kid like Brayden Gibbs with two years of starting experience, that lends itself to a coach doing some creative things on offense.”
Walter Lukasiak is another returning lineman who will see a greater role with Maring and Abuhmeidan gone.
“I would definitely single out guys like Trent Houser on both sides of the ball. He’s certainly a leader for us in terms of establishing that physical style of play. We’re
going to count on him in the trenches,” Harper said. “Walter Lukasiak started on both sides of the ball. He’s a big, strong kid and has a big personality. We’re looking for him to take a step forward.”
A newcomer Harper is excited about is sophomore Aiden Woodis.
“He’s like a little Julian Edelman. He’s great in the slot and every time he gets the ball in his hands he makes something good happen,” Harper said. “He’s been a really, really good player on defense. I think it’s going to be a name people get pretty familiar with pretty quick.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH:
Salamanca won Class C South last year with a perfect 7-0 record, but it seems unlikely that a team will run through the league with a perfect mark this season. In addition to the Warriors, teams like Southwestern/Frewsburg, Portville/Cuba-Rushford/Bolivar-Richburg and Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton all will likely have a say in where things end up.
“I think the league is loaded. It reminds me a lot of the way Class D has been. You look at the schedule and there are very few games that are easy wins on the schedule. That’s a tribute to the
coaches in this league and the programs that they’ve built,” Harper said. “Chad Bartoszek has created one of the best, if not the best, Class C program in the state. Josh (Brooks) and his staff do a fantastic job at Portville. They’ll always be in contention for a title. Southwestern/Frewsburg is going to be very good. I had an opportunity to see them at 7 on 7 this summer. Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove will be good as long as Curt Fischer is there. I’d be surprised if Fredonia has multiple down years in a row.
“I think it’s a gauntlet,” Harper added. “To be successful you have to be your very best every single week.”
KEY GAME: Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton will host nonleague Tonawanda in Week 1 and Harper will return to Clymer to take on Clymer/Sherman/ Panama during Week 4. The Eagles don’t play Salamanca until the final week of the regular season.
“When the schedule comes out, you look at Week 1 and start preparing. Whether it’s a league game or nonleague that’s your biggest focus,” Harper said. “Hopefully we can get off to a good start against Tonawanda.
GOOD LUCK THUNDERBIRDS 2025 FOOTBALL SEASON
“I’m going to cross that bridge when we come to it,” he added of facing the Wolfpack. “You try and take it day by day and focus on exactly what’s in front of you at the moment. When that time comes it will be a mix of different emotions. I have to make sure I’m doing my very best to make sure I have my team ready to play that week.”
Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton’s receivers. Kneeling, from left, are: Carson Fairbank, Devin Hewes and Parker Covert. In back are: Tristen Gibbs, Nick Jacobson and Asher Olson.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 @ Depew, 7 pm
9/12 vs. Albion, 7 pm
9/19 @ Iroquois, 7 pm
9/25 @ East Aurora/Holland, 7pm
10/3 vs. Lackawanna, 7pm
10/10 @ Olean, 7pm
10/17 vs. Maryvale, 7pm
10/24 vs. Fredonia, 7pm
DUNKIRK marauders
LAST SEASON: (3-5, 2-5, Class B3)
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Last season did not start the way Dunkirk had hoped. Halfway through the season, the Marauders were winless, with three losses by at least 24 points, followed by a 14-7 loss at home to Olean that Dunkirk led 7-0 entering the fourth quarter.
As bad as September was for Dunkirk, October was the polar opposite. The Marauders got their first two wins of the year with blowouts of Albion (5416) and Lewiston-Porter (48-7) to start the month. Then, after a humbling loss to Maryvale, 49-7, the Marauders traveled to the Orange Bowl to face rival Fredonia for one final game between
Head Coach: Edwin Gomez
Assistant Coaches: Evon Hernandez, AJ Morales, Randy Seay, Chris McQuiggan, Dana Smith, Alton Ingram, and Raul Rosado.
Quarterbacks/running backs, from left to right: Javier Battle, Joshua Pacheco, Hayven Smith, Anthony Piede, Aries Cheverez and Malik McCall.
DUNKIRK MARAUDERS
Gomez said it is important to “keep the momentum trending in the right way” following the win over Fredonia to end last season. Dunkirk comes into this year looking for new leaders to carry the torch from last year’s success in the second half of the schedule. New starting quarterback Malik McCall, wide receiver/cornerback Liam McQuiggan and lineman Ryan Kinney will be asked to step up as leaders this season.
“We’ve got a young core this year. It’s going to be, definitely, a foundational build-up year,” Gomez said.
Dunkirk expects between 25-30 players on its varsity roster, as this year will be difficult to fill all of the openings from the class of 2024 without a junior varsity program. Many of the players on the modified squad are a year or two away from varsity action.
“We are really trying to build a foundation for the future,” Gomez said. “We are going to be a very young team. Some people will see that as a negative. We see that as the potential to build something great in the future years to come.”
OUTLOOK
FOR CLASS B2: This year, there are only two divisions in Class B, and Dunkirk enters Class B2 as the largest of the eight schools in BED count. That doesn’t mean things will be easy at all for the Marauders, as established programs like Lackawanna, Iroquois and Maryvale will be fighting for the division title, with Depew, Olean, East Aurora and Albion in the mix, as well.
“Maryvale, Iroquois, and Lackawanna — those are three powerhouses that are consistently producing good teams,” Gomez said. “Those three are going to be the toughest games of the season.”
KEY GAME: Fittingly, the two games that stand out on Dunkirk’s schedule this year are the first and last ones. Gomez, a former Dunkirk player himself, did not shy away from the importance of the Fredonia game to end the regular season.
“It’s always the Fredonia game,” Gomez said of the key game on Dunkirk’s schedule, even as its only non-league game this year.
two teams that had nothing left to play for but bragging rights.
It could not have gone any better for Dunkirk. The Marauders left Fredonia’s tattered home turf with its first rivalry victory since 2016, 45-22, and earned the Central Connection Cup, a trophy introduced last year by the mayors of the two communities.
KEY LOSSES: As great as last year ended for Dunkirk, this year’s squad will be without major contributors to their past success. Dunkirk will need to replace its top two passers, rushers and receivers from last year‘s team. Quarterbacks Gabe Valentine and Dylan Bankoski, running
back Kingston Hall, and receivers Jareese Gaines and Paul Trippy III all graduated from the program. Gomez said that even more than their contributions on the field, their absences will be felt in terms of leadership, especially from Trippy, who he called “one of the most respected guys on the team.”
Still, Gomez is trying to keep his team focused on the task at hand each week, and the first team up on the schedule is Depew. After being blown out at home by Depew to start last season, Gomez hopes his team can set itself up much better for success early in the year by being more competitive in the season opener.
“We look forward to starting on the right foot and to continue that momentum,” Gomez said.
Lineman, from left to right: Camryn Martucci, Avery Krystofiak, Tyree Brooks, Samuel Quinones, Ryan Kinney, Metzael Colon and Princeton Hall.
Wide Receivers/Tight Ends, from left to right: Eathen Lamp, Justice Thomas Rivera, Jordan Thomas Smith, Noah Delvalle, Jayden Kenner, and Liam McQuiggan.
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 @ Olean 7pm
9/12 @ Springville 7pm
9/19 vs. CSP 7pm
9/26 vs. Falconer/CV/MG 7pm
10/3 vs. Port/Cuba-Rush/Bolivar-Rich 7pm
10/10 vs. Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
10/16 vs. Fredonia 7pm
10/24 vs. CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
SALAMANCA warriors
GRIDIRON 2025
Seniors: Landon Baker, Payton Bigler, Payton Bradley, Waylon Dowdy, Thomas George, Brendon Ghani, Dominick Hill, Jesse Hill, DuMarius Jimerson, Drake Phearsdorf, Kaden Scott, Evan Spruce, Carl Swanigan, Adrian Taylor, Brayden Wilson
Juniors: Quinten Brown, Easton Chudy, Ryder Jimerson, Brock Johnson, Cruz Pennell, Justin Schwab, Conner Seeley, Donavan Terhune
Sophomores: Remy Follman, Kasen Hardy, Kylan Jacobson, Warrick John, Noah Longley
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON:
The greatest season in program history came to an end in disappointing fashion, a 26-20 loss to Schuylerville in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class C championship game at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse.
Salamanca led 20-7 early in the third quarter, but the Horses tied the game late in the fourth quarter and after recovering a surprise onside kick took the lead with just over a minute remaining. Not to be outdone, the Warriors drove nearly the length of the field and had the ball at the Schuylerville 8-yard line with five seconds remaining, but a sack ended the game.
“Looking at it from a broad view, it’s very easy and clear to see that it was just an awesome season,” Salamanca head coach Chad Bartoszek said. “The last couple of years have been as much fun coaching as I’ve ever had — the memories, the way our kids achieved their dreams and goals, all the good stuff.”
The Warriors started the season 13-0 before losing that game.
“I have always dreamt of winning the state title and being at the pinnacle of our class so that sting doesn’t really go away,” Bartoszek said. “It’s never going to go away. We have to find a way to win it and that will eliminate some of it. It has certainly resonated in our community and that’s what I’m most proud of.”
Salamanca’s closest win of the season was a 24-19 Class C South victory over Portville/Cuba-Rushford in Week 2.
“Going into the 2023 season, deep down I knew we had a great group and we were loading up. We went on a great run and ran into a
Head Coach: Chad Bartoszek
Assistant Coaches: Paul Furlong, Greg Herrick, Aaron Hill, Seth Hostuttler, Kyle O’Donnell, Jerry Parisi and Jason Wass
Salamanca’s quarterback is Payton Bradley.
SALAMANCA WARRIORS
tough Waverly team. Going into last year I was confident, but I was very concerned about depth. In 2023 a lot of the starters from 2024 were backups,” Bartoszek said. “This past year we were just super talented across the top 11 — two starting groups. The worry of mine throughout the year was managing injuries. Fortunately we didn’t really have to deal with it that much.”
Come Section VI postseason, the Warriors beat Cleveland Hill 49-12, Medina 50-7 and Portville/Cuba-Rushford 40-14 for their 11th sectional crown.
Salamanca beat East Rochester/Canandaigua 42-20 in the Far West Regional and Chenango Forks 34-13 in the state semifinal.
“We lost a couple of key players here and there, and some were able to battle back. The depth was the biggest issue,” Bartoszek said. “Getting through it without a ton of injuries is why we were so successful. That’s a big reason we’re still there and in the fight toward the end.”
KEY LOSSES: Maddox Isaac was a three-year starter at quarterback, who took his first snaps his freshman year. He finished as the Class C South Offensive Player of the Year and first-team all-state selection.
“In our system, the quarterback is so valuable. He just developed the ability to
run it in his own way. As much as we were scoring and having success, he still had his own little identity that he’d add to it,” Bartoszek said. “He was always a weapon we could go to when we needed it. Two-minute drills, four-minute drills, he was in tune with everything we were doing.”
Running back Xavier Peters was a first-team Class C South all-star and second-team all-state selection after the possibility of not even being the Warriors’ starter entering the season.
“Xavier stepped in and had a different gear,” Bartoszek said. “We certainly wouldn’t have been where we were without him.”
Warrick Kyler, a 6-foot-6, 290-pound linemen on both sides of the ball, was the Class C South Lineman of the Year and a first-team all-state selection.
“The way we used him with his size at
the end, he was coming down that line and erasing half of the field. We knew other teams would be avoiding him and it was easier to game plan,” Bartoszek said. “He had some games he dominated. He had some great feet and a good motor.”
Zach Trietley and Cory Holleran were Class C South co-Defensive Players of the Year and first-team all-state selections as well.
“I coached Zach in the Big 30. We were going against each other and I just realized how good he was sideline to sideline. His intensity and physicality was as good as I’ve ever seen. He did the No. 44 proud,” Bartoszek said of Trietley, adding of Holleran, “He was always the heady, coach-type kid. He knew what was going on and what we were trying to get across. He was instinctive. … He became one of the fastest players on our team which changed him from a really good safety to
Salamanca’s running backs, in front, from left, are: Jesse Hill and Conner Seeley. In back are: Quinten Brown and Kylan Jacobson.
Salamanca’s receivers, in front, from left, are: Waylon Dowdy and Cruz Pennell. In back are: Brendon Ghani and Camron Bowser.
SALAMANCA WARRIORS
one of the best in the state.”
Kruz Coustenis, Avery Brown, Kyle Lecceardone and Dakota Colts were also Class C South all-stars who graduated.
KEY RETURNEES: Payton Bradley, a 6-foot-4 Class C South second-team allstar at tight end last season, returns as the Warriors quarterback this year.
“Conversations in the offseason were about him becoming an awesome tight end for us, which he was for two years, or do you want to step up and take on the challenge at quarterback,” Bartoszek said. “He’s earned it. He’s got all the tools and skillsets that are going to pop off the screen. Now it’s our job to put him in the right positions and give him the best possible system to fit his skillset. He’s certainly shown that he can handle it.”
Evan Spruce returns on the offensive line after being a Class C South second-team all-star.
“Evan Spruce is returning as a two-way starter,” Bartoszek said. “Kasen Hardy last year was thrown in as a ninth-grader, which doesn’t happen often in our program. His maturity has grown immensely over the last year. He’s a wrestling kid who
has gone up against some of the best wrestlers in the northeast. He’s a sophomore we expect big things out of.”
Waylon Dowdy and Thomas George were both Class C South honorable-mention choices in 2024.
“We’ve got some line pieces we think we can fill in and have some strength and size. Our system is in place,” Bartoszek said. “It’s going to be similar-looking to last year without the enormity of Warrick. We’ll still be pretty big up front.”
Running back Quinten Brown, penciled in as the starter last year as a sophomore before he was sidelined by injuries, figures to get a lion’s share of the carries now as a junior.
“Quinten’s one of our players we’ve always had high hopes for. … He’s doing everything right and will be a weapon,” Bartoszek said. “He’s one of the more dynamic players on our team. We’re going to shuffle in a couple of running backs: Jesse Hill is a senior, high-motor kid, and Connor Seeley got a lot of carries last year as our No. 2 or No. 3. He got a lot of good experience.
“We feel comfortable in the backfield
that we’ll be able to continue to do what we do,” Bartoszek added.
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH: Class C South figures to be one of the most competitive leagues in Section VI.
“There is a very slim margin of error this year. I think you’re going to see a very tight division, really physical football teams and motivated teams,” Bartoszek said. “We’ve been at the top, but not by a long stretch. We’ve won close games against Portville, Falconer, Southwestern. We’ve come out on top, and we are going to fight for that spot again. It’s certainly going to be challenging because there are a lot of teams geared up to win this thing.”
Salamanca is the defending champion and a state finalist. Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton returns most of its skilled-position players and adds head coach Ty Harper, who won a third state championship in 10 years at Clymer/ Sherman/Panama last year. Southwestern/ Frewsburg adds Trent Lewis and Henry Eckert from Frewsburg as well as Roger and Zach Markham from Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove.
“I enjoy coaching in this league. I’m
glad we’ve kept things relatively consistent. It’s hard because we’ve got really great programs and coaches,” Bartoszek said. “When we go up against the same programs over and over and start to understand each other, that challenge leads to putting up or shutting up. You have to continue to climb with the rest of them or things aren’t going to go well.”
KEY
GAME: Salamanca will open at nonleague Olean.
“It’s a perfect start for us. Olean is going to have a heck of a year. I know a lot about their program. They’re right down the road and we have a lot of history even though it’s been a while,” Bartoszek said. “For us, it’s good for a couple of reasons: we get to get our feel wet in a nonleague game, but we also get to experience a really good Class B school that I think is going to challenge for their division.
“It’s Bradner, it’s under the lights and it’s going to be fun,” Bartoszek added. “Hopefully the weather is nice and we’ll get a huge crowd because I think we’ll be well-represented over there.”
Salamanca’s linemen, from left, are: Kasen Hardy, Thomas George, Adrian Taylor, Warrick John and Evan Spruce.
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 vs. Medina 7 pm
9/12 vs. Gowanda/Pine Valley 7pm
9/19 vs. Randolph 7pm
9/26 @ Wilson 7pm
10/3 vs. Newfane 7pm
10/10 vs. C-LV 7pm.
10/17 @ Allegany-Limestone 7pm
10/23 @ Franklinville/Ellicottville 7pm
SILVER CREEK/FORESTVILLE black knights
GRIDIRON 2025
RECAP OF 2024
SEASON: Last season, the Black Knights were much more competitive than they were the previous year, but it still took a while for the results to show it. After losing eight straight games by at least three touchdowns to begin 2023, the 2024 team was much more representative of the one-point loss to end the 2023 season.
The 2024 season began with a rainsoaked one-score loss at home to Fredonia. From there, six more losses followed, bringing the cumulative record over the past two years to 0-16 overall and 0-14 in league
www.rwmonuments.com
Head Coach: Sean Helmer Assistant Coaches: Ron Duliba, Kevin Eick, Cliff Golembieski, Austin Pierce and Nate Shuart.
Receivers/tight ends: From the left are Noah Gruber, Jacob Anders, Andrew Arnold, Dom Anders and Gavin Delong.
SILVER CREEK/FORESTVILLE BLACK KNIGHTS
Dave’s Outlet
play. Only three of those losses were within three scores — two to Fredonia and one to Eden-North Collins.
But then came the final week of the regular season, and Silver Creek/Forestville finally put an end to the losing streak, and did so emphatically. The Black Knights earned a 53-0 road win over Cardinal O’Hara — a team that also lost 51-0 to Gowanda/Pine Valley and 50-20 to Cattaraugus/Little Valley.
The following week, head coach Sean Helmer put together a mid-week contest with a winless Tonawanda team to give both programs a chance to play one more game before the season came to a close. The Black Knights came out on top of that contest, 22-0, to end the year with back-toback victories.
This season, Helmer has to figure out how to transfer the success the Black Knights had to end the year in 2024 into this year against much tougher competition.
“We’re moving in the right direction.
We want to keep moving in that direction,” Helmer said.
KEY LOSSES: The absence of Cam Ingram will be felt this year on both sides of the ball and in the huddle, as the leading rusher and standout cornerback for the Black Knights a year ago was also a team captain.
“Cam was a very good football player last year,” Helmer said. “It will be interesting to replace him.”
Fortunately for Silver Creek/Forestville, a heavy majority of the team’s starters return. “We basically bring back the whole team,” Helmer said.
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS D: Last year, Silver Creek/Forestville improved, but Helmer said his team still was not a real threat in Class C South. Now in Class D, Helmer hopes the great attitudes and improvements he saw last year will carry into this season.
With so many players on both sides of the ball returning this season — and the familiarity of the system and expectations
From the left are Manny Sanchez, Max Tenamore, Gavin Delong, William Duliba, Caleb Kimmerly and Jayvon Sanchez.
SILVER CREEK/FORESTVILLE BLACK KNIGHTS
that come along with them — Helmer is optimistic entering this fall season.
“We want our kids to have expectations for themselves, for the season and for each week. We are moving in that direction where they are back to expecting to win or expecting everything to be a contest,” Helmer said.
Gavin Delong started last season’s opener at quarterback, but began to move around positionally as William Duliba took over under center. Delong’s versatility will be an asset to Helmer’s squad again this season as Duliba is expected to remain the starting quarterback.
While Silver Creek/Forestville moves down to Class D this year, that doesn’t mean things are much easier for the Black Knights. Gowanda/Pine Valley returns senior standout quarterback Carter Capozzi and Newfane brings its own senior quarterback, Mac Capen, as Newfane moves down to Class D, as well. Helmer defined both quarterbacks as “legitimate players who would start in most programs, never mind the level.”
The Black Knights will also be asked to contend with perennial Class D contenders Franklinville/Ellicottville and Randolph. Allegany-Limestone also makes the move to Class D, while Wilson and Cattaraugus-Little Valley round out the class.
“I think it’s really hard. Class D and C South are two of the better leagues in the state,” Helmer said. “Moving down to D is not so much easier. You have great coaches and really good talent.”
KEY GAME: Silver Creek/Forestville begins its season with Medina, one of the more successful programs in Class C in recent years. Facing an established program in a non-league contest to start the year will serve as a baseline for where Helmer’s team starts the year.
“The first game sets the tone,” Helmer said.
Noting the success Medina has had in recent years, Helmer called the opener “a good litmus test as to what we really are.”
GOOD LUCK TO THE SILVER CREEK/FORESTVILLE TEAM! GO TEAM GO!
Lineman: From left to right: Silas Dzielski, Lucas Nosbisch, Vince Prinzbach, Gil Capitano, Alijah Williams, Ivan Lemke, Colin Shumaker, Keegan
Aiden Voigt, Calem Izzo and Chris Marsh.
GRIDIRON 2025
9/6 vs. Franklinville/Ellicottville 1:30pm
9/13 vs. Falconer/CV/MG 1:30pm
9/19 @ Salamanca 7pm
9/27 vs. CL/Westfield/Brocton 1:30pm
10/3 @ Fredonia 7pm
10/11 vs. Springville 1:30pm
10/17 @ Southwestern/Frewsburg 7pm
10/24 @ Portville 7pm
Seniors: Kameron Einink, Carson White, Michael Horton, Wyatt Eggleston, Jackson Wells, Lincoln Gibbs, Mason Moore, Troy Chambers, Mason Weber, Mathew Redlecki, Kamren Christensen, Spencer Emory.
Juniors: Blake Beckerink, Bryan Gomez, Johnny Abers, Gavin Burchanowski, Anthony Lao, Talon Persons, Hayden Seton, Andrew Houser, Toby Watson, Micaleb Anderson, Michael Spiesman, Colton Hamilton, Galen Tehan, Brandon Hirsch.
2025 SCHEDULE CLYMER/SHERMAN/PANAMA wolfpack
Sophomores: Sawyer Whitney, Daniel Redlecki, Mason Groters.
Receivers and defensive backs: In the front row, from the left, are Talon Persons, Johnny Abers, Gavin Burchanowski and Hayden Sexton. In the back row are Mason Groters, Kameron Einink, Michael Horton, Andrew Houser and Anthony Lao.
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Last season could not have gone any better for Clymer/Sherman/Panama as the Wolfpack captured their third New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class D championship.
“The thing that was nice about last year, was that they peaked at the right time,” first-year Clymer/ Sherman/Panama head coach Dave Bodamer said. “The first half of the playoffs against Gowanda/Pine Valley was a little rough, but then the starters gave up one touchdown the rest of the way.”
The Wolfpack dominated every Class D opponent they faced, overwhelming teams with their offensive firepower, while smothering squads defensively.
“They played well,” Bodamer added. “They played as good as we thought they’d be and they finished.”
KEY LOSSES: Just about every key piece to last year’s state championship squad graduated, leaving big shoes to fill.
“Last year we had about 21 seniors who had a majority of the playing time,” Bodamer stated. “A lot of them had been on varsity for three years.”
Leading the way were co-Player of the Year winners in Class D, quarterback Tate Catanese and wideout Bryce Hinsdale, first-team all-state selections Carter Brink at
receiver, Alex Barmore at defensive line, linebacker Collin Ryan and defensive back Dalton Richter.
“One thing about this group is, that they know they’re different,” Bodamer said when comparing the team from this year and last year. “We’re a different football team from that football team, so we’re not going to be airing it out as much as we were last year. It’s a different group. Their personalities are a little different also. It’s kind of a new start with this group.”
KEY RETURNEES: While the star power may have graduated from Clymer/Sherman/Panama, most of the returning players are state champions with plenty of tradition to carry on this year.
Head Coach: David Bodamer Assistant Coaches: Greg White, Dennis Roberts, Marc Heiser, Jarrett Wiggers, Matt Hair, Dan White, Derek Hosier, Brandon Foster, Bill Long and Mike Pinzok.
CLYMER/SHERMAN/PANAMA WOLFPACK
team trying to figure out where we’re at.”
The Wolfpack goes from one tough division to another, joining a group of teams that includes another reigning sectional champion in Salamanca.
“Franklinville/Ellicottville is our only nonleague opponent,” Bodamer continued. “Then we have Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove and then we go to Salamanca, so we’re being tested right off the bat. It’s going to be a testament to see
what these guys can do and how the senior leadership comes out from week to week.”
KEY GAME: There are several highlighted games on the Wolfpack schedule, beginning with sectional final rematch against Franklinville/Ellicottville.
“Right now it’s win Week 1,” Bodamer said about the team goals. “That’s really our focus with only 2.5 starters coming back. We have a whole new team so you can’t look past Week 1.”
By the time this Wolfpack finds its identity as a team it will be challenged with Class C state finalist Salamanca in Week 3, then that is followed by a showdown with former head coach Ty Harper, who is now at Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton, in Week 4.
“Going into Salamanca in Week 3 is going to be a tough challenge, for sure,” Bodamer added. “We’ve got Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton here in Week 4, back to back. Southwestern/Frewsburg, we got to see them over the summer and there are some big, strong kids there and some good athletes. Those three will be highly thought of across the conference, but you can’t forget anybody.”
“There’s a lot of holes to fill,” Bodamer said. “We have another 11-12 seniors this year. We have guys, we have high 20s in our numbers. They’re fighting for positions and they know that. … They know the history, they were a part of last year’s team, they know the expectations and all that. For them, it’s their turn to make a run at it.”
Of the few returning starters, Troy Chambers and Matt Redlecki are important pieces of the offensive line. Then Kam Einink started towards the end of the year and will look to build off of that.
“Troy Chambers and Matt Redlecki are
back as starting offensive linemen,” Bodamer stated. “Kam Einink really picked up late in the year. He jumps off the screen when you’re watching film. Those are the three guys with the starting experience.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH:
There have been plenty of changes for Clymer/Sherman/Panama from its personnel, coaching and moving up to Class C South.
“Not only do you graduate 21 seniors, you also get moved up to Class C,” Bodamer stated. “There’s a lot of good competition in Class C. That, too, with a new
Linemen: Kneeling, from the left, are Galon Tehan, Kamren Christensen, Dan Redlecki, Michael Spiesman, Mason Moore, and Toby Watson. Standing are Brandon Hirsch, Micaleb Anderson, Troy Chambers, Matt Redlecki, Mason Weber and Colton Hamilton. Missing is Spencer Emory.
Quarterback: Carson White
Running backs and linebackers: From the left are Jackson Wells, Bryan Gomez, Lincoln Gibbs, Wyatt Eggleston, Sawyer Whitney and Blake Beckerink.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
9/5 vs. Randolph 7pm
9/13 vs. CSP 1:30pm
9/19 vs. Fredonia 7pm
9/26 @ Salamanca 7pm
10/2 @ Springville 7pm
10/9 vs. Portville/CR/BR 7pm
10/17 vs. CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
10/24 @ Southwestern 7pm
VALLEY/MAPLE GROVE
Seniors: Grant Zahm, Taylor Jones, Max Parmentier, Jaxon VanArsdale, Brayden McCarthy, CJ Morrison, Kameron Brown, Caden Porter, Jon Kent, Riley Best, Logan Quattrone, Kade Smith, Dakota Matherne, Riley Jennings, Tanner Olmstead, Hunter Vincent.
Juniors: Dylan Newman, Brody Hawkins, Stefan Schafer, Tyler Anderson, Kollyn Mattson, Patrick Braley, Noah Brandt, Matthew Ashbaugh, Riley Kirchoff, Blake Berlin, Nate Tomlinson, Nathan Fowler, Aiden Peters, Kolton Samuelson, Gabriel Carlson, Anthony Echard.
Sophomores: Jaxon Kraft, Conner Brentley.
Quarterback: Max Parmentier
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Head coach Curt Fischer called 2024 a “great building year for us.”
Hard to argue with that.
The Herd finished the season 6-3 overall and 5-2 in Class C South. One of the league wins was against rival Southwestern which snapped a 27game losing streak against their crosstown rival.
“We won a lot of games and had a lot of injuries,” Fischer said, “but our kids kept pushing hard. We had a lot of great wins.”
Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove’s season came to an end following a 28-12 firstround playoff loss at Medina.
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Head Coach: Curt Fischer
Assistant Coaches: Joel Sopak, Brian Voorhis, Al Roller, Andrew Wascher, Brian Best, Zach Fischer
Linemen: Tanner Olmstead, Connor Brentley, Matthew Ashbaugh, Riley Best, Nate Tomlinson, Dakota Matherne, Aiden Peters, Kameron Brown, Logan Quattrone, Hunter Vincent, Anthony Echard, Stefan Schafer, Blake Berlin, Riley Kirchhoff, Caden Porter, Jon Kent, Nathan Fowler and Kade Smith.
Backs: In the first row, from the left, are Brody Hawkins, Dylan Newman and Jaxon Kraft. In the back row are Riley Jennings, Taylor Jones and Patrick Braley.
KEY LOSSES: There are several, notably Roger and Zach Markham, who will be playing at Southwestern this season, as well as Chaz Sundquist, David Markham and Jacob Roth, who have graduated.
“We had some stellar athletes last year, for sure, some of the best athletes I’d dare say in the league, and that definitely propelled us, without a doubt.
“This year our attitude is unbelievable. … They’re just a great bunch of kids to coach.”
Fischer, who has been coaching high school football for more than 30 years and has won a pair of state championships when he was at Maple Grove (1998 and 2008), said he keeps coming back every year because, “I love the kids.”
“I like to see them grow as people, that’s important,” he said. “It’s awesome to see them be successful. A lot of them change their lives through football. I think it’s the closest game to life experiences that you can play. They learn a lot and I like being part of that.”
KEY RETURNEES: This group includes senior quarterback Max Parmentier; senior running backs/defensive backs Grant Zahm and Taylor Jones; and senior lineman Tanner Olmstead.
Fischer called Parmentier a “great leader” and the “perfect guy to play quarterback,” said Zahm is “actually going to play everywhere,” and noted that Jones will be used as an H-back.
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH:
Fischer predicted that Chautauqua Lake/ Westfield/Brocton and Southwestern/ Frewsburg “should be very, very good, while also giving props to Portville/Bolivar-Richburg/Cuba-Rushford and Salamanca, which lost in the Class C state championship game in 2024.
KEY GAME: Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove opens the season at Bill Race Field against Randolph.
“The first game sometimes sets the tone for the whole year,” Fischer said. “You can learn a lot from it or you’re hyped up that you’re going to have a good year.”
Ends: Kneeling, from the left, are Gabe Carlson and Brayden McCarthy. Standing are Grant Zahm and Tyler Anderson.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
9/6 vs. CSP 1:30pm
9/12 vs. Newfane 7pm
9/18 @ Allegany-Limestone 7pm
9/26 vs. Cattaraugus-Little Valley 7pm
10/3 @ Randolph 7pm
10/10 vs. Gowanda/Pine Valley 7pm
10/17 vs. Wilson 7pm
10/23 vs. Silver Creek/Forestville 7pm
Head Coach: Justin Tatlow
Assistant Coaches: Pete Okhamvilaysack, Cale Benjamin, Jim Fleischman, Griffin Chudy and Jacob Bull
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Franklinville/Ellicottville managed to get back to Highmark Stadium last season, but came up short of the sectional title, losing to eventual Class D state champion Clymer/ Sherman/Panama. The driving force behind that success was a large senior group, and now the Titans will have a lot of shoes to fill.
“They were a great group,” Tatlow said about last year’s team. “They were the group that small schools like us really look at for leadership. Four of those athletes are playing college football. Guys from that team at the next level saw the potential they had. Obviously, (we) didn’t get the goal completed that we were looking for, but certainly a good group of young men doing incredible things at the next level.”
KEY LOSSES: The Titans graduated nearly every starter, including quarterback Isaac Towne, running back Billy Slavinski, top receivers Bretton Blecha and Matthew Spittler, and leading tacklers Collin Mooney and Caden Bish.
“I think we return three starters between both sides of the ball,” Tatlow said about the turnover.
“There’s holes all over. There are big positions to fill all over the field to get to the level of expectations that we have set.”
KEY RETURNEES: Coming back from that sectional finalist squad are just three starters and the Titans will lean on them for leadership.
“We’ve had incredible leadership by Grady Byroads, Landon Giles, Mason Blecha and Landon Learn,” Tatlow said about the returning group. “They are guys that got time last year. Early in the summer, in the spring, these guys have been the driving force. They have brought their teammates with them and really set a strong example in the work ethic we’re looking for.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS D:
Despite such significant turnover, Franklinville/Ellicottville still maintains lofty goals for its program and hopes to achieve great success as the team grows throughout the season.
“The goal is always to compete,” Tatlow stated. “We’ve got to handle the two things that are controllable by us and that is our effort and attitude. Just get out there and compete every single week and get to
the point where we are continuing to learn.”
However, it will be no easy feat in the always competitive Class D which is looking for a new champion as Clymer/Sherman/Panama moves up a class size.
“Class D is always competitive,” Tatlow added. “Everyone is going to come out, there’s great coaches, there is tons of scouting that goes on, they know your tendencies. Now you bring down a team like Newfane that has been very strong in ‘C’ for a long time, then Allegany-Limestone is back from 8-man, Silver Creek/Forestville is coming down from ‘C’ and then you throw in your Randolph and Gowanda/ Pine Valley that are consistent hard-hitting teams.”
KEY GAME: The Titans begin this season with a sectional final road rematch against Clymer/Sherman/Panama and that is their first focus.
“We’re looking for the first one,” Tatlow stated. “No reason to look ahead. You’ve got to handle the first one first and then go from there. We’re just trying to compete and get better every single day.”
Roster: Landon Giles, Brady Tatlow, Blake Smith, Eli Shenk, Raiddan Wilson, James Flury, Rylan Benjamin, Tristen Howard, Gunner Jochen, James Goff, Sawyer Miller, Caleb Hurley, Maxx Goss, Landon Learn, Cameron Mendell, Reiley Freer, Brenden MacWilliams, Lucas Swanson, Nolan Murphy, Sean Howard, Aidan Gascon, Grady Byroads, Damien Cole, Dominic Polino, Mason Blecha, Jacoby Neureuther.
FRANKLINVILLE/ELLICOTTVILLE TITANS
Linemen: Pictured, from left to right, Grady Byroads, Lucas Swanson, Mason Blecha, Nolan Murphy, Dominic Polino, Sean Howard, Damien Cole, Aiddan Gascon.
Quarterbacks: Brady Tatlow, left, and Rylan Benjamin.
Running backs and linebackers: Pictured, from left to right, Landon Learn, Landon Giles, Brenden MacWilliams, Cameron Mendell, Raiddan Wilson, Reiley Freer, Caleb Hurley.
Receivers and defensive backs: Pictured, from left to right, James Goff, Jacoby Neureuther, Sawyer Miller, Max Goss, Tristen Hennard, Eli Shenk, Blake Smith, James Flury.
GRIDIRON 2025
2025 SCHEDULE
9/6 @ Cleveland Hill 2pm
9/12 @ Fredonia 7pm
9/18 vs. Portville/CR/BR 7pm
9/26 vs. Springville 7pm
10/3 vs. CL/Westfield/Brocton 7pm
10/10 @ Salamanca 7pm
10/17 vs. CSP 7pm
10/24 vs. Falconer/CV/MG 7 p.m.
TROJANS
Seniors: Michael Carlson, Carson Couchenour, Henry Eckert, Jason Edwards, Branden Francis, Bradyn Fuller, Leo Kavic, Trent Lewis, Roger Markham, George Marshall, Tyler McIntyre, Brayden Potter, Calvin Salisbury, Adrian Torres
Juniors: Carter Casselman, Aiden Cusimano, Jacob Grey, Oscar Harris, Zach Markham, Max McClure, Gaige McIntyre, Joey Sirianni, Miles Torres, Colton Waite, Ryan Wakeley
Sophomores: Drake Beckstrom, Connor Campion, Xayvion Troutman
RECAP OF 2024 SEASON: Entering Week 8 with a 4-3 overall record, Southwestern needed to beat Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove and get some help to qualify for the Section VI playoffs.
The Trojans led 7-0 at halftime, but were outscored 27-0 in the second half to fall to 4-4 and into the Chuck Funke Bowl playoffs.
After beating Royalton-Hartland/ Barker in the Class C semifinals, Southwestern lost to Akron in the Chuck Funke Bowl final.
“It’s always good to have an opportunity that we got to the point that we did. We didn’t hold up our end of things to give us a shot to get in there. There was a lot of good and a lot of growth from our younger guys that will set us up for this year,” Southwestern/Frewsburg head coach Jake Burkholder said. “Every season, regardless of the outcome, there are always positives to look at for the following year.
A big change for this season is the addition of Frewsburg in a merger. Eight-man football was not an effective option for the Bears anymore, so they now have joined the Trojans.
Four varsity players — Trent Lewis, Henry Eckert, Ayden Cusimano and Branden Francis — will be added through the merger.
Coaches Trent Gray and Rob Collver will assist at the varsity level, along with jayvee coaches Mike Campion and Eric Haglund.
“It’s been great.
I worked with Trent Gray in girls flag football in the spring. We had a great working relationship there,” Burkholder said. “Getting to know Rob and Mike Campion and all of those guys has been good. The staff has merged together well. We’re just waiting on our merged coaching gear to come in.”
KEY LOSSES: Ayson Smith was a Class C South second-team all-star defensive back in 2024.
“Ayson was a key for us defensively,” Burkholder said.
Southwestern also graduated quarterback/defensive back Owen Hayes.
Losing a quarterback is huge,” Burkholder said. “Owen, toward the end of the year, played really well on the defensive side as well.”
Other graduates included wide receiver/defensive back Trent Casselman, wide receiver/linebacker Brody Larson, running back/linebacker Noah Milk, kicker/linebacker Kole Lyon and lineman Nathan Alexander.
“Brody was an explosive player who fought through some injuries throughout the year and gave us everything he could. Those are guys who are hard to replace,” Burkholder said. “Trent Casselman is a hard-nosed kid who fought through injuries. They were good guys for kids to learn from. They always set the stage for the following year. They played a big part in that.”
“Trent and Owen played in the Big 30 game and had a lot of fun doing that,” Burkholder added. “That was pretty cool.”
Head coach: Jake Burkholder
Assistant coaches: Mark Arnold, Dustin Bowser, Mike Campion, Rob Collver, Trent Gray, Eric Haglund, Matt Lodestro, Kyler Majka, Matt Miles, Aaron Rounds, Kevin Salisbury
KEY RETURNEES: In addition to Lewis, Eckert, Cusimano and Francis from Frewsburg, the Trojans are adding Roger Markham and Zach Markham from Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove.
“Kids from different schools know each other, play video games, golf together, so far so good,” Burkholder said.
Lewis will likely start at quarterback.
“He’s a super-competitive kid who wants to go out and be successful. He’s a multi-sport athlete. He’s working with Coach (John) Kinder on Sunday mornings and getting the guys together to throw on their own and things like that. He definitely has the drive and the work ethic. He can throw the ball, can run and is not afraid of contact. It’s a nice weapon to have there.”
Eckert was a tight end and linebacker last year. Cusimano is a wide receiver and Francis is a lineman.
“The merger, with what we had lost and eight-man kind of disappearing, was extremely beneficial for everybody. Trent, Henry and Ayden were at everything throughout the whole summer. Showing up is half the battle in the summertime. That has progressed into the season,” Burkholder said. “Trent and Henry were elected as captains through a team vote.
SOUTHWESTERN/FREWSBURG
I think that shows a lot about their work ethic as seniors.”
Roger Markham caught six passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns while also intercepting two passes last year.
Zach Markham was a Class C South second-team all-star.
“They were guys playing against us in past years we had to game plan for. Roger had a TD against us, Zach had a blocked punt return for a TD. They are huge assets,” Burkholder said. “They are great kids and have jumped in with a seamless transition as well. They bring another weapon to the table along with the pieces that we already had.”
Calvin Salisbury, George Marshall and Brayden Potter will be captains along with Lewis and Eckert. Marshall was a Class C South first-team all-star while Salisbury and Potter received honorable mention.
“Our offensive line, as it stands today, is going to be four seniors and a junior — could be five seniors. The experience there is awesome. They’ve played a lot of games,” Burkholder said. “Most of the kids we have now as seniors started in some capacity as sophomores. They’ve been around the block and are on top of things. They understand the speed and competitiveness. It’s nice to have that back and a core leadership group of guys who
have been around.”
Tyler McIntyre was a Class C South first-team all-star while running back Bradyn Fuller was a second-team all-star.
“He’s gotten bigger and stronger, we’ll never complain about that,” Burkholder said of Fuller. “He finished off the year really well with a couple of kickoff returns for touchdowns and a couple of 150-yard games. Adding in some of those additional weapons is going to open things up for him as well.
Leo Kavic was also a Class C South honorable-mention all-star.
“We’ve had a lot of kids step up at different times. We finished second at the Cortland 7-on-7 tournament and lost to James Monroe out of Rochester, which has multiple kids with Division I offers and the No. 4 wide receiver in the country,” Burkholder said. “Joey Sirianni stepped up and made big plays. Carter Casselman played linebacker out of position from what he normally does. A lot of juniors have an opportunity to step up and make some major plays this year with some of the other weapons that we have.”
OUTLOOK FOR CLASS C SOUTH: Southwestern/Frewsburg’s league is as loaded as ever with defending state champion Salamanca, Chautauqua Lake/
Westfield/Brocton and new head coach Ty Harper, and Portville/Cuba-Rushford/Bolivar-Richburg among other teams that has a chance to win the league title.
“There is obviously Portville, Chautauqua Lake with Ty and Chris Payne being there, Falconer is never a slouch, Bartoszek at Salamanca,” Burkholder said. “It’s week in and week out. We have to get off to a fast start. Losing one game can put you on the outside looking in. We almost didn’t make the playoffs a couple years ago at 6-1 in league; it came down to point differential.”
KEY GAME: Southwestern will open its season Saturday, Sept. 6 at nonleague Cleveland Hill.
Cleveland Hill will be a good Week 1 test for us,” Burkholder said. “We have to keep the positive momentum rolling.”
After traveling to Fredonia in Week 2, the Trojans will host Portville/Cuba-Rushford/Bolivar-Richburg and Springville before traveling to Mayville for a Week 5 tilt against Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton. Southwestern/Frewsburg will close with a three-game stretch of away vs. Salamanca, home vs. Clymer/Sherman/Panama and home vs. rival Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove.
SOUTHWESTERN/FREWSBURG
Southwestern/Frewsburg’s receivers. Kneeling, from left, are: Roger Markham and Joey Sirianni. In back are: George Marshall and Henry Eckert.
Southwestern/Frewsburg’s quarterback is Trent Lewis.
Southwestern/Frewsburg’s running back is Bradyn Fuller.
Southwestern/Frewsburg’s linemen. Kneeling from left are Zach Markham, Carson Couchenour and Leo Kavic. In back are Branden Francis, Calvin Salisbury, Brayden Potter and Tyler McIntyre.
GRIDIRON 2025
