This year for the Varsity football team has been a record breaking one. Opening the season with three wins and one loss, this year is proving to be one which will be remembered.

David Zeppetelli, Liam Lakardis, Jadrien Travieso, and Noah Provenzano are the captains of the varsity level this year. “We came into this season a lot more motivated than the last few years,” Lakardis explained. “We all came in really wanting to have a good year.” People started to pay more attention to the team after the first game of the season resulted in a win above Kennedy. The rival Lakeland Lancers were the opponent in the second game, which the Highlanders conquered. The only two losses were to Pascack Valley and Passaic Valley. (as of 10/15/14.) With a winning record and excited team, this season is impressive so far.

A few factors are contributed to the improvements. Head coach Mr. Dougherty explained “We started playing music at practice… practice can get a little routine because for football you only have one game a week.” While other teams base their practice schedule around games, that is not the case for football. Captain David Zeppetelli added “Last year we had a lot of ‘me’ guys that played as individuals rather than a team, but this year it’s nothing like that at all. That’s probably the biggest difference.”

Fans have certainly motivated the team. “The Herd has been great, I love seeing all those black t-shirts come on Friday nights and support us,” Lakardis explained. Zeppetelli added, “We love to see the stands filled and we hope it gets bigger. I think it definitely motivates us to, you know, give them a good game, have them have a reason to come watch us.” The Herd has made coming to games fun and lively, especially because it is a student organized group.

Yes, the team is doing great, but there are some certain people who truly stand out. Dougherty highlighted every senior for their leadership skills. “Nick Lisa, defensively, Erik Ostlund, defensively, our entire offensive line has done tremendous.” He explained how Aaron Furnbach has been strong thus far.

The season is still in progress, but Dougherty is very proud of his team. “We’ve shown a lot of heart and pride throughout the last four games, and I am absolutely proud of them.”