Wayne Hills is looking to bounce back this Friday night, 10/24 at 7:00 pm, against Millburn, after a tough loss last week vs Old Tappan. Although it was a rough game, it was only their second loss of the season, and both losses were to two talented schools, Old Tappan and Wayne Valley.
Coach Demikoff and Wayne Hills started off hot this year with five straight wins, includes wins out of state over Wheat Ridge, and game vs West Essex which they won in overtime.
Typically, a team with two quarterbacks indicates a struggling offense, but not for this squad. Senior Mikey Fitzsimons and Junior James Wolf both have thrown for over 700 yards and 8 touchdowns through the first 8 games. This offense has averaged just over 35 points this season, which proves this offense isn’t struggling, but they are thriving with both of these players.
“Having the kid who plays for his team rather than himself is important in any team sport, and this year we are filled with a ton of these kids on both sides of the ball,” said Coach Demikoff.
For the other side of the ball, the defense has held their opponents to 10 points or less
in half of their matchups. Senior Luke Bacchioni, Junior Colin Murray, and Junior Troy Demikoff currently lead their team in tackles, all having over 50 this year. This defense is swarming the field from the line, with almost 20 sacks, to the defensive backs, with 8 interceptions.
“We want to play better defense this week compared to last week vs Old Tappan, and just get back to playing our game and not letting last week define us”, stated Troy Demikoff.
Heading into the end of October means many things, but in this case, it means postseason. Wayne Hills currently holds a record of 6-2, meaning they will have a good seed heading to the playoffs. Two factors that play a significant role in the postseason are momentum and health.
“We have created such a team bond which makes us all a threat, from our touchdown scorers, to the linemen who protect our quarterbacks.”, said Junior David Vanhook, who leads the team in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
This upcoming game against the 3-5 Millburn team will not only improve their record, but also serves as a good energy booster before the playoffs. As in all sports, a dominant win can carry over to the next game. If Wayne Hills can take care of business this Friday, momentum will come into play, and the team they go head-to-head against should be shivering. It should be a fun one on Berdan Ave this Friday!
