By Kathie Scanlon
Coach Ryan McConville hopes to begin a new proud tradition for the Haldane football team with this first Homecoming game under the lights.
Kick-off will be at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, following a ceremony to recognize the seniors and their parents. Although there will not be a bonfire this year, the parade up Main Street to the field will begin at 6 p.m. at the underpass.
McConville explained his enthusiasm for a night game: “With the new turf field we felt that playing a night game would be a perfect fit and bring a new sense of excitement to Homecoming for the football team. For our seniors, its a great way to play their last regular season game and it gives our younger players something to look forward to as they move up.”
The lights have been rented through the generosity of local businesses and individuals while volunteers will transport the light towers to and from the field.
“We are playing an old rival, Pawling High School, and we hope to have a big showing of current student body and alumni as well,” McConville said. Last Saturday’s loss to Woodlands 41-12 has only strengthened Blue Devil resolve to win over Pawling. Tyler Giachinta threw a touchdown pass to Ryan McCollum 50 yards and Giachinta added a touchdown run of 16 yards.
Season stats for first three games
Passing: Tyler Giachinta, 290 yards, 2 touchdowns
Rushing: Matt Balducci, 262 yards, 3 touchdowns; Giachinta, 79 yards, 1 touchdown
Receiving: Ryan McCollum, 189 yards, 2 touchdowns; Stephen Junjulas, 75 yards; Anthony Percacciolo, 34 yards
Tackles: Matt Koval, 17; Balducci, 15; Tanner Froats, 12; Giachinta, 11
Photo by Michael Turton