Mountaineers shine in homecoming football game
The Bernards football team improved to an impressive 7-0 record (5-0 in conference play) with a dominant victory over Bound Brook on Friday, October 6th. Hundreds of students piled into the stands to watch the final home football game of the regular season, and the red-hot Mountaineers did not disappoint. A 19-point second quarter followed up a 21-point first quarter to establish a dominant 40-0 lead at the break. The offense slowed down in the second half to finish with a 47-7 victory. When asked about the significance of the Homecoming Game, Ari Rosen ‘25 says “The homecoming game is always a great time for the school and for the fans.”
Back to the game recap, Connor Laverty was very efficient during his limited snaps on Friday. He only threw the ball a mere three times, for 126 yards and a score. He had one rush, but made the most out of it, going 33 yards to the house. Laverty connected with wide receiver Jack Morra for a 62-yard touchdown in the first. Sophomore Casey Hoeckele replaced Laverty late in the first half, and also had a mega-efficient stat line. Both of his two completions went for scores, with Noah Ochab and Sean Arcelay on the receiving end. The running game was also very efficient, with 11.6 yards per carry across six ball carriers. Logan Stevens led the team with 58 yards on the ground.
However, the defense and special teams displayed a similar level of dominance. The offense only compiled 50 more yards than Bound Brook, yet outscored them by 40. The defense set up the offense in great field position, led by interceptions by Logan Marks and Teagun Hartnett. David Brothers had a sack and Owen Liming added two tackles.
Not only did spectators show up for the game itself, but also for the highly-anticipated homecoming royalty reveal. At halftime, David Brother and Jane Lewis were crowned as king and queen. Other students were also given spots on the court. Tommaso Biella ‘24 says “I’m glad to be part of a school where I found such great friends and support…I felt the nomination to homecoming court as a further nod to the welcoming spirit of BHS and I was really thankful for it.” The following night, hundreds of students enjoyed the Homecoming Dance in the cafeteria.
The football team will try to close out its undefeated season versus New Providence (October 13th) and Governor Livingston (October 21st). Both of these games are away. Shortly after this, the first round of states will begin, which the Mountaineers will likely host.
