The Frontier Redhawks junior football team defeated Easthampton, 29-8, at East Longmeadow High School on Nov. 9 to secure a Super Bowl championship.
The victory also capped an undefeated season for Frontier.
The Redhawks’ Bryce Lewis set the tone for the day, blowing up Easthampton’s first offensive play from scrimmage for a loss. Kyrie Petrizzi-Richmond provided excellent pursuit for the defense, while the team benefited from the leadership and poise of Barrett Kicza.
Frontier recorded four fourth down stops during the game, halting any potential momentum for the Eagles. Silas Shulda applied constant backfield pressure while Phineas Friz and Tyson Serpone locked down the cut-back lanes. Ryan Washburn showcased textbook open-field tackling, ensuring that no play went for extra yardage.
The Redhawks struck early when quarterback Johnny Stanisewski connected with Lane Kicza for a 10-yard touchdown pass on their opening offensive drive. Stanisewski then hit Jack Carney for a 2-point conversion. Stanisewski led the offense with two touchdowns and two conversions. The Eagles focused on the passing game; Frontier turned to the rushing attack. Brody Bailey, the anchor strength of Lew Graves, and the toughness of Henry Baker at tackle powered the running game. The offensive line did not allow a sack.
Ryan Washburn scored a rushing touchdown for Frontier, with Lane Kicza then catching another 2-point conversion. Jack Carney added two long touchdown runs of 35 and 65 yards that were set up by lead blockers Petrizzi-Richmond and Barrett Kicza.
Jack Mason, Carson Clark, Benjamin Griffin and Matthew Griffin led the charge on special teams for Frontier. The unit helped provide excellent field position throughout the game.
This year’s championship also marks a transition for the program, as 10 players will move up to the senior level next season. But the future remains bright for the Redhawks, with rising standouts Logan Elias, Colson Hebert, Braiden Maloney and Sam Herzig are already setting the tone for next year’s junior squad, and future senior leaders Bentlee Candelaria and Bryce Urkiel ready to continue to legacy of Frontier football.
Frontier Youth Football is welcoming new players in grades 2-8 for the upcoming season. To learn more or sign up, contact Frontier Youth Football Association at FyfaHawks@gmail.com or find more information on Facebook at Frontier Youth Football.
