 Rosters (Players/Cheerleaders) <> Scores/Summaries/Stats <> Game Photos
Playoff Results
The Brookline Knights Year-End Banquet and Awards
Presentation was held on
Sunday, December 7. As always, it was a great time. Thanks Lisa and Joe!
Get your official Brookline Knights Apparel while supplies last!
Team Photos
* 8-Under <> 9-Under <> 10-Under <> 11-Under <> 13-Under *
* 13-Under Cheerleaders <> 10-Under Cheerleaders *
* 9-Under Cheerleaders <> 8-Under Cheerleaders *
Game Photos
13-Under Playoff vs Southside - 11/1/08
11-Under Playoff vs Avonworth - 11/1/08
11-Under vs Carlynton - 10/18/08
11-Under vs North Hills - 10/11/08
10-Under vs North Hills - 10/11/08
9-Under vs West Allegheny - 10/4/08
9-Under vs Steel Valley - 9/13/08
10-Under vs Steel Valley - 9/13/08
10-Under vs Chartiers Valley - 9/6/08
There are also several game photos of all teams
along with the Knight's game summaries below.
Brookline Knights Hall Of Champions
Official SSYFL League
Website
www.southsuburbanfootball.com
AccuWeather Forecast AccuWeather Radar
Take a look back at 35 Years of Brookline Knights
Gridiron History
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set your text size to "Medium" ... (View/Text Size/Medium).
If anyone notes mistakes, email corrections to brooklineknights@hotmail.com.
The Brookline Knights Webpage and Knights News
provided by Clint Burton.
2008 Brookline Knights Rosters
The Players
13-UNDER
Head Coach: Joe Nicholas
Assistant Coaches: Brian Nicholas, Steve Maiorano
Ricardo Burch Russell Page Blake Drischler
Tonyea Curry Zach Spath Jarrett Better
Dominic Amato Mike Cummings Ryan Mandarino
Christopher Noel Michael Ignasky Bradley Jacobs
Shemarr Johnson Mark Manko Victor Bragano
Jacob Lowden Stephen Maiorano Nick Sywyj
Cory Bronder Tom Hughes Joe Bogaski
Mike McKeen Sean Webb Ryan Trivus
Cody Muller Angelo Madison Joey Nicholas
Tyler Marino Michael Bishop Ronnie Langhoff
Chris Tonry Alex Kizzie-Berry Thomas Davis
Kyle Waraks Damel Banks Louie Rotunda
Darian McCray Will Dean
11-UNDER
Head Coach: Don Helman
Assistant Coaches: Bill O'Malley, Sean Stein, Joe Tongel
Tony Manuel Connor McGinnis Mike Roper
Joey Kalsek Chad Gregorius Logan Salicce
Whitney White Julius Noel Khalil Sanders
Desmond Cabbagestalk Marquis Trammel Joey Tongel
Darian Cabbagestalk Marty Shulik Martino Stein
Cody Drischler Brendan Cunningham Gino Foster
Troy Newton Seamus Corr Zacheria Sesay
Billy O'Malley Garrett Martin Bryan Bergener
Jeff Arnold Zach Booth Malik Petite
Joe Bonnar Giovanni DeMarzo David Suwalski
10-UNDER
Head Coach: Mike Manuel
Assistant Coaches: Dean Haskins, Carl Roell, Marc Jester
Mentchaas Anderson Brandon Benedetti Loren Wicks
Corey Bogaski Kevin Cummings Sammy DePasquale
Dylan DiRenna Christopher Elstner Matt Haskins
Amaree Hatcher Shane Holden Austin Liebro
Dalton Link Nick Manuel Tim Mazzarini
Mark Roell Quentin Rudy Stephen Schwartz
Joey Shulik Carlyle Stokes Taylor Thornton
Matt Tonkavich Adam Tonry J.T. Wheeler
Evan Berry
9-UNDER
Head Coach: Darrell Frazier
Assistant Coaches: Scott LaRocca, Ron Dunlap
Kenneth White Bruno Pisano Ryan Hough
Chadric Anderson Ronnie Dunlap Ronald Joseph
Christian Frazier Jacob Mellon Jake Devers
Demetrius Cotton Sharron Steave Henry Adrian
Richard Jetter Brady Gault Tyler LaRocca
Anthony Johnson Timothy Person Troy Bryant
Zachary Schweinberg Luke Jacobs Jim Wheeler
Tyler Gettings Jason Smith
8-UNDER
Head Coach: Rich Dunner
Assistant Coaches: Adam Salicce, Mike Grzelka, Scott Hazen
Lamar Lewis Noah Rodgers Brent Ivory
Jakob Richardson Marshal White Darryl Daniels
Branden Wysong Josh Booth Cole Salicce
Jeremy Jenkins Cullin Baker Randy Roscoe
Leonard Orbovich Cole McMullen Gaige Grzelka
Joel Wert Will Rupert Jack Motznik
Marcus Jacobs Dean O'Toole Lucas Wester
Zachary Liddle Anthony Carrington Jacob Graham
Joseph Grimes Trevor Hazen Ciaran Corr
Daniel Cervone Michael Visnich Jack Allen
Richie Dunner Brendan Turnbull
The Cheerleaders
13-UNDER
Coach: Nicole Nicholas
Olivia Beatty Jackie Farabaugh Kayla Papariella
Tiana Bennett Charlotte Primrose Brianna King
Jillian Bergener Sophie Kunsa Hannah Ritenour
Alexis Bradshaw Brianna Sarasnick Ashley Love
Kadie Castiglione Courtney Los Nichole Smith
Colleen Cummings Abigail Lutton Jessica Snyder
Cailey DeWaine Taylor Mizgorski Brianna Stolar
Megan Falce Molly McGlynn Courtney Watsula
Jenna Olander
10-UNDER
Coach: Colleen Dean
Jewely Andre-Wright Kayla Brown Alexa Colwell
Hayley Danlovich Allana Dean Emily DeMarco
Tyler Grimes Danielle Maxwell Alanda McGlynn
Hope McNemar Jamie Stanizzo Rachel Vichie
9-UNDER
Coach: Darlene DeMarzo
Melina Bushmen Brittany Corbett Hayli Davis
Gianna DeMarzo Sarina Williams Carli Flaherty
Courtney Thornton Delaney Gregorius Ariel Hilinski
Vivienne Johnson Rayajah Kelly Kayla Sanders
Lindsey Maiorano Erynn McDermott Tea Stein
Carly McDonald Mickey Sheehan Kara Devers
Hannah Wareham Jaleena Walker Darian Green
8-UNDER
Coach: Justina Bogaski
Tania Bennett Zia Bogaski Laurel Bristow
Julia Hamilton Tatum Hazen Destiny Hickey
Brianna Ivory Kylie Malobisky Hailee Meenan
Daphne McGuire Alyssa Norkevicus Julia Pokora
Haley Rupert Kaylee Russman Zoe Snyder
Ahnesti Wicks Kylee Stolar
2008 Playoff Results
Nov 8 * Nov 1
SSYFL CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP
Week #11 - November 8, 2008
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who helped out
with the website. Personally, I had a great time covering the
games and getting to know the coaches, parents and players. It
is a pleasure being involved with such a fine group of people.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
11-UNDER
North Hills 20 - BROOKLINE 6
Scoring Summary:
NH - TD run 35 yards (conversion run good)
BR - Khalil Sanders 2 run (conversion failed)
NH - TD run 14 yards (conversion failed)
NH - TD run 5 yards (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Brendan Cunningham, Khalil Sanders
NOTES: The two-time defending champion Mighty Knights of
Brookline came to North Hills for another battle with their
crosstown rivals. The Conference Championship was on the line
once more, and both teams were primed and ready to engage.
When this war was officially declared over, the Warriors of
North Hills had emerged victorious by the score of 20-6. It
was the first time the Warriors have ever beaten the Knights.
It was also the end to Brookline's dream of a three-peat.
North Hills came on strong right from the beginning. They took
the opening kickoff and marched 53 yards for the game's first
score. Acing the conversion gave the Warriors an 8-0 lead.
Both teams then exchanged turnovers. A Brendan Cunningham
fumble recovery gave Brookline great field position at the
Warrior 24 yard line. Five plays later, Khalil Sanders found
the endzone with a two yard run. A failed conversion attempt
left North Hills on top 8-6.
The Warriors took the ensuing kickoff and went on another 53
yard drive. This march ended with a fourteen yard touchdown
run at 5:24 of the second quarter. Both teams then chewed up
the turf until time expired. North Hills led 14-6 at the half.
The second half began where the first left off. Both teams
battled it out on the ground. The ball moved back and forth
across midfield. At 3:37 of the third quarter North Hills went
on a seven minute drive. Strangely enough, the fifteen play
marathon netted only fifteen yards before the Warriors were
forced to punt. But, what a punt it was! The ball rolled all
the way to the Brookline one before coming to a stop.
With their backs to the wall and only six minutes remaining,
the Knights nudged the ball forward four yards in three plays.
Faced with a 4th and six from their own five, Coach Donnie
called a timeout. With only four minutes to play, punting was
not an option. The time had come to lay it all on the line.
Quarterback Michael Roper dropped back to pass. He let loose
a bomb that sailed just out of the reach of Malik Petite. The
Knights turned the ball over. On the next play, a Warrior back
covered the five yards to the goal, giving North Hills a 20-6
edge and a ticket to the SSYFL Super Bowl.
Sometimes it's a game of numbers, and we don't mean the score.
North Hills outrushed the Knights 161-87. North Hills beat
Brookline in the takeaway game, 3-1. Brookline also committed
seven penalties totaling forty yards. Unfortunately for our
Knights, these are not the kind of numbers that win battles.
Finally, here are two numbers for everyone to memorize. Three
and forty-five. In the past five years our Mighty Knights have
won three championships. In the same span their won-loss
record is an amazing 45-8. These are the numbers to remember!
The Brookline Knight's eleven year olds have a lot to be proud
of. The accomplishments both this season and in the prior four
years are something that most kids their age only dream of.
Season Won-Loss Records:
2004 (9-1), 2005 (4-4), 2006 (12-0), 2007 (11-1), 2008 (9-2).
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
North Hills 36 - BROOKLINE 0
Scoring Summary:
NH - TD run 1 yard (conversion failed)
NH - TD run 39 yards (conversion pass good)
NH - TD run 35 yards (conversion pass good)
NH - Interception return 70 yards (conversion run good)
NH - TD run 30 yards (conversion failed)
NOTES: The Knights were manhandled by the North Hills Chiefs.
Offensively, defensively, mentally and physically, the Knights
were outplayed, outhustled, outhit and outran. By the end of
the first half, there was no fire left on the Brookline bench,
just a bunch of cold kids who wanted to go home.
North Hills built a 30-0 halftime lead. They were unstoppable.
The only thing that held them back was their own penalties. On
defense, they kept an iron grip on the Knight attack, allowing
only one first down.
A touchdown run on the Chief's first possession of the second
half was the final straw. The Knight's backs were broken and
the fat lady began to sing. The second-teamers weren't really
listening. They got tough and stopped a late-game drive by
North Hills deep in their own territory. That could be
considered the high point of an otherwise dismal performance.
Now that the season is over, it's time to reflect not on what
just happened, but what has happened over eleven games. Think
about the past three games, when you outscored your opponents
100-26. Think about how you beat Southside on their home turf.
Remember that your record was 7-4, a .636 winning percentage.
These are all measures of success, and this was a good year!
The cheerleaders also gave us their final performance of the
season and, despite being frozen, turned in another fine show.
All season, the girl who does the flip at the end has dazzled
the crowd time and again. Who is that girl? Colleen Cummings!
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
Week #10 - November 1, 2008 - SSYFL OPENING ROUND PLAYOFFS
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 32 - Avonworth 14
Scoring Summary:
Khalil Sanders 3 run (Michael Roper run)
Michael Roper 1 run (Khalil Sanders run)
Michael Roper 7 run (Khalil Sanders run)
Malik Petite 50 pass from Michael Roper (Michael Roper run)
Fumble Recovery: Gino Foster (2), Joey Kalsek
Interception: Michael Roper, Khalil Sanders
NOTES: Coach Donnie brought his Mighty Knights to Quarry Field
to take on the Avonworth Eagles in the opening round of the
SSYFL playoffs. Eager to defend their back-to-back titles, the
Knight's green machine pounded their way to a 32-14 victory in
a tune-up for their rematch with crosstown rival North Hills.
Avonworth won the coin toss and elected to receive. Little did
they know that Gino Foster had a different idea. Gino pounced
on the opening kickoff to give the Knights first possession.
Foster's coup set the tone for the rest of the game.
The Knights took control early and never let go. Brookline's
first drive ended at the Avonworth nine, but that was the only
time the offense failed to score in the first half. Quarterback
Michael Roper and running back Khalil Sanders, who finished
with over 100 yards rushing, led the team on a scoring blitz.
Roper methodically led the Knights up and down the field. The
running game was the prefered method of attack, but when the
need arose, Michael's passing arm was primed and ready. He and
Sanders spent the first twenty minutes tearing up the turf to
build up a 24-0 halftime lead. The defense kept pace with the
offense. They hit hard and took the life out of the Eagles.
The blitz continued in the second half. Brookline took the
kickoff and struck again. On a 4th and ten at midfield, Roper
threw a bomb that Malik Petite took in stride and carried to
the endzone for the Knight's fourth touchdown. Roper's good
conversion made the score 32-0 with eighteen minutes to play.
At this point, the second-stringers took over and carried the
Knight's home to victory. Joe Bonnar and Tony Manuel combined
with Brookline's newest backfield phenomenon, Zacheria Sesay,
on a short drive of their own. Like William "The Refrigerator"
Perry of Chicago Bears fame, Big Zach rumbled into the line
like a freight train and would not go down. Sesay gained
twenty-four yards on three carries, mostly with several Eagle
defenders clinging to his back.
Although the drive faltered at the Avonworth eleven, it used
up over five minutes on the game clock. With the score out of
reach and time running short, Avonworth managed to complete
two successful drives of their own. Both produced touchdown
receptions, bringing the final score to 32-14. Onside kick
recoveries by Petite and David Suwalski kept things honest.
It was a typical Mighty Knight masterpiece. Solid offensive
and defensive performances. Intensity, Drive and Confidence.
We purposely left out the word Concentration. When the score
is 32-0 it's easy to overlook the silly penalties and dropped
passes. The Knights look ready for the next step, but should
work on concentration. The North Hills Warriors will not be
quite as forgiving as Avonworth.
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 26 - Southside 6
Scoring Summary:
Michael Ignasky 1 run (Louie Rotunda pass from Zach Spath)
Tonyea Curry 31 pass from Zach Spath (conversion failed)
Michael Ignasky 21 run (conversion failed)
Nick Sywyj 1 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Dominic Amato
NOTES: The Brookline Knights came to Southside's castle and
proved that the broadsword is mightier than the sabre. When
this medieval blood-letting was over, the Knights had laid
waste to the Sabre's homeland. The 26-6 thrashing propelled
the Knights into the semi-finals and put a less than merciful
end to the Sabre's season.
Southside punted away their first possession and Brookline's
offense came out blazing. Michael Ignasky and Nick Sywyj
pounded the ball downfield. The six minute onslaught
culminated with a one yard run by Ignasky. A Louie Rotunda
reception added two more points for an early 8-0 Knight lead.
Southside was forced to punt again. With thirty seconds to go
in the first period, quarterback Zach Spath launched a perfect
bomb to Tonyea Curry in the corner of the endzone for the
Knight's second touchdown. Spath's pass spiraled well over
forty yards before reaching it's intended target. Very nice!
Forced to punt once more, the Sabres had their shining moment.
The Knight offense took over and Southside pushed them back
into a 3rd and 20 at midfield. Spath connected with Rotunda on
a short pass. Louie ran for eight yards ... and got tanked!
Both he and the ball went airborne, in different directions.
The ball landed gracefully in the arms of a Sabre defender,
who sped 58 yards for a score. Southside's conversion toss was
broken up by Ryan Mandarino. Brookline's lead was cut to 14-6.
Unfazed, Brookline charged right back. The Knights took the
kickoff and marched downfield. Ignasky and Sywyj again led the
charge, grinding out three first downs before Ignasky broke
free on a twenty-one yard blast for his second TD of the game.
The Knights went into halftime leading 20-6.
Halftime at Quarry Field should come with a warning label -
"CAUTION: MATURE PEOPLE SHOULD AVOID THE FINAL FIVE MINUTES
OR RISK NAUSEA, HEADACHES AND POSSIBLE LOSS OF CONTINENCE."
After both the Southside and Brookline cheerleaders put on
really nice shows, the Southside fans burst into this comedy
they called the "Southside Chant" or whatever. It was hideous!
P-L-E-A-S-E! Next time warn us so we can bring some earplugs.
Once this acoustic nightmare was over the game resumed.
Determined to spare further opponents from having to endure
any future renderings of the "Southside Chant", Brookline took
the second half kickoff and excorcised that demon. A 36 yard
run by Ignasky and another bomb from Spath to Curry positioned
the ball at the Sabre one yard line. From there, Sywyj powered
into the endzone, increasing the Knight's edge to 26-6.
The game now entered a brief psychotic phase. Still nauseated
by the chant thing, Dominic Amato went momentarily berzerk and
took out his frustration on anyone wearing black and gold. On
the kickoff return, Amato zeroed in on the runner and blasted
him with a punishing hit. Dominic then forced Southside into a
4th and forty-one with two sacks totalling thirty-two yards.
The Knights threatened to turn the game into a complete rout
early in the fourth quarter. They drove inside the Southside
ten yard line. A timely goal line interception restored some
semblance of pride to the Sabre sideline. Overall, aside from
these rare moments, Southside got spanked for forty minutes.
Michael Ignasky finished the game with 130 yards rushing. Nick
Sywyj added thirty-six more the hard way. Zach Spath enjoyed
a fine day with over 100 yards passing. The Knight defense
dominated the Sabres all day. Except for two brief episodes,
they kept the Southside attackers completely locked up.
Brookline now moves into the next round of the playoffs riding
a string of three impressive victories. It's time to step up
to a higher level. The next opponent will undoubtedly have
more to offer than the vanquished Sabres. Go Knights!
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
2008 Regular Season Records
TEAM W L PF PA
Brookline 13-UNDER 6 3 208 148
Brookline 11-UNDER 8 1 252 50
Brookline 10-UNDER 3 6 126 216
Brookline 9-UNDER 3 6 62 120
Brookline 8-UNDER 3 6 70 80
Individual
Knights Scoring Statistics
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
2008 Regular Season Game Results
Oct 26 * Oct 18 * Oct 11 * Oct 4 * Sep 27 * Sep 20 * Sep 13 * Sep 6 * Aug 30
WEEK #9 - October 26, 2008
8-UNDER
Baldwin 14 - BROOKLINE 0
NOTES: The Baldwin Broncos scored on their first possession of
both halves and their defense throttled the Knights attack.
The result was a 14-0 Baldwin victory over a Brookline team
that could not generate any offensive punch.
Brent Ivory provided Brookline fans with some excitement early
in the game when he took off on a long run. Brent went left,
then went right, criss-crossing the field until he found an
opening. On the books it was a fifteen yard gain, but Ivory
covered about ninety yards altogether. It was fun to watch.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
Baldwin 6 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Chadric Anderson (2)
Interception: Chadric Anderson
NOTES: This game was a defensive gem. It was one of those
games that is decided by field position, and Baldwin enjoyed
the best of that world for most of the contest. Despite having
it's back to the wall repeatedly, the Knights defense held on.
The game was scoreless for 39 minutes and 38 seconds. Only in
the final 22 seconds were the Breakers able to break the
deadlock. Their persistence was rewarded with a 6-0 victory.
After their first possession failed, Baldwin got off a great
punt that took a Breaker bounce and pinned Brookline deep in
its own territory. The ball never crossed midfield the rest of
the half. Thanks to some great defensive stops by Brookline,
the Breakers were held scoreless. Chadric Anderson had a
fumble recovery and a goal line interception to end serious
Baldwin threats. Brookline's offense, on-the-other-hand, was
unable to mount any sort of attack.
The second half was much the same as the first. Baldwin's
defense was able to push the Knights back into their own
territory and kept them there. Without any offensive punch,
the Knights defense was consigned to battling it out alone
against a determined Breaker attack. It was only a matter of
time before the dam broke.
The end began with 4:47 to go in the fourth. Baldwin took over
on the Knight's 39 yard line and pushed forward. Three first
downs later the Breakers were at the Brookline two. With
twenty-two seconds remaining, a Breaker back punched it up the
middle for a touchdown to break the stalemate. Game Over.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
Baldwin 40 - BROOKLINE 0
NOTES: Baldwin scored on five of seven field possessions and
their defense kept the Knights offense moving in reverse the
entire game. Aside from a 38 yard run by Mentchaas Anderson on
the first play from scrimmage, this day belonged entirely to
the Baldwin Vikings.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
Baldwin 8 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Gino Foster, Joey Kalsek
NOTES: The much anticipated game between the mighty Knights of
Brookline and the Baldwin Warriors was everything it was built
up to be. Two of the premier teams in the SSYFL battled it out
for forty minutes. When the dust cleared, Baldwin had handed
the Knights an 8-0 defeat. It was Brookline's first loss after
a string of fifteen consecutive wins dating back to last year.
It was also sweet revenge for a Baldwin squad that lost the
2007 Super Bowl to these very same Knights.
The first half was an offensive showdown. Baldwin took the
opening kickoff and ground out a first down. A Gino Foster
fumble recovery gave possession to the Knights with two
minutes gone. The Knights then marched downfield, collecting
four first downs along the way. Penalties put an end to this
promising drive at the Baldwin 27 yard line.
Baldwin took over and went on a march of their own. Aided by
two more Brookline penalties, the Warriors moved the sticks
four times on their deep push into Knights territory. Their
drive was capped off by a nine yard touchdown run and good
conversion with 3:39 remaining in the second quarter.
Khalil Sanders returned the ensuing kickoff 25 yards, then
added a first down on the ground before the clock wound down
to the end of the half. After twenty minutes of play, Baldwin
was in control with an 8-0 advantage.
The second half was a defensive stalemate. The Knights crossed
midfield twice, but were stopped both times inside the Baldwin
thirty yard line. Baldwin's attack never crossed midfield, but
that didn't matter. The Warrior defense rose to the occasion
and protected their eight-point lead to the very end.
It's difficult to say which team was better on this day. Both
Baldwin and Brookline played equally gritty games. Four costly
first half penalties against the Knights proved too much to
overcome and gave the Warriors all the edge they needed. This
coming week, our Knights need to work hard on playing smart,
mistake-free football. That's how to win playoff competition.
A MESSAGE FROM COACH DONNIE:
I would like to take a moment to thank all of the Brookline
Knight players, coaches and parents for all of your support
and generosity during this trying time for my nephew Connor.
Your kind words and actions have meant a lot to me and has
made the transition without Connor much easier. This was the
first time in five years that he wasn't on the sidelines with
us. Special thanks go out to the Nicholas family and to
everyone associated with my 11-year old team for your
continued support and encouragement. It really means a lot!
- Coach Don
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 48 - Baldwin 6
Scoring Summary:
Mark Manko 85 kickoff return
(Joey Nicholas pass from Zach Spath)
Louie Rotunda 2 pass from Zach Spath (conversion failed)
Zach Spath 2 run (conversion failed)
Nick Sywyj 16 run (Mark Manko run)
Louie Rotunda 7 pass from Zach Spath (Mark Manko run)
Mark Manko 3 run (conversion failed)
Russell Page 16 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Jacob Lowden (2), Nick Sywyj
Interception: Ryan Mandarino, Mark Manko
NOTES: The Brookline Knights rained down upon the Baldwin
Hurricanes with a Category 5 attack that helped make up for
the day's four previous shutout defeats. When the tempest
finally subsided, the Knights brought their regular season to
a close with a 48-6 victory.
The storm intensified quickly. Mark Manko took the opening
kickoff and ran 85 yards for the Knight's first score. A
tackle eligible pass to Joey Nicholas made the score 8-0.
Jacob Lowden pounced on a loose kickoff. A 21 yard reception
by Tonyea Curry moved the ball to the two. Zach Spath then
tossed a short pass to Louie Rotunda for a 14-0 lead.
A Lowden fumble recovery on Baldwin's first play from
scrimmage gave the ball right back to Brookline. Another long
run by Curry set up the game's third score. With less than
three minutes gone, Spath powered his way into the endzone.
An interception by Ryan Mandarino on Baldwin's next series led
to another quick touchdown, a sixteen yard run by Nick Sywyj.
With 3:28 left to play in the first quarter, lightning had
struck four times and the Knights held a 28-0 lead.
Momentarily blinded by the intensity of their own light show,
the Knight defense let a Baldwin receiver slip by and race 62
yards to safety. The incident spoiled the perfect storm, but
did nothing to stop the raging flood of points. Before the end
of the second quarter, Spath hooked up with Rotunda once more,
expanding the Brookline lead to 36-6 at halftime.
In what had rapidly become a named-storm, the Knight's kept
raining points on Baldwin in the second half. An interception
by Manko on the Hurricane's second third quarter possession
led to Mark's second touchdown of the day, a three yard sweep
around the right side. Once Hurricane Manko had passed, his
damage estimates alone totalled over 100 yards rushing, over
100 yards returning kicks and sixteen total points.
The eye of the storm may have passed, but the rain continued.
At this point, the second-stringers came on and the scoring
parade went on. A nice pass from Russell Page to Dorian
McCray set up the Knight's seventh touchdown. Russell's
sixteen yard touchdown run with eight minutes to go proved to
be the final blow. The skies cleared and calm returned.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
October 26, 2008
8-UNDER JV GAME (exhibition game)
BROOKLINE 14 - Baldwin 14
Scoring Summary:
Branden Wysong 31 run (no conversion attempt)
Jakob Richardson 52 run (no conversion attempt)
WEEK #8 - October 18, 2008
Thanks to Dan Cervone for an excellent rendering of the
National Anthem before the first game. When the song is
done correctly, it can be quite moving. This guy should
be singing at Heinz Field or PNC Park.
8-UNDER
BROOKLINE 20 - Carlynton 0
Scoring Summary:
Marshal White 18 run (conversion failed)
Lamar Lewis 17 run (Lamar Lewis pass from Brent Ivory)
Brent Ivory 15 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Joel Wert, Marcus Jacobs
NOTES: It was a cold, fall morning, but our little Knights
were red hot and ready to play some football. Play they did!
The Knight's gritty defense welcomed the re-emergence of their
offensive punch. Together, they put the heat on the Cougars
and came away steaming, with a 20-0 shutout victory.
The Knight defense took charge early in the contest. Carlynton
opened the game with a short march into Brookline territory.
Marshal White stopped their fourth and one gamble. The Cougars
next drive ended at midfield with a Joel Wert fumble recovery.
Brookline's offense then took over and went on the attack. The
line created some nice openings. Runners Lamar Lewis, Brent
Ivory and White surged forward. A twenty-one yard scamper by
Lewis was followed by an eighteen yard dash to the endzone by
White. The Knights held a 6-0 lead at halftime.
The Knight's cheerleaders welcomed the chance to get out on
the field. They showed that the players weren't the only ones
that came ready to rock. Despite the morning chill, our girls
performed their routine flawlessly. They were also on fire
this morning!
With renewed confidence, the Knights took the ball to start
the second half and went on another charge. Ivory provided
the spark with a 23 yard gain to the seventeen yard line.
Lewis covered the rest on a nice run, then took an Ivory pass
for two more points and a 14-0 Knight's lead.
Carlynton threatened on their next possession when a Cougar
runner got free. Thirty-eight yards downfield, Trevor Hazen
stopped the break-away back from behind. The defense pushed
the Cougars back to midfield as the third quarter expired.
The fourth quarter was all Knights. The offense chewed up the
clock with a seven minute, fifty-two yard drive, capped off by
Ivory's fifteen yard touchdown run. A nice cutback by Brent at
the five left the Cougar defenders stumbling in his wake.
A fumble recovery by Marcus Jacobs on the Cougar's last series
gave Brookline final possession and a 20-0 shutout victory!
Everyone played a great game, and Marshal White did quite well
in his new assignment in the offensive backfield.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
BROOKLINE 20 - Carlynton 14
Scoring Summary:
Christian Frazier 2 run (conversion failed)
Kenny White 29 run (Jake Devers pass from Christian Frazier)
Troy Bryant 25 punt return (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Ryan Hough
Interception: Kenny White
NOTES: The Knights fought a war this day. Brookline outplayed
Carlynton, but the Cougars would not quit. They kept coming
back. The game was decided in the final minute of play, and
it was one of those nail-biters you're glad is over.
The first half began with a bang. Brookline took the kickoff
and marched downfield. Chadric Anderson got things rolling
with a 27 yard dash on the first play from scrimmage. Kenny
White covered thirteen yards on the ground, then caught a
Christian Frazier pass for eighteen more to the Carlynton two
yard line. From there, Frazier punched it up the middle to
give Brookline an early 6-0 lead.
The defense held the Cougars motionless. On the Knight's next
possession, White took off on a fifty yard run to the Cougar
seven yard line, but the effort was negated by a penalty. A
punt gave Carlynton the ball to begin the second quarter. On
third down a Cougar runner got around the flank and headed
down the sideline for a 63 yard TD run to tie the game at 6-6.
The Knights charged back! Anderson ran for two first downs,
then White broke free for a 29 yard scoring run. A conversion
toss from Frazier to Jake Devers upped the score to 14-6 with
three minutes to go before the half. A White interception and
a fumble recovery by Ryan Hough squelched the next two Cougar
possessions, preserving the halftime lead.
Carlynton took the second half kickoff and mounted their only
sustained drive of the game. Their march downfield consumed
over ten minutes. They capped off their brief occupation with
a two yard touchdown plunge and a good conversion to tie the
score at 14-14.
The Knights offense took over and moved the ball to the Cougar
fifteen yard line, then stalled. Carlynton took over on downs
deep in their own territory and went nowhere. They were forced
to punt from their own thirteen. With 1:30 to go in the game,
Troy Bryant took the kick and returned it 25 yards for the
go-ahead touchdown. A failed conversion left the score 20-14.
The Cougars did not think the game was over! They took the
kickoff and returned it to the Knight 43 yard line. They
ground out a first down but, with no timeouts remaining, the
game clock expired to end this final threat.
The Knight offense did a great job holding onto, and moving,
the ball. They held a time-of-possession advantage and made
nine first downs. That may be a first for this season. Kenny
White is really coming into his own, both on offense and on
defense. Let's hope this momentum can carry over to next week.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
Carlynton 38 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Stephen Schwartz
NOTES: The Carlynton Cougars beat up on the Brookline Knights
in a 38-0 shellacking. The Cougars scored on five of six
possessions and throttled the Knight attack with a dastardly
display of domination on both sides of the ball.
The Knights did mount a brief threat early in the second
quarter when passes to Nick Manuel and Corey Bogaski moved the
sticks to the Cougar twenty-four, but that was it. Otherwise,
this game was all Carlynton.
One bright spot ... Amaree Hatcher had a couple nice kickoff
returns, and he livened things up just a bit in the final
minute of the game. Hatcher had a nice run for a first down,
then broke free for a thirty yard dash to the two yard line
as time expired in the game. It helped ease the pain of an
otherwise torturous experience. Thanks, Amaree!
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 50 - Carlynton 0
Scoring Summary:
Michael Roper 24 run (Chad Gregorius run)
Khalil Sanders 25 run (conversion failed)
Chad Gregorius 18 run (David Suwalski pass from Michael Roper)
Khalil Sanders 80 pass from Michael Roper (conversion failed)
Joey Kalsek 23 pass from Michael Roper (conversion failed)
Joe Bonnar 42 run (Giovanni DeMarzo run)
Joey Tongel 1 run (Giovanni DeMarzo run)
Fumble Recovery: Khalil Sanders (2)
Interception: Khalil Sanders, Logan Salicce
NOTES: If anyone around the league wondered how the mighty
Knights of Brookline would rebound after last week's loss of
starter Connor McGinnis, they got their answer today. Coach
Donnie's Knights haven't missed a beat. They destroyed the
Carlynton Cougars in a masterful display of pigskin prowess.
They bagged and tagged every Cougar in sight. It was fearful.
Let's forgo the recap of the game. It's all there in the
scoring summary.
This week, let's give praise to the guys in the trenches.
Each and every game, they battle it out with the opposition,
down in the dirt, while the offensive stars seem to get all
the recognition. These are the guys who open up the gaping
holes that propel this offensive machine, and these are the
guys who batter opposing lines into servile submission.
The offensive line:
Zach Booth (left guard), Marty Shulik (left tackle), Martino
Stein (center), Billy O'Malley (right tackle), Gino Foster
(right guard), Zacheria Sesay (guard/tackle), Malik Petite
and David Suwalski (tight end).
The defensive line:
Joe Bonnar (defensive end), Zacheria Sesay (defensive end),
Martino Stein (defensive end), Jeffrey Arnold (nose guard),
Gino Foster (right tackle) and Billy O'Malley (left tackle).
Now, let's get psyched up for a rematch of last year's Super
Bowl. The undefeated Baldwin Warriors are coming to McGibbeny
Field to seek revenge against the undefeated, and defending
champion, Brookline Knights. It's a matchup meant for Monday
Night Football, and the mighty Knights are ready to do battle.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 26 - Carlynton 14
Scoring Summary:
Zach Spath 2 run (conversion failed)
Michael Ignasky 7 run (Michael Ignasky run)
Zach Spath 1 run (conversion failed)
Michael Ignasky 73 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Tyler Marino, Jacob Lowden
Interception: Ryan Mandarino
NOTES: The elder Knights roller-coaster season took an uphill
turn with a 26-14 victory over a scrappy Carlynton team. Like
the nine year old Cougars, this team kept clawing away and
wouldn't quit. Only a Knight's defense that was up to the
challenge kept the wild cats in the cage. The Brookline
offense, still stinging from last week's drubbing at North
Hills, also rose to the challenge with a well-rounded attack.
Brookline's opening drive began at 6:30 of the first quarter.
Riding the legs of Michael Ignasky, the Knights ground out
four first downs, then found the endzone with a two yard
plunge by quarterback Zach Spath. An interception on the
conversion toss kept the score 6-0.
A one-handed mid-air fumble recovery by Jacob Lowden ended
Carlynton's next drive at the Knight 22 yard line. The offense
coughed the ball up on the next play, giving Carlynton great
field position at the Knight 29. A timely stop by Lowden on
fourth down ended Carlynton's threat inside the Knight ten.
Ignasky, who finished the day with nearly 200 yards rushing,
gave Brookline some breathing room with a 42 yard burst. The
offense stalled at midfield. Carlynton took over on downs.
Open field tackles by Tonyea Curry stopped Cougar runs of 27
and 22 yards. Undetered, Carlynton found the endzone. An eight
yard run with 1:43 to go in the half tied the game at 6-6.
The Knights came charging back before the half ended. Quick
passes to Nick Sywyj and Louie Rotunda pushed the ball forward
to the Carlynton six yard line. With 18 seconds left, Ignasky
scored on a seven yard run. Michael added a two-point burst to
give the Knights a 14-6 halftime edge.
Armed with momentum, and spurred on by Coach Donnie's halftime
instructions, the Knights took the second half kickoff and
mounted a seven minute drive. Good runs by Ignasky and Sywyj,
and a nice pass reception by Jarrett Better, gave the Knights
a 1st and goal at the Cougar eight. On 4th and one, Spath went
up the middle again for the final yard and a 20-6 lead.
Carlynton came right back, took the kickoff, and charged forth
to the Knight seventeen. Their drive was stopped on fourth
down. Brookline went nowhere in four plays and punted, giving
the Cougars fine field position at the Knight 28. A long pass
was intercepted by Ryan Mandarino and returned 95 yards for a
touchdown. Unfortunately for Ryan, a blocking penalty during
the runback erased his score and placed the ball at the ten.
Ignasky covered the ninety yards in two plays. His 73 yard
touchdown run put the game away with 2:46 remaining. Carlynton
finally got back on the board with 1:16 to go. A twelve yard
run and a good conversion brought the final score to 26-14.
The Knights played with the kind of intensity that was totally
lacking last week against North Hills. Now, let's keep that
spirit alive next game against Baldwin and go into the post-
season with the confidence and momentum of winners!
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
October 18, 2008
8-UNDER JV GAME (exhibition game)
BROOKLINE 20 - Carlynton 0
Scoring Summary:
Branden Wysong 48 run (conversion failed)
Cole McMullen 54 run (conversion failed)
Branden Wysong 51 run (Cullin Baker run)
NOTES: The littlest Knights looked mighty big this morning.
The offense made big plays and the defense went big game
hunting and bagged a Cougar or two. Great game! GO KNIGHTS!
October 13, 2008
8-UNDER JV GAME (exhibition game)
Southside 8 - BROOKLINE 0
NOTES: This game was supposed to be played against Baldwin,
but they did not show up. Thanks to the coaches of the
Southside Sabres for pulling their kids together to play a
fun game against our little Knights. A tough defensive
performance by both teams from start to finish. Neither
offense was able to muster a score until the final thirty
seconds, when Southside found the endzone.
WEEK #7 - October 11, 2008
8-UNDER
North Hills 12 - BROOKLINE 8
Scoring Summary:
Darryl Daniels 55 run (Brent Ivory run)
Fumble Recovery: Brent Ivory, Darryl Daniels
NOTES: North Hills scored on their first possession. A fine
play by Branden Wysong stopped the conversion attempt. For the
remainder of the first half, the Knight's defense held off a
tenacious Tomahawk attack. While the offense struggled to find
their groove, strong defensive efforts by Brent Ivory, Will
Rupert, Trevor Hazen and Marshal White kept the score close at
halftime.
The Tomahawks struck again early in the second half. Another
good stop by Wysong held North Hills to a 12-0 lead. In the
fourth quarter, the Knight's offense began to move. Darryl
Daniels 55 yard touchdown halved the North Hills lead. A good
conversion run by Ivory brought the score to 12-8.
Brookline got the ball back once more in the final minutes of
the game. Lamar Lewis, Wysong and Daniels moved the ball to
within striking distance. The final tick of the game clock
struck first, and North Hills gained a hard-fought victory.
Thanks to Lisa Richardson for providing game information.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
North Hills 22 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Chadric Anderson
NOTES:
Having arrived at halftime, I missed the 22-0 blowout that
was the first half and only witnessed the scoreless contest
played during the second. From what I heard, that was a good
thing. North Hills scored on all three of their possessions
during the opening half and outright dominated the Knights.
Our spunky cheerleaders aced their halftime show, and this
spirit must have been catchy. Our young Knights came back and
played a fairly decent second half, but the eventual outcome
was never in doubt.
Kenny White started the second half with a twenty yard
kickoff return. A nice pass from Sharron Steave to Jake Devers
gained twelve more yards. A couple more nice runs by White
kept the sticks moving forward. The offense then stalled,
turning the ball over at the North Hills twenty yard line.
A North Hills running back soon broke free on a 54 yard
downfield chase. The runner was caught from behind and downed
by White deep in Brookline territory. On the next play,
Chadric Anderson recovered a loose ball to end that charge.
The Brookline and North Hills offenses both went four plays
and out, turning the ball over on downs. The Knights got the
ball back one final time at their own 26 yard line. The second
teamers went to work and generated a bit of a drive.
Tyler Gettings, Brady Gault, Demetrius Cotton and Tyler
LaRocca combined to move the sticks twice. The surge ended
with a North Hills interception. The Brave's eleven yard
return was abruptly terminated at midfield with a thunderous
hit by Anthony Johnson in front of the Knight bench.
North Hills ran off the final two minutes to end the game.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
North Hills 36 - BROOKLINE 24
Scoring Summary:
Loren Wicks 28 run (Amaree Hatcher pass from Loren Wicks)
Mentchaas Anderson 89 run (Nick Manuel run)
Loren Wicks 53 run (Nick Manuel run)
Fumble Recovery: Stephen Schwartz, Dalton Link
NOTES: This game was strikingly similar to the previous game.
North Hills dominated the opening act and held a 28-8 lead at
halftime. The Knights came alive in the second half and
outscored the Warriors, 16-8. But despite the late game surge
the outcome never seemed in doubt.
The first half was pretty much all North Hills. The Warriors
mounted four sustained drives and capped them all off with
touchdown runs. The Knight offense was rendered powerless by
the swarming Warrior defense. The score was 28-0 with two
minutes to go in the half.
Amaree Hatcher had a fine return on the fourth North Hills
kickoff and gave Brookline's slumbering offense a boost. Loren
Wicks then broke free on a forty yard run to the Warrior 37
yard line. Wicks followed with a nine yard burst, then hit a
groove and found the endzone with a 28 yard run. A good
conversion toss to Hatcher made the score 28-8 at halftime.
During the second half, the Knights as a team came alive and
as one Brookline fan said, "made a dandy game of it."
The Knights took the kickoff and went to work. It took them
four plays to strike. On fourth and long, Mentchaas Anderson
took a Wicks handoff and streaked 89 yards for a touchdown.
Nick Manuel dashed to the pylon for the two-point conversion
to bring the score to 28-16.
North Hills responded with a long drive of their own. A two
yard plunge up the middle and a good conversion expanded the
Warrior lead to 36-16. On their next possession, a Warrior
coughed up the ball and Stephen Schwartz recovered, giving
Brookline good field position near the fifty yard line.
Wicks capitalized with a 53 yard run to the goal line for his
second touchdown of the game. Forty-nine seconds remained in
the third period. Another successful conversion run by Manuel
narrowed score to 36-24.
A Warrior fumble on the ensuing kickoff was recovered by
Dalton Link. Two penalties stifled the Knight's offensive
momentum, but another good defensive stop on North Hills next
series gave Brookline a slim chance with 2:30 remaining.
Another long run by Anderson gave the Knights a 1st and goal
at the Warrior four yard line with 2:14 to go. The Knights
were a quick score and an onside kick away from a miracle.
A fine goal line stand by North Hills ate away precious time
and preserved their victory. Although the eventual outcome
never really seemed in doubt, the Knights comeback did make
this an enjoyable game for everyone.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 30 - North Hills 22
Scoring Summary:
Connor McGinnis 1 run (conversion failed)
Khalil Sanders 4 run (Khalil Sanders run)
Khalil Sanders 9 run (Connor McGinnis run)
Connor McGinnis 32 run (Michael Roper run)
Interception: Connor McGinnis (2), Michael Roper
Fumble Recovery: Zacheria Sesay
Brookline-North Hills Game History (2005-2008):
2005: Brookline 8 - North Hills 6
2006: Brookline 14 - North Hills 8 (SSYFL Super Bowl)
2007: Brookline 14 - North Hills 6
2007: Brookline 8 - North Hills 0 (Conference Championship)
2008: Brookline 30 - North Hills 22
NOTES: As age-group rivalries go, this collection of kids from
Brookline and North Hills have met five times since 2005. In
hard fought contests, Brookline has emerged victorious in each
of the five meetings. All five were gridiron classics pitting
the cream of the North versus the pride of the South. In this,
the fifth meeting of these two powerhouse teams, the Knights
again came out on top, 30-22, but at what price?
This game was looked forward to with much anticipation. We all
knew it was going to be a war. Connor McGinnis came to North
Hills with a purpose. He was going to show us all why the
Brookline Knights are the best, and he was determined to leave
the field like a true champion. He did not let us down, but
his exit was not quite what he, or anyone else, had in mind.
The game started off a bit unexpectedly. North Hills took the
opening kickoff and returned it 62 yards to the Knight three
yard line. Joe Bonnar's saving tackle kept the ball in play.
The Knights defense was up to the early challenge. The
Redskins ran off three plays, all for negative yardage. On
fourth down they tried a pass which Connor kindly intercepted.
Brookline took over on their own eight yard line and scratched
out a first down. Four downs later, after North Hills forced a
4th and 8, the Knight's punt went errant and a Redskin fell on
the loose ball in great field position.
Two good stops and a sack by Julius Noel pushed the Warriors
back. On 4th and 15, a trick play found its mark. The pass
reception moved the ball 29 yards to the Brookline four.
A touchdown run on the next play, and a good conversion, gave
North Hills an 8-0 lead.
Brookline took the Redskin kickoff and launched a six minute
drive. Good runs by McGinnis and Khalil Sanders, and a nice
pass to Joey Kalsek, moved the ball to the Redskin nine. Four
plays later, on 4th and one, Connor powered his way into the
endzone. A sack on the conversion attempt left North Hills in
control, 8-6, with 6:40 to go in the first half.
North Hills went on a run of their own. They took the kickoff
and started a march downfield. Two first downs moved the ball
into Knight territory. Then, a stray pass found its way into
the arms of McGinnis, who returned it 64 yards to the Redskins
four yard line. With 1:42 to go in the half, Sanders put the
Knights on top with a four yard TD run. Khalil's conversion
run gave Brookline a 14-8 halftime lead.
Connor and Company wasted no time enlarging their lead at the
start of the second half. An excellent kick return by Chad
Gregorius, who played a great game from start to finish, put
the ball at midfield. McGinnis and Sander's combined efforts
moved the ball downfield to the nine yard line. Sanders then
completed the drive with his second touchdown run of the day.
McGinnis added two points and the scoreboard read:
Brookline 22 - North Hills 8.
The Redskins took the kickoff and methodically moved the ball
into Knight territory. A timely fumble recovery by Zacheria
Sesay put the ball back into Brookline's hands with 3:19 to go
in the third quarter.
McGinnis led the Knights downfield again, determined to put an
exclamation point on what was quickly becoming a rout. The
running game pushed the sticks forward twice, then McGinnis
broke free and took off on a dash to the goal line. In hot
pursuit, a Redskin defender caught up and pulled Connor down
from behind just as he crossed the plane. TOUCHDOWN!
That's when we heard it. A blood-curdling scream. It sounded
nightmarish. When Brookline fans saw Connor lying on the
ground reality hit hard, like a dagger through their hearts.
When tackled, Connor's ankle broke. A stunned hush descended
upon the crowd. Grief and concern immediately followed.
For what seemed like a really long time, coaches huddled around
Brookline's fallen warrior and waited for the EMS techs to
arrive. After his leg was stabilized, and he was being taken to
the ambulance, Connor kept asking, "Did I score?" Now that's
dedication!
As the ambulance left the field, the respect and concern showed
by our friends from North Hills was touching. It was the kind
of respect that can only be earned. No one did that better the
past few years on the football field than Connor McGinnis.
The shock of Connor's loss weighed heavily on the Knights. When
the game resumed, Michael Roper finished off the touchdown with
a good two-point run. With the score now 30-8, North Hills took
advantage of the Knight's confusion. They took the kickoff to
start the fourth quarter and mounted a relentless charge.
Their charge ended with a twenty yard scoring toss and a
successful conversion to bring the score to 30-16. An onside
kick attempt was recovered by Joey Tongel to keep the ball in
Brookline's possession. Backup quarterback Tony Manuel moved
the Knights downfield with six consecutive runs covering
nineteen yards. On the seventh, a fumble was scooped up by a
Redskin defender, who returned it 57 yards to close the gap
to 30-22. Twenty-one seconds remained in the game.
North Hills again tried an onside kick, this time with success.
The Redskins had the ball at midfield with fifteen seconds
remaining. Their first pass hit the mark. The runner went out
of bounds to stop the clock. Time for one more play!
With Brookliner's chewing furiously on their fingernails, the
next pass was intercepted by Roper to put an end to North Hills
final charge. The mighty Knights had held off the Redskins once
again and completed a new chapter in the Brookline-North Hills
rivalry. But, the price of this victory was mighty high.
The entire Knights organization sends its sincerest wishes to
Connor and the McGinnis family for his speedy and healthy
recovery. We're sure everyone will echo this final sentiment.
It has been a true pleasure to watch an extraordinary young
talent like Connor. His season may have ended, but we are
sure that he will be back, bigger and better. This is just
a setback. His best years are ahead of him. Keep the faith.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
North Hills 42 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Ryan Mandarino
NOTES: Well, we've used the "ugly game" thing before, so how
about A-W-E-F-U-L to describe this one. How the Knights can
go from last week's 46-6 victory to this week's 42-0 defeat
is so hard to explain or understand.
Maybe the enigma hypothesis is more accurate than originally
thought. Whatever the answer, this was an aweful game. It was
28-0 at halftime. Only the mercy of the running clock kept the
Chiefs from doubling that by game's end.
If everyone on this team played with the same kind of drive
and intensity as Knight Seniors Jacob Lowden and Nick Sywyj
these games would be a lot more fun to watch. Lowden played
a tough game on both sides of the ball. Sywyj looked like the
classic Jack Lambert photo with blood and sweat streaming from
the bridge of his nose. As Coach Brian patched up his wounds,
all Sywyj wanted was to get back on the field and hit someone.
How can anyone watch these two warriors and not be inspired
enough to step up their game?
Yo Knights, take a que from Jake and Nick, and start playing
like you know you can. Their kind of example is meant to be
imitated, not ignored. They are your leaders ... follow them!
Once again Nicole's cheerleaders stole the show and get the
game ball. Each week they seem to add a new twist to their
halftime routine. They got style, they got talent and they
look like winners! Jake and Nick are in good company.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
October 7, 2008
8-UNDER JV GAME (exhibition game)
BROOKLINE 16 - West Allegheny 8
Scoring Summary:
Jakob Richardson run (Jakob Richardson run)
Jakob Richardson run (Jakob Richardson run)
Fumble Recovery: Branden Wysong
NOTES: Our littlest Knights had a good game against West
Allegheny. After giving up an early touchdown, the Knights put
on their game faces and stopped the West Allegheny attack. Two
touchdowns in the second half and a good stand near the game's
end gave the little Knights a big victory.
On offense, Brandon Turnbull, Branden Wysong, Cullin Baker and
Jakob Richardson had productive days. On defense, Wysong,
Turnbull, Cole McMullen and Randy Roscoe had good games. Jack
Motznik added a sack to round out a solid defensive effort.
WEEK #6 - October 4, 2008
8-UNDER
West Allegheny 28 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Brent Ivory
NOTES: The morning was cold, and so were our little Knights.
This Brookline offense is struggling. The defense tried their
best. They helped keep the Knights in the game for the first
half, but with an offense that finished the game with negative
yardage, the burden was just too much and the wall crumbled.
West Allegheny struck on their first possession with a 42 yard
touchdown run. Penalties and backwards movement stymied the
Knights three first half possessions. The Indians threatened
again on their third possession. Good stops by Branden Wysong,
Anthony Johnson and Marshal White ended the surge at the ten
yard line. The game was still close at halftime, only 6-0.
The Indians picked up where they left off at the start of the
second half. A 45 yard touchdown run and a good conversion
opened their lead to 14-0. A fumble recovery by Brent Ivory
stopped the Indians next drive, but that was it. The Indian
runners found the endzone twice more with runs of 22 and 47
yards to bring the final score to 28-0.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
West Allegheny 18 - BROOKLINE 6
Scoring Summary:
Kenny White 34 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Jake Devers
NOTES: The 9-year old Knights faired better in the second game
of the morning, but the end result was the same. The defense
tried to hold the fort, but the Indian's relentless attack
proved too much. The offense had some fine moments, but could
not put enough of those fine plays together to score points.
The game was a defensive stalemate during the first nineteen
minutes. Neither team could generate much ball movement. An
interception with 1:48 to go in the second quarter gave West
Allegheny great field possession at the Knight's 23 yard line.
On third and four, a sixteen yard Indian run put the ball at
the one. With 30 seconds to go in the period, West Allegheny
found the endzone for a 6-0 halftime lead.
Brookline struck back at 5:04 in the third quarter when Kenny
White took off around the left side and dashed 34 yards to the
goal line. A failed conversion run left the score tied at 6-6.
On the Knights next possession, Chadric Anderson got free and
motored 52 yards into Indian territory. Sharron Steave
followed up on the next play with a 37 yard touchdown run, but
his score was called back on a false start penalty.
From that point the Knight offense went into reverse. The same
can not be said of the Indian's attack. From midfield, West
Allegheny pushed forward with a couple good runs to the Knight
one yard line. Their persistence paid off. A one yard plunge
with 2:26 to go in the fourth quarter gave them a 12-6 lead.
Brookline got the ball back and went twenty yards backwards.
The Knights turned the ball over on downs at their own twelve
with fifty seconds to go in the game. A nine yard touchdown
run gave the Indians an 18-6 lead and sealed their victory.
A 25 yard pass from Steave to Jake Devers on the final play of
the game ended the contest on a positive note. Despite the
loss, this team has improved quite a bit over the last two
weeks. Our Knights played a good game against a good team.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
West Allegheny 34 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Adam Tonry, Amaree Hatcher, Carlyle Stokes
NOTES: West Allegheny sent a war party of 10-year old Indians
to plunder and pillage. By the end of this game, only the
helmets on our Knights heads kept the invaders from leaving
with a few scalps strung to their belts.
Brookline took the opening kickoff and moved the sticks once.
A long punt by Adam Tonry pinned the Indians back at their own
nine yard line. Like Custer at the Little Big Horn, the sense
of security and well-being was short-lived.
On their third play from scrimmage, the Indians struck. An 80
yard scoring run put the Knights on the defensive. The Knights
second punt of the afternoon was returned fifty yards for the
Indians second score. A fumble recovery by Tonry deflected the
next arrow, but it wasn't enough to stem the charge. West
Allegheny soon added a third score for a 20-0 halftime lead.
Brookline's defense launched a counterattack in the third
quarter with takeaways by Amaree Hatcher and Carlyle Stokes,
but the offense was unable to make good on their gains. This
only delayed the inevitable. Before it was over, the Indians
responded with two more touchdowns to complete the massacre.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 14 - West Allegheny 12
Scoring Summary:
Khalil Sanders 32 pass from Connor McGinnis
(Connor McGinnis run)
Connor McGinnis 1 run (conversion failed)
Interception: Gino Foster
Fumble Recovery: Zacheria Sesay
NOTES: A Knights fan looked at the schedule with anticipation
of the game at North Hills next week. "That ought to be a
great game," he said. A bystander responded, "West Allegheny
is a good team. Tomorrow is going to be a tough one." How
right he was.
The mighty Knights of Brookline met their match against the
Indians of West Allegheny in a hard fought, classic gridiron
contest. The two teams slugged it out for forty minutes in
a game that wasn't settled until the final minute of play.
When it was over, the Knights emerged victorious over a
determined and well-coached opponent.
The Knights took the opening kickoff and went to work, like
business as usual. After grinding out a quick first down,
the offense lost its grip. A fumble on their fourth play
led to a long West Allegheny drive. A 45 yard breakaway run
was stopped from behind by Logan Salicce. Two plays later,
however, a twenty yard pass found its mark and West Allegheny
took a 6-0 lead! Some were speechless. Not Coach Donnie.
Another fumble gave the ball back to the Indians at midfield.
Their offense began to move again. A saving tackle by Khalil
Sanders stopped a second breakaway runner, then Chad
Gregorius dropped another. An interception by Gino Foster put
out the fire and gave the Knights the boost they needed.
A 35 yard pass from Connor McGinnis to Malik Petite got the
offense out of its malaise. McGinnis followed with a 32 yard
scoring toss to Sanders to even the score. Connor then
punched it up the middle for the two-point conversion with
three minutes to go in the second quarter. Sacks by McGinnis
and Foster on the Indians next possession ensured Brookline
an 8-6 lead at halftime.
The second half was no less a nail-biter. The Knights struck
first. A fumble recovery by Zacheria Sesay and a long punt by
McGinnis pinned the Indian offense deep in its own territory.
Marty Shulik then blocked a punt that would have given
Brookline the ball at the West Allegheny three yard line, but
a roughing the kicker penalty forced a re-kick.
Pressured a second time, the Indian punter flubbed the kick
and it went out of bounds at the 24 yard line. Three runs
moved the ball to the fourteen. McGinnis connected with David
Suwalski for thirteen more to the one. From there, Connor
powered it into the endzone, giving the Knights some breathing
room with a 14-6 lead to start the fourth quarter. The failed
conversion attempt kept the game open and nerves frayed.
West Allegheny was undetered. On their next possession, an
Indian receiver took a pass and sprinted sixty yards to close
the gap to 14-12. The conversion toss was broken up by Joey
"Special K" Kalsek, a fine leaping play that kept Brookline
on top by a narrow two-point margin. You could hear Frank
and Anita's voices in downtown Pittsburgh. Way to go Joe!
David Suwalski pounced on the Indians onside kick attempt with
four minutes to go in the game. The offense then chewed up the
remaining time. A fifteen yard reception by Suwalski on fourth
and ten put an end to the Indian uprising with 1:07 to go.
The Knights proved that they can scratch and claw with a
worthy opponent. They showed why they are the two-time
defending champs. Coach Donnie and the mighty Knights are
now battle-tested and ready to face off with North Hills in
a battle of division leaders. That ought to be a great game.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 46 - Bethel Park (2) 6
Scoring Summary:
Tonyea Curry 21 run (Louie Rotunda pass from Zach Spath)
Zach Spath 20 pass from Tonyea Curry (Michael Ignasky run)
Michael Ignasky 29 run (Louie Rotunda pass from Zach Spath)
Michael Ignasky 2 run (Ricardo Burch pass from Zach Spath)
Tonyea Curry 65 kickoff return (conversion failed)
Michael Ignasky 60 run (Tonyea Curry pass from Zach Spath)
Interception: Chris Noel
NOTES: If one game could determine how good a team is, then
after watching this performance, the older Knights would be
considered a powerhouse. They would be feared by all and their
exploits would be the stuff of legend. Well, reality is a bit
more complicated, but never-the-less, our Knights put on quite
a show against the helpless Hawks of Bethel Park.
From the opening kickoff to the final horn, Brookline crushed
the Hawks. There was no let up. The defense was like the Steel
Curtain and the offense was Showtime. Total domination.
Brookline scored on its first four possessions to take a 32-0
halftime lead. Only the clock could stop the scoring parade.
Even the second teamers were hot, holding back a late-game
rally by the Hawks with a nice stand inside the ten yard line.
Michael Ignasky ran for over 150 yards and Tonyea Curry pulled
a hat trick, running for one touchdown, throwing for a second
and returning a kickoff for a third. Curry added eighty yards
receiving to round off a marvelous performance. Games like
this are nice once in a while. Everyone gets to play. Everyone
does well, and everyone goes home with a smile on their face.
Everyone except the Hawks. Great game Knights!!!
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
September 27, 2008
8-UNDER JV GAME (exhibition game)
BROOKLINE 26 - Brentwood 6
Scoring Summary:
Jakob Richardson run (conversion failed)
Jakob Richardson run (conversion failed)
Cullin Baker run (Gaige Grzelka run)
Branden Wysong run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Jakob Richardson, Branden Wysong (2),
Zack Liddle
WEEK #5 - September 27, 2008
8-UNDER
Brentwood 6 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Cole Salicce, Noah Rodgers
NOTES: The first half saw sloppy play by both teams. A series
of fumbles accounted for most of the first quarter action. The
Knights offense had a difficult time moving the ball even when
it held on to it. Only quarterback Brent Ivory seemed able to
scratch out a few yards, but those were good for only a first
down.
Brentwood, on the other hand, was able to convert a Brookline
turnover into a six-point lead late in the second quarter. A
fine stop by Ivory and Jeremy Jenkins on the conversion
attempt kept the score close, 6-0, at halftime.
Late in the second half, the Knight offense began to show
flickers of light. A fumble stymied their first promising
drive, but after tough defense by Jenkins, Joel Wert, Marshal
White and Cole Salicce stopped Brentwood cold, Brookline got
one more chance to take control with decent field position.
Branden Wysong and Darryl Daniels combined to move the sticks
twice, but there wasn't enough time left on the clock to
capitalize on their efforts. When the final horn sounded, the
Dukes breathed a sigh of relief and left the playing field
with a 6-0 victory.
Thanks to Lisa Richardson for providing game information.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
BROOKLINE 30 - Brentwood 8
Scoring Summary:
Christian Frazier run (Christian Frazier run)
Kenny White pass from Sharron Steave (Sharron Steave run)
Sharron Steave run (conversion failed)
Kenny White run (Jake Devers run)
Fumble Recovery: Sharron Steave, Tim Persons,
Christian Frazier
NOTES: The nine year old Knights offense finally broke the ice
and showed how they can move the ball with consistency and put
points on the scoreboard. The defensive unit welcomed the rest
and responded by holding the Brentwood offense to just one
score in the Knights 30-8 victory.
Fantastic running by Sharron Steave, Kenny White and Christian
Frazier fueled the resurgent Knights. Even the passing game
was on target, as Steave hooked up with White for the second
Brookline touchdown of the afternoon. The spirited offensive
effort was denied a fifth touchdown when a 52 yard run by
Steave as the game clock expired was called back on a penalty.
We already knew that this team could play defense. Now that
the offense has proven it's ability to score, what once looked
dreadful has shown it's promising side. Let's hope that the
confidence boost leads to a better and brighter future.
Thanks to the Team Moms and Coach Darrell for providing game
information.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
BROOKLINE 20 - Brentwood 6
Scoring Summary:
Loren Wicks 7 run (conversion failed)
Loren Wicks 2 run (Mentchaas Anderson run)
Joey Shulik 15 run (conversion failed)
Interception: Corey Bogaski (2)
Fumble Recovery: Nick Manuel
NOTES: Coach Mike Manuel's Knights showed that they are much
more than a one-person team. They shook off the loss of runner
Taylor Thornton and came back with an impressive performance
against the Brentwood Dukes. Led by quarterback Loren Wicks
and a stingy defense, the Knights dominated the contest.
On the Knight's first possession, Wicks took off on a 48 yard
scamper to the Brentwood seven, then followed with a QB sneak
for seven more, and a six-point lead. A fumble on their next
possession negated a long punt return by Amaree Hatcher. On
their third series, however, the Knights moved the ball
downfield with a sustained drive.
Long runs by Mentchaas Anderson and a crucial fourth down
catch by Hatcher positioned the Knights with a 1st and goal at
the Duke two yard line. Wicks followed with a two yard plunge,
and Anderson added the conversion to build up a 14-0 lead. Two
interceptions by Corey Bogaski stifled the Duke offense for
the remainder of the half.
The second half brought the rain, but that did not dampen the
Knight offense. They took the kickoff and went right to work.
An acrobatic catch and long dash by Mark Roell looked like the
next Brookline score, but a fumble at the three yard line put
out that fire. This didn't stop the Knights from turning up
the heat.
A Nick Manuel fumble recovery at the Brentwood 15 gave the
ball back to the Knights. Joey Shulik capitalized on the gift
with a 15 yard touchdown run, bringing the 3rd quarter score
to 20-0. A fourth quarter touchdown by the Dukes ended the
shutout bid, and the final score read: Knights 20 - Dukes 6.
Thanks to Jen Haskins for providing game information.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 36 - Brentwood 0
Scoring Summary:
Khalil Sanders 25 run
(David Suwalski pass from Connor McGinnis)
Khalil Sanders 15 run (conversion failed)
Khalil Sanders 10 run (Chad Gregorius run)
Connor McGinnis 46 run
(Michael Roper pass from Connor McGinnis)
Connor McGinnis 2 run (conversion failed)
Interception: Connor McGinnis
Fumble Recovery: Michael Roper, Zacheria Sesay
NOTES: It was another impressive performance by the mighty
Knights of Brookline. Khalil Sanders went on a scoring spree
with three consecutive touchdown runs and Connor McGinnis
added one of his own as Brookline built up a 30-0 halftime
lead. Defensively, the Knights strangled the Brentwood offense
in another display of coordinated carnage.
The Knights first possession of the second half saw McGinnis
follow a long dash by Sanders with his second scoring run of
the day. Afterwards, the second string offense, led by backup
quarterback Joe Bonnar, did a good job of managing the ball.
Running backs Julius Noel and Giovanni DeMarzo helped eat up
the clock with a few timely runs and the defense kept a
stranglehold on the Brentwood attack.
An anonymous on-the-field witness said that safety Tony Manuel
executed a perfect blitz and just "highlight sticked" an
unsuspecting Duke. Manuel's thunderous hit was but one in a
highlight reel of great plays by our mighty Knights!
Thanks to Stacey Salicce and our anonymous on-the-field source
for providing game information.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 16 - Brentwood 14
Scoring Summary:
Louie Rotunda 15 pass from Zach Spath
(Tonyea Curry pass from Zach Spath)
Michael Ignasky 15 run (Louie Rotunda pass from Zach Spath)
Interception: Louie Rotunda
NOTES: Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary defines an enigma
as: something hard to understand or explain. Once again, our
Knights started off slowly, and once again, our Knights pulled
themselves together, this time emerging with a 16-14 victory
over the Dukes of Brentwood. With a defense that bends but
don't quite break, and an offense that mixes penalties and
fumbles equally with raw grit and determination, this Knights
team is a good example of an enigma.
Brentwood struck quickly after an early Brookline turnover
gave the Dukes the ball at the Knights five yard line. A good
conversion made the score 8-0. After a difficult opening
quarter, the offense began to gain its composure. A 50 yard
punt return by Tonyea Curry sparked a rally. A fifteen yard
scoring pass from quarterback Zach Spath to Louie Rotunda and
a good conversion toss to Curry evened the score at halftime.
The third quarter saw the momentum shift back to Brentwood. A
touchdown midway through the period put them back on top 14-8.
The Knights defense made a critical stop on the conversion
attempt, then held on against a persistent Brentwood attack.
Led by Nick Sywyj, Brookline kept the Dukes silent for the
remainder of the game, almost, and it was time for the offense
to come together.
Midway through the fourth quarter, the offense answered the
call. Armed with good field possession, the Knights began to
move. Michael Ignasky found the endzone with a 15 yard run,
tying the score. Spath then lofted a perfect toss into the
waiting arms of Rotunda, putting the Knights on top 16-14 with
only four minutes to play.
An interception and 38 yard return by Rotunda on the Duke's
next possession gave the ball back to Brookline deep in
Brentwood territory. That should have been all, but remember,
this team is presently an enigma, so the drama must go on ...
The offense went four plays without moving and turned the ball
over with seconds to go on the clock. Game Over? Not today.
On the final play, a Brentwood runner split the middle of the
Knight defensive line and somehow broke free. The Duke raced
sixty yards downfield. The roar from the Brentwood crowd was
deafening as victory drew nearer with each step.
Not today! In hot pursuit all the way, Knight Jacob Lowden
tackled the wood-be game-breaker at the five yard line. Like
stereo, the crowd roar switched from one side of the stadium
to the other, and the enigmatic Knights took home a win!
Thanks to Leslie Maiorano for providing game information.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
WEEK #4 - September 20, 2008
8-UNDER
Arnold-New Kensington 6 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Lamar Lewis
NOTES: As gridlock games go, this one was a gem. Both the
Knights defense and the ArKen defense battled it out, holding
the offenses in check the entire game. Neither offense was
able to move the ball, and the game remained scoreless until
the final minutes.
With 1:50 to go in the fourth quarter, a timely interception
gave ArKen the ball at the Brookline 30 yard line. On the next
play, ArKen ran a reverse. Their runner turned the corner and
raced to the endzone. On the conversion attempt, Brent Ivory
made a fine tackle to keep the score 6-0. With 1:30 left to
play, Brookline's offense got off three runs before the clock
expired.
Defensively, the Knights had a great game. Solid play by DE
Marshal White, and strong efforts by Ivory, Jeremy Jenkins,
Joel Wert, Trevor Hazen and Darryl Daniels kept Brookline in
the game. When the offense discovers how to move the ball
with some consistency this team could be pretty good.
Thanks to Lisa Richardson for providing game information.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
Arnold-New Kensington 14 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Tim Persons, Chadric Anderson, Tyler LaRocca,
Jim Wheeler (2)
NOTES: This was another good game for the Knight's defense.
If only the offense could figure out a way to move the ball
towards the endzone, this team would do much better. However,
if the defense keeps spending so much time on the field, as
they have the first four games, expect more of the same.
ArKen got on the board first with a 20 yard TD run to begin
the second quarter. A good stop by Christian Frazier foiled
the conversion attempt. The game remained 6-0 until midway
through the fourth quarter.
ArKen mounted a long drive to begin the period. The Hawks
made it to the Brookline five yard line. On first and goal,
Jim Wheeler answered with a fumble recovery to stymie the
attack. Unfortunately, the offense turned the ball back over
on the next play. Soon afterwards, with 4:20 left in the game,
ArKen scored on a ten yard run. A successful conversion gave
the Hawks a 14-0 lead.
Brookline's offense got a final opportunity to score when Jim
Wheeler recovered a fumbled punt in good field position with a
minute to go, but the clock expired after three failed plays.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
Arnold-New Kensington 30 - BROOKLINE 8
Scoring Summary:
Loren Wicks 9 run (Mentchaas Anderson run)
Fumble Recovery: Austin Liebro, Matt Tonkovich
NOTES: The game started on an ominous note when the Knights
fumbled the opening kickoff and ArKen took over deep in
Brookline territory. The Knights defense shook that one off
with a good fourth down stop at their ten yard line. Then the
bottom fell out.
On Brookline's third offensive play, Knight's running back
Taylor Thornton went down with an injury. Preliminary reports
were that he had broken his arm. As Taylor received EMS
attention, the Knights attempted to pick up the pieces and
get on with the game. But, the loss of their top offensive
threat was too much to handle on this day.
ArKen took the ensuing punt and returned it 34 yards for
their first score of the day. A good conversion run made it
8-0. An interception on Brookline's second series led to a
long drive by the Falcons. This time the defense stepped up
and stopped the ArKen threat at the four yard line.
The offense, however, could not produce. ArKen followed
Brookline's third failed series with a sixteen yard TD run.
A good conversion upped the Falcon lead to 16-0. Another
turnover on Brookline's fourth series was further proof that
the Knight offense was struggling without their big gun.
With the score 16-0, the second half began much where the
first left off. The ArKen offense went on a long march that
ended when Matt Tonkovich pounced on a loose ball. Brookline
went nowhere and punted. The Falcons then struck again, with
a 28 yard TD pass and another good conversion run.
With time running out in the third quarter, the Knights were
able to muster a scoring drive of their own. It started with
Mentchaas Anderson taking an ArKen kickoff and returning it
25 yards to the Falcon 35. Loren Wicks followed with a 26
yard run to the nine yard line. Wicks then turned the corner
and found the endzone with a nine yard run. Anderson scored
on the conversion to bring the score to 24-8.
The fourth quarter saw ArKen score again to expand their
lead to 30-8. Brookline threatened once more before game's
end when Wicks took off on a 57 yard dash to and Falcon 14.
From there the offense went back into hibernation and the
Knight's final drive stalled.
Truth is ... Win? Lose? Today that is not important. Our
thoughts are with the Thornton family and we send our best
wishes to Taylor for a speedy and healthy recovery.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 38 - Arnold-New Kensington 0
Scoring Summary:
Connor McGinnis 3 run
(David Suwalski pass from Connor McGinnis)
Connor McGinnis 70 run (Michael Roper run)
Malik Petite 53 pass from Connor McGinnis (conversion failed)
Connor McGinnis 7 run (Khalil Sanders run)
Chad Gregorius 22 run (conversion failed)
Joe Bonnar tackled runner in endzone - SAFETY
Fumble Recovery: Jeff Arnold, Gino Foster
Interception: Connor McGinnis
NOTES: What a game! The mighty Knights are back from their
one week slump, and the Brookline fans showed off their team
spirit by keeping things under control in the bleacher section.
The first three games might have been ArKen's 15 minutes of
fame, but this hour and a half belonged solely to Brookline!
After Zacharia Sesay's opening kickoff return, and a 15 yard
unsportsmanklike conduct penalty, placed the ball on the ArKen
42, Connor and Company went to work with surgical precision.
The running game powered the Knights to the game's first score,
a three yard burst by Connor McGinnis. A conversion toss to
David Suwalski produced an 8-0 lead. The fun had just begun.
After stopping the Raven's opening drive, McGinnis wasted no
time enlarging the Brookline lead with a 70 yard run down the
left sideline. Michael Roper added two points up the middle
for a 16-0 lead. The Knights followed with a successful onside
kick. Connor then hooked up with Suwalski again for a 49 yard
scoring toss. Unfortunately, an offsides penalty negated
David's fine reception and run.
Faced with a third and 27, a 14 yard pass to Suwalski set up
a 4th and 13 at the Brookline 47 yard line. Full of surprises,
Brookline faked a punt that resulted in a 53 yard scoring pass
from McGinnis to Malik Petite. Eighteen seconds into the
second quarter, the Knights held a 22-0 lead.
A McGinnis interception set up Brookline's fourth score, and
Connor's third TD run of the game. Khalil Sander's conversion
run added two more points to inflate the first half score to
30-0. A fifth potential scoring drive ended after Petite's
23 yard catch and run was negated by a penalty. A sixth first
half opportunity was snuffed out when the clock expired.
The second half was no different. Brookline just crushed the
Ravens. Chad Gregorius added to the scoring parade with a 22
yard TD run of his own, making the score 36-0. Joe Bonnar
applied basting to the bird with a safety. It was still only
the third quarter! By the time this one was over, the ArKen
Ravens were ready to fly south for the winter.
Offensively, Connor McGinnis ran for over 120 yards and threw
for over 100 more. Chad Gregorius ran for over 70 yards, had
one long punt return, a sack and several good defensive stops.
Julius Noel added a sack, and the remaining Knight defenders
inflicted liberal punishment in their own personalized way.
The mighty Knights looked positively beastly.
Speaking of beastly. Sometimes beastly behavior by fans can
make one wonder why they come to these games. Is it to watch
the kids playing on the field or the parents fighting in the
stands? Dirty play by ArKen players on the field eventually
translated into dirty actions by ArKen parents in the seats.
Brookline's fans didn't travel an hour to be berated by
suburban bullies. Nor were they impressed by the seven NKPD
squad cars sent to quell a disturbance started by a few
hometown loudmouths. Boo-Hoo Baby!!! The final score read:
BROOKLINE 38 - ARKEN 0. Enough said. GO KNIGHTS!
Let's finish with an intuitive quote by a good friend:
"It just seems like youth sports has become way too important
to way too many people and for the wrong reasons. For those
who understand that, no explanation is necessary. For those
who don't, no explanation is possible."
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
Arnold-New Kensington 30 - BROOKLINE 8
Scoring Summary:
Zach Spath 1 run (Mark Manko pass from Zach Spath)
Fumble Recovery: Tonyea Curry
Interception: Ryan Mandarino
NOTES: This game started off looking like another one of those
forgettable contests. Brookline got the ball first and soon
found themselves backed into a 4th and 30 from their ten yard
line. Brookline's punt was blocked and an ArKen defender
pounced on the ball in the endzone for the game's first score.
Brookline fumbled the ensuing kickoff. When the Knights
finally got the ball back, a bad snap resulted in a safety.
Five minutes into the game, the score was 8-0 and ArKen looked
firmly in control. Then something happened. Our Knights
started playing football.
The defense stepped up and stopped the Eagles at midfield.
A Nick Sywyj sack forced ArKen to turn the ball over. Tonyea
Curry pounded out eleven yards on the ground, then connected
with quarterback Zach Spath for a 35 yard reception. Although
Tonyea fumbled at the five, he managed to recover the ball at
the two yard line. From there Spath punched it up the middle
three times until he finally crossed the plane. A nice
conversion toss to Mark Manko tied the score at 8-8.
Near the end of the first half, the Knights threatened to put
the ball into the endzone again. A fake punt was foiled by
Jacob Lowden, giving the Knights possession at midfield. After
good gains by Curry and Michael Ignasky, an eleven yard toss
to Sywyj put the ball on the ArKen eight yard line. Brookline
got to the five before an Eagle sack on fourth and goal ended
the charge. The score remained tied at halftime.
The Knights kept charging at the start of the second half.
The defense stopped ArKen cold on their first possession and
Sywyj foiled a second fake punt attempt. Armed with good
field possession, the Brookline offense stalled. ArKen forced
a punt and scored on their next play. A 55 yard TD run made
the score 14-8 with fifteen minutes to go.
For the next twelve minutes, the defense kept the pressure on
the Eagles. The offense, however, lost it's momentum. Unable
to capitalize on good field possession twice, it was only a
matter of time before ArKen found a weakness in the Knight's
armor. A Brookline fumble gave ArKen the ball at the Knight
eight yard line. Two plays later the score was 22-8. A twenty
yard scoring run on their next possession sealed the victory.
Although the final score was 30-8, the Knights showed that
they can play. They just need to get over the fumbles and
unforced errors. There's hope for the future.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
WEEK #3 - September 13, 2008
8-UNDER
Steel Valley 14 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Trevor Hazen, Marshal White, Brent Ivory,
Joel Wert
NOTES: On a wet, muggy day, the offense got mugged by a tough
Steel Valley defense. The ground game struggled the entire
day and could gain no traction. Brookline's defense stepped
up and did their best to keep the Knights in the game. After
giving up a touchdown on Steel Valley's opening drive, the
Knights held the Ironmen in check.
Strong play by DE Marshal White and safety Darryl Daniels
kept the Ironmen offense off balance. Takeaways by Joel Wert,
Trevor Hazen, White and Brent Ivory kept the Knights offense
in business. The Ironmen defense was just too much this day.
Steel Valley found the endzone again early in the 4th quarter,
giving them a 14-0 lead. That was all the edge they needed.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
Steel Valley 20 - BROOKLINE 0
Fumble Recovery: Jake Devers, Kenny White
NOTES: Another tough day for the nine year olds. A recovered
fumble by Kenny White stifled Steel Valley's opening drive,
then both teams stalled for nine minutes. With 33 seconds
remaining in the first quarter, Steel Valley struck. A quick
screen pass turned into a forty-two yard touchdown. After a
successful conversion run, Steel Valley held an 8-0 lead. In
a steady drizzle, the Knights defense tightened up and kept
Steel Valley's offense at bay. The Knight's offense, however,
struggled to find their rythym.
What looked somewhat promising at halftime turned sour five
minutes into the second half. A Steel Valley runner burst from
the pack and headed downfield. Forty yards later, a saving
tackle by Troy Bryant kept the ball in play at the Brookline
four yard line. Things went downhill from there. The Ironmen
scored on their next play and repeated on their next
possession, taking a 20-0 lead with ten minutes remaining.
A seven minute Knights drive followed, fueled by long runs
from Sharron Steave and Demetrius Cotton. The charge ended at
the Steel Valley four yard line. Brookline had one last chance
to score when the Ironmen turned over the ball on downs at
their own 14 yard line with two minutes remaining. The Knights
made it to the five, but could go no further.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
Steel Valley 24 - BROOKLINE 14
Scoring Summary:
Taylor Thornton 52 run (Taylor Thornton run)
Taylor Thornton 1 run (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Austin Liebro, Stephen Schwartz
Interception: Amaree Hatcher
NOTES: This was a good game, despite the final score. Not that
it was full of great plays, but it showed that our Knights are
fighters and don't give up. That is almost as good as a win!
For twenty minutes, the offense fumbled and bumbled their way
to no gain, while the defense bent to the tune of two Steel
Valley scores. The halftime score read 12-0, but for these
Knights, the game was far from over.
On Brookline's first possession of the second half, Taylor
Thornton hit his stride and burned the Ironmen with a 52 yard
touchdown run. A good conversion run by Thornton closed the
gap to 12-8. The defense forced a punt on Steel Valley's next
possession. The offense again rode Thornton's legs to a score.
A one yard plunge put the Knights on top, 14-12.
The fourth quarter began promisingly with an Austin Liebro
fumble recovery that gave the Knights the ball in good field
position. Fate saw differently. A botched handoff gave the
ball back to the Ironmen, who promptly followed with a 55 yard
touchdown blast. Steel Valley struck again on their next
possession. Game over.
For the record ... Adam Tonry played a great game. Bruised and
battered, with a few injury timeouts already taken to pick him
up off the carpet, Adam continued through the pain. With Steel
Valley ahead 18-14, an Ironman punt returner threatened to
cross the goal line and put the game away. Despite the painful
shoulder, Adam stopped the runner with an crushing hit that
registered on the County Airport radar. The punishing blow
kept the ball at the one yard line and gave Brookline a
glimmer of hope. The hit knocked Adam himself out of the game
for the final time, but his selfless sacrifice has been noted!
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 16 - Steel Valley 0
Scoring Summary:
David Suwalski 14 pass from Connor McGinnis
(Connor McGinnis run)
Malik Petite 14 pass from Connor McGinnis
(Joey Kalsek pass from Connor McGinnis)
Fumble Recovery: Khalil Sanders
NOTES: Some fans were wondering who the imposters in green and
black were during the first half. The mighty Knights were as
stale as a two week old loaf of bread. Mistakes and sloppy
play kept Steel Valley in the game and almost allowed them the
game's first score. A roughing the kicker penalty gave the
Ironmen great field position to start the second quarter.
Steel Valley took advantage of the free first down. On the
very next play, a Steel Valley runner broke free and streaked
towards the endzone. A diving stop by Joey Kalsek at the three
yard line saved a touchdown. The sense of distress served as a
wake-up call for Connor and Company.
As Coach Donnie stalked the sidelines with a vein bursting in
his forehead, the Knights started playing to their potential.
Four plays later the ball was still on the 3 yard line and
back in their hands. The otherwise uneventful half ended with
no points on the scoreboard. Things would soon change.
The second half opened with Khalil Sanders recovering a
fumbled kickoff. A six minute drive followed. Connor McGinnis
capped it off by hooking up with David Suwalski for a fourteen
yard TD pass. A good conversion run by Connor made the score
8-0. A tough goal line stand by the Ironmen on the Knights
next drive kept the score close.
Brookline's defense soon took the ball back from the Ironmen,
and Connor followed up by connecting with Malik Petite for
another fourteen yard scoring toss. McGinnis then found Joey
Kalsek in the corner for the conversion, giving the Knights a
sixteen point cushion. Coach Donnie's forehead was back to
normal and sideline etiquette restored, but the silly mistakes
must end if the defending champs wish to retain their crown.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
Steel Valley 32 - BROOKLINE 6
Scoring Summary:
Tonyea Curry 88 pass from Zach Spath (conversion failed)
Fumble Recovery: Sean Webb
NOTES: How many ways can we spell U-G-L-Y? There's only one
way, U-G-L-Y! This was an ugly game for our older Knights.
Offensively, the Knights could not move the ball, and
although the defense tried, they could not stop a Steel
Valley team loaded with big boys and talented players.
Then, from this ugliness came one of the most beautiful plays
so far this season. At 8:43 in the second quarter, Zach Spath
hooked up with Tonyea Curry for an 88 yard bomb. Spath aired
it out and Curry took the ball perfectly in stride. It was
quite a contrast to the futility we witnessed the rest of the
game. On defense, kudos to Nick Sywyj, who had two sacks.
Otherwise, we thinks its gonna be a tough week at practiss.
Nicole's cheerleaders put on a great routine at halftime.
The girls get the game ball this week for their unending
spirit and knack for cool acrobatics. They scored big!
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
WEEK #2 - September 6, 2008
8-UNDER
BROOKLINE 14 - Chartiers Valley 0
Scoring Summary:
Darryl Daniels 19 run (conversion failed)
Darryl Daniels 2 run (Brent Ivory run)
Fumble Recovery: Cole Salicce, Marshal White
NOTES: Good game by our youngest Knights! On the Knights first
possession, fleet-footed Darryl Daniels carried the ball 55
yards on two quick runs. With first and goal, the offense went
into reverse. Then, on 4th and 19, Darryl found a groove,
turned on the jets and rocketed into the endzone for a 6-0
Brookline lead. The Knights threatened again near the end of
the second quarter, when a long run by Brent Ivory gave the
Knights a first down at the CV17, but the drive stalled.
Then, late in the fourth quarter, pint-sized Lamar Lewis burst
through the middle for a 30 yard gain. Daniels and Ivory
followed with runs of 8 and 11 yards. Lewis then punched the
ball to the CV2. With a minute left on the clock, Daniels
sealed the victory with his second touchdown of the day. A
good conversion run by Ivory made the score 14-0. A fumble
recovery by Marshal White on Char Valleys final possession
gave Brookline the ball back with eight seconds to go.
Defensively, Brookline kept a tight grip on the Colt offense
the entire game. Their outside containment was great and the
defensive line held Char Valley to little or no gain all day.
Oh yeah! Jen Haskins, great job on the National Anthem.
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
Chartiers Valley 18 - BROOKLINE 0
Interception: Jacob Mellon
NOTES: This might be a difficult year if our young Knights
can't generate offense. For 31 minutes the Brookline attack
was stopped cold by a tough Char Valley defense. Two costly
turnovers led to Colt touchdowns. Then, with 52 clicks left
on the game clock, the offense showed signs of life. A Jacob
Mellon interception at the Brookline three yard line stopped
the Colts final drive.
On the game's last play, Sharron Steave finally burst loose,
racing 82 yards to the CV 15 before being dragged down from
behind. Only seconds remained on the clock. Before they could
get off a final play, time ran out. It was a great run for
Sharron, but it was that kind of day for the Knights. Anyhow,
it's too early to worry. This team has talent. If they work
out their chemistry things could get a lot better.
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
BROOKLINE 20 - Chartiers Valley 8
Scoring Summary:
Taylor Thornton 2 run (conversion failed)
Taylor Thornton 18 run (conversion failed)
Taylor Thornton 70 punt return (Loren Wicks run)
Interception: Amaree Hatcher, Dalton Link, Taylor Thornton
Fumble Recovery: Adam Tonry, Stephen Schwartz
NOTES: Great defensive effort. A fumble recovery by Adam
Tonry on the Colts first possession led to a nine play, 44
yard drive. The march was capped off with a two yard run by
Taylor Thornton, giving Brookline an early 6-0 lead. In the
second quarter, Char Valley's offense countered with a drive
of their own. An 18 yard TD run and a successful conversion
reception put the Colts ahead 8-6 at halftime.
Brookline took the second half kickoff and moved the ball
downfield. Six minutes and three first downs later, Taylor
Thornton motored eleven yards for his second touchdown of the
game. This put the Knights back on top, 12-8. The defense
stopped the Colts dead in their tracks, forcing a punt. Taylor
took the kick and scampered 70 yards for his third score.
Amaree Hatcher converted to make the score 20-8.
Fourth quarter interceptions by Thornton and Dalton Link
ended any hopes of a Colt comeback. Offensively, the Knights
entire running game put on a fine show, and the defense
rocked. These Knights look like winners and spirits are high!
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 32 - Chartiers Valley 8
Scoring Summary:
Khalil Sanders 11 run
(David Suwalski pass from Connor McGinnis)
Connor McGinnis 5 run (Michael Roper run)
Khalil Sanders 7 run (Michael Roper run)
Connor McGinnis 3 run (Chad Gregorius run)
Interception: Logan Salicce
Fumble Recovery: Bryan Bergener
NOTES: Another dominant performance by the defending champs.
A couple of untimely turnovers kept the score from getting out
of hand. Late in the game, one Colt managed to turn the corner
after a short pass and gallop 81 yards for Char Valley's lone
score. The second string offense, led by Tony Manuel and Chad
Gregorius did a good job of eating up the clock during the
latter part of the game. With the exception of the Colt that
broke free, the defense hit hard and completely broke the rest
of the herd. What a team effort! These Knights are dangerous.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 30 - Bethel Park (1) 2
Scoring Summary:
Michael Ignasky 2 run (Tonyea Curry pass from Zach Spath)
Nick Sywyj 6 run (Mark Manko pass from Zach Spath)
Michael Ignasky 2 run (conversion failed)
Michael Ignasky 7 run (Ricardo Burch pass from Zach Spath)
Interception: Ryan Mandarino
NOTES: Another fine performance by the elder Knights. Michael
Ignasky again lit up the scoreboard with 18 points. Quarterback
Zach Spath is gaining confidence in his throwing, and a 36 yard
bomb to Tonyea Curry in the second quarter set up the Knight's
second touchdown, a six yard jaunt by Nick Sywyj. The only
blemish in this game occured eight seconds into the contest,
after the Knights botched the opening game kickoff. Bethel Park
forced a quick safety for an early 2-0 lead. For the next 39
minutes and 52 seconds, this contest was all Brookline.
As far as blemishes go, the sound guy started the music for the
cheerleaders performance too soon. Yes, that was me. My bad!
My sincerest apology, girls. Otherwise, your routine was great.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
WEEK #1 - August 30, 2008
(The games this week do not count towards the team's
conference records. These were non-league games.)
8-UNDER
BROOKLINE 28 - South Park 0
Scoring Summary:
Darryl Daniels run (Lamar Lewis run)
Brent Ivory run (conversion failed)
Darryl Daniels run (Brent Ivory run)
Lamar Lewis run (conversion failed)
**************************************************************
9-UNDER
BROOKLINE 6 - South Park 0
Scoring Summary:
Sharron Steave 61 run (conversion failed)
**************************************************************
10-UNDER
BROOKLINE 40 - South Park 0
Scoring Summary:
Mentchaas Anderson 63 kickoff return (Taylor Thornton run)
Taylor Thornton 1 run (Dylan DiRenna run)
Mentchaas Anderson 25 run (Mentchaas Anderson run)
Taylor Thornton 10 interception return
(Mark Roell pass from Loren Wicks)
Dylan DiRenna 1 run (Amaree Hatcher run)
Fumble Recovery: Taylor Thornton
Interception: Taylor Thornton
NOTES: A dominating performance by Coach Mike Manuel's 10 year
olds. Offensively, the running game featured proven veterans
Loren Wicks debuting at quarterback, Taylor Thornton and
Dylan DiRenna in the backfield, along with the season's first
big surprise. Mentchaas Anderson took the opening kickoff and
stiff armed his way to a touchdown. Later in the half, he took
a handoff, sped around the left corner, then cut back at the
ten, leaving the defender frozen in his wake. Man's second
touchdown of the day and the 2-point conversion tied him with
Taylor Thornton for point production with 14 points apiece.
The Knight's defense totally shut down the South Park offense.
**************************************************************
11-UNDER
BROOKLINE 36 - South Park 0
Scoring Summary:
Khalil Sanders 2 run (Malik Petite pass from Connor McGinnis)
Michael Roper 25 pass from Connor McGinnis (conversion failed)
Khalil Sanders 43 run (Chad Gregorius run)
Khalil Sanders 4 run (Malik Petite run)
Michael Roper 30 interception return (conversion failed)
Interception: Tony Manuel, Michael Roper
NOTES: A dominant performance on both sides of the ball.
This should be an interesting team to watch once they shake
off the rust and get their timing together. Air Donnie!
The defense was like a swarm of hungry wasps. Venomous.
Some said the score was 38-0. Sorry, I only recorded 36.
**************************************************************
13-UNDER
BROOKLINE 28 - South Park 0
Scoring Summary:
Michael Ignasky 70 interception return
(Ricardo Burch pass from Zach Spath)
Michael Ignasky 11 run (Michael Ignasky run)
Tonyea Curry tackled runner in endzone - SAFETY
Michael Ignasky 9 run (Nick Sywyj run)
Mike Cummings tackled runner in endzone - SAFETY
Interception: Michael Ignasky, Ryan Mandarino
NOTES: Coach Joe has to be happy with the offense. Once they
got going, the Knights showed that this year's version of
Brother Brian's arsenal is loaded with weapons. Michael
Ignasky is back after a year's absence, and he showed that he
can still put the ball into the endzone, racking up 14 points
on the ground and adding another six on defense with a long
interception return. Quarterback Zach Spath went downfield
to newcomer Tonyea "Plax" Curry with success. Timing is all
this pair needs to become an explosive addition to the cache.
Joe's defense shut down South Park, rivaling Brian's offense
in both point production and intensity. The defense added ten
points of their own with Ignasky's interception and safeties
by Curry and Mike Cummings. An interception by Ryan Mandarino
nearly added another tally but, after motoring 65 yards, Ryan
was tracked downed at the five. The offense failed to convert,
but it was a great catch and run by Ryan none-the-less. Late
in the game, Jarrett Better got off a couple nice runs.
For a complete listing
of SSYFL scores and standings,
visit the official league website at:
www.southsuburbanfootball.com.
* Brookline Knights Merchandise *
Merchandise
sales are a great
way to show your
support and help fund our football program.
T-Shirts, Sweaters, Hats and Hoodies!
On sale during games and practices.
* Honorary Members of the Round Table *
Become a Volunteer - It's Time Well Spent!
SPECIAL THANKS to our many volunteers,
without whose
dedication and hard work our young Knights could never be.
* Website provided by Clint Burton.
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