High school football has returned.
The Orillia Secondary School (OSS) Nighthawks junior boys' football team welcomed the Eastview Secondary School Wildcats to their Park Street field Friday. It was the first high school football game since the fall of 2019 due to COVID-19 shutdowns.
Despite the fact OSS is made up almost entirely of players that had never tried tackle football before, the Nighthawks showed great progress over the past three weeks preparing for the game, said coach Nathan Box.
That progress was shown on the field as OSS defeated the visiting Wildcats 25-8.
OSS was lead on offence by the explosive running of Scott Ivancic, who used his strength and quickness to elude several would-be tacklers throughout the game while scoring two touchdowns.
Key contributions were also made by running backs Caleb Sawyer and Adam Trumble who ran for tough yards for OSS, said Box.
Quarterback Mason Bard also proved to be a calm presence in the huddle as he directed several long scoring drives including one that ended with a 20 yard touchdown pass to tight end Junior Stinson. Bard also handled the kicking duties as well.
On defence, middle linebacker Brayden Gough led the charge with double-digit tackles while calling the defensive formations. Trent Aigeldinger and Jaxson Walton at defensive end put pressure on the Eastivew quarterback for the entire game.
Linebackers Grayden Asselin and Garret Decaire also made key contributions with an interception and sack respectively.
Box said the coaches were pleased with the entire team effort and commitment to improvement shown by the players.
Next action is Friday Oct 8, at Innisdale in Barrie.
