Sports

Team morale remains high despite despite disappointing finish

Rob Carpenter, sports editor|April 28, 2021

Senior Noah Pizer walks with his family for senior night during halftime of the game against Rockville on Apr. 9.

The varsity and JV football teams did not have a winning record this season, but that does not take away from the countless hours of hard work they put in. This season was unexpected and no matter the results, the players were able to get back on the field and play the sport they love.

The Patriots took on Gaithersburg at home on Apr. 9 for varsity, and Apr. 10 for JV. It was senior night for the team and the six seniors were able to walk across the field with their families. “It was great to be able to do that and I am very thankful that we were able to have a season this year,” senior cornerback Noah Pizer said.

The Patriots came ready to play, taking a 7-0 lead into the half as junior quarterback Jake Lotenberg rushed for a 20-yard touchdown. The second half was high scoring, and Gaithersburg finished on top, 24-14. “I thought we played well considering the circumstances. It was great to be back on the field,” junior wide receiver Jack Mehler said.

The Patriots were without star tight end, junior Justin McGraw. McGraw tore his ACL in the first scrimmage of the season. He was coming off of a great season with over 400 yards and two touchdowns. “It really sucks that I couldn’t play, but it was great to cheer on my team,” McGraw said.

The Patriots traveled to Blair on Apr. 16 in the last game of the season. The offense got the ball down the field on multiple drives, but were not able to capitalize on their goal line opportunities. The team ended up losing 21-0 to end the season. “The score does not represent how well we played. We fought hard until the end,” Mehler said.

Next season starts in the fall and players are already beginning to work hard in this off season to prepare for it. The team usually hosts workouts all summer to prepare, and players are making sure they are ready. “I have baseball season now, which will keep me in good shape. I also am lifting weights multiple days a week,” Mehler said.

Several players are multi-sport athletes and balance their training between the sports. Sophomore Max Mirsky is a member of the varsity wrestling team along with the football team. “Off-season training is similar for both sports because it’s all about being in the weight room and getting stronger,” Mirsky said.