Lancer Football: Solo Conference Champs

Lakeland Regional High School’s varsity football ended a successful 8-1 season with exciting wins over playoff teams Mahwah and Westwood to hold the title as solo Conference Champions.

The Lancers held on to a near perfect season, losing only in a non-conference game against rivals the West Milford Highlander.  The season ended after losing a tough playoff game against Sparta.

Even though the Lancers didn’t win it all, they sure do have a lot to be proud of. Head coach Tom McCormack told the Ledger,  “Overall we couldn’t be happier with the performance and outcome of our season… The coaching staff was very impressed with this season’s outcome especially after losing many starters from last year’s State Championship team.  The Lancers lost to a very tough Sparta team in the first round of the playoffs, one or two plays away from making that game a real nail biter.”

Captain’s Mike Mckay and JC Mertz agreed that the team had a great season and met team goals by making the playoffs.  

Coach McCormack credits the success of the season on the efforts from all the players. “We are very proud of the young men on the football team for completing a full season of football,” McCormack told the Lancer.  “These young men sacrifice so much of their summer and fall to prepare for the season, and we are very proud of each and every one of those players who dedicated their time to our family.”

Key offensive players were Nick Crespo, Justin Pasquale, Ryan Sullivan, and Anthony Tanner. Tanner had over 1,000 yards rushing, which helped carry the weight for the Lancer’s offensive line. Tom Cirino, Chris McCormack, Mike Mckay, JC Mertz, and Adonai Thompson lead the defense throughout the season.

On top of the player achievements, coach McCormack credits the Lakeland community for making home games at the Q a success. He says, “Our venue is one of the loudest and exciting to play in.”

“Take me home country road.”