Just when the varsity football team was doomed for a shaky season, the Aves battled out of a deficit to beat Lakota East 35-31. Thanks to sharp play on both sides of the ball, SHS enters the second half of the season one game away from a .500 record.

Head coach Scott Dattilo said,“I feel that we have improved immensely. We are improving at a very fast rate and that is very rewarding to see.”

Junior quarterback Jake Borman notched three touchdown passes, raising his season total to four. Also, junior tailback Ra’Von Bonner ran for 167 yards and two touchdowns. Bonner has rushed for 100+ yards in six straight regular season games.

While on defense, sophomore defensive back Christian Kelly had an interception, his second of the year. Defensive leader and senior linebacker Gary Traub, who from time to time plays offense, recorded a receiving touchdown.

Traub said,“Our defense had maybe three or four returning starters this season. However some of the younger guys like Kelly have really stepped up as we continue to do right things on defense.”

On Oct. 2 at 7 PM, the Aves have their homecoming game against Princeton. The Vikings have the same record as the Aves, but this game will put the winner ahead of the loser in the standings. The Ave Cave will be decked in neon for the second to last home game of the season.

Dattilo said, “Our players truly believe they are part of a family atmosphere. Therefore, they are willing to sacrifice some of themselves for the betterment of the team.”