Hillbillies Defend Title

Nothing’s better than being number one. Last season, the VHS Hillbillies football team made history, after completing the first undefeated season in program existence. The Hillbillies ended their season at MetLife Stadium where they won the North 1 Group 1 State Sectional Championship by defeating Cresskill 20-0.

Senior captain Chris Luehs recalls the experience as “a dream come true.”

Now, after graduating nine seniors, including QB Frank Ferrari, the Hillbillies have a reputation to uphold as the defending state champs. Luehs is more than confident that his team has what it takes to go all the way. So far this year, the Hillbillies have really not even been challenged, steamrolling Newark Central, Newark Eastside, Marist, Glen Ridge and West Side by a total score of 220 -20, with their smallest margin of victory being 27 points.  

Because of the Hillbillies’ strength of competition however, their playoff power points currently rank them sixth in North Jersey’s Section One, Group One bracket despite their undefeated status. Verona, at 5-0, has 50 power points.  

 Ahead of them as of this writing are Park Ridge (5-0) 75; Boonton (4-1) 71; Cedar Grove (4-1) 62; North Warren (5-0) 62, and Hasbrouck Heights (4-1) 53.   

Even though the Hillbillies are on track to a second undefeated season, they continue to maintain a humble mentality and refrain from underestimating the competition.

“No matter who our opponent is, we just go out and play Verona football,” said senior captain Mark Riggio.

Known for successfully running the ball and weaving their way into the end zone, it’s no secret that this a tactic the Hillbillies will continue to use throughout this season. However, with veteran receivers and offensive linemen, the team has had the opportunity to throw the ball more. Junior QB Zack Zaccone has a great arm and has done an excellent job so far this season. Even though the Hillbillies have had the chance to execute different techniques, they continue to run the ball as  much as possible because it’s their strong point and something they have truly mastered.

Looking towards the remainder of the season, the team has their eye on the prize, and won’t stop until they get it.   “We don’t focus on what happened in the past. It’s a new team trying to make our own history,” said Riggio.