WEST MILFORD — After its opening night 24-12 loss to Wayne Valley last week, there were some bright spots for the Highlanders. One of them was Patrick VanDuyne, who was named player of the week by Coach Donald Dougherty.
"Patrick is a two-year starter at running back and linebacker," said Dougherty. "This past week, Patrick led the team in rushing with 64 yards and in tackles with 11 solos and 1 assisted. Patrick is one of four team captains this season. He is also captain of the West Milford High School Wrestling team. Patrick not only applies himself on the athletic field, but in the classroom as well. He takes several Advanced Placement and honors courses. He is a true student athlete and a great asset to our football program."
The Highlanders took on Wayne Valley on Sept. 7 at McCormack Field. Although the Highlanders stayed close throughout the game, the Indians came away with the 24-12 victory.
"Although improvements need to be in all aspects of the game, there were several bright spots during the game," said Dougherty. Those bright spots include junior Ryan Love, who made two field goals from 20 yards and 28 yards; sophomore Aaron Furnbach, who made his quarterback debut and scored a touchdown on a one-yard run; Andrew Vigorita and Wesley Pierce, who racked up over 100 yards on kick returns; and sophomore, Noah Provenzano, who made his debut at free safety and made nine tackles, had one interception and one blocked punt.
"We look to improve on our mistakes and difficulties and get back on the winning track versus Passaic Valley," said Dougherty.
That game is set for Friday, Sept. 14, at McCormack Field, with kickoff at 7 p.m. This will be Youth Program Night, where all youth program cheerleaders and football players are admitted free when they wear their game jerseys/uniforms.
The West Milford football program thanks its sponsors, Gillespie & Gibson, Battinelli Tree Service, Mark Werner Realty, TriState Blasting, Chilton Hospital, Highlander Medical and Battinelli Landscaping.