The Westford Academy Ghosts are off to a strong start in the 2024 football season. Their opening game took place on Friday the 13th at Lowell High School, and despite not being on their home turf, they emerged victorious with a final score of 14-0.
In an interview with Senior Captain and Tight End Chris Butts, it’s clear that the team is confident heading into the season. Butts commented, “As a defensive end, I take a lot of responsibility for the defensive line. As long as we play smart and aggressively, we will have no problems.” The team focuses on building communication and unity, emphasizing teamwork over individual performance. According to Butts, a key goal is to foster strong team dynamics and effective communication during games to enhance support among players.
The Westford Academy student section also showed remarkable support, even though the game was away from home. Their enthusiasm significantly boosted team morale, especially during challenging moments. For this game, the student section embraced a beach theme, showing up in beach attire and adding to the high-energy atmosphere.
Comments from Head Coach Bruce Rich about the Lowell game:
“Turning the ball over 3 times, and still winning 14-0 is a sign that we are a good football team. We will look at the film and clean up our mistakes. I’m proud of our guys for dealing with some adversity in the beginning of the game and not letting it affect them. We also had some captains injured, and needed others to step up. I want to shout out players like Connor Kneottner, Andrew Fenelon, Ryan Kyle, Quinn Reynolds and Chris Butts- these guys play every play and don’t complain or say a word. They just play football.
We have a good Billerica team coming to the Haunted House next week. This group of players and coaches have never beaten Billerica, so this will be a good test for us. “
Players of the Week-
Offense- QB Alex Wilson: First game in his life playing QB. 138 yards rushing, 1 td rushing, 1 TD passing. 75 yards passing. Played every play.
Defense- LB Sean Cryan: Moved to LB two weeks ago. 8 tackles, 1 Interception
Special Teams- Kicker Ryan Kyle: 38 yard fake punt to put the game away. 2 for 2 on PATs. Played every play.
Bigs- DL/OL Connor Knoettner: 6 tackles, 1 sack, 1 QB harass. Also played oline, blocked for over 200 yards of rushing. Played every play.
Scout Team- QB Jack Lafond: Sophomore QB did a great job leading the scout team all week.
The Future- Kieran Donahue: 2 way starter on the Freshman team, was in on most of the tackles against Lowell last week. Great Teammate, very coachable.
Scores and offensive stats:
WA 14- Lowell 0
6- 2nd quarter- Alex wilson pass to Quinn Reynolds 14 yards
1-Ryan Kyle PAT
6- 4th Quarter- Alex Wilson 7 yard rush
1-Ryan Kyle PAT
QB Alex Wilson 132 yards rushing 60 yards passing
RB Ben Chen 55 yards rushing
WR Ryan Kyle 50 yards receiving/ fake punt for 38 yards in
Comments