As the Westfield football team begins its season this week, the defense will be leading the way.
The Shamrocks have seven starters and a few subs returning on the defensive side of the ball. This is in sharp contrast with the Westfield offense, which graduated a ton of talented players from last year’s 6-5 season.
But, the ‘Rocks are playing, something for which the players and coach Jake Gilbert are grateful.
“It’s been nothing but joy in our hearts to be out there playing the game of football,” said Gilbert. “We are beyond grateful. The kids have been amazing.”
Westfield’s defense is tried and true. The Shamrocks’ top tackler, Micah Hauser, is back; he made 88 stops last season. Also returning is senior David Frey, who made 78 tackles. Senior Carson Voorhis is another top returner, with 42 tackles to his credit last season. Voorhis and Hauser will be at free safety, while Frey is slated for strong safety.
“We have a ton of guys back on defense,” said Gilbert.
Junior Seth Martin (defensive end), seniors Seth Poriah and Sayveion Woods-Dale (defensive tackle), senior Gabe Arvin (linebacker), junior Evan Cannon (linebacker) and senior Benji Welch (cornerback) are among the returning starters as well.
“They are bigger, faster, and more experienced,” said Gilbert. “Our specialists are back as well.”
Those specialists include junior Bryson Hoover, who will be the punter this season, he had a long punt of 73 yards at one point last season. Hoover was also one of Westfield’s top tacklers last year with 80 stops.
Senior Sean Sullivan returns as kicker; he made 29 of 32 extra-point attempts last year. Hauser will be the punt returner, with junior Thaddeus O’Neill the snapper.
With the graduation of quarterback Camden Simons and running back Eli Patchett, Westfield’s offense will look different. But it won’t be completely new. Senior quarterback Nick Talley got into four games last season and passed for 87 yards and a touchdown. Hauser will also be rushing; he gained 373 yards and scored five touchdowns.
A key returner is senior wide receiver Mason Piening. He led the receptions as a junior, with 34 catches and five TDs.
“On offense we have quite a bit to replace, so we’ve got work to do,” said Gilbert. “Our defense should keep us in games until we figure it out offensively.”
Westfield doesn’t get an easy assignment for its first game. Cathedral will come in to Riverview Health Stadium on Friday, the first of three home games to begin the Shamrocks’ season. Westfield hosts Harrison next Friday.
“They will be a great team as usual,” said Gilbert. “They are well-coached and I like their schemes. They have some great offensive firepower.”
