By Sawyer Minkoff
The Irvington High School football team has made a lot of successful changes heading into the start of this year, which lead to a playoff berth. They went 3-4 on the year, leading to a sixth seed in the playoffs. The Bulldogs have improved a lot compared to last year. Good teamwork, more experienced coaches and younger players who are stepping up and giving Irvington hope for a playoff run.
A big reason for the team’s success is sophomore quarterback Julian Peres. Even though he is still early in his high school career, Peres has helped the team and is excited about what the Bulldogs can do.
“I think that our season is going very well and the chemistry is growing every game. I mean we are four and three now and looking to make a good playoff run,” Peres said. “And I am excited to see what this team can do in the playoffs.”
Peres also believes the team’s chemistry has helped improve a lot. Many players have been together for years, which has helped them build trust together on the field.
He explained that the team has had the coach since middle school and believes the younger players will become strong leaders. He also said the program has been on an upward tack for the past few years and hopes the progress continues.
Senior captain Josh Tatz has also played a role in bringing the team together. As one of the team’s leaders, Tatz focuses on making sure everyone works for each other and not only thinking about themselves.
“I try to lead off the field. And make sure everyone is a family out there working for each other and not just yourself” Tatz said.
With Tatz and the other seniors graduating after the season the Bulldogs will have some leadership to replace. However, he believes the future of the program is in good hands.
“With all of the seniors graduating we are losing very important pieces but with all of the amazing talent coming up and filling our shoes our program will become better and better.”
As Irvington heads into the playoffs as the six seed the team has a chance to show how far it has come. After performing better than last season the Bulldogs are looking to keep their momentum going and make their improvement when it matters most.
Unfortunately, the Dogs came up short in their playoff game vs. Valhalla, losing 56-6.
