The varsity football team is off to a 3-3 start and optimism is high, thanks to the addition of three seniors who are playing in their first year of high school football but are already making an impact.
Despite the transfer of key player Anthony Bonavita, who is now attending Iona Prep, the team is hopeful this season with the additions of Nick Lambiase, Christian Ishoo, and Nestor Ortiz.
Usually seniors tend to stick with the sports they have played in the past and are hesitant to try a new sport so late in their athletic careers. But these three seniors took the chance and joined.
As of last year, the Irvington football team was down on their luck with a 49-0 loss during the high school’s past homecoming. Even with that in their minds, the boys were determined to join to become a key factor in the team’s success.
“I wanted to round out my athletic experiences at Irvington for my senior year,” said Lambiase, also known for his outstanding involvement in the lacrosse team. He is happy with his decision and enjoys the thrill of playing a new sport.
Ishoo, the former varsity soccer goalie, made the choice to change sports and join the football team, ending his high school soccer career for good.
“I had fun playing football in middle school and liked the kids on the team,” Ishoo said.
Ortiz said his commitment to the team borders on excessive. “I am happy with my decision to play but at times it gets tiring,” he said.
Ishoo had a 89 yard kick return for a touchdown and has shown great defensive skills so far, including a pick against Yonkers Montessori Academy, while Lambiase has contributed greatly to their passing game with two receiving touchdowns last game.
Saturday, at homecoming the Bulldogs won 34-20 against Hastings and surprised all the fans who attended the homecoming game last year.
