by Michaela Conrady
Pilgrim Football had one of their first home games of the season Friday, September 11th. Themed around patriotism, the game was preceded by a detail of military color guard to honor the 25th anniversary since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. There was also a moment of silence, to honor those who were lost, those who have fought for the country, and those who are serving now.
Pilgrim Players were joined by a youth football team Friday as well, who are also the Patriots, and Pilgrim came out prepared to start off the new season. After the playing of the national anthem from the Pilgrim Band, the game kicked off.
When it comes to the Patriot season this year, Captain Adam El Rhazali (#2) is optimistic about the season and confident in the returning team, “We are returning almost all of our varsity starters from 2025 and we are coming into the season with an experienced veteran roster, I have high hopes for this group and if we can put it together I think we are capable of making a run,” El Rhazali says.
Pilgrim football has gained many new players in the past several years, with many becoming upperclassmen this year, we can look forward to an exciting season for Patriots. Even underclassmen are looking forward to the rest of the season, with freshman Lincoln Bailey (#89) adding, “So far I’d say the running game is going well and the passing is pretty good with the QB Grady Weaver (#13)on varsity with many good receivers and running backs while on JV the running is alright and the passing game is decent”.
In the September 11th game against North Providence, Patriots saw some highlights already. Connor Fitzgerald (#4) and Mason Whiting (#0) both scored touchdowns during the Friday night game, and the Patriots managed to score again in the last minute of play time. Captain El Rhazali mentioned, “A few big explosive plays turned the tide on defense. I think if we work to communicate and align properly to prevent them, we will be just fine.” The Patriots racked up 27 points on Friday, defeated by Providence, but they’re prepared to keep pushing through the season and turn the tide.
With communication, team spirit, and school support, we can expect a standout performance from Pilgrim. Overall, El Rhazali highlighted that, “Practice and games feel completely different from last year, I think that we can make this year one to remember for Pilgrim Football.”
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