Hand Football’s Success By Lincoln Miller
Hand won 9 of the last 10 games and is looking forward to the playoffs. Coach Erik Becker was named SCC Tier II Coach of the Year and Senior Tri-Captain Aidan Dolan was named SCC Tier II Co-Player of the Year. Additionally, several players were named Tier II Offensive All-SCC: Jack Shay, Bryce Malary, Owen Preskar and Dolan; and Tier II Defensive All-SCC including Brady Corsello and Kenny Carter. On November 16th, 2023, Coach Becker shared some thoughts on the season thus far:
You´ve allowed 0 points in your last 6 games [prior to the Guilford game], What has been the biggest key to winning and shutting out opponents this year?
We prioritize speed. Our defense is fast. They fly to the ball & are great tacklers. We play with a Shark Tank mentality.
Who has been the biggest leader on your team this year? Why?
Great question. Leadership is not a title. It is the influence you earn based on your behavior. All our young men are leaders because each guy builds our team culture every day. Each young man owns 20 square feet of our team culture. We challenge them to be elite in their 20 square feet. We have many outstanding leaders. We have 3 great captains - Bryce Malary, Gavin Wagner, & Owen Preskar. We also have incredible leaders like Jack Shay & Aidan Dolan. We have strong underclass leadership from guys like Kenny Carter.
[Prior to the game] Looking ahead in your schedule, the big Thanksgiving game against Guilford, do you like your chances in this game and how do you think this game will play out?
Guilford is a very good team. We are 43-5-1 against them. They are a worthy adversary. I believe history & tradition will prevail.
Has Jack stepped up and filled in his role on the team this year? How much of an impact has he had?
Jack is a joy to coach. He has worked incredibly hard to maximize his talent. He brings great energy every day. He is a leader on and off the field. We are so proud of him.
What is your opinion on the first game against Bunnell, what happened?
Bunnell played a great game. We came up just short.
Update: Hand wins a big game in the CIAC Class M Football State Championship with a 57-20 win over Rockville. It was the team’s 14th state title in the program’s history.
Photo Credits: CT Insider
