A football season like no other

Through all of the uncertainty throughout the year 2020, it’s a true statement to the strong character and focus of the West Milford High School football program that they remained steadfast in their determination to stay united as a team.

The Highlanders were rewarded for their steadfastness not only with hard fought victories on the field, but by gaining valuable life lessons as well.

“This season was like none other,’’ West Milford head coach Steve Maslanek said. “With so many changes this season (having to replace Lakeland with Paramus and Pascack Hills with North Plainfield), we had a mindset that we would put the ball down and play anyone any time. Paramus, Lakeland and Passaic Valley games really stand out. As a young team we faced good competition week and week out.

“In the Paramus game we came back in the fourth quarter to win 20-13, scoring 20 points in last six minutes of the game,” the coach added. “Passaic Valley was a great high school football game which saw us lose 27-20, but this was a game that could have ended in our favor easily. Same situation as our game versus Lakeland when we lost, 20-17. (It was a) great high school football game that we came up short in but had our opportunities to put it away.’’

The Highlanders not surprisingly benefitted for solid leadership and constantly improving student athletes on the roster this recently concluded season.

“Senior Kyler Grahame, captain, led by example,’’ Maslanek said. “Juniors Dylan Connors, Joe Palminteri and Ralph Turre, who anchored the offensive line (were also team leaders). Anthony Gryszkin went from outside linebacker to defensive end and broke a school record for sacks in a single season with 12. He also led the County and North Jersey in sacks, he got better every week. We were very proud of the season Anthony put together.

“Mark Keeser, middle linebacker, led us in tackles and became the vocal leader of the defense. His play improved dramatically from last year and he really played at a high level this season on defense and starting his first year on offense.’’

West Milford tallied three victories this fall.

“Ending the season 3-5, upon reflection, that could have easily been 5-3 with close games versus Lakeland and Passaic Valley,’’ Maslanek said. “In addition, replacing Pascack Hills with undefeated North Plainfield resulted in a loss that would have most likely resulted in a win. (A 6-2 record) sounds a lot better than 3-5, but again, the culture didn’t feel like a ‘losing’ season. Young players gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in these close games and are hungry for next season.’’