Johnson Dominates early football season

By Danielle Hartzler

​There is no better way to develop comradery among the Crusader population than to be represented by 35 of the most talented student athletes in Union County. The 2016/2017 Johnson football team has exceeded expectations so far this fall. It was only a matter of time until the football players in the classes of 2017 and 2018 became upperclassmen, and their 3-1 record sends quite the message.
Their performance is exciting and expanding the student-based fan section at games, who’s fans are displaying the most school pride ever. The Crusaders are led by Johnson alumni, Coach Delconte, who believes that the mental and physical strength of his team has carried them this season. Lifting took up a huge portion of the preseason for the players, and more than half of the team is included in the impressive “1,000 Pound Club”.
Mentally, the Crusaders are just as tough, having many returners come back with experience and motivation. “You can’t trade experience for anything else,” Coach Delconte said in regards to his team. This is just the beginning for Crusader football, being that their goals are to win conference title, and become Group 2 state champions.
It is clear to see that senior quarterback Vin Crisafi and these young men are more focused and capable than ever. They started off their season with a shutout win over the Pioneers of New Providence, and continued by finally bashing Bernards, in a victory that is key to the rest of their season. After losing to a tough Roselle team, the Crusaders kept their heads up and took on Delaware Valley at home. Rain or shine, the Crusaders still end up on top as their record improves to 3-1.
The student body is at ease to watch the determination of these student athletes turn into well-deserved success as the season progresses.
 
 

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