Finley-8 Football Compiles
Perfect Season
It was a season to remember for the J. Taylor Finley Middle School eighth grade football team. The Falcons finished with a perfect 6-0 record and turned in some dazzling performances en route to impressing a string of Suffolk opponents.
Finley was led by Kiandre Burrell, Kenny McCarthy, Kyle Davis and Michael Malerba. The 39-player team was captained by McCarthy, Davonte Evans, Timothy Mattiace and Keegan Reilly.
Burrell rushed 27 times for 410 yards, caught 12 passes for 180 yards and scored five touchdowns. He also recorded 21 tackles on defense. "Kiandre's running ability is more advanced than the average eighth grader," Thorbourne said. "He is one of the athletes that, if he continues to put in the hard work, will step in next year on JV and make an impact."
McCarthy was the team's superb quarterback, completing 33-of-51 passes for 487 yards and eight touchdowns. "He was the extra coach we had on the field," Thorbourne said. "Kenny was the first on the field for practice, getting his teammates ready to play. He's another player that will have the opportunity to play on JV if he dedicates himself in the off-season and continues to work hard." McCarthy also made four tackles.
Davis rushed 16 times for 161 yards, had two receptions for 30 yards and scored six touchdowns and four extra-points. He also made 25 tackles and sacked the quarterback three times. "He has the most athletic ability in Finley," Thorbourne said. "With the proper training and concentration on his part, Kyle can be one of the best athletes."
Michael Malerba rushed 26 times for 202 yards and scored three touchdowns and three extra-points. He also made five tackles. "He worked hard this season and it showed on the field," Thorbourne said. "Michael is going to surprise a lot of people next year."
Finley's victories came over Hauppauge (31-6), East Northport (28-19), Commack (32-12), West Hollow (13-8), Lindenhurst (26-6) and Bay Shore (26-13).
The Falcon roster was deep with talented players at virtually every position. "If these young athletes continue to work hard together, doors will open up for them in the future," Thorbourne said. The coaching staff implemented the Blue Devils' JV/varsity system, which proved to be a challenging enterprise at times.
Players put in the "grunt" that makes winning possible. "The hard work and dedication paid-off with an undefeated season," Thorbourne said. "Not only did they develop good tam spirit, but they bonded as young men."