Finley Football-8 Finishes at 3-1
The eighth grade J. Taylor Finley Middle School football team won three of its four games this past fall. The 44-player squad was highly competitive on the field, featuring a blend of offensive and defensive standouts.
Finley was coached by Kevin Thorbourne and Bill Harris and captained by Lawrence Leake, Jared Leake, Aidan McCormack and Nick Lanzisero. Thorbourne said the team learned that "hardwork and dedication leads to success."
Finley topped Northport (8-0), West Hollow (27-25) and East Northport (21-7). The Falcons' lone loss came at the hands of Candlewood, 27-7. Hurricane Sandy shortened the season by two games.
Thorbourne said he wants to "develop more athletes at their individual positions next fall and keep them interested in playing." He feels that by doing so their skills will improve more quickly and they will be better equipped to move on to the next level.
The Finley-8 coaching staff implemented the Blue Devils' high school system, an initiative that Thorbourne admitted "was challenging, but the athletes picked it up well."
The Falcons were led by star running back/defensive back Jared Leake. "He's very talented," Thorbourne said. "If Jared continues to put in hard work, he will be a leader on the junior varsity, too."
Lawrence Leake excelled at running back and safety. "He has a lot of skills at all positions," the coach said. Lanzisero tuned in a superb season at linebacker, calling defensive plays and leading the team in tackles. "He's a great leader on the field," Thorbourne said.
All-in-all, Finley-8 football players were able walk away from the gridiron with a good feeling. "Not only did they develop good team spirit, but they bonded as young men," Thorbourne said.
Not year's Finley-8 squad should be equally impressive. "The Finley-7 team looked to be well beyond its years," Thorbourne said. "Not only was their A-team consistent with a hardnosed defense, but the offense dominated teams. That led to their undefeated season."
Falcon Notes: Huntington alum and former Blue Devil football player Jovan Hairston also worked with the team under the supervision of the coaching staff . . . A total of 46 players started the season and 44 finished it.