In Major Reversal, Finley Football Finishes at 4-1-1

The J. Taylor Finley Middle School completely reversed its fortunes from a year ago and compiled a 4-1-1 record under new head coach and Huntington alum Joe Crocco. The team was winless in 2024.

The 36 player Finley roster was captained by Jason Bencivenga, David Bergmann III, Ethan Martin and Luke Shanley. Patrick Reilly and Ivano Naccarato assisted Crocco.

Declan Driscoll scored 10 touchdowns and led Finley in tackles. He was named the team’s MVP. Bencivenga excelled in the backfield as the team’s tough running back and leader of the “A” team. He was tapped as Finley’s Offensive MVP. Charlie Gordon picked off two passes and rang up dozens of tackles on his way to being picked as Finley’s Defensive MVP.

Martin led both the offensive and defensive lines and was the team’s Lineman MVP. “We often ran behind Ethan,” Crocco said.

Bergmann turned in a huge season on both sides of the ball. He was the team’s durable fullback who pounded the ball through the line for big gains, including touchdowns. On defense, he brought down the fastest and largest runners and receivers with textbook tackles. “David had a great season and he’s going to lead the Blue Devils for many years to come,” Crocco said.

Messiah Ladson garnered the Coaches Award. “He was always at practice and would help bring equipment out to the field,” Crocco said. “He has a great attitude.”

One of the biggest wins came against Stimson, “who was acknowledged as one of the best team s in our league,” Crocco said. “It was considered a big upset.”

Crocco is looking to continue growing the team and “keeping a positive feel for the program,” he said. “We will strive to have another winning season.”

“The team was a pleasure to coach,” Crocco said. They worked hard at practice and it showed in the games. I expect every seventh grader to return and I would hope the success of this year would be a springboard to more students playing football next year.”