By David Reilly

Nov. 18, 2015:  The 9-1 Bronxville Blue 5/6 football team was able to avenge its only loss of the season and bring home the Westchester Youth Football League Championship trophy on Sunday by defeating the Westlake Wildcats 32-14. From start to finish, Bronxville never trailed, and the team controlled the game, leaving Westlake surprised that this was the same team it had faced in week one. 

After winning the coin toss and electing to receive the ball, Bronxville put together a methodical ten-play 60 yard touchdown drive that featured great blocking from the offensive line and a determined inside running attack from the backfield. Bronxville's defense took the field next and surprised Westlake by controlling the line of scrimmage and shutting down Westlake's running lanes. That initial defensive stop allowed Bronxville's offense back on the field to continue with its momentum, building ground and pound attack that produced another touchdown for the Broncos and, after a successful extra point conversion, an early 13-0 lead. Westlake's offense responded in the next series with a 55 yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion to close the gap, but that was as close as the game would get, as Bronxville retook control just before halftime with a 20 yard touchdown pass that left Bronxville with a 20-8 halftime advantage.

In the second half, Bronxville's defense shut down Westlake on its opening drive and Bronxville's offense produced another clock-consuming methodical touchdown drive on its initial possession to make the score 26-8. Both teams traded touchdowns in the fourth quarter to make the final score Bronxville 32, Westlake 14. Bronxville's Tommy Garofalo had a monster game, with close to 100 yards rushing, three touchdowns, and an interception, and he was named the championship game MVP. After the trophy ceremony, head coach Gene Rooney stated that he was "very proud of the boys' individual development throughout the season but most proud of the way the boys matured and gelled together as a football team." Coach Rooney concluded, "The future looks very bright for the Bronxville football program."

Pictured here (4 rotating):  Bronxville Blue 5/6 football team wins the Westchester Youth Football League Championship.

Photos by Matthew Morris