The 2013 Pioneer football season has come to a close with a final record of 7-3.  This record is something to be proud of as it represents the immense amount of effort the players put into each game.  Although the Seniors didn’t leave behind a state championship, they still came out on top.

 The last weeks of the season were full of ups and downs.  On 11/22 the Pioneers took on Hoboken.  Hoboken was a favorite to make it to the championship game.  The Pioneers did not let their underdog status discourage them.  The team was able to establish a strong running attack early on with running backs CJ Kliesch and Ibn Nash both having huge games on the ground.  Senior wide receiver Jeff Doran also had a big night, making multiple diving catches.  The team played with pride and tenacity, giving absolutely everything they had.   They were in it until the last few minutes, and it was a great game, regardless of the final score, which was 23-40 in favor of Hoboken.

 Although the season now had an expiration date, the team remained extremely motivated.  They knew that Governor Livingston was waiting for them.  On Thanksgiving day (11/28) the Pioneers played their final game of the season.  Governor Livingston hosted the game and came out strong.  The first half seemed evenly matched, but GL managed to pull ahead 12-0.  It was the perfect storm for an incredible Pioneer comeback.  The Pioneers scored once in the third quarter on a five yard run to Ibn Nash.  GL then put another 6 on the board to put the Highlanders up 18-7.  The Pioneers then scored two unanswered touchdowns to seal the deal.  After the game Senior linemen Dan Patel said, “I couldn’t ask for a better way to go out.”