THE JEFFERSON FALCONS UPSET NEXT DOOR RIVALS SPARTA

 By: Daelan Farto 

                                                    Photo Credits: Morris Sussex Sports 

The Jefferson Falcons hold number three Sparta, to a 56-51 win on Friday 12/17.

The Falcons found their rhythm while missing their two starters, Jake Studnick and Travis Osterhout. Will Weihmiller led the Falcons with 23 points, with Jayson Eisele following up with 12. On the Sparta side, Mike McGovern knocked down 4 three-pointers and had 14 points. 

With only hours before game time, news broke that Jefferson starters Jake Studnick and Travis Osterhout had been exposed to COVID-19. A curve ball was thrown to head coach Joe DiGennaro. Jefferson’s Nate Do and Nick Baez had fulfilled the role for the Falcons.

The Jefferson Falcons returned in the 2021-22 season with a #6 preseason ranking. Seniors Will Weihmiller and Erik Garv return to have a large impact on the team. 

When asked “What did you do to prepare for the game that contributed to your success on the court?” Will said. “We do walk throughs straight after school and go over all of our plays and go over what we are going to see from the other team. I also show up 3 hours before the game to get mentally prepared and get shots up before the game.” 

The Sparta Spartans began the season with a #3 pregame ranking. Returning seniors Luke Szabo, Mike McGovern, and Matt Silvey were sent on the mission to stop the Falcons. 

The Falcons took the lead early in the first, 15-6. Jefferson had a significant lead the entire game up until the fourth, when Sparta scored 22.

 This win had meant a lot for the Falcons as they are next door rivals.