The Father Vincent Capodanno Grunts hosted and defeated Hobgood Charter School, 38-28, for Senior Day on Saturday.
Father Vincent Capodanno is a small Catholic high school located in Vass and was established in 2016. This is the second full season for their eight man football program. This year, they partnered with the National Athletic Village in Southern Pines, so the Grunts could have a home field.
Saturday was their second and final home game of the season. The team, staff, and family celebrated their three seniors. They kicked things off with a tailgate before the game.
Michael Brown is recognized on Senior Day.
“We’re a small school with only 36 students, but we started with four,” said Athletic Director Andrew Attar. “When we host a home game, it takes a school effort.”
Over 100 people came out to support the team on Saturday.
The Grunts get ready to play football.
“The first part of building the program is to put the product on the field in our local community, and we haven’t really been able to do that until this year,” said Head Coach Aaron Hartley. “Getting a win is huge for that; we get to show off winning Capodanno football.
“We can get some attraction, and let people know we’re here, and maybe get some good new players to replace these awesome seniors that are leaving. This win was a huge deal. We knew from day one we had it in us to win a hard fought game, and that’s what we seen today.”
Senior Keegan Hunt.
Senior Keegan Hunt had multiple interceptions and two touchdowns. “It felt great, but it was a team effort really,” said Hunt. “The coverage was amazing. It’s definitely not a one man show. It is a team sport, and everyone showed a lot of leadership. We’re grateful for that.”
Senior Cole Johnson.
Senior Cole Johnson said, “It was huge to win at home, but, even more, this was the one game my dad was able to come to, and I love we were able to show him a great show today.”
The Grunts’ next game is away against Community Christian School on Friday.
~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Curtis Self. Contact him at [email protected].
