Panthers 9U squad earns first win
The two dozen plus pre-teens that represent the Johnston Panthers in the 9U Division of the American Youth Football League’s Blackstone Valley Division were jumping for joy Sunday afternoon at Mayor Joseph M. Polisena Stadium.
“This was the first win for these kids,” offered Ed Benoit, the Panthers’ head coach, after an impressive 58-31 victory over Seekonk. “This was also our home opener.”
Benoit’s bunch racked up all kinds of offensive yardage and benefited from the fine overall play of Jayden Allard, Nicholas Benoit, Joe Bercian, Corey Blakely, Drew Buteau, Jackson Chamberlain, Jacob Ellis, JP Furtado, Mathew Ladouceur, Jason Schino, Manny Sully and Shane Trainor.
Blakely racked up all kinds of offensive rushing yardage and scored many of Johnston’s touchdowns. Also getting into Sunday’s scoring act were Panthers Allard and Chamberlain.
Moreover, Nick Testa and Michael Messina scored the first touchdowns of their youth football careers.
Johnston’s defensive line also shined, with Leo Chabot, Nathan DellaMorte, Daniel Gomes, Sean Lavoie, Messina, Lorenzo Montes, Ben Pascale, Devin Ruggieri, Karter Sampson, Testa and Ronald Williams turning in super efforts.
Despite being sidelined with injuries, Cody George, Joseph Sala, Sebastian Small and Jaiden Weston offered encouragement throughout the game to their Panther teammates.
