Football

Derry’s Dom Patrick takes part in a workout Aug. 8, 2022, at Derry.

Dom Patrick, Derry seniors passionate about returning to playoff contention

August 12, 2022

Dom Patrick is embarrassed. So are his teammates. After all, this is a Derry program just three years removed from a fourth-in-a-row WPIAL playoff appearance.

Penn Hills head coach Charles Morris works with his team on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, in Penn Hills.

New Penn Hills coach wants to ramp up aggressiveness

Penn Hills coach Charles Morris isn’t so worried about X’s and O’s for his first season in charge. The foundation for the Indians’ success on the field has been shaped over the previous few years by the players and coaching staff.

North Hills quarterback John Green throws a football at practice at Martorelli Stadium on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.

North Hills with plenty of ‘untold stories’ entering 2022

Coming off its best season since 2010, North Hills is ready to begin writing a fresh chapter. But, right now, the authors are a bit unknown.

Quarterback Ben DeMotte holds a football up to the camera at the Fox Chapel High School Stadium on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.

After taste of playoff success, Fox Chapel back for more

Fox Chapel won five games in the 2021 football season — and one of those victories was quite significant.

Shaler quarterback Keegan Smetanka prepares to put on his helmet to practice Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022.

Shaler looks to learn lessons from losing streak

There was a real opportunity last season for the Shaler football team to get off to a 3-0 start. But after two double-digit wins to open the season, the Titans were tripped up by Hampton by three points.

Pine Richland linebacker Max Heckert runs during drills on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.

New Pine-Richland coach wants to play ‘Western Pa. football’

As the Jon LeDonne era begins at Pine-Richland, one element that he wants to add into the program is more physicality.

Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin takes part in a workout Monday at Belle Vernon.

Strong junior class aims to carry Belle Vernon across finish line

August 11, 2022

The past five seasons of Belle Vernon football have been equal parts scintillating and frustrating. The Leopards proved they were one of the best teams in Class 4A, reaching the WPIAL title game twice and the semifinals three times.

Penn-Trafford quarterback Conlan Greene throws during the Larry Sellitto Memorial 7-on-7 passing tournament Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Greater Latrobe High School.

Penn-Trafford ready to tackle the challenge of staying on top

Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane is faced with something he’s never encountered before: preparing a team to defend a WPIAL and PIAA Class 5A championship.

Franklin Regional receiver Ayden Hudock works out on Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Murrysville.

Franklin Regional hopes last year’s learning experience benefits returning players

Injuries to two key players derailed Franklin Regional’s 2021 football season.

South Fayette’s Nate Deanes carries the ball during practice on Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in South Fayette.

South Fayette looks to turn hard-luck losses into conference wins

August 10, 2022

There was a zero in the wins column, but South Fayette’s conference record didn’t tell the entire story.

Moon’s Nick Prozzoly works out on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, at Tigers Stadium.

After unforgettable run to WPIAL finals, rebuilding process begins at Moon

Moon is one year removed from a historic run for the program, making its first championship appearance since 1998.

Bethel Park’s Dinari Clacks works out on Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in Bethel Park.

With slew of starters returning, expectations soaring at Bethel Park

Bethel Park coach Brian DeLallo can count on an impressive list of returning players for the 2022 edition of his football team.

Baldwin’s Keith Mincin carries the ball during practice on Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in Baldwin.

Baldwin moves into Class 5A looking to regain confidence

Although Baldwin has taken a step down from Class 6A to 5A this season, its 2022 schedule still can be considered a grind.

Upper St. Clair’s Jamaal Brown carries the ball during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, in Upper St. Clair.

Upper St. Clair loaded with returning starters, ready for another playoff run

After finishing in second place in the balanced Class 5A Allegheny Six Conference a year ago, Upper St. Clair qualified for the WPIAL playoffs for a 22nd straight year.