Coach Dell Earns 200th Victory!

The St. Joseph Hogs notched Head Coach Joe Della Vecchia's 200th win on Saturday, Nov. 8th, with a 35-14 victory over Fairfield Ludlowe. It’s the fourth straight victory for the Hogs, and the sixth victory on the season.   

“I had a lot of great players and coaches,” Della Vecchia said. “Every kid I’ve ever coached, I’ve pushed for them to come out and compete as well as grow as people.” 

St. Joseph got off to a quick start. On the first play of the game, Junior HT Jones found Junior Jake Rios, who broke free and ran it 60 plus yards for the touchdown and the early 7-0 Hogs lead. 

Fairfield Ludlowe were quick to respond. After marching down the field, the Falcons were right in front of the ten-yard line. Their quarterback took the snap and scrambled for a touchdown to tie the game. 

Just before the end of the 1st quarter, the Hogs re-captured the lead. After two plays that netted St. Joe’s 20-plus yards, Finn Kilmartin ran it up the middle for a three-yard touchdown. 

Momentum swung in the Cadets' favor during the second quarter. Just over a minute and a half in, the Hogs blocked the Falcons' punt at Fairfield Ludlowe's 15-yard line. Junior Kyle Wicker recovered and ran it in to give the Hogs a 21-7 advantage. 

Just before half, Jones found Rios again on a 20-yard touchdown pass to extend their lead to 28-7. 

The Falcons tried to stage a comeback in the second half. Midway through the fourth quarter, their running back ran to the outside and dove into the endzone to cut the deficit to 28-14. However, the Hogs immediately responded when Jones found Senior Lameik Black for a touchdown to put them back up by 21. 

“I think this win really helps us for the playoffs,” Della Vecchia said. “I feel our confidence is growing, and the kids are committed to doing what we set out to do.” 

The Hogs aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to play Wilton on Friday, Nov 14th. Kickoff is set for 6:30 pm at Veterans Memorial Stadium.