Needham Prepares for Division 1 State Semifinal Showdown Against St. John’s Prep
Needham High School’s football team is gearing up for a pivotal Division 1 state semifinal matchup against St. John’s Prep this Friday, maintaining an impressive undefeated record. Coach Doug Kopsco attributes the team’s success to a dedicated core of eight or nine players, many of whom have been starters since their sophomore year, fostering a strong camaraderie. This group has collectively triumphed in 20 of their last 22 games, with their only losses to state champions Milton and Xaverian.
The Rockets are led by standout athletes Aidan Williams (Lehigh), Will McDonald (Army), and Charlie Simeone (Holy Cross). St. John’s Prep coach Brian St. Pierre acknowledges the talent and experience of Needham, highlighting their physicality and game strategy.
St. John’s Prep, the top-seeded team at 9-1, also comes into the game with a strong postseason pedigree, having won the championship in 2022 and finished as runner-up last year. Following a loss to Catholic Memorial, the Eagles bounced back convincingly, overpowering BC High (28-0), Attleboro (42-0), and Methuen (44-7).
Defensive prowess is a hallmark of both teams, with St. John’s allowing only four touchdowns in their last six games while Needham has restricted opponents to just 63 points in ten games. Kopsco credits routine leadership and tenacity among his defenders, who adopt a "swarming" mentality on the field.
The outcome of this semifinal will determine who advances to the finals against BC High or Xaverian, featuring a landscape of rematches as several of the semi-final pairings include teams that faced off previously in the playoffs. The anticipation builds as Needham aims to carve their path to the championship amidst a competitive field.
Source
Photo credit www.bostonherald.com
