The Shaler football team had its ups and downs throughout the season. After starting the season 2-0, the injuries that built up through those games, and in the 3rd game just caught up to them. They went on to finish the season with a 2-8 record.

Entering the season, the coaching staff implemented a new offensive and defensive system that showed flashes of success throughout the season.

“The players having a collective buy in and having the belief to be able to grow helped the team build up momentum and confidence throughout the season” head coach Mr. Jim Ryan said.

The amount of injuries that the team dealt with is just something no team can withstand and continue to play at the same level.

“Despite all of the injuries, they realized what they were capable of in smaller instances, they realized they can move the ball on teams and make big plays. Full strength, they would’ve been able to capitalize and win more games,” Ryan said.

To add to their struggles, Pine-Richland, a perennial powerhouse in 6A moved down to 5A and into the same section as the Titans. The Shaler football team had arguably their hardest schedule in years. Three of the final four teams in the WPIAL 5A playoffs played the Titans, as well as Hampton who was undefeated in the regular season.

The team started off 2-0 for the first time in almost 10 years. The Titans won at New Castle 37-20 and then beat Mars 25-6.

“Starting 2-0 was a statement and I think if we can do it again next year, while being fully healthy, we could have something special,” junior Zach Hartung said.