BERLIN CENTER, OH- Western High School’s senior football players Dominic Zimbardi and Parker Namie shared their experiences and expectations for their final season on the YSN podcast, “The Devils Hour.”

The Western Blue Devils are off to a strong start, having showcased resilience and strong teamwork in their recent win against Columbiana despite the challenges introduced by a rain delay. “It was slow at first,” Zimbardi recalled, “but once we started bumping some jams, the mood lifted, and we played our best football.”

Namie echoed this sentiment, noting the team’s ability to overcome hurdles, both on and off the field. “We didn’t want to go through the rain delay, but we picked up once we were back out there,” he said.

The anticipation and excitement are palpable as the Blue Devils prepare for their upcoming game against McDonald, a significant rivalry game often referred to as the “Blue Devils vs. Blue Devils” showdown. According to Zimbardi, their preparation is meticulous, with focused training sessions led by coach Mark Vijelik to counter McDonald’s Wing T offense. “We’re working very hard and are ready to have a battle up front,” Zimbardi assured.

The seniors also highlighted the importance of team bonding, recounting a memorable retreat over the summer at Coach Alessi’s house. The retreat included activities that ranged from building campfires to the physically demanding task of pushing an ATV. “It was pretty exhausting,” Namie admitted, but it brought the team closer together.

As they look forward to the rest of the season, both Zimbardi and Namie have their eyes on graduation, symbolizing the end of a rewarding yet demanding high school journey. “High school really is just a job without pay,” Zimbardi remarked, reflecting on the balance between being a student and an athlete.

With a promising season ahead, the Western Blue Devils’ senior players are determined to leave a lasting legacy on the field. Fans and followers can expect a spirited performance this season as the team aims to finish strong.

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