Mansfield High Football Ready for the Season

The Mansfield Hornets won the championship last year, and they aim to do it, head coach Mike Redding said. They ending their season with a league ranking of 10-1, and a 12-1 ranking overall.  They then went on to win the Division 2 Super Bowl.

“Maybe losing that first one was a pleasing in disguise,” Redding said. “It brought our team together, the kids worked hard and got better every week. We were able to win the league and get to Gillette, which was great.”

This year, Mansfield has some heavy competition. Facing teams like King Philip, Attleboro and Franklin will not be an easy task. North Attleboro ended their season with a league record of 10-1 as well, and King Philip was right on their heels with 8-2.

“We want to be in the thick of it,” he said. “Our league’s very good. Our goal is always that when we get into November, we want to have a shot at the title.”

Redding stressed that while his team's record is a major concern, their academics and demeanor off the field is important as well. He said they represent Mansfield whenever they play another town.

“We want to win games, but we want to do it the right way, and do well off the field.”

 Mansfield's first game is Friday, Sept. 9 at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse against the Christian Brothers Academy. Their record last year was 5-4, but they won their last game, scoring four touchdowns, while shutting out Baldwinsville 27-0.

Redding said he's excited for the matchup, as playing out of state teams is always a good way to shake up the routine.

“It’s a great opening day test,” he said.