The start of the school year brings excitement for all, especially regarding Friday night football in Hillsborough. In the midst of the chaos 2020 has brought so far, the return of Friday night lights are reviving normalcy for high school students.

Coming off a successful season, the football team is looking forward to another exciting, yet unique season led by head coach Kevin Carty, who has led the Raiders for ten seasons. The Raiders look forward to kicking off their season this Friday, 2 Oct., against Montgomery on their home turf. Last season, the Raiders finished strong and their greatest achievement was crushing Washington Township 34-7 during a home playoff game.

Last season the boys went 8-3 and were led by a strong senior lineup including Jon Seaton who is now playing Division I at Elon and Thomas Schultz who continues his career at the University of Delaware. This year, the team will be guided by seniors Sean Levonitis, Luke Popaduik and Jacob Straz.

This season, there are no true newcomers on the varsity team which is an advantage considering every player as some varsity experience, however, some players will be filling new roles.

“Jay Mazuera will be starting QB for the first time,” said Carty, “and I think he is ready for a great season.”

This group is very athletic and dynamic, promising a very exciting season for the Raiders. Key play-makers for this season include two time 1,000 yard rusher Levonaitis and 700 yard receiver junior Thomas Amanakwaa.

The team’s overall goal of the shortened season is to win all their games.

“I know this season will be unusual,” said Carty, “but our players have been working very hard.”