The Hillsborough Raiders finished their 2024 football season with an overall record of 7-4. The hope for this year was real, even if the final result went against expectations. After falling in the playoffs, 35-30 to Rancocas Valley, the Raiders can take pride in what they achieved this past fall.
“I am very proud of the way the football team performed this season. This team overcame a tough start and finished very strong, winning every home game,” Coach Kevin Carty said. “We had awesome leadership and had so many different players step up throughout the year. Jackson Jankowicz’s record-setting season, which included ten playoff touchdowns, really propelled our offense to some huge late season wins” he said.
The Raiders started the season with some ups and downs and then found their rhythm midyear. They then put together a run of five straight victories, showing what could be done with that team. The offenses, spearheaded by a strong running game, consistently moved the ball up and down the field. The offensive line helped keep the ground game strong, and the defense stepped up when needed to keep opponents in check. These key factors helped the team gain momentum and secure a solid spot in the postseason.
One of the bright spots of the season was senior running back Jackson Jankowicz, who had an unforgettable performance in the playoffs, running 256 yards against Rancocas Valley. Jankowicz’s effort was one of the highs of the year as he showed leadership and skill. During the regular season, he was a motivating factor in the Raiders’ offense and frequently took the burden onto his shoulders when needed.
Going into the playoffs against Rancocas Valley, the Raiders had a positive outlook and were ready to compete. The two teams battled it out, putting up big points on the board against each other. In the last minutes of the game, the Raiders needed just a few more plays. Although they lost, they continued to work to the end, and the fans stayed lively in their support. It was intense on the field and fiery in the stands, showing how hard the team worked throughout the game.
The Raiders had much to be proud of this season. One was how dominant the running game could be at times. Another was the way the defense made big stops in their efforts to keep the team in contests. Of course, passing was sometimes inconsistent, meaning the aerial attack will need to be tightened in the future for it to pose an even greater threat to opponents.
The Hillsborough Raiders took a step forward in the 2024 season, finishing with a winning record, winning several key games, and earning a spot in the playoffs. With some adjustments-especially in the passing game-they should remain competitive for years to come.
Carty already has a plan. “I hope that our strong junior class will be able to take advantage of their opportunity next year and have another exciting season. We will have to replace a lot of very good players, but we have some great candidates to do it,” he said.
