RHS Football
It’s All Systems Go For Rye in Saturday’s Rivalry Game

It’s that time of the year again.
The undefeated Garnets will “welcome” Harrison (2-1) to Nugent Stadium Saturday, September 27, with the kickoff at 1:30 p.m. Rye has defeated Harrison five straight times now, cutting the Huskies’ all-time series lead to 41-33-3. The five consecutive wins are the most ever for the school against the Huskies. It’s a fact not lost on the current Garnets.
“This game means everything to us, and there is nothing we want more than to keep the streak going,” said Donald Keough, a senior captain who plays both safety and tight end. “The fact that we’ll be playing at home is amazing. This is a moment I’ve been waiting for since 7th grade.”
Rye defeated Harrison on the road last year, 27-7. The win answered any lingering doubts about their mettle, and propelled them to a second State championship in three years.
The high-octane 2008 team has been tuning up for the Huskies all season, and got into gear at home September 19 by treating Pelham like pavement. Head coach Dino Garr used a variety of players in the 42-10 win. The strategy worked two ways for the coach, who will be inducted into the Westchester County Sports Hall of Fame October 2. It ensured his starters would be healthy for the big game, and prevented Harrison from getting any last minute tips on Rye.
“We’ve got our techniques down, we’re right in stride, and we’re ready for what is obviously a huge game,” said Pat O’Callaghan, another senior captain. “This rivalry is a great thing to be a part of. The tradition is so rich, and it’s a fun thing because we root for Harrison whenever we’re not playing them.” The rivalry is especially heartfelt for the Garnets’ Matt Foristel. The senior outside linebacker played for the Huskies last year, but transferred schools over the summer. He’s been an impact player on defense so far.
Against Pelham, Rye’s D was relentless early and often. Cole McCormack recovered a fumble on the Pelicans’ first offensive play of the game, and the Garnets quickly took advantage. Sophomore quarterback Connor Eck connected on a 12-yard touchdown strike to Keough just over two minutes into the game.
From there, Garr deployed a fierce rushing attack to batter Pelham. Senior captain Kyle Ramalho rushed 11 times for 48 yards and two touchdowns, and junior T.J. Storino ran twice for 97 yards and a late touchdown. McCormack picked up 85 yards on the ground with a touchdown, and senior Clark Antico chipped in for 45 and a score.
Along with many veterans, Ramalho came out of the game in the first half. Harrison however, should expect four quarters of the best Rye has to offer on Saturday.