Aliquippa went on to be a powerhouse in class AA, winning the title again in 2003 and runner-up in 2000. The Qips were also runner-up in 1988, the first season the state playoff format was installed. Aliquippa was Berwick’s first victim in the Dawg’s historic stretch.
Since 91, Hanover Area has not been quite as fortunate, winning just two district titles. One in 96 and the other in 2005. In 05 the Hawks actually made it all the way to the state quarterfinals, only to be defeated by eventual runner-up Wilson, who lost to South Park in the finals.
In 2005, the buzz returned to Hanover Area with that playoff run. Now with head coach Ron Hummer, who has deep roots with the Hawks, guiding this team, playoffs could be something that is expected each season in coal town.
The Hawks sputtered a bit in week one, losing to highly touted Lake-Lehman 17-14 in a squeaker. That was not the case tonight in their home opener against W-B Meyers as all engines were firing to the tune of 41 points to Meyers 13.
Hanover Area found the scoreboard first after blocking the opening punt from Meyers. Rob Rival was the Hawk to get the paws on the pigskin. From their Sr. QB Rich Colorusso only needed one play to scamper 15 yards to paydirt on the keeper. The PAT was no good with the score Hanover 6 Meyers 0.
Meyers would tie things up early after they also blocked a punt with Sr. Joe Drevenak picking up the pigskin a scampering 30 yards to the gold zone. The PAT was blocked with the score all knotted at six.
From here on out it was all Hanover Area’s “Big Blue” with TD’s from Sr. WR Jack Danko, Jr. RB Mike Redick, Jr. WR Tomas Cabera and Sr. FB Kyle Halesey. You certainly could say they spread it around a bit!
Meyers would add a late score with the the final score Hanover Area 41 W-B Meyers 13.
With the win the Hawks move to 1-1 with Holy Redeemer their next combatant. Meyers is still looking for their first win of the season as the go to 0-2 and will travel to Nanticoke Area next Friday evening.
