A number of speakers were slated to congratulate the coaching staff and the kids on an undefeated season and the achievement of the first State Championship in School and Niagara County history. I’m sure when the rain began many people assumed the victory rally would be cancelled and rescheduled. Not in North Tonawanda. The weather doesn’t bother us here. When the season turns cold and night falls earlier, we respond by turning on the lights and dressing in warmer clothing. After all, we’re Lumberjacks!”

The vernerable Dick Grapes agreed to change his schedule and emcee the North Tonawanda Lumberjacks 2009 Championship Victory Rally at the Lumberyard Wednesday night. Mr. Grapes as he is known to everyone, recently retired after spending the last 50-years as the “Voice of the Lumberjacks.” His voice is unmistakeable and his command of the English language remarkable.

Coach Eric Jantzi is flanked by Senators Robin Schimminger and George Maziarz. the pair read a proclamation from NYS Governor Patterson. The proclamation explained the members of the Lumberjack football team were invited to Albany and participate in a senatorial session during which time the lawmakers of NYS would recognize congratulate the team. How cool is that?!

This is a copy of the sign which will grace the major entrances to the City of North Tonawanda. Mayor Soos also proclaimed December 2, 2009 “North Tonawanda Lumberjack Football Day.” I know I’ve used this phrase once already, but “How cool is that?!”

The audience was moved indoors as the rain continued. If you can pick out my beautiful wife and/or Casey and Kyle Shreve’s grandmother (no family members allowed) I’ll give you 15% off any photo shoot package. 

The speakers for tonight’s event were numerous local dignitaries. Congratulations to Barb Zellner on her election to a seat in the Niagara County Legislature. Congratulations Barb! I’m sure you’ll do us proud! Barb is also the mother of Jeffrey Zellner who was an outstanding fullback for the Lumberjacks and graduated last year. Jeff now plays football at Utica College.

The cheerleaders kept the crowd involved.

Kujo, Kyle Shreve and Jimmy Rodgers. Kujo is sporting the pullover windbreaker all of the players received as a result of participating in the NYS Championship game on Sunday. This photo was taken in front of the “Wall of Fame” in the NTHS Student Center where I am quite sure a plaque will shortly be adorning the wall in honor of the 2009 Lumberjack Football team. The boys are overjoyed with their success. When I spoke with Kujo and Kyle after the  victory celebration both boys agreed “it hadn’t really sunk in yet.” Both of these boys like the rest of the team have maintained a level head and they haven’t allowed the win to go to their head.

I feel it is important to take a line from the book “Notes Left Behind” about how we measure time. I have caught myself many times as my children were younger saying “I wish this day would end” or “I wish my children were older.” Time has a way of sneaking up on us even when we don’t want it to. I wish now, as I grow older it would slow down. Stephen, or as everyone else knows him “Kujo” turned 17 on October 21st. He is my youngest child. I watched him grow into the fine young man he has become and smile with excitement at what his future holds for him. He has learned well and I have learned well with him. He does not know this but any good parent learns from the mistakes they have made as a parent. I feel as though I have done a good job. I will always be there to guide you. If you recall the lessons you have learned and apply them to your future you will do fine.

Congratulations boys! Let this Championship win be nothing more than a stepping stone to greater things in your life.

This is is. This is the game for all the marbles. This is the game which decides the winner of the New York State Class AA Championship.

In the 100-years of North Tonawanda football no team has ever made it this far into the playoffs. Since 1993 when the New York State Championship has been played, no North Tonawanda has found itself ready to play for the State Championship.

That all changes this weekend when North Tonawanda meets New Rochelle at the Syracuse University Carrier Dome on Sunday November 29, 2009 at 1:00 PM. Practice resumes this afternoon and  continues to morrow afternoon before the players and coaches make the pilgrimage to Syracuse.

I am so proud of the players on this team; their athleticism and their leadership. I recall making a statement at the beginning of the season. It went something like this, “If you boys maintain your health and a healthy attitude of humility, there is no reason why you should not be able to take that all the way to Syracuse.” This group of kids never said they “couldn’t do it.” Never said, “It’s too much work.” They worked hard during the off-season and even harder once the season began and dominated all of their opponents. Many people underestimate the power of a positive, proactive attitude and for that I believe they are foolish.

Go Jacks! The entire City of North Tonawanda will be there to support you as you take this final step toward the achievement of your goal of becoming New York State Champions.

North Tonawanda sits on the confluence of the Erie Canal and the mighty Niagara River. In it’s beginning it was a major lumber port and earned the nickname the “Lumber City.” When the city’s only high school decided to start an athletic program and add football as a sport, the name “Lumberjacks” was an obvious choice.

I recall sitting at the first contest of the 2009 football season and watch this group of talented young men easily handle their opponent and come out victorious. I recall saying, “If these boys can remain their health, keep their attitudes in check and continue to play their brand of football; there is no reason why they cannot make it through the playoffs and claim the “New York State Class AA State Championship” title. The win against the Baldwinville Bees on Saturday night finds this team poised on the doorstep of greatness with one game remaining in this championship quest.

The following photos are courtesy of Bob “Schooch” Pascucci. Thanks Schooch.

Casey Shreve, Kujo and Kyle Shreve. The Tonawanda News named these three players, among others from NTHS to the WNY All-Star first Team. Congratulations boys! You deserve the honor.

Notice the coach from Lancaster. He’s holding his heart because he can’t believe Kujo just broke that tackle and now has a clear shot at the goal line. A 41-yard TD run.

Kujo just wasn’t going to let that cast stop him. The announcer from Time-Warner kept referring to the cast as “The Club.”

What an intimidating defense. This is one awesome group of kids. I’m thinking blitz here.When Kujo plays fullback he just keeps running. It’s all that work in the weight room during the off-season. Coach Jantzi keeps telling these kids about the importance of keeping fit and staying in the weight room. The kids get it and it shows throughout the season.

Kujo met with a reporter after the game and accepted the award on behalf of the team. Go Jacks!

This contest was supposed to be a viscious contest. B’ville has an unbelieveable record and a running back to match. He has run for over 250-yards each game. This was due in part to having a line in size that rivaled the Empire State building.

Both teams were evenly matched, more on paper than in size. North Tonawanda has a multi-dimensional approach while B’ville has a bruising offense that aims to run over you at every opportunity. Keep the offense off the field, keep the defense on the field, wear them down and score points.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post. Please don’t forget to leave questions, comments and ideas for future posts by clicking on the “Leave comment” button below.

I appreciate you reading,

Chris

Norm Shreve is the father of Casey and Kyle Shreve. Today he was also known as the “Grill Master.” Nice job on the hamburgers and hot dogs Norm. The food we had was tremendous. I heard something about chowder and gumbo for next week. No wonder I enjoy football games so much or maybe it’s just the tailgating part. No, the football was excellent too.

The Lumberjacks have dominated every team they faced this year. This lead the team to an 11-0 record. The depth of this team at many positions is quite remarkable. Thankfully the team has not known many injuries during their campaign for the 2009 State Championship.

The team fought a difficult battle against a very worthy foe. North Tonawanda fought through many penalties and miscues to be victorious. This victory ensured the team would move on to the next level and continue to advance toward the coveted State Championship title. Winning this contest also gave the ‘Jacks title as the “Section V/VI Regional Champions.” There has not been a  previous Lumberjacks team that has ever advanced to this level. Congratulations boys! You, your coaching staff have done a fantastic job. The unbelieveable NT fans will continue to make the trip down the I-90 to support you!

The Lumberjacks play a highly ranked team from Baldwinsville, NY on Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 6:00 PM.

It is easy for individuals to loudly praise their achievements but it is my belief it is more important to have one’s accomplishments speak for themselves. Watching Stephen reminds of the importance of humility. Watching Stephen reminds me of the importance to know what one is capable of accomplishing and to simply go out and do one’s job; to accomplish one’s goals…quietly and without fanfare.

Stephen does not gloat. He does not point out his accomplishments. He allows his actions, his behaviors to speak for him. It is this voice which speaks more loudly than any other. We found out the day after NT’s win against Lancaster he won “Player of the Game.” He never said anything and when we witnessed his on-field interview we figured it was a result of his on-field accomplishments.

Here’s to those people who go about their day quietly and without need for regard. You will be noticed as your fire will burn brightest. Congratulations ‘Jacks and Congratulations Stephen. Onward to the next goal. Go Jacks!

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.” -Mahatma Gandhi

Kujo, now also known as the “Animal”, the “Rhinoceros” and the “Locomotive” romped for over 176-yards rushing Friday night.

The football gods were being kind to photographers and fans at the game. I knew it was going to rain and hoped it wouldn’t rain too hard for too long. The rain began in the afternoon and the sky told me it was not going to cease anytime soon. I arrived at the game cloaked in wet weather gear and ready for the rain. As the first quarter came to an end the rain slowed and evolved into a fine mist. Half-time arrived and we were treated with heavier rains that retreated into a fine mist by the time the second half began. This mist continued for the rest of the game.

Kujo playing both sides of the ball very effectively.

  Kujo was thankful his “O” line did such a fantastic job blocking and opening up running lanes. Seriously, this is a good team!Kujo broke away from tacklers to secure some of his 174-rushing yards.

As a game it wasn’t much of one as North Tonawanda almost matched their score of one year ago.North Tonawanda scored on every possession through the first three quarters of the game and cruised to a 68-7 win over Tonawanda at the Lumberjacks Sports Complex in the 100th meeting of cross-canal rivals.

The Jacks now 7-0, ranked third in The Buffalo News’ large schools poll and fourth in the state by the New York State Sportswriters Association in Class AA, matched the largest margin of victory in the series, which officially began in 1904. NT won, 61-0, in 2008.

On defense, linebacker Steve (Kujo) Kijowski had 11 tackles, including three for loss.

The game through the screen of an iPhone.Kujo goes airborne after being tackled from behind as he was a standout at the fullback position.

Coach Jantzi accepting the trophy from the Marine Corp as the winner of the 100th Annual T-NT game. The game was chosen by the Marines as one of the 100 greatest rivalries in the country.The North Tonawanda Lumberjack coaching staff celebrating a perfect 7-0 season.Kujo was interviewed at the end of the game by a Time Warner cable reporter.

Additional photos can be viewed and purchased at christopherkijowski.zenfolio.com.

As Stewart changed direction Kujo found himself needing to stop and change direction mid-stride.The fourth quarter found the Wolverines QB beating the Jacks defenders to the outside which led to 22-points. Without the sideline to use as an escape route, Stewart was forced to run anywhere he saw daylight. When he did there was a slew of Jacks defenders available to plug the hole.Mike did an excellent job again of commanding the offense.Davis had a fairly easy time running against the Wolverine defenders.Montesanti was also effective as a ball carrier against a Wolverine defense who didn’t quite know how to stop the Jacks multiple weapons.Stewart was effective as a scrambler. Here’s t he one that got away.FUMBLE! North Tonawanda ran their bruising defense throughout the game. Their pressure forced their QB to struggle and scrammble and in this case to experience some difficyulty holding on to the ball.Niagara Falls recovered this fumble.Stewart being pressured again. I’m pretty sure he became sick and tired of seeing the red, white and blue of the Jacks as the North Tonawanda defense pressured him the entire afternoon.You can run but you can’t hide. Kujo hit Stewart and refused to let go. They don’t call him “Kujo” for nothing.Kujo was pretty effective as a ball carrier carrying for just shy of 60-yards. He is is the epitome of grit and determination. Go Jacks!!

North Tonawanda stopped David Fluellen in his tracks and kept him from scoring all night. Fluellen had previously averaged 212 yards per game was held to just 74 yards tonight.

From the Tonawanda News, “Senior Steve Kijowski keyed NT’s defense with 14 tackles, including two for a loss. He was just as solid offensively, leading NT with 109 yards on 16 carries. He scored from 18 yards out midway through the third quarter to give the Jacks a 21-0 lead. That was three plays after a 56-yard run to paydirt was negated by a holding penalty.”

More photos from the game at http://www.christopherkijowski.zenfolio.com. That’s my boy Kujo. He had more rushing yards than Fluellen had that night. I slowed down the shutter speed and love the blurred effect.

This was the best look Fluellen had all night. The NTHS defense held him to less than 100 yards rushing. This was a huge disappointment for a player who was used to rushing for more than 200-yeards per game.

This was the typical look Fluellen received all night. Yep, that’s my boy on Fluellen’s backside going after one of his two dozen tackles.

Another typical view for Fluellen…defenders all around him and blocking every access route toward open territory and the promised land of the end zone.

The final score brings the ‘Jacks to a 4-0 season. Congratulations boys! You are playing wonderfully!

I’m so impressed by Mr. Grapes 50-years of dedication to “Jacks” football. Thanks Mr. Grapes for being the “voice of the Jacks.”

The quarterback runs from Casey and right into Kujo’s arms.

Michael doesn’t just throw the ball, he runs with it too.

Devan gets hit hard. Notice the defender’s feet aren’t even touching the ground. Ouch!

Joe dives into the end zone for one of the Jacks four touchdowns.

Kyle and Kujo wrap up the ball carrier and stop him dead in his tracks.

Mike gets stopped in his tracks.

This fan loves Kyle Shreve.

Before the game began a group of local veterans were honored for their service to our country. I chose this side view of the color guard because a full frontal view didn’t allow me to see the comments on the flag which said, “You are not forgotten.” The men and woman who have and continue to serve to protect our country from further terrorist attacks will never be forgotten. Thank you for all that you do.

There is a small group of students who walk throughout the stadium complex carrying this flag and supporting the team. Occasionally they decide it is important to go into the visiting bleachers to ensure the visiting family’s are also supporting our team.

Every game begins with the players entering the field by running out onto the field and running through the “Go Jacks” banner

My son, pumped for the game after a difficult week of practice crashed through the banner first.

Kujo’s trying to get through the defenders to get to the quarterback.

Like I said in the previous post; you just can’t have at least one post featuring Aaron Davis running in for a touchdown.

Michael had a great command of the offense as evidenced by the final score of 63-0.

Dick Grapes is celebrating his 50th year of calling the NTHS Lumberjack games. Way to go Mr. Grapes you have a great voice. Thank you for your 50-years of service and dedication to the NTHS Lumberjacks.

This said it all! A number of people have asked me why the coach ran the score up. Well, he didn’t. From much of the second quarter through the end of the game he played the “rest of the team” which consisted of second and third stringers. Williamsville North just could not muster any offense.

The Lumberjacks got off to a slow start and came back strong in the second half to keep their lead and win the game by a score of 27-13.

The Lumberjacks face Williamsville North in a Friday night match-up under the lights on their home turf.

I’m a little biased as a write and I felt the need to make sure my son has a number of photos in my blog. For those of you reading and wondering where the extra digit is on his jersey, he decided to change his number to “4.” He jokingly said “It’s to pay homage to Bret Favre.”

Aaron Davis running in for one of his touchdowns. This is a common sight during NT games.

In addition to his duties as linebacker, Kujo gets in on the offense and plays fullback. Here’s a carry he had early in the game.

The series of photos leading up to this photo tells the full story. Mike did his best to escape this defender but when he came in on his blind side there wasn’t much he could have done. He did a great job of holding on to the ball.

Michael does a fantastic job of commanding his offense.

The first game is away at Jamestown High School in Jamestown, NY. Jamestown has lights and this will be a night game. The Lumberjacks hosted Grand Island High School and Riverside High School. Enjoy the photos. There’s many more to come as I document the season as the Jack’s make a run for a championship season.

This young man had some amazing moves. Unfortunately the players defending him had better moves.

That’s my son Stephen or as he’s known by his nickname “Kujo.” In case you were wondering, he received the nickname from his little league football coach. The coach decided his tenacity and perseverance was consistent with that of the dog in the Stephen King novel.

That’s Kujo again. He leads the defense and breaks the huddle.

Kyle Schreve. One half of the Schreve brothers on the offensive line. These boys make  it difficult for defenders to penetrate.

Beautiful catch for a touchdown!

The Lumberjacks hope to make it farther into the playoffs this year.