The score was 24-17, and it was Roselle Catholic’s serve. If Westfield won the point, it would win the second set and, with it, the match. Following a Roselle Catholic ball in the net, the Blue Devils did just that. Cheers erupted as the six seniors on the court were joined by their teammates. But the day was not over. It was only just beginning.
The excitement was palpable inside the WHS gym, as the underclassmen—varsity and JV—created a walkway for seniors to run through with their parents. Coach Ed Saggio read off the name of each senior, each round of applause louder than the last. Saggio announced the three senior captains: Jason Billings, Benjamin Greely and Brayden Abo.
These three athletes formed the core of a group that has gone from .500 last season to competing in counties this season with sights on a state championship. The Blue Devils have been dominant this season, thanks to their versatile offense and gritty mentality.
“My sophomore year we were 3-13,” said Abo. “And we’ve really been able to turn this program around. I’m very proud of what we have been able to accomplish.”
And so they have. The Blue Devils have now accrued a 14-3 record this season. A stark contrast to where they were just two short years ago. For Saggio, it’s a testament to the leadership of his seniors: “They’ve set a great example for the younger players,” said Saggio with a smile.
For Abo and the team, the goal remains to “make a deep run in states.” While it will be tough, that’s the goal.
Had this question been asked two years or even a year ago, even Westfield’s best player would have scoffed at the idea. But not anymore. These are not the Blue Devils of last year, these are the Blue Devils of 2023. And they are ready for the challenge.
