It was a bittersweet moment for Middletown as they said goodbye to their longtime coach Gary VanDerzee after 41 years. As the final seconds of the game between Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk and Rye ticked down, so did the end of an era for VanDerzee.
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk fought hard, but ultimately fell to Rye with a final score of 24-10 in the NYSPHSAA Class B East semifinal. Despite the loss, VanDerzee was proud of his players and their performance on the field.
In an emotional post-game interview, VanDerzee reflected on his long career and the talented group of young men he had the privilege of coaching. He also noted the potential of the JV program and the bright future ahead for the team if they continue to work hard in the offseason.
The game was marked by strong defensive plays on both sides, including several interceptions. As VanDerzee famously said, “only three things can happen when you throw the ball and most of them are bad.”
Ravena got on the board early in the game with a five-yard pass from quarterback Kaden Potter to receiver Wyatt Algozzine. However, Rye quickly answered back with a touchdown of their own, tying the game at 7-7.
The second quarter belonged to Rye as Chris Iuliano ran in a four-yard touchdown and Charlie Stevens caught a 20-yard pass from quarterback AJ Miller, giving the Garnets a 14-7 lead. Ravena and Rye traded field goals before the half, with Jack McFerran hitting a 23-yarder for Ravena and Henry Shoemaker nailing a 42-yarder for Rye as time expired.
Both teams battled in the second half, but Rye was able to extend their lead with one more touchdown before the game ended. It was the first loss of the season for Ravena, ending their impressive 12-1 record.
As the game ended and the players shook hands, the reality of VanDerzee’s retirement set in for the Ravena community. Banners and signs declaring their support and gratitude for their coach could be seen throughout the stands.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, it was a fitting end to a legendary career for VanDerzee. The final score read Ravena 10, Rye 24, but the impact of VanDezee’s 41 years as head coach will last far beyond the field.
Ravena 7 3 0 0 — 10
Rye 0 17 7 0 — 24
RCS — Algozzine 5 pass from Potter (McFerran kick)
Rye — Iuliano 4 run (Khemlani kick)
Rye — Stevens 20 pass from Miller (Khemlani kick)
RCS — McFerran 23 field goal
Rye — Shoemaker 42 field goal
Rye — Hess 44 pass from Miller (Khemlani kick)
