WOODBURY — With the clock ticking down and the score tight, Nonnewaug senior Robert Metcalfe split the uprights from 32 yards out, lifting the Chiefs to their first-ever state tournament win against New Fairfield, 38-36, on Dec. 3 in the Class SS quarterfinals.
Metcalfe’s last-second kick not only won the game but confirmed that both his and his team’s work finally paid off.
“It felt amazing to contribute to the team’s first state game win in program history,” said Metcalfe. “All the hard work we have been through since June and during practice really paid off, and I’m proud of what we accomplished together.”
Brady Herman, a senior quarterback, had no doubt in his mind the team would win.
“It was a surreal feeling. Winning at home for your boys with the whole town on your back was a great experience,” said Herman. “The game was back and forth throughout, but never in my mind did I think we would lose, due to the faith I have in me and my fellow teammates.”
Davion Joe, a senior at Lakeview High School who scored three touchdowns in the game, just like Herman had an unbelievable experience but knew overall this team was meant for it.
“We had no doubt the entire time. We all just really believe in one another and we all know that we’re gonna score. The other team as well but it’s up to us to keep battling the entire game,” said Joe. “It felt great, really an unexplainable feeling and honestly a long time coming.”
The most important thing about any sport isn’t just the playing, but the mindset you have while playing.
“We knew it was going to be a battle out there, but we believed in ourselves and stayed focused throughout the whole game,” said Metcalfe. “Our goal was to give it everything we had and leave everything out on the field. and that mindset helped us pull through.”
The Chiefs were playing for more than a spot in the state semifinals. This football game was dedicated to senior football player Jonathan Cheung, who was unexpectedly diagnosed with leukemia over Thanksgiving break. With Cheung unable to be part of this historical win, his team played in honor of him.
The Chiefs game was streamed live for Cheung in his hospital room Wednesday night so he along with NHS could cheer on his team. There is never a moment Cheung’s teammates aren’t thinking of him, especially not this past game that changed the Chiefs forever.
“I mean it’s all for him. Every practice, every game and every rep he’s in our minds,” said Herman. “He did everything for us and without him we wouldn’t have this spot in the playoffs. I am completely grateful for him and hope he gets better very soon.”
Metcalfe isn’t just fighting for himself, but his team altogether, including Cheung.
“The game was really special for Jonathan and the whole team,” said Metcalfe. “Even with everything going on, it showed how strong and united we are. It gave Jonathan and all of us a boost of hope and motivation, reminding us that we’re fighting together both on and off the field. It was more than just a win, it was a moment that brought us closer as a team and helped us support Jonathan through a tough time.”
The No. 3-seeded Chiefs (11-0) will continue to the semifinals on Dec. 8 at No. 2-seeded Daniel Hand of Madison.
