Arlington Football

Thanksgiving Game

December 12, 2024

Game Recap

The Ponders ended their season on a high note, securing a 22-6 victory in their Thanksgiving game against Waltham. Arlington started strong, with Jack Zambardino connecting to Drew Beck on a 39-yard touchdown pass. Brady Bekkenhuis blocked an extra point in the second quarter, helping the Ponders maintain a 7-6 lead going into halftime. The momentum continued in the third quarter as Zambardino threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Gaffny, followed by a successful two-point conversion to extend the lead to 15-6. In the fourth, Zambardino delivered another touchdown pass for 19-yards to Drew Beck, putting Arlington ahead 22-6. Manu Mahenthiran sealed the game with an interception. The defense stepped up throughout the game, holding Waltham to six points and keeping the momentum on Arlington's side. The Ponders capped off their season with a well-rounded team effort, showcasing their resilience and determination to secure a memorable Thanksgiving victory.

The Ponders wrapped up their season with an impressive performance, securing a win and giving the seniors a memorable send-off. Reflecting on the victory, Coach Frank Roche noted, “ending with a win on Thanksgiving is testament to the hard work that the team has put in all year. After going through a tough stretch of games at the mid to end of the year, it would have been easy to pack it in. But our guys stuck together and continued to work to finish the year strong. It has put us in a great position going into the off-season and gives us a lot to build on.”

Player Q&A

This week, I interviewed Dillon McGahan (LB/RB), who started playing football in 8th grade. Growing up, Dillon loved watching football with his dad, which inspired him to play. His favorite part about football is the physicality of it and getting to play with his friends. Before each game, he sticks to his pre-game ritual of giving the waving cat in his locker a fist bump. 

Dillon’s most memorable moment on the field came during the Woburn game when he forced a fumble. He considers his football IQ to be his biggest strength, allowing him to help his teammates stay on track and execute plays effectively. This season, Dillon worked on getting bigger and stronger to improve his game. 

Dillon decided to play linebacker because of the action that comes with every play. The most important lesson football has taught Dillon is that you have to work for what you want; nothing comes easy. Outside of football, Dillon wrestles and is planning on playing lacrosse in the spring.

Season Recap

The Ponders put together a season full of effort, determination, and growth, showcasing their commitment on and off the field. While they finished 5-6, the team’s dedication to improvement and giving their all never wavered. Congratulations to all the seniors—Jack Zambardino (QB/K), Gavin Carreiro (OL/DL), Henry Tassmer (OL/DL), Peter Harrison (WR/DB), Manu Mahenthiran (WR/DB), Niko Trapotsis (WR/DB), James Lopes (LB/RB), Roshan Mandal (QB/DB), Peter Ngowi (WR/DB), Chris Carlson (WR/DB), Matthew Malupin (RB/LB), and Logan Hesselberg (RB/LB)—on an incredible season. Your hard work, leadership, and dedication have left a lasting impact on the team and the program as a whole. This season was a testament to the team’s growth and resilience, marked by key victories and standout performances. Thank you to all the families and supporters who cheered us on throughout the year. Stay tuned for updates and new ways to get involved with Arlington Football!

Elyse Wagner ‘25
Arlington Football Communications Intern