Guilford High School Football Team Earns Playoff Spot For 1st Time Since 1993

GUILFORD, CT — The Guilford High School football team has secured a postseason berth for the first time since 1993, marking a major milestone for the program and energizing the school community.

Head coach Brian White said the achievement has been years in the making and reflects the commitment of players, coaches, families and supporters throughout town.

"It’s been a tremendous boost," he said in a news release from Guilford Public Schools. "For our team, it has been great to have players reach goals after working so hard to achieve them. It has given them a noticeable sense of pride, which is both earned and deserved."

White credited senior leadership, a dedicated coaching staff, and strong family support for the team's success.

Senior captains Aiden Ruotolo and Alexander Tafro said unity has defined the team’s season.

Ruotolo said clinching a playoff spot for the first time since 1993 reflects a goal the players set on day one.

"We preach to our team, ‘Why not us? Why not shock the state?'" he said. "We know what we are capable of inside our four walls."

Tafro said their success is the result of camaraderie and consistency.

"One game at a time, stay focused and work hard every day," he said, noting that growing support from classmates, families and residents has energized the team.

Athletic Director Jake Jarvis praised the players for their discipline and highlighted the team's linemen for their unsung contributions.

"We are extremely proud of the hard work and commitment of these student-athletes, especially the offensive and defensive lines," Jarvis said. "These linemen are the backbone of this team’s success, and their dedication to offseason weightlifting and film study has been instrumental to their dominant performance."

Key wins over Amity and Lyman Hall helped propel the Grizzlies into postseason play. White said the team is now focused on staying healthy as the playoffs begin.

"Football, more than anything, is a game of attrition," he said. "We need to do everything we can to protect our players as we move forward."

The team’s success has generated an outpouring of positivity across the school district. Students have packed the stands with spirited support, teachers and staff have offered encouragement, and alumni have reached out to share memories of past Guilford teams and express pride in the current squad. program’s resurgence.

"The conversations I’ve had with players, students, and teachers have all been supportive and full of pride. There is a hopeful tone in voices and a contagious excitement," White added.

Superintendent Paul Freeman called the accomplishment a proud moment for the district.

"This milestone reflects the dedication of our students, coaches, and families," he said. "The pride and excitement felt throughout Guilford is inspiring, and we are thrilled to support our team as they continue their postseason journey."

The Grizzlies' next game is Nov. 26 at Daniel Hand.