ROCKLAND – Watching youth football, and I am talking fifth and sixth graders, is like watching a rose bloom. It is one of the most educating sports around and at this level it is played because of the love of the game. Saturday I took in the Five Town Football varsity team at the Oceanside Orange Varsity. Two teams of same grade same age kids, playing the best they can. It is so interesting to watch. With these two teams, there was not any negative atmosphere anywhere around Wasgatt Field, home of the Oceanside teams. Two solid coaches that respect their kids and the game, and because of that the players have a great deal of respect for them. Youth Football is lucky to have Joe Russillo and Tim Carroll involved. 

The other interesting thing going on at these games is the crowd. They are so into the game, cheering and yelling, just having fun. I love going and photographing youth football. Yesterday’s game was all Oceanside with a 27-0 win. However, the photos show both sides working hard. Enjoy.

Click here to view the full photo gallery from this game

Ron Hawkes can be reached at sports@penbaypilot.com