Let there be light

Being the top-seeded team in any tournament should be a ticket for a home playoff game. The Staples football team had to settle for a home-away-from-home football game because all state semifinal games are mandated to be played at night and since Staples does not have lights at its stadium, it wasn't able to collect on its just reward.

In 2002 and 2004, the Wreckers rented temporary lights for the home playoff game but because the Town of Westport approved permanent lights this fall, they weren't allowed to use the diesel-fueled lights, as stipulated in the new bylaw pertaining to the illumination of the fields.

Despite being forced to play its "home" game at Wilton High School, Staples wasn't upset about being deprived of what it earned.

"It wasn't an issue for us, we're happy to play anywhere," said Wreckers coach Marce Petroccio.

Staples defeated fourth-seeded Xavier 31-28 to earn a trip to tomorrow's Class LL championship against third-seeded Cheshire at West Haven High School.

Kelly, Wreckers show heart

While on the subject of the Wrecker gridders, Petroccio and his staff deserve credit for how far the team has gone. Although 12-0 Staples may not be as talented as previous squads that competed in the state championship game, the current players deserve credit for their resiliency and pluckiness. They don't give up no matter what adversity they face, and as far as people go, they are a great group of guys with a great attitude, and have been a joy to work with.

One player who deserves credit for the team's success is senior tailback and kickoff returner Matt Kelly. Kelly has amassed more than 600 net yards the past two games and if it weren't for him, Staples would not be playing tomorrow. In fact, the way he played, a case could be made for Petroccio to name him as a fifth captain before the championship game, because Kelly has earned it.

Despite his success, he remains modest.

"I owe it all to my team," said Kelly. "We know we have to work together and I'm not a one-man team."