L-r, Coach Dennis Bender, Jeremy Pryor, Mark Ambrosio, Nick Huban and Shaker High School Athletic Director Ed Dopp pose with the Colonie Cup, which Shaker won by beating Colonie Central.

Friday, Sept. 19 - Shaker High School's varsity football achieved the first of its three 2008 season goals by trouncing Colonie Central High School, 44-24, to win the Colonie Cup for the second time in three years.

The Blue Bison had an outstanding night against the Colonie Raiders, amassing more than 490 yards on offense. Junior running back Jeremy Pryor rushed for 299 yards, which is believed to be a school record. However, Head Coach Dennis Bender credited the entire team and coaching staff for an outstanding effort.

The varsity football team is made up of 52 student-athletes, and team captains include seniors Mark Ambrosio and Nick Huban and junior JQ Chandler. Assistant coaches include Greg Sheeler, Steve Frank, Mike Grimes, Dan Busold and Justin Perry.
 

Although the team has set its sights on winning the Section 2 Class AA championship this year, coaches and players set some benchmarks they hoped to reach along the way:

• Win the 2008 “Colonie Cup” game vs. cross town rival Colonie High School

• Win the homecoming game on October 3rd, vs. Lasalle

• Qualify for the Section 2 playoffs