By Fantasy Aponte ’28
The Derby Red Raiders took their first win of their football season against Watertown at home on Sept. 19, 2025, with a 35-6 win. The Derby cheerleaders encouraged them excitedly on the sideline during the game.
The football team had all excellent executed plays. The first touchdown was scored by Isaac McNeill ‘26 from a fade ball that he caught. Brooklyn Fernandez ‘26, Abner Rivera ‘27, and Quincy Carter ‘26 all scored on an inside run, while Ayden Moran ‘27 scored on an outside run. Each touchdown brought excitement from each player celebrating their success on the field.
The cheerleaders did an energetic victory touchdown dance that lasted a minute every time they scored. Memorable moments of the chant are when the cheerleaders shout, “Derby High School, Derby High School, charge on down that line.” They helped rally up the student section each time there was a touchdown.
The Derby Red Raider captains, Fernandez, Carter, Rivera, and Horatio Glover ‘26, helped support their team by having pep talks before they went on the field and helping them during practices. This motivated them towards this win. Their encouragement and dedication helped the underclassmen on the team feel confident and fierce.
After getting blown out at their first game of the opening season, getting that motivation back for their next match was difficult. ”Honestly, practice started slowly after coming off a bad game. But we worked harder and wanted it that much more,” Fernandez said. Ultimately, this dedication to working harder at practice and bouncing back led to their win.
Meanwhile, the cheerleading team is thriving. The cheerleaders work on their amazing jumps, tumbling, and coordinated routines during practices. During football games, their enthusiasm gets the crowd pumped and excited with their loud cheering and fun energy.
The cheerleaders have had some growth since last season. “We have definitely improved more since last year and have secured a better spot in our competition season,” said Donella Delija ’26. The cheerleaders will reflect on their challenging last season by having better precision and sharp motions. They hope to succeed in competition this year.
Overall, the football team is 1-2 in the season. They hope to bounce back for a win against Wolcott on Oct. 3, 2025.
The Raider Press 