Lakes Football 2024 League champions!
It was an outstanding year for the Lakes football team. They had an undefeated season against league opponents and only lost 2 games, the team was heavily motivated after their underperforming season prior to this one, only going 5-5. The Lakes senior class wanted to make a mark on this school which will always be remembered as one of the best to come out and play for Lakes. The offense had 423 total points out of all 11 of their games, and their defense held down to only letting 136 points against other teams.
This 2024 Lakes team, led by Coach Dave Miller, was electric, they always came into their games mentally prepared and played 110% which is what led them to going undefeated; but what led these players were their captains: Sentoa Leapai, Amidjah Dilworth, Tayvion Smith and Willie Nash. These guys brought the motivation needed to lead this team to a successful season.
This Lakes offense always performed well with so much pocket time for Lakes QB willie Nash.
The stat leaders for offense
- Passing leader, Willie Nash missed a game but still had amazing stats throwing for over 1700 yards and 22 touchdowns and only 8 interceptions.
- Rushing leader, Toetu Moliga who ran for 1053 yards and 11 touchdowns
- The receiving leader was Exavier Mcchristian who had 448 rec yards and 6 touchdowns
- The lakes defense was a key part for this team and kept getting their offense the ball back these are the stat leaders.
- Micheal Pulalasi had an electrifying year leading the team in tackles with 116 tackles
- And a surprising leader for the lakes defensive line as Tayvion smith led the team in sacks with 5 on the season.
- And our interceptions leader Jalen Boone led the team with 3.
These are all amazing players who showed out for their final years, and some have a few years left and are already leaving a big mark. A special name is Ean Owens, who was a special team monster, who always ran the ball to the endzone multiple times with his amazing speed. This strong-willed team fought for their spot in the playoffs but fell short in the second round as Seattle Preparatory High School beat them in an amazing game losing 34-14.
What Lakes players had to say about the 2024 season
Deonte Jones, Senior WR/CB
When asked how his season went, Deonte Jones said it was overall an okay season and that it was fun being able to play with this team one last time and that he will forever be thankful for the people who he was able to grow and play around. Jones was an amazing corner as he was always physical and always made impacting plays to help- his team especially when they needed it the most.
Vaitoelau Elisara, Senior OL/DL
When asked on his thoughts about his season, Vaitoelau Elisara said, “I had a great season I played my best and kept on fighting I loved all my time I had spent playing with all my brothers. I will definitely miss playing for this team”. Elisara was a great left tackle, and all the coaches respected him highly for his efforts and hard work.
Apela Sarte, Junior OL/DL
When asked about the season, Apela Sarte replied, “The 2024 football season was great. We proved we can compete with top teams and showed our growth from the 2023 season. Making it to the Sweet 16 showed our hard work, determination, and resilience. I learned a lot about teamwork and perseverance. Plus, it felt awesome to bring back a tradition of being League Champs.”
Micheal Faamausili, Junior OL/DL
Micheal Faamausili described the season being, “Exceptional. We played with a lot of heart and played as a family. I’m proud of how all my brothers fought to bring Lakes high school back on the map where we belong. We showed we can compete against good teams, and we’ve shown what we are capable of pushing through hard fought battles in a state of fatigue and with the odds against us. I’ll always be grateful to all my brothers and coaches with whom I fought with and now it’s time to get ready for the next and play another good season of football.”
Manasa Faamausili, Sophomore OL
Manasa Faamausili reflected on the season and being around a new team, “The 2024 football season was one of the best experiences I’ve had so far in life. I made a lot of friends and built a bond with others that won’t be broken. It was truly a blessing to be a part of an amazing Brotherhood.”
End of New beginnings
This was a truly remarkable season for these players, and they have left their mark this team was something special and they showed that every time they went out on the field those late Friday nights and played to win. We know that next year they will strive to be even better than this year.
