Demitrias Fletcher, a senior running back from New London, delivered an impressive performance during one of the most storied rivalries in high school football on Thanksgiving morning. Previously playing at IMG Academy and St. Thomas More, Fletcher scored an astounding eight touchdowns, leading the Whalers to a dominant 52-21 win over Norwich Free Academy at NFA’s Turf Field, securing a spot in the state’s CIAC Class M playoffs.
With this victory, New London improved to a 6-4 record and clinched the final playoff position. They will be facing the top-seed Daniel Hand (10-0) in the upcoming match on December 3. Coach Bobby Sanchez expressed his pride in the team’s determination, emphasizing that they believed they belonged in the playoffs and were keen to prove they could make it happen.
Fletcher’s statistics from the game were nothing short of remarkable: he rushed for 207 yards on only nine carries, scoring six rushing touchdowns, and caught three passes for an additional 101 yards and two touchdowns. His eight touchdowns put him just two shy of the state record set in 2016 by Sheehan’s Zach Davis.
Reflecting on his performance, Fletcher credited the team’s offensive line for their strong execution and expressed satisfaction with showcasing his skills on such a significant stage.
Despite the loss, NFA showed resilience. New coach Dylan Schroth acknowledged the Wildcats’ struggles with ball security, pointing to early fumbles that significantly impacted the game’s momentum. The Wildcats, who were still hoping for a playoff berth, will have the opportunity to build on this experience and learn from their mistakes as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The historic rivalry between New London and NFA has a rich history dating back to 1875, with NFA holding a slight edge in overall wins. Coach Schroth highlighted the unique nature of Thanksgiving football, noting the experience of coaching such a pivotal game and expressing hope for the future growth of his young team.
This game not only showcased individual talent and team spirit but also underscored the importance of learning and growth in student-athletes. Both teams have the opportunity to reflect on their performances and strive for improvement moving forward, creating a hopeful narrative for next season.