Poly Prep’s football team triumphed over Hackley on Friday, October 10, in one of the most anticipated matchups of their season, as the two teams have traded close wins over the past few years and consistently battled for the top spot in the Ivy League. The win not only helps secure Poly one of the top positions in the standings but also deepens one of the school’s most competitive rivalries, strengthening Poly’s hold near the top of the Ivy League as the season intensifies.
Over the past few years, close games and high emotions have fueled a rivalry built on mutual respect and fierce competitiveness. Head Coach Jerell Jones emphasized how much this matchup means to both sides. “This is the kind of game that tests who you are as a team,” Jones said. “Rivalry games demand focus, toughness and trust, and our guys showed all three.”
“[Hackley’s Football Team is] well coached, they play hard and every time we face them, it feels like a playoff atmosphere,” he said. “This year, our guys rose to the occasion. They stayed disciplined, trusted each other, and earned every bit of that win.”
Quarterback Nick Raptis ’28 reflected on the preparation leading up to the game, noting that the team’s energy shifted as soon as the week began. “The week we play Hackley is always different,” he said. “Every rep in practice feels more intense because we all know what’s at stake.” Raptis credited the victory to the team’s trust and communication, pointing out how each player executed their role. “We came into the game prepared and confident. The coaches gave us a great plan, and everyone trusted each other to execute,” he shared. He added that the win was a full team effort. “That win showed how balanced our team is right now,” Raptis said. “Offense, defense, and special teams all did their job, and that’s what it takes to beat a team like Hackley.”
For senior Tyler Borg, the victory carried special weight. Having played in the rivalry for several years, Tyler has seen firsthand what the matchup has meant to a multitude of Poly players and fans alike. “There’s history there. You can feel it in the crowd, in practice the week before and in the locker room before the game,” Borg said. “We’ve been working toward this since the preseason, and to finally come out on top feels incredible.” The senior linebacker said the rivalry has become a measuring stick for the team’s growth each year. For him, facing Hackley isn’t just another game; it’s a moment that reveals how much Poly has improved in toughness, discipline, and teamwork. “Games like this bring out true character,” he said. “You have to stay composed, play smart football, and trust your teammates. It’s not just about beating Hackley, it’s about proving that the work we’ve put in all year is paying off.”
As the season continues, Poly’s victory over Hackley stands as more than just a win; it’s a reflection of the team’s unity, discipline, and relentless drive to improve. With strong leadership and growing momentum, the Blue Devils have their sights set on finishing the season as champions and solidifying their legacy at the top of the Ivy League.
