For the first time in history, the WW-P United Football team has made the playoffs.

     With a 6-3 record, the football team has maintained a winning season, which would be the first one for South football since 2012. After a loss to Southern in their first game on Aug. 25, the team came back and won five in a row. Their successes continued with a win against Princeton on Oct. 13 after a challenging game against Allentown.

     But this success has come with challenges. When the football team was first united in 2018 due to low participation numbers, their biggest challenges were team chemistry and familiarity. Now, with a few years of experience together and adapting to the competition, the team has begun to see results.

     “The team chemistry plays a big role in the team’s success,” said Michael Arevelo (‘24), varsity running back and receiver. “Most of the starters on the team this year were sophomores when United Football started two years ago. So we know how we play, how we struggle and how we can all improve.”

     But experience is not the only reason for the team’s success. Over the summer, the team worked to prepare for the season. 

     “The team’s main focus during the off-season was consistent improvement through dedicated summer workouts. Our core varsity starters invested significant time and effort under the relentless summer sun,” said Keith Mahatamchai (‘24), varsity defensive lineman. 

     The hard work paid off. The team is not only winning more, but is feeling more connected to each other and their fans.

     “This year just really feels like one giant community. The cheerleaders are coming onto the field after the games, the kids from the stands are staying after talking to the guys after the game, and the kids are taking pictures with each other after the game,” said Coach Furlong, head varsity coach.

     In the game against Cherry Hill East on Sept. 22, a new attendance record was set. The new energy after games has been one of the best parts of the season, Aidan Edwards (‘26), varsity offensive lineman, said.

     With more support from their peers, the team is making a name for themselves in their division. As the end of the season approaches, they look forward to continuing their success.

     “We are definitely getting looked at differently by other teams,” Arevelo said. “It’s about time that we got the respect we deserve.”