The Lancaster-Lebanon League’s Section 2 is bracing for an exhilarating season as two dominant teams, Conestoga Valley and Exeter, prepare to contend for the title once again. Last year’s intense matchup, which saw Conestoga Valley narrowly defeat Exeter 28-27, ultimately determined the section champion. This year, both teams are loaded with returning talent and promise to deliver another thrilling showdown.
In mid-October 2023, Conestoga Valley traveled to Reiffton and secured a dramatic victory over Exeter, clinching their first section title since 2006 with a decisive 52-22 win against Muhlenberg. The Eagles, trailing 28-21 in the fourth quarter, made a valiant effort to reclaim the lead with a 15-yard touchdown reception by Jayden Ware. However, a failed two-point conversion attempt by Jayden Zandier left them just short of victory.
Exeter later sought revenge, dominating Conestoga Valley in the District 3 Class 5A semifinals with a commanding 48-14 win. As the new season approaches, both teams are eager to reclaim their positions at the top of Section 2.
Key Players and Their Impact
Conestoga Valley finished last season with an impressive 11-1 record, thanks in large part to the talents of first-team LL seniors quarterback Sawyer Esbenshade and wide receiver Josiah Garcia. Esbenshade had a remarkable junior season, throwing for 2,078 yards and 25 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 419 yards and six scores. Garcia complemented his efforts with 18 receptions for 289 yards and three touchdowns, along with 187 rushing yards.
Despite losing key players such as Wide Receiver of the Year Jayden Johnson and Defensive Lineman of the Year Justin Corson, head coach Jon Scepanski believes Conestoga Valley will remain competitive. “They’re going to be good again this year, too, regardless of the people that they lost,” said Muhlenberg coach Rob Flowers.
Exeter, with a record of 12-2 last season, is determined to make another deep playoff run. The Eagles fell short in both the Section 2 race and the District 3 Class 5A championship, ultimately losing to the eventual state champion, Bishop McDevitt. With many key players returning, including quarterback Riley Martinez, Exeter aims to reclaim its former glory.
Martinez, despite missing part of last season due to injury, made a significant impact, throwing for 1,016 yards and 16 touchdowns. His connection with Ware, who shone in multiple facets of the game, will be crucial for Exeter’s success. Ware earned recognition for his performance both as a receiver and on defense, recording three interceptions and excelling as a kick returner.
Challenges Ahead for Other Teams
While Exeter and Conestoga Valley are poised to compete for the championship, several other teams, including Ephrata, Gov. Mifflin, and Muhlenberg, are looking to improve. Ephrata, which ended the previous season with a 6-4 record, is determined to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 campaign. The Mountaineers finished strong, winning three consecutive games, but struggled against top-tier opponents, highlighting the need for improvement against stronger competition.
Head coach Matt Bauer acknowledged the challenges faced by his team, stating, “You can’t look past anybody.” Standout linebacker Chase Prange, who recorded 117 tackles last season, will play a pivotal role in Ephrata’s aspirations for a successful season.
Gov. Mifflin also faces a rebuilding phase after losing several key seniors, including fullback Grady Garner, who rushed for 1,400 yards and 19 touchdowns. New quarterback and safety LeBron Leaf steps into a vital leadership role, bringing experience and athleticism to the Mustangs.
Muhlenberg, under the guidance of coach Rob Flowers, is focused on making strides in Section 2. With senior running back Cameron Small leading the charge after a remarkable season where he rushed for 2,051 yards and 23 touchdowns, the Muhls are eager to capitalize on their home games to build momentum.
As the season unfolds, teams at the bottom of Section 2, such as Elizabethtown and Lebanon, are also aiming to improve. Elizabethtown, which faced several close losses last season, will rely on players like quarterback Gannon Shank to guide the team forward. Meanwhile, Lebanon seeks to end a 42-game losing streak as they strive for their first win since 2020.
With a competitive landscape in Section 2, the upcoming season promises a series of thrilling matchups. Fans can expect to witness an exciting battle as Conestoga Valley and Exeter vie for supremacy, while other teams seek to disrupt the status quo.
