By Andy Shay:
Each week during the 2020 season we’ll offer some news, notes, tidbits and opinions from each of the five divisions in the Mid-Penn Conference.
The battle that didn’t happen:
The Hershey vs. Bishop McDevitt game never happened in 2020 because of the pandemic. Both squads kept the game alive as long as possible, but in the end the virus called the shot. Hershey, despite the loss to Manheim Central to close out its season, earned this game with the Crusaders. It was going to be a tough road in this matchup for the Trojans, but it would have been nice to see them get the shot they earned. McDevitt was eager to play as well after missing the playoffs with an unbeaten record.
Colts wrap up roller coaster season:
Cedar Cliff finished 4-4 in an up-and-down year, finishing with a late loss to Cumberland Valley on a pick-6. Hey, the fact Cedar Cliff played eight games in 2020 speaks volumes. Well done.
Chris Pope’s merits for Keystone coach of the year:
My vote for Keystone Division Coach of the Year goes to Palmyra skipper Chris Pope. His troops started 0-4 with all the protocols and struggles just to reach the turf at The Buck on a Friday night, rallying to finish strong takes some heaving lifting. The Cougars finished 3-5, winning three of their final four games including closing out 2020 with a victory over playoff-qualifier Northern. That’s coaching.