Resurrection of the Dawgs: Berwick’s Bite is Back Under Coach CJ Curry

By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | September 2, 2025 | Photo courtesy Thomas Brooks

For decades, Berwick football wasn’t just a program, it was the standard. Under the late George Curry, the Bulldogs ruled the 1990s, stacking mythical national championships in 1983, 1992, and 1995, along with six PIAA Class AAA state titles between 1988 and 1997. Crispin Field was a cathedral of Friday night lights, often packed with 10,000 strong, and the Dawgs built a playoff résumé that still stands tall with 58 wins in 75 postseason games.

The last several seasons were tough, but in 2025 there’s a new energy and a familiar name. C.J. Curry, grandson of George, has taken over the program and sparked a revival that has Berwick fans buzzing again.

The Dawgs are 2–0 with statement wins over Lake-Lehman and Mid Valley, doing it the way Berwick football is meant to be played, up front and in the trenches. The offensive line has been bulldozing opponents, led by Matt Gordner at 275 pounds, James “JJ” Leonard at 265, Draven Geiger at 285, Jaxson Reader at 255 and others. Together, they’ve opened lanes for running back Ty Wilkerson, who’s quickly making a name for himself in District 2.

In the opener, Wilkerson powered home two touchdowns as the Dawgs racked up 228 rushing yards in a 24–7 win over Lake-Lehman. A week later, Berwick pounded Mid Valley 42–0, rolling up 383 rushing yards and six scores while the defense pitched its first shutout.

Now comes the true test. This Friday night, Crispin Field will be rocking as Berwick hosts Lackawanna Trail, the No. 2 ranked Class 1A team in Pennsylvania. The Lions are a small-school powerhouse with deep state playoff experience under veteran coach Steve Jervis, and they won’t back down from anyone.

For Berwick, it’s more than a game. It’s a measuring stick. A chance to see just how far the Dawgs have come under C.J. Curry and how close they are to reclaiming their place among the state’s elite.

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