By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | September 20, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
OLD FORGE — Both Western Wayne and Old Forge entered Week 5 hungry for a win, but only one program left satisfied. The Wildcats ran over the Blue Devils, 21–14, on a night that carried meaning beyond the scoreboard as the Old Forge community partnered with the John Malvizzi Foundation for a Mental Health Awareness Night.
Green and white flooded the stands as the student section, cheerleaders, band, and even coaches joined the movement. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 high school students report struggling with mental health each year, and student-athletes often face added pressure to perform on top of everyday challenges. Events like this create powerful reminders that no one has to struggle in silence.
On the Field
Western Wayne leaned on a workhorse performance from Quinn Swartz, who carried the ball 31 times for 200 yards and all three of the Wildcats’ touchdowns. His relentless running gave the Wildcats control of the game and delivered their second victory of the season.
Old Forge fell to 0–5 but had its own bright moment. Senior wideout Chris Rasmus, who entered the night with the school career receptions mark insight, hauled in 12 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown. His performance tied the Blue Devils’ all-time record for career receptions with 101, a milestone that stood out on an otherwise tough night.
Scoring Summary
First Quarter:
Swartz broke through for a 4-yard score before Old Forge answered with a 28-yard connection from Robby Solfanelli to Ayden Aversa.
Second Quarter:
Swartz added an 8-yard touchdown to give the Wildcats a 14-7 lead at the half.
Third Quarter:
Swartz powered in from 2 yards out to extend the lead.
Fourth Quarter:
Rasmus tied the school record in style, catching an 18-yard touchdown to keep the Blue Devils alive, but Western Wayne held on for the win.
What’s Next
Western Wayne (2–3) turns its focus to a rivalry showdown with Honesdale in Week 6, while Old Forge (0–5) will travel to Lackawanna Trail still searching for its first victory of the 2025 campaign.