MIDDLETOWN – The conclusion of the Fall season has finally arrived, with the Section IX Exceptional Senior Game putting a stamp on a successful season.

Seniors from all over Section IX gathered at Faller Field in Middletown for a rainy exhibition game. For as gloomy as it was outside, spirits were still high for the dozens of players and attendees that came out to support.

Sullivan County was well-represented on both sides of the ball. Frankie Whitmore (Eldred QB), Austin Hartman (Tri-Valley RB), Dylan Poley (LB Tri-Valley), Ian Mullen (LB Tri-Valley), Cody Ricco (WR Liberty) and Tanner Bury (DB Liberty) played for the National Team.

On the American side, Jaymes Buddenhagen (QB Sullivan West), Mateo Scanna (TE Fallsburg) and Dillan Hanslmaier (OL Sullivan West) were on the winning team.

The scoring didn’t start until the second quarter, when Frankie Whitmore led the National team down the field to the end zone. He completed a pass for a 2-point conversion to give the National team an 8-0 lead.

The American team would answer back before the break, tying the game at 8 before halftime.

The American team dominated on both sides of the ball in the second half, keeping the National team off the board while adding two more touchdowns to earn the win.