BY's 3rd Round of WPIAL Playoff Football Player of The Week; South Fayette Athlete: Charley Ross
Source: The Almanac
Description
Name: Charley Rossi
School: South Fayette
Sport: Football
Position: Wide Receiver
Class: Sophomore
Claim To Fame: Charley caught the game winning touchdown pass from South Fayette's quarterback, Jamie Diven, in the third quarter. That touchdown reception by Charley gave the South Fayette Lions a 31-24 win over Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL 4A Football championship game. Charley is now a WPIAL champion as in the game against Thomas Jefferson he caught 3 passes for 70 yards along with the touchdown.
Questions And Answers
What did you guys do right in the win over Thomas Jefferson?
Chaley Rossi: "We made some adjustments and were able to get stops in the second half which was big for us. We knew that our offense would be able to move the ball and put up points. We really have not been stopped all year."
How does it feel to be a WPIAL champion?
CR: "It’s an amazing feeling. We worked so hard in the summer and it feels great to know it all payed off."
A lot of people thought Thomas Jefferson was going to win the game on Saturday; but, your team showed everybody, including, Thomas Jefferson, which team was able to come in clutch in big time moments. What would you say to everybody that did not think that your team was going to beat Thomas Jefferson?
CR: "I would say to never count us out. Our team never looks upon ourselves as an underdog. We believe that with the right mindset we can compete with anyone."
How cool is it to win a WPIAL championship, with your dad being the head coach?
CR: "I was a ball boy on the 2013 and 2014 championship teams. After experiencing that winning a championship was something I always dreamed of. Being able to win another one for him and the community means so much. We both will cherish that forever."
Your team will play Cathedral Prep on Friday in the Quarterfinals of the PIAA 4A football playoffs. What does your team have to do to win that game?
CR: "We believe we have the athletes to match up with them. They have had more success than any other program in the past 3 years. We know they are a great team. If our defense can contain their athletes and cut down on the big plays, we think we have a good shot. I think everyone on the team is really looking forward to it. It’s a chance to prove what South Fayette football is all about."
Who is the coolest celebrity that you have ever met?
CR: "Probably Andrew McCutchen. I have always wanted to meet Antonio Brown; he is one of my favorite players."
Which school do you think South Fayette has the biggest rivalry against when it comes to sports?
CR: "Since moving up to 4A, Montour and New Castle are always circled on the schedule. We know both teams are always going to be tough opponents. We look forward to seeing them each and every year."
Who is the toughest player that you have ever had to go up against?
CR: "Probably Max Shaw and Dan Deabner, this past Saturday. Shaw was so smooth and strong. Bringing him down was a challenge for everyone in open space. Deabner was fast and ran great routes. He was the best receiver we had seen all year. Hopefully, we will see him again next year. I look forward to the challenge."
During Thanksgiving time, a lot of people ask each other what they are grateful for. So since it is Thanksgiving time I have to ask you, What are you grateful for?
CR: "I am thankful for my family, most of all. They support me through everything. I don’t know what i would do without them."
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
CR: "A few summers ago I was deciding whether or not to play football or soccer. My cousin played professionally and it is a sport I still really enjoy playing for fun. Looking back on it now, I’m glad I leaned towards football."