Fox Chapel Herald notebook: Shady Side Academy football coach wins dramatic debut

By: Josh Rizzo
Saturday, August 30, 2025 | 11:01 AM

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Andrew Geisler wanted to restore the reputation of the Shady Side Academy football program to be one that made a name off its grit.

During Geisler’s first game as the varsity coach, the Bulldogs made their mark against Greensburg Central Catholic. After the Bulldogs fell behind by two scores, Shady Side Academy rallied for a 28-26 win in Week Zero.

While the Bulldogs still feel like they have a lot of work to do, they will be happy with what Javon Johnston brought to the table.

Johnston, Shady Side Academy’s quarterback, scored on a 48-yard run to help lead a comeback from a 20-8 deficit. B.J. Mallory caught the game-winning touchdown pass for the Bulldogs.

Another winning opener

Fox Chapel girls soccer had to fight off a late rally from Shaler, but the Foxes got their defense of their section crown off to the right start with a 2-1 road win Aug. 25 at Biles Field.

Emily McKee scored two goals for the Foxes. Fox Chapel had to defend down a man for the last 24 minutes after receiving a red card.

While Shaler scored, the Titans weren’t able to steal a result away from Fox Chapel.

Starting with a tie

The Fox Chapel field hockey team opened the season with a 1-1 tie against North Allegheny. The Foxes scored their goal in the third quarter. Fox Chapel is coming off a season where it reached the WPIAL Class 2A final before losing to Peters Township.

Foxes leads section

The Fox Chapel boys golf team has kept a busy schedule thus far. The Foxes are off to an 8-0 start overall and lead Section 7-3A with a 4-0 mark.

Tags: Fox Chapel, Shady Side Academy