Westmoreland athletes of the week: Franklin Regional’s Anthony DiFalco, Belle Vernon’s Grace Henderson

By: HSSN Staff
Tuesday, November 6, 2018 | 3:45 PM

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Anthony DiFalco

School: Franklin Regional

Sport: Soccer

Class: Freshman

Claim to fame: DiFalco, who has 11 goals this season, scored the only goal needed in the 33rd minute to lead No. 1 Franklin Regional (18-0-1) to a 1-0 win over West Allegheny (19-2) in the WPIAL Class AAA final at Highmark Stadium on Nov. 1. DiFalco’s goal was set up by a touch pass from senior forward Auston Kranick. The Panthers captured the program’s first WPIAL title in their first opportunity. He also is the kicker on the football team.

“I thought it was really a team effort. It was nice to score the goal, but to watch the team celebrate was great to see. It was great to get Franklin Regional’s first boys soccer WPIAL title and send the seniors out on top,” DiFalco said.

What’s it mean to you to play a pivotal role in capturing the program’s first WPIAL title?

It’s unbelievable. It’s great to see everyone come together and support the team.

What’s the team’s mindset as you head into the state tournament?

Obviously, we’re hoping to win. In the back of our minds, we don’t think we will lose. We have the team that will win states, and we’re hoping to do that.

What has been the key to the team’s run this year?

Each and every one of us have been lifting each other up at every practice and game. We’re always there to support one another. The seniors have been really carrying the team.

Who’s the better athlete, your brother, Dom, or you?

I would say myself, at soccer at least. When it comes to football, he can take that one.

What’s it like to be both on the soccer and football teams?

It’s great to see both perspectives. Football is more physical. They both help each other. Football takes up more of your time. Both sports are great right now. There are no hard situations or complicating things going on.

Grace Henderson

School: Belle Vernon

Sport: Cross country

Class: Sophomore

Claim to fame: Henderson finished 33rd in 21 minutes, 1 second at the PIAA Class AA championships Saturday at the Parkview course in Hershey. Henderson was third in 20:05 at the WPIAL meet at Cal (Pa)’s Roadman Park on Oct. 25.

“I thought I did OK. It wasn’t my best race. It was really cold that morning, and the course was really muddy,” Henderson said.

What was the biggest difference from how you performed last year at states to this year?

Last year, I was a freshman and I didn’t know what to expect. This year, I wanted to improve on how I did, and it was nice to reach that goal.

How can you build off how you finished the season this year?

I’m going to have the goal of medaling and finish with a better time. Next year, the goal will be to finish in the top 25.

What is your favorite cross country course?

Mingo Creek. They have hills, but they have a good balance there. I had a good race there, as well.

What’s your favorite sport?

I don’t have a favorite sport. They each give me a break since they are different. I like working with a team in soccer and basketball. I like running against a clock with running.

What’s your favorite holiday?

Thanksgiving because I like all the food. I get to see all my family. I get to make rolls with my grandma.

— Andrew John

Andrew John is a freelance writer.

Tags: Belle Vernon, Franklin Regional