A New Chapter for Chargers Football
The University of New Haven will stage its first home college football contest in Connecticut this season, a landmark moment for a program that is completing its second year at the Division I level in the Northeast Conference. The Chargers are set to open against Marist on Friday, August 28, in West Haven, bringing a fresh sense of excitement to the campus and the surrounding community.
Head coach Mark Powell, now in his second season at the helm, emphasizes that the team’s identity revolves around speed and sustained tempo. He notes that the program has learned from its inaugural Division I campaign, sharpening areas such as ball security and forcing turnovers, while also working to start games with greater intensity than a year ago.
Senior quarterback AJ Duffy has been recognized as the Northeast Conference’s pre‑season offensive player of the year, a testament to his leadership and experience. Powell highlights Duffy’s ability to command the offense efficiently, a trait that the coaching staff believes will be crucial in maintaining momentum throughout each contest.
The focus on rapid starts extends to the defensive side of the ball, where graduate defensive back Braylon Williams has been vocal about the need to set the tone early. The coaching staff believes that a fast‑paced opening can create early advantages and keep opponents on their heels.
Beyond individual accolades, the Chargers are charting a season defined by disciplined execution and the pursuit of takeaways. By prioritizing ball security and aggressive playmaking, the team hopes to translate its offseason improvements into tangible results on the field, beginning with the highly anticipated matchup against Marist.