The Newtown High School football program, under the steady guidance of coach Dan Farina, has entered a new chapter as it drops to Class MM for the upcoming season. Farina, who has compiled a 28‑7 record over his first three years, emphasizes that the defense will be the backbone of the team.
Eight starters return on that side of the ball, including Graham Spencer, Caden Cuomo, Henri Quirk, Nick Stockwell, Drillon Lena and Liam McGovern. Their presence gives the coaching staff a rare continuity that could stabilize the unit week after week.
Only three offensive starters are back, leaving quarterback Jack Colonel and receiver Spencer Maddox to shoulder the bulk of the scoring responsibilities. The limited returning talent on offense adds an extra layer of challenge, but the team hopes its defensive identity can offset any early growing pains.
A defensive identity
With a unit that returns the bulk of its starters, the Nighthawks hope to build on the momentum of a 28‑7 record under Farina and finally translate that consistency into playoff success. The schedule presents formidable tests, including matchups against SWC rivals Southington and Greenwich, as well as games against 2025 state runners‑up Bunnell, Brookfield and traditional power Masuk.
After years of playoff heartbreak, the Nighthawks are determined to break the streak of quarterfinal exits that has defined recent seasons. Fans and alumni alike are eager to see whether the work put in during the offseason can finally pay dividends on the field.