Norwich Free Academy (NFA) is gearing up for the 2025 football season with a sense of optimism after a memorable upset that saw the team shut out top‑seeded New Britain in the CIAC Class LL playoffs.
Coach Dylan Schroth, who has compiled a 15‑17 record over his tenure, will return four offensive and nine defensive starters, giving the squad a solid foundation as they aim to defend that early‑round victory.
A Season of Promise
The offensive line will be anchored by left tackle Cameron Bell‑Snow, a coaches’ all‑state selection who helped limit the team to just seven sacks last year. At quarterback, Dwayne Smith will rely on a deep‑ball threat in Rusean Clahar, who has logged ten touchdowns over the past two seasons, while Magnus King looks to add balance after rushing for 425 yards last year.
Defensively, Bishop Gaskins and Ny’Rell Ross each contributed three sacks, with Ross topping the team with four interceptions, providing a playmaking presence that could prove decisive in tight contests.
The schedule will test the team early, with matchups against Darien, Bishop Hendricken of Rhode Island and East Lyme, but the coaching staff believes the experience will sharpen their depth at wide receiver and help them chase the ECC Player of the Year award.