A New Era for Reading High Football
Reading High School’s football program is undergoing a cultural transformation as head coach Troy Godinet enters his fifth season with a clear mission: to build a brotherhood that extends beyond the field and to develop players into better men.
The Red Knights finished last season with a 1‑9 record, but the coaching staff and returning players are confident that a positive offseason and a focus on leadership will translate into more wins on the schedule.
At the heart of the shift is sophomore quarterback Elijah Fleming, who took over the offense in the season finale and impressed coaches with his dedication and poise. Fleming will be joined by a core group that includes senior lineman Myles Smith, captains Rashdiel Ortiz and Ja’Sian Welmaker, and junior running back Daron Wilkins, who led the team in rushing touchdowns last year.
The coaching staff also welcomes back key contributors such as Brandon Jones, who will be expected to bolster a defense that allowed an average of 42 points per game. While the team lost standout player Idris Weaver, the returning roster is viewed as a promising foundation for growth.
Beyond statistics, the program emphasizes community impact. Coach Godinet stresses that the team’s legacy will be measured not only by the scoreboard but by the character of the young men who wear the Red Knights’ colors.
The upcoming schedule features matchups against traditional rivals including Phoenixville, Muhlenberg and Lebanon, offering the Red Knights a chance to test their new culture against competitive opponents in the Lancaster‑Lebanon League.
With a renewed focus on teamwork, leadership, and player development, Reading High hopes to turn a challenging previous season into a springboard for future success.