Opening Night Dominance
On August 14, 2026, the West High School football team opened its season with a 67‑0 victory over Bartlett, marking the largest margin of victory in Alaska high school football history and taking place in Anchorage, Alaska.
The Eagles' offense exploded early, with quarterbacks Parker Grimm and Tatum Pogtis combining for eight first‑half touchdowns. Grimm accounted for half of those scores, rushing for gains of 23, 5 and 26 yards to reach the end zone.
Pogtis added a hat trick of his own, including a 16‑yard pass to Eddie Selesitino, while junior running back Blessing Faaea broke a 53‑yard touchdown run before halftime. Senior Manny Maga capped the third quarter with a 5‑yard score.
Defensively, the Eagles posted a shutout, never allowing a point. The pressure paid off when junior defensive back Kaio Thompson recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown.
Head coach Brown Faaaliga praised the team’s cohesion, stating that the players executed their assignments with precision and that unity would be the foundation for the weeks ahead.
Both Grimm and Pogtis highlighted the chemistry that had developed during the offseason, noting the energy from a packed crowd and the supportive environment that allowed them to thrive.
Pogtis, who previously started at quarterback for Bartlett, spoke about familiarity with many opponents, but emphasized that the Eagles' focus remained on immediate goals rather than past matchups.
Coach Faaaliga closed his remarks with a reminder to stay grounded, urging the squad to concentrate on one game at a time and to keep building on the momentum generated by the opening night performance.