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The Little Irish Resurgence: What’s Driving Aquinas Football’s Dominance In Rochester, NY (2024 Season Update)

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The Aquinas Institute Little Irish football program is once again dominating the conversation in Section V athletics, with the current 2024 season marking a significant chapter in the school’s rich gridiron history. As of this December 2025 update, the buzz around Aquinas Institute in Rochester, NY, is centered on a major coaching change and a roster packed with high-impact talent poised for a deep playoff run and a potential state championship bid. The program, known for its tradition of excellence and producing Division I talent, continues to set the standard for high school football in the region, drawing massive crowds to their home games.

The 2024 campaign has been particularly noteworthy, not just for the team's on-field performance, which included claiming a Section title as part of a historic fall athletic season for the school, but also for the strategic shift in leadership. The combination of veteran coaching expertise and a dynamic group of young athletes suggests that the Little Irish are not just competing for wins—they are competing to reaffirm their status as a perennial New York State powerhouse. This deep dive uncovers the key players, the influential coaching return, and the defining moments of this exciting season.

The 2024 Aquinas Institute Little Irish Football Roster and Key Personnel

The foundation of any dominant football program is its roster, and the 2024 Aquinas Institute team is stacked with talent across all positions. The team competes in the highly competitive Section V, and their success is a direct result of the depth and versatility of their players. The varsity roster for the 2024-2025 season features several standout athletes who have become the focal point of their offensive and defensive schemes.

The Return of a Legend: Head Coach Chris Battaglia

The most significant development for the 2024 season was the return of Head Coach Chris Battaglia for his second stint leading the Little Irish. Battaglia is a revered figure in Rochester football, and his return has injected a new level of energy and strategic focus into the program. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, physical play, and a commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. This leadership change has been credited with galvanizing the team and setting a high bar for performance.

Star Players to Watch (2024 Varsity Roster)

The Little Irish offense is spearheaded by a trio of explosive playmakers. These are the names that opponents are game-planning for and college recruiters are tracking closely:

  • Trent Buttles (QB/FS): A dynamic athlete, Buttles is listed as both a Quarterback and a Free Safety. His dual-threat ability on offense—combining passing accuracy with rushing threat—makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His leadership from the QB position is crucial to the team's success.
  • Thomas Levens (WR/DB): An elite two-way player, Levens is a primary target at Wide Receiver and a lockdown defender in the Secondary (DB). His speed and agility allow him to create separation and make game-changing plays on both sides of the ball.
  • Joshua Ernst (WR/CB): Another formidable two-way threat, Ernst complements Levens perfectly at Wide Receiver and Cornerback. His ability to secure contested catches and shut down opposing receivers makes him a vital component of the team's overall strategy.

The roster also includes other key contributors like Kidtrell Blocker and Joshua Ernst Jr., ensuring that the team maintains depth and competitive intensity throughout the long season.

Aquinas Football’s Path to the Section V Championship and Key Rivalries

The Aquinas Institute Little Irish have a long-standing tradition of success, and their 2024 schedule was designed to prepare them for the rigors of the Section V playoffs. The Section V classification is known for its intense competition, featuring some of the best high school football programs in New York State. The Little Irish’s goal is always to secure the Section V title and earn a berth in the NYSPHSAA State Tournament.

Defining Moments of the 2024 Season

The 2024 season has been characterized by several high-stakes matchups that tested the team's resolve. One of the most notable victories was a dominant statement win over UPrep, a significant rival in the Rochester high school football landscape. This game, which took place in early September 2024, showcased the Little Irish’s offensive firepower and defensive tenacity, proving they were a serious title contender.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. A tough loss to the Pittsford Panthers served as a mid-season reality check, highlighting areas for improvement, particularly in late-game execution and defensive consistency. These moments are crucial for a team's development, providing valuable lessons that strengthen their resolve for the playoffs.

Ultimately, the team’s hard work paid off, as the Aquinas Institute celebrated a historic fall sports season where the Varsity Football team was one of three programs to claim a Section title. This achievement underscores the program's consistency and ability to perform under pressure when it matters most.

The Intensity of Section V Football

The Section V football league is a crucible of talent. Aquinas Institute, located in Rochester, NY, consistently faces top-tier opponents like Fairport, Rush-Henrietta, and Penfield. The rivalries in this section are deep-rooted, with every game carrying significant weight for sectional seeding and bragging rights. The Aquinas Little Irish vs. Fairport matchup, for instance, is always a highly anticipated event that draws large crowds and media attention, showcasing the best of New York high school football.

Success in this league requires a balanced attack, a disciplined defense, and exceptional special teams play. The team’s ability to navigate this challenging schedule is a testament to Coach Battaglia's preparation and the players' commitment to the program's high standards. The focus on strength and conditioning, along with advanced film study, gives the Little Irish a competitive edge in these intense sectional battles.

The Aquinas Institute Football Legacy and Future Outlook

The Aquinas Institute football program is not just about a single season; it's about a legacy built over decades. The school has a storied history of producing NFL players and numerous Division I college athletes, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for high school football talent in the Northeast. This tradition of excellence creates a unique culture where current players are constantly striving to live up to the achievements of those who came before them.

Program Pillars: Tradition, Development, and Community

The success of the Little Irish is built on three core pillars: tradition, player development, and community engagement. The program’s history, filled with multiple state championships and sectional titles, serves as a powerful motivator. The coaching staff focuses heavily on developing players' skills, football IQ, and character, preparing them for the next level of competition and life beyond football. Furthermore, the strong support from the Rochester community and the Aquinas alumni network provides an unparalleled home-field advantage.

The team’s practice facilities, including the on-campus field house and training areas, are state-of-the-art, ensuring that athletes have the resources necessary to reach their peak performance. The emphasis on academic success alongside athletic achievement ensures that Aquinas continues to produce well-rounded individuals.

Looking Ahead: The Road to the State Championship

With the Section V title secured, the Aquinas Institute Little Irish are now focused on the next phase: the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) tournament. The state playoffs present an even higher level of competition, featuring the top teams from all sections across New York. The team's deep roster, led by the veteran coaching of Chris Battaglia and the playmaking of Trent Buttles, Thomas Levens, and Joshua Ernst, positions them as a formidable contender for the state crown.

The Little Irish will need to maintain their defensive intensity and continue to execute their balanced offensive scheme to overcome the challenges of the state bracket. Every game from this point forward is a must-win, and the high-stakes environment is where the program’s championship DNA truly shines. Fans in Rochester, NY, are eagerly following every snap, hoping to witness the Little Irish hoist another state championship trophy, adding to the school’s legendary football history.

The Little Irish Resurgence: What’s Driving Aquinas Football’s Dominance in Rochester, NY (2024 Season Update)
aquinas football rochester ny
aquinas football rochester ny

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