Story by Jon Dinan
NEWBURGH — Sullivan West sent four of its top seniors to the Section IX Exceptional Senior All-Star Game which was held Nov. 18 at Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh. The game, which was resurrected after a 30-year hiatus brought together seniors from every school in Section IX, regardless of size or Class.
In all, 13 Sullivan County seniors were selected to compete in the game.
Sullivan West was represented by wide receiver Brad Hemmer, quarterback/linebacker Sawyer Erlwein, guard Scott Herbert and linebacker Scott Erdman. Herbert did not participate in the game due to an injured shoulder.
The players were placed on either the American or National roster, selected by a committee of Section IX coaches. At least one player from every school in Section IX received an invitation to play.
Hemmer was the leading receiver for the American side, and both he and Erlwein agreed the game was a worthwhile experience. “I saw a decent amount of playing time, and it was a nice way to end the season and my high school career, rather than on a loss.” Hemmer said, referring to Sullivan West’s season-ending loss to James I. O’Neill in the Section IX Class semifinal game.

Exceptional Sullivan Seniors
Thirteen Sullivan County seniors were selected to play in the Exceptional Senior football game at Newburgh on Sunday, November 18:

Anthony Margarum, Eldred QB
Bob Weber, Eldred OT
R,J, Thiele, Eldred TE
Matthew Strauss, Fallsburg DE
Atwoun Ackerly, Liberty DB
Tony Saravia, Liberty DL
Andy Martinez, Liberty DL
Jake McLachlan, Monticello LB
Brad Hemmer, Sullivan West WR
Sawyer Erlwein, Sullivan West LB
Scott Herbert, Sullivan West DL
Scott Erdman, Sullivan West LB
Aric Boyes, Tri-Valley DL