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South all-stars steal the show

One more game, one more chance to make memories.

The Schuylkill League capped off its 2025 football campaign with the Schuylkill County All-Star Game on Wednesday night at Schuylkill Haven’s Rotary Field. Hosted by the Schuylkill County Football Coaches Association, it gave seniors across the county one final opportunity to showcase their talents and enjoy the camaraderie of teaming up with former rivals.

With schools divided into North and South squads, the South rolled to a 50-0 victory — though the night’s most meaningful moments rose above the scoreboard.

For the North, Tamaqua’s Malachi Stewart provided a bright spot, finishing with 35 yards on six carries and adding a 23-yard reception to earn his team’s MVP award.

“This was a great opportunity because I went against other good competition around the area,” he said. “I think I showed what I can do, but I really wish I got a touchdown.”

Panther Valley’s Mark Lavine served as the North’s head coach, getting his first chance to lead the staff after three years as an assistant.

“It’s just a fun experience anytime you get to be involved in any type of all-star game,” Lavine said. “You really enjoy it anytime you get to work with young men that want to be here. For some of these kids, it might be the last time they play football. So I just wanted to make it as enjoyable as possible.”

On the South sideline, Schuylkill Haven head coach Mike Farr guided his group to its third win in the last four meetings between the North and South. The North leads the all-time series 20-17-1.

“It’s all about the players,” Farr said. “We just come out here and let them have some fun, and this is always a great time.”

The Hurricanes were well represented. Quarterback Max Heim completed 5-of-8 passes for 128 yards and three touchdowns to earn South MVP honors. Teammate Niko Castillo added two scores — a four-yard run and a 72-yard catch-and-run.

Tri-Valley’s Cole Gemberling also shined in his final outing, rushing for 88 yards on six carries with touchdown runs of 42 and 18 yards.

“This past week was just a blessing to come out and have those past competitors being my teammates and just a great bonding experience,” he said.

Minersville’s Paiten LaPoint added two touchdowns: a 28-yard reception and a 45-yard interception return.

But the night’s most memorable moments belonged to Gavin Spirko, the 6-foot-4, 470-pound Minersville lineman whose performance brought the loudest reactions from players and fans alike. After LaPoint’s pick-six, Spirko rumbled in for a two-point conversion to the delight of the entire stadium. Later, he scooped up a fumble, sealing his selection as the game’s Lineman MVP.

Despite the lopsided final score, Spirko’s moments embodied the spirit of the night — one last chance for a group of seniors to enjoy a twilight under the lights, together.

REPRESENTATIVES ... The North roster featured players from North Schuylkill, Panther Valley, Marian Catholic, Tamaqua, Pottsville and Mahanoy Area. The South roster included players from Schuylkill Haven, Blue Mountain, Minersville, Nativity, Pine Grove, Tri-Valley and Williams Valley.

South 50, North 0

North 0 0 0 0 - 0

South 21 7 15 7 - 50

S - LaPoint 28 pass from Helm (Hoover kick)

S - Castillo 4 run (Hoover kick)

S - Atkinson 9 pass from Heim (Hoover kick)

S - Castillo 72 pass from Heim (Hoover kick)

S - Gemberling 42 run (Hoover kick)

S - LaPoint 45 int return (Spirko run)

S - Gemberling 18 run (Hoover kick)

Members of the South and North teams share a moment on the field after Wednesday’s SCFCA All-Star game at Schuylkill Haven. MADISON FISHER/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS
Panther Valley’s Ben Baneravage, left, and Marian’s Jah Bushati joined forces on the North team for the SCFCA All-Star game. MADISON FISHER/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS