Fresh off winning the 2025 Sault Ste. Marie junior football city championship, the St. Mary’s Knights are turning their attention to the next challenge—an NOSSA Final showdown with the Lo-Ellen Knights on November 8th in Sudbury. Under the guidance of head coach Tony Boniferro, St. Mary’s looks to carry the momentum of a dominant local season into regional play as they aim to bring home a NOSSA title.

After capturing the 2025 junior city football championship on October 24th, the St. Mary’s Knights have wasted no time refocusing their energy on the next challenge: the NOSSA Final this Saturday in Sudbury against the Lo-Ellen Knights. Head coach Tony Boniferro acknowledges that the emotional and physical investment that went into winning the city title required a reset, but he credits his team’s maturity and leadership for keeping the group grounded.

Boniferro told Saultsports that “our leadership group is incredible. Our captains lead by example, and everyone else follows suit. Buy-in from the group has been 100%, and everyone has stayed focused on bringing the first NOSSA junior football championship to St. Mary’s.”

One of the standout elements from the city final came on special teams. Facing a talented Korah kicking unit and difficult weather, the Knights’ return team rose to the occasion. “Korah has one of the best punters I’ve seen in recent memory,” Boniferro noted. “It was windy and cold, but Mason Mazzuca, Dom Kimbuli, and John Anthony Giallondaro did an amazing job securing punts and improving our field position. That was one of the big reasons we won.”

Looking ahead, Boniferro expects the biggest key against Lo-Ellen to be shutting down their dangerous running game. “They have a stud running back who uses his speed to get outside. If he gets any space, he’s gone,” he said. “The key in this game will be our defense. Our D has carried us all season. They play fast and hit hard. If we can contain their running game, I like our chances.”

The Knights’ development over the season has been noticeable, and Boniferro was quick to highlight the growth of his offensive line—calling them one of the most improved groups heading into NOSSA. That core is anchored by Zach Pelletier, named Lineman of the Year, who has transformed from a lanky tackle in grade seven to one of the program’s top centres since the days of Dylan Monico. Grade nine starters Ethan Elliot and Cooper Woods have also impressed with their maturity and consistency, never missing a practice this season.

Boniferro also praised Sunny Cadreau, who has made major strides since last season: “He listens and is coachable. His improvement this season is a big reason for our success.” Meanwhile, Jakob Riberdy has emerged as a dominant force. “He opens holes in the run game like no one I’ve ever seen. The sky is the limit for him,” Boniferro said, adding that continued effort could take Riberdy to the next level. The Knights’ depth has been equally important, with Christian Luxton, Dakota Leclair, Zack St. Jules, and Jakob Lortie all showing steady growth.

As St. Mary’s prepares for Saturday’s showdown at 1:00 p.m in Sudbury, the team’s confidence remains rooted in discipline, physicality, and unity. With a strong leadership core, a surging offensive line, and a defense built to withstand high-level competition, the Knights are embracing the moment as they chase history—a first NOSSA junior football title for the program.

“The message is simple. Like we’ve preached all season. Opportunity and Legacy. Bringing home the first NOSSA jr football title in St. Mary’s history would help cement a legacy for the players on this team. It’s a bitter sweet thing. I love this team and every member involved with it. Knowing this is the last week with this group is tough. Everyone has given their heart and soul to the final goal this season. It’s about finishing our story on Saturday,” said Knights junior coach Boniferro.