News Summary

Rich Boshea, a pivotal figure in West Haven High School’s football history, has resigned after nearly 40 years. Known for his impressive 65-31 winning record and guiding the team to state championship finals, Boshea’s departure leaves a significant impact on the community. With key players graduating, the program now faces a challenging transition as it searches for a successor to uphold the values and legacy Boshea established.

Rich Boshea Resigns as West Haven High School Football Coach After Nearly 40 Years

West Haven, a city known for its passionate sports culture, is making headlines as long-time high school football coach Rich Boshea steps down from his role. After nearly four decades with the West Haven High School football program, Boshea announced his resignation on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the community.

A Legacy Built Over Four Decades

Rich Boshea’s journey with the West Haven football team is nothing short of remarkable. He has been an integral part of the program for nearly 40 years, and many would say he is woven into the very fabric of Blue Devil football. Taking over the reins from the legendary Ed McCarthy in 2015, Boshea has cultivated a strong and competitive team that has seen considerable success during his tenure.

Impressive Winning Record

Under his leadership, the Blue Devils have had their share of triumphs. Boshea notched up an impressive record of 65 wins and 31 losses as head coach. His tenure saw the team reach the coveted CIAC Class LL state championship game in both 2023 and 2024, highlighting the team’s determination and skill.

The 2024 season was particularly exciting as the Blue Devils finished with a strong 10-3 record. However, it was a nail-biting championship game against Greenwich that etched this season into the history books. In a hard-fought battle, the Blue Devils just missed out on the title, losing 14-0. Even so, the community rallied behind Boshea and the players, supporting them through thick and thin.

Looking Ahead

As the dust settles from his departure, the West Haven High School football program faces a significant transition. Key seniors, such as quarterback Nick Conlan, running back Coryon Harris, and leading tackler Joey Capela, are leaving the team. Their experience and skills were vital to last season’s success, and finding their replacements will be a top priority for the program.

This upcoming season is set to kick off on September 12, where the Blue Devils will face Manchester in what promises to be an exciting first game. However, the absence of Boshea will undoubtedly be felt both on the field and in the stands.

Community Reaction

News of Boshea’s resignation has stirred various reactions within the West Haven community. Neil C. Cavallaro, the Superintendent of Schools, expressed shock at the announcement but also immense gratitude for Boshea’s years of dedicated service. Many are reflecting on the profound impact he has had on the young athletes he coached over the years.

Rob Bohan, the principal of West Haven High School, acknowledged Boshea’s commitment to the program and expressed that he will be missed by many. In a community where sports often unite residents, Boshea’s departure has created a significant void that will not be easy to fill.

Next Steps for the Program

As the Blue Devils prepare for the new season, the search for Boshea’s successor has begun but has not yet yielded any announcements. Finding a suitable replacement who can carry forward the values and legacy that Boshea instilled will be a challenging task.

West Haven football fans and players alike are entering a new chapter, filled with both trepidation and excitement. While the future may seem uncertain without their beloved coach, the community stands resilient, eager to support the next generation of Blue Devils.

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