After starting QB Josh Leininger was injured in a football game against Newport in week 3, freshman backup QB Mason Kroh took over. Mason went in on the 2nd play in the game.Kroh said, “The older kids made me feel comfortable.” He came in and lead the team with a drive downfield. On the second drive, Kroh drove the team downfield then Colin Luckenbill ran in a touchdown. He also passed for 16 yards in his first game. 

This is Kroh’s eighth year playing football.  “I’ve always been a Quarterback. My dad played at Pine Grove, he started all four years and played varsity.  So I guess you can say it’s kinda in my blood. I enjoy being quarterback because I get to lead the team. It’s a fun experience, I go into a huddle and I have the older kids looking at me waiting for the play.  It’s nothing like I’ve ever experienced. Josh has been making me feel comfortable in the position and helping me improve each week.”  

 The next game was against rivals Tri-Valley for the West End Gridiron Bowl. He lead the team with 92 passing yards and a great win. He was happy for helping the seniors win their first Gridiron Bowl trophy. Josh Leininger said, “Mason has done well stepping up into a role that isn’t easy to fill and a tough position to play.  He’s getting better and progressing each week.” “Mason is a very mature freshman and has been able to get the job done. Being injured has been rough but a humbling experience. It’s hard not being able to play with your brothers every night and having to stand and watch and it’s tough knowing you can’t do anything to change the outcome of the game.  I love football and not being able to play humbled me into realizing that any one play or any one moment could be your last. I hope to return soon and help my team win some more football games.”