Benson Cilius was new to Port Jervis’ rich football tradition as a transfer last fall.

Cilius heard about the school’s run of Section 9 titles. However, the former Walt Whitman High lineman didn’t set any higher expectations. Cilius had one goal – to work hard in practice.

It didn’t take Port Jervis coaches long to find out that Cilius was the right fit in the team’s winning culture. Cilius let his practice and play speak for himself.

“He came in very quiet but with very high character,” Port Jervis coach Damien Striharsky said. “He does everything the right way. He’s humble.”

Cilius impressed the coaches enough to earn a starting defensive tackle position on Port Jervis’ state Class B championship team.

“When I first got here, I was like, ‘Maybe, we’ll do it again and win the section

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