The 2025 Harrison Huskies football team kicked off their season in commanding fashion, posting an impressive 5-2 record with victories over tough opponents, including Yorktown, Eastchester, Nyack, Clarkstown North, and Fox Lane. Despite losing several key seniors to graduation, the Huskies have reloaded with promising young talent and have already surpassed preseason expectations.
Offensively, Harrison has been a force, racking up 117 points over their three-game winning streak. At the heart of that success is senior quarterback Jack Badner, who has taken a major step forward this season, emerging as both a dynamic playmaker and respected team leader on and off the field.
Another key leader on the Huskies is senior guard and center Christian Donofrio. After an impressive varsity debut as a junior last year, Donofrio has faced a new challenge this season as he recovers from an injury that has recently kept him on the sidelines. Despite this setback, Donofrio remains a vital presence for his teammates and an anchor of leadership within the program.
Before the Huskies’ upcoming rivalry matchup against Rye, I caught up with Jack and Christian to talk about the team’s season, their personal journeys, and what lies ahead for Harrison football.
Margolies: Hey, Jack. Congratulations on an impressive season. When the season started, what were your expectations for the team and you personally?
Badner: Thanks, Austin. Going into the season, I knew we had lost some great players but also had some younger talent waiting in the wings. I was hopeful that our team would come together quickly, play hard every week, and improve throughout the season. We met each of those expectations. Personally, I needed to take a big step as a leader and learn to trust my arm more. Last year, we were very conservative throwing the ball. Coach has given me the confidence to air it out a bit more this season. I spent a lot of time in the offseason working on my decision-making and accuracy. I think my hard work has paid off so far.
Margolies: Hey, Christian. Tell our readers what it is like playing with Jack and how important it is for the center and quarterback to be on the same page during a game.
Donofrio: Jack’s a phenomenal athlete and awesome teammate. He’s really improved a lot this year, especially his passing game. His confidence is on another level, and he’s been making big-time clutch throws all season. His accuracy has also taken a huge step forward.
As for the connection between quarterback and center, it’s critical. A QB and center need to be in sync on every play. I have been playing with Jack for a long time, and that chemistry helps us stay on the same page from snap to snap. If the center and quarterback aren’t aligned, the whole play can fall apart.
Margolies: I’m sorry about your injury, Christian. What new role have you taken on while being sidelined for most of the season?
Donofrio: Yeah, it’s been tough being out most of the season. I am basically fully recovered, but the clearance process has been frustrating. I just want to be on the field with my teammates again and close out my high school career on a strong note. Even though I can’t be on the field, I still try to be there for the team every day, at practices, games, and in the locker room. I help wherever I can, especially with the offensive line guys. I always try to mentor the younger players, answer their questions about plays, and give tips on blocking or technique.
Margolies: Jack, the team had a great game against Yorktown, and your personal numbers were incredible: 202 rushing yards, 235 passing yards, for a total of 437 yards and 6 touchdowns. After your career-high performance and being nominated for LOHUD Player of the Week, how did you feel personally?
Badner: Honestly, I was just happy we got the win against a solid Yorktown team. During the game, I felt like everything had slowed down. I was able to play freely and confidently. I have always believed that I could perform at that level, and it was great to finally put it all together and help the team come out on top.
Margolies: After your win over Yorktown, the team followed it up with another strong performance against Nyack, winning 48-22. How did the team feel after that game?
Badner: We felt great after that one. It really seemed like we finally put all the pieces together for a full four quarters. It was the best our offense has played this season. The offensive line opened holes for the running backs, and we established the run early, which set up our passing game. When we’re clicking like that, we know we can compete with anyone.
