Countdown to Kickoff: Westfield Bulldogs

CHANTILLY, Va. (DC News Now) — The Westfield Bulldogs have arguably been one of the best programs in the last 20 years, winning five state titles over that time.

In 2023, the team went 9-4 on their way to a 6D region final berth, before losing to Madison 31-7. However, a lot has changed with the team since last season.

Kyle Simmons, Westfield’s head coach for over a decade, decided to step down from the program over the offseason, leaving behind a hall of fame career that includes three straight state championships from 2015 to 2017.

Taking over the Westfield program, becoming just the third head coach in the school’s history, is former Robinson head coach Scott Vossler.

“It’s nice being back,” said Vossler. “We got some work ahead of us, and if we can get that work accomplished, I think we will have a good year in front of us.”

Vossler coached nine seasons with the Rams from 2014 to 2022, before leaving the program, and taking a season off from coaching. Now, he comes to Westfield to continue the tradition of a winning culture.

“There is definitely a presence about this location and this program, and the players and coaches that have been here in the past,” said Vossler. “Those are all assets you can’t buy. That’s something we are trying to grab ahold on to and tie in what we are going to do as much as we can to the past, but also forge a new future.”

For the players, it was definitely an adjustment to a new head coach.

“I was a little skeptical, a little worried,” said senior linebacker Tory Lucas. “New coach coming in. Might run things a little differently. He’s lived up to my expectations so far and I’m just looking forward to playing a football season with him as my head coach.”

“I think it’s going pretty good right now,” said senior running back Kennedy Duda. “They are conditioning us, getting us in the weight room. They are really working us. So, I think it’s great.”

Westfield hasn’t won a region title since 2019. They begin their hope of recapturing the 6D region on Thursday, August 29, when they open their season against Patriot at home.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.