Nansemond-Suffolk Academy will finish its football regular season Friday against the opponent that knocked it out of last year’s playoffs, with a chance to strengthen its postseason position. The Saints bring an 8-1 record into the game against St. Anne’s-Belfield, scheduled for 6 p.m. in Charlottesville. A victory is expected to put Nansemond-Suffolk in position to host a playoff game.
The Suffolk school has already recorded its most successful season by wins since 2015. Head coach Robbie Duncan said the difference began with how his players understood their own abilities. Last season, the Saints recognized their potential late. This year, they arrived knowing what they could accomplish and have largely played with that confidence throughout the schedule.
Junior quarterback David Ortell said that belief was evident during the offseason. Players understood the talent on the roster and the effort required to turn it into results. For Ortell, who is in his first season at Nansemond-Suffolk, joining the Saints also meant reconnecting with Duncan after the two had previously been together at Western Branch.
Their existing relationship has helped shape the offense and the team’s trust in its quarterback. Duncan views Ortell as an extension of the coaching staff on the field and said his presence has lifted the entire team. Ortell said Duncan consistently backs him, including during difficult performances, and continues to trust him with the ball when a game is not going his way.
Friday’s matchup carries added significance because of last year’s playoff defeat. Ortell expects a physical contest and welcomes the possibility of a close finish decided on the final possession. Duncan sees the regular-season finale as an opportunity for his players to demonstrate that they belong against strong competition before beginning another postseason run.
St. Anne’s-Belfield is led by Heath Miller, the former Pittsburgh Steelers tight end and two-time Super Bowl champion. That connection makes the game particularly meaningful for Ortell, whose family supports the Steelers. He said his father would be excited watching from the stands, and he hopes to shake Miller’s hand afterward. His appreciation for Miller, however, will wait until the competition is finished.
For the Saints, the possibility of hosting a playoff game gives the finale another purpose. Ortell said the team has many seniors who would value another meaningful appearance on their home field. As a newcomer to the program, he wants to help give those teammates that opportunity while carrying the team’s momentum into the postseason.
Duncan wants Nansemond-Suffolk to take the confidence developed over its first nine games into November and use the playoffs to show what it can achieve. He believes the uncertainty of postseason competition can work in the Saints’ favor as they pursue a run beyond the regular season.
