Railsplitters end 19-year
playoff drought

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor

Four years ago Calvin Philemond knew nothing about Philadelphia.
Now, he’s changing its history.
The Abraham Lincoln High School senior moved from East Morris, N.J., to Northeast Philadelphia prior to his freshman year and immediately teamed up with the Railsplitters. Four quick seasons later the running back has helped his squad qualify for post-season play for the first time since 1988.
"It feels great to be in the playoffs," said the 6-foot, 180 pound senior. "It’s been a long time for Lincoln. We’re a little smaller than everyone else, but we have heart. We play with our hearts and I think we did well this season."
The Railsplitters went 9-0 in the Public League Blue Division this year, but lost to Washington High School in the first round of playoffs, 34-6, on Nov. 2.
"We lost, but I like the way my team played," said Philemond. "We made a couple mistakes. I made a couple of mistakes. But I think we played a great season. We lost today, but we played well. I’m proud of us."
Philemond scored the Railsplitters’ only touchdown after catching a five-yard pass with six minutes left in the first quarter. He went on to rush for 35 yards against Washington, bringing his season total to 125.
Other Lincoln standouts include Philemond’s cousin, defensive back Rubens Codio, who had three interceptions on Friday, and senior running back Kevin Chilton, who rushed for 115 yards.
On the Eagles’ side, junior running back James Johnson had six carries for the team-leading 47 yards and two touchdowns. Running backs Devon Wallace, Kesson Christopher and Lorenzo Adams scored one touchdown each, which, combined with Will McFillin’s conversion kicks, gave Washington a 34-6 victory.
"We lost today, but I don’t feel that bad about it because I like the way my team played today," said Philemond. "We played good. I’m proud of my team and I’m proud of the season."
Although their post-season spotlight ended early, the Railsplitters still have plenty to celebrate.
"We didn’t think we’d be here, to be honest," said quarterback Charles Boyd, who had four touchdown-passes for 169 yards this season. "We thought we were a young crew and getting pushed around. This team has grown up together. And now we made the playoffs. We’re proud we made it."
The last time the Railsplitters enjoyed the sweet smell of post-season play was almost two decades ago, when Lincoln beat West Philadelphia 41-6 in the quarterfinals, but lost to Central in the semifinals. This year, Lincoln didn’t get as far, but they’re walking away just as proud.
"The whole experience is really great," said coach Gene Kelly. "The whole school was behind us. We had a lot of support and a lot of fans and that really helps us on the field."
For Philemond, the success of this season was especially meaningful because he was able to enjoy it alongside his school and team.
"We’re all a big family here," he said. "I didn’t know anything about Lincoln when I was a freshman. I didn’t know anything about Philly. I didn’t know where stores were… nothing. These guys (teammates) taught me everything."
In addition to making new friends, Philemond was greeted by an old familiar face during his junior season.
"My cousin went to Frankford and I decided to go to Lincoln," said Philemond, referring to Codio, whose three interceptions during Friday’s playoff game brought his season total to five. "Two years later he transferred to Lincoln. But by then we were used to playing on the same team. We’ve been teammates since pee-wee ball."
Philemond, a four-year varsity player, has been playing football for a decade. However, his passions in life do span beyond the gridiron.
"I’ve always loved working with cars," said Philemond, who hopes to study mechanical engineering in college. "I’ve been doing it forever. I remember changing the oil in my dad’s car when I was eight. It feels good and I enjoy it. I love working with cars."
Although he has made no definite decisions regarding college, Philemond plans to continue playing football as long as possible, and hopes to stay close to his new home.
"I really love it in Philadelphia," he said. "I feel welcome here." ••

In other playoff action:
Northeast High School sophomore quarterback Malik Stokes led the Vikings to a 27-0 win against Simon Gratz High School in the Public League quarterfinals on Nov. 2 at Charles Martin Memorial Stadium.
Stokes completed five of eight passes, including two touchdowns. The Vikings’ running game totaled 177 rushing yards, which included running backs James Rosseau for 58 yards and Tyleel Robinson for 60. Tight end Tyrik Clary, wide receiver Keith Scruggs and running backs Tyleel Robinson and Albert Burgos all found the end zone once.
The Vikings (5-5) are now scheduled to play Edward Bok Tech in the semifinals. ••