The Whitehall football program pulled off a quite a coup recently, utilizing its aerial assault to ascend to the top of a competition hosted by Lehigh University for area high schools.

The Zephyrs competed in the 14th Annual 7-On-7 Shoot-Out at Goodman Stadium on July 12, and came away as the top team in both the big and small school divisions.

The 7-On-7 Shoot-Out is a competitive version of a drill that football teams run that features only passing as a means of moving the ball down the field. It's an exercise that's focused on the quarterback attacking the defense via the air, with only wide receivers, tight ends and backs as part of the drill. Similarly, the defense is limited to linebackers and safeties to defend their goal.

Head coach Brian Gilbert said the varsity team was among those competing in the big school division. They were among 12 teams gathered at Lehigh to see who could reign supreme at the Shoot-Out.

Gilbert said the team, led by Gianni Sinatore as the signal caller, defeated DuBois Area Senior High School to win the big school division.

Gilbert said that Sinatore demonstrated an ability to make a play when they needed it, extending drives and setting up scores.

"It really showed that he's a good passer," said Gilbert. "There were some pressure situations when he had to make a throw, and he did. It showed that he could stay with it the entire day."

Gilbert said that competing in six games, all of which have 20 plays scripted, the quarterbacks make 120 throws, and it makes for a long day.

The junior varsity also won, defeating Saucon Valley High School for the small school crown. That division also featured 12 schools. Sophomore Zach Gilbert engineered the win over the Panthers, giving the Zephs the double dip.

Gilbert said that Zach Gilbert made steady progress during the Shoot-Out.

"He showed some more consistency from the first seven on seven," said Gilbert. "From the beginning of the day to the end of the day, he improved."

With two wins in both divisions, the Zephs demonstrated their passing attack is a potent weapon when they take the field.

"We were rather proud we had two championships in one day," said Gilbert.

The Shoot-Out is one of three football camps that Lehigh offers for varsity programs and players during the summer.

Camp Director Gregg Strobel, who oversees all the sports camps, said that in addition to the Shoot-Out, they offer a Championship Skills clinic that offers any position player the opportunity to showcase their skills through a series of drills that is attended by many college recruiters. Additionally, they have an O-Line/D-Line camp that works on the specific skills utilized by the guys in the trenches.

"It really fits all the needs of your football program," said Strobel.

Gilbert said it's the third year he's taken the Zephs to the camp, indicating it's a good way to break-up the routine of summer workouts.

"It helps get them ready for the season and it's a lot of fun," said Gilbert.