Football nears season end, beats Oswego
October 23, 2015
The Tiger’s varsity football team this year accomplished goals they knew they would reach, despite the loss of team captain: Kyle Speas, due to a broken collar bone.
“Kyle put in a bunch of time and effort so he could enjoy his last year of high school football and he ended up getting injured when we played Central (Plainfield),” said Head coach Tim Kane.
With a more emphasized spread offense, the team wants to distribute the ball to a pass effective receiving core while still being able to rely on a strong back-field.
“The idea before every game is to maintain balance because it will have more success so teams don’t know what to expect between plays,” added Kane.
Defensively, players such as senior Zach Shelton, Juniors Ari Ekowa, and Timmy Donnahue all are on their ways to set new records for sacks in a season and career, all in just one season.
Senior Zach Jarosz left his Senior Night with four receiving touchdowns setting the records for most receiving touchdowns for a game, season and career in just a single game against Oswego.
“We have a strong and solid defense this year. WE have made a lot of turnovers and are continuing to make good plays. Our defensive line is very fast and strong, our linebackers are 2 year varsity juniors and have good experience and all our defensive backs always show good coverage and make great plays,” said Shelton.
The team this year is 4-2 only losing to Plainfield South and Bishop McNamara Catholic High School.
“As we progress through the season, it’s important that nobody can look back on our mistakes, because it’s over and we can’t be hung over on something that’s over,” said Kane.
On Friday, October 2 varsity football played their homecoming game against Plainfield Central in a brutal victory, close to a shutout, 49-0 was the final score.
“It’s always nice to win your homecoming game, as a team we got the momentum, and will continue to get better as a team,” added Kane, “the kids execute well when playing teams and the offense dominates the scoreboard and push the ball up the field as quick as they can.”
On the defensive aspect, the defensive players have good speed, great athletes, and they eliminate any touchdowns. Being a two year starter, Shelton is one of the leading pass rushers for the team and sets goals not only for himself but his teammates as well.
“JD plays hard and makes hard plays, he sets the mood of the game and tone of his teammates,” said Kane.
After taking a season-altering victory against Oswego Panthers, the Tigers have now moved into tying for conference lead. The team is pushing for their first playoff win in school history.