The Wolves football season came to an end on Friday night with a 30-6 loss to the Bennington Badgers. The Wolves finished their season with a record of 10-2, making their first semi finals appearance in the program’s short but successful history.
The 2023 NSAA Class B State Football Playoffs began on October 29 as the Wolves faced off against The Antlers of Elkhorn High in a battle for Elkhorn. The Wolves came away with a 31-21 victory thanks to two interceptions by sophomore linebacker Jase Reynolds.
“It felt great to get those interceptions, especially in such an important point in our season,” Reynolds said. “I felt as though those two interceptions played a huge role in the win.”
Junior running back Jett Tingelhoff also rumbled over 150 yards on the ground including an 80 yard dash to the endzone in the first quarter.
After their win against Elkhorn High, the Wolves took on the run heavy offense of the Scottsbluff Bearcats. The Wolves got another win in a strong offensive showing, including an impressive performance from senior quarterback Johnny Ferguson. Ferguson threw for almost 200 yards and two touchdowns including one to Reynolds, who also had a rushing touchdown later in the game.
After their quarterfinal win, the team faced their toughest challenge of the season, heading to Bennington in attempt to end their 38-win streak. The Wolves would come out the gate hot, with Ferguson running in for an opening drive touchdown and the defense shutting down the Badger offense, however their efforts came up short and the Wolves season ended with a disappointing 30-6 loss.
Many team improvements are due to the skills of the coaching staff.
“The staff that Sam put together is truly one of the best I have ever worked with,” quarterback coach Jacob Rapp said. “We have a great mix of veteran and young coaches who bring a wide range of knowledge to our football team.”
Though the season didn’t end the way they hoped, the team will look to continue to improve and work hard in the off season, working toward the state championship next year.
