Saturday, December 6, 2008

SATURDAY SPORTS WRAP: Grizzlies' Dream Season Ends

Today, the field at Franklin Community High School was transformed into a frozen tundra that became the stage for a Division III Football Quarterfinal match between Franklin College and Wheaton College. The game was played on the HS field because of its turf surface and because Faught Field at Franklin College had been badly damaged in the final regular season game, played in rainy conditions.

The conditions ended up favoring Wheaton today. Their powerful ground attack, stingy red zone defense, and solid special teams play led them to a 45-28 victory over the Grizzlies.

Both teams ended the day with 11-2 records. Wheaton will advance to the Final Four to play undefeated and #1 ranked Mt. Union, which defeated Cortland State 41-14. The Grizzlies will go home downhearted at the loss, but gratified that they had the finest season in school history, going farther into the Division III playoffs than any team in HCAC conference history.

Congratulations to Coach Mike Leonard, the seniors (especially record-setting QB Chad Rupp), and the entire team for a magnificent season that we all enjoyed watching.


No comments: