Coming off of a “Story Book” regular and postseason, the Center Grove Trojans extinguished our football team 35-9 just two weeks ago. The Chargers came out of the gate hot with a 70 yard march down the field, resulting in a field-goal. However, they were held scoreless until late in the fourth quarter when Junior QB, Ethan Springer, connected with Senior, Camden Herschberger on a deep-shot into the endzone.

Filled with determination from the passing of Senior QB, Owen Scheele earlier this season, the Chargers made a deep playoff run with an appearance in a State Championship. The first in Carroll and Fort Wayne 6A football history.

“It was very noticeable that Center Grove had been at that stage before and we hadn’t” Valdes said. “So we did not perform the way we were capable of.”

A very true statement as Center Grove has now won three straight State Championships. A very notable feat as this is rarely done.

After the dust had settled and our Chargers had been defeated, one more surprise emerged. Jorge Valdes had won the Mental Attitude Reward, an award awarded to student athletes with compassion and good, strong character on and off the field.

“It was an honor,” said Valdes. “It was a reflection of my family and friends and how they have made me into who I am.”

Despite a tough loss at the hands of the Center Grove Trojans, our football team had a record breaking season and the best in school history. A truly impressive accomplishment for the program from the players to the coaches, to all those who came before them. And even though it wasn’t the outcome they wanted, nobody can deny how amazing they played this season.

And as always, stay #OwenStrong.