Memorable season ends in disappointment

By MIKE BURRIS

Adrian’s memorable season and exciting run through the playoffs came to a crushing, heartbreaking end this past Saturday as the Blackhawks fell to the Tipton Cardinals 26-7 at the Adrian Sports Complex.  Adrian advanced to the quarterfinal round of post season play following their thrilling win over the Greenfield Wildcats.  The cold, hazy, misty conditions could not dampen the enthusiasm of the home crowd as much as the final score did.   Despite the outcome many fans hung around after the game outside the locker rooms to congratulate this year’s team and to wish the Tipton squad well in their semifinal matchup with Valle Catholic.

Turnovers, ill-timed penalties and questionable officiating all played a part in the outcome of the game.  But, in the end, Adrian lost to a very good undefeated Tipton Cardinal football team.  The Blackhawks played with heart and determination and never gave up until the final seconds ran off the clock.

It cannot go without saying that the football team could not have made it this far without the stellar play of the defensive unit down the home stretch of conference play, through districts and into the sectional round of the playoffs.  While fans liked hearing the gaudy offensive stats, the complete domination the Blackhawks defenders had over their opponents this year is something to be remembered for a long time.  There is a saying in golf that goes along the line of “Drive for show.  Putt for dough”.  For many games this season, Adrian’s offense could have managed just a field goal and still won the ball game due to the defense taking pride in not allowing a single point in a contest.   Blackhawks fans had the best of both worlds in that the string of shutouts was accompanied by lopsided offensive scores.

Although the season ended much too soon with the bitter taste of defeat, the Blackhawks players, fans and coaches alike can savor the fact that Adrian pieced together yet  another memorable season of high school football.  “We had a very good year” head Coach George Bruto said after the game.  “10-3 is a great record.  We would like to thank the parents and fans for their support this year.  You really helped us out!”

Right: The cheerleaders, band, flag corp and fans get fired up in support of their Blackhawks last Saturday.

Far right: Tylor McDonald and Tuff Wimberly make a tackle with Nick Highley, Tyler Proell, Kendall Schellman and Brett Talley in pursuit in the quarterfinals match-up last Saturday.