This time of the year our sports overlap into start-out optimism, drive into high gear of success, and ending in disappointment. Through more than half the season in the National Football League, the Chicago Bears are four games under .500. Finding a combined optimism and accelerated determination remains the objective for the Bears. Crucial mistakes have slowed the team’s process.
High School football playoff teams generate added enthusiasm with communities. The playoff teams in the semifinals Saturday, Nov. 19 are riding a high crest in Batavia Glenbard West, Lincoln-Way East, York, Nazareth Academy, Providence Catholic, St. Francis, IC Catholic Prep, as part of the 32 teams still involved in the playoffs. Teams with excellent seasons in high school football will take aim at success next season.
Batavia will play at Lake Zurich 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17 in a semifinal game after 17-6 home victory Saturday, Nov. 10 against visiting Yorkville.
Yorkville finished with a 10-2 overall won-loss record and two victories in the playoffs.
Question for Yorkville head coach Dan McGuire: What was the difference in the game with Batavia? “Field position was a big deal throughout the game and our inability to take advantage of turnovers and special teams plays where Batavia did take advantage of those things. Offensively, we were not able to stretch the field and defensively we put our defense in too many bad positions.”
How did the season compare to expectations?
“I always think it is very difficult to meet high expectation in high school football, but these (Yorkville) players were able to meet and exceed expectations from the media and myself.”
What will you remember for the season? “The team chemistry this group had. They genuinely enjoyed being around each other and playing for each other.”