Junior Panthers Football defy the odds to clinch final football playoff spot

George Le Gresley

Sports Correspondent

Girls Fastball

On October 14, the Panthers split their doubleheader, first defeating North Park 11-9, then losing the second game to the undefeated Holy Trinity, 17-1. They also played St. John's in Caledonia last Wednesday, unfortunately, at press time, no score was reported. The girls have a 4-1 record and are tied for second place with St. John’s.

Boys Baseball

On October 14, the Panthers split their double-header, beating Valley Heights 11-1 and losing 7-1 to Waterford. Finishing the season with a record of 4-4, they faced BCI in the quarterfinal and were eliminated 5-2.

Football

On Oct. 16, the Junior Panthers blocked a BCI convert attempt following a touchdown to preserve a 6-6 tie. The tie earned the Panthers their first and only point of the season, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Heading into their Oct. 22 matchup against the St. John’s Eagles, the Panthers needed to avoid losing by 23 points or more to secure fourth place and the final playoff berth. Despite falling 14-7 in a hard-fought contest, the Panthers accomplished their mission and punched their ticket to the postseason. They will play their quarter-final game on Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. at the Gretzky Centre field, potentially setting up a rematch against St. John’s. On October 16, the Seniors put forth a good effort but lost to BCI 35-15. On October 22, the Panthers were shut out by St. John’s 35-0 and unfortunately did not qualify for the playoffs. The roster is very talented, but with a short bench, many players had to play both defense and offense. Hopefully, with many juniors moving up, next season will be different. 

Girls Basketball 

The Junior ladies lost to St. John’s at home on Oct. 20, with Gen Carriere, Lauren DeMunck, and Julia Sherren leading in scoring. The team travelled to Assumption and took another loss, with Gen Carriere and Brynn Haverkamp leading points. The Senior side also lost to St. John’s and Assumption College. 

Boys Volleyball

Last Tuesday, the Seniors who are currently in fourth place in the North Division, travelled to St. John’s and defeated the Eagles 3-2. They hosted Assumption and sent ACS back home with a 3-1 loss. They are sitting in third place. The Juniors hosted Assumption College and lost 3-2. They return to action on Thursday when they face Pauline Johnson