Schuylkill Haven and Williams Valley are preparing to face off for the third consecutive year in the District 11 2A Championship, with a trip to the PIAA state playoffs at stake. The Hurricanes, boasting an unblemished record of 12-0 and 9-0 in the league, are eager to extend their perfect season, marking their first since 2008. Meanwhile, the Vikings, with an 11-1 record and 8-1 in the league, aim to defend their title and secure a third consecutive playoff appearance.
“We have to be undefeated or our season is over,” stated Schuylkill Haven head coach Mike Farr. “This game is more than just a week 13 matchup; it”s part of our greater goals.” The championship showdown is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. at Blue Mountain”s Eagles Nest.
“It”s another significant game for Schuylkill Haven for the third year in a row, and it will be a tough contest,” commented Ben Ancheff, head coach of Williams Valley. The Hurricanes advanced to the final by decisively defeating Northern Lehigh 60-7 in the semifinals, while the Vikings edged out Minersville with a score of 35-27 on their home turf.
“A district title is something this team has chased, so I”m incredibly excited for them this week,” Farr added. “Being undefeated like we were in 1991 would be fantastic and a significant accomplishment.” Both teams feature a strong senior presence, with Schuylkill Haven fielding ten seniors and Williams Valley having eleven.
Leading the way for Schuylkill Haven is senior running back/linebacker Niko Castillo, who has amassed 13 touchdowns and 800 rushing yards, alongside averaging 5.1 tackles per game with 21 tackles for loss. “Niko Castillo has grown a half an inch and added 22 pounds since August,” remarked Farr. “How many kids work that hard during the season? He”s on a mission.”
For Williams Valley, senior receiver/defensive back Evan Achenbach has recorded nine touchdown receptions and 603 receiving yards, while also leading the defense with three interceptions. In their earlier meeting this season, Schuylkill Haven triumphed over the Vikings 43-29, with Reber contributing significantly with two touchdown runs and 165 rushing yards.
Since taking over as interim head coach, Ancheff has led Williams Valley to a 56-10 victory against Marian and has seen the team outscore opponents 51-13 over the past six games. In contrast, Schuylkill Haven has outscored their rivals 45-14 throughout the season.
This offensive success has been driven by junior running back Colton Reber, who has accumulated 36 touchdowns and 2,663 rushing yards. Senior quarterback Max Heim has thrown for 22 touchdowns and 1,064 yards, while Castillo has also contributed significantly in the receiving game.
The Hurricanes” defensive unit, led by Chase Williams, Wyatt Keefer, and Ethan Kline, has allowed an average of just 14 points per game, including four shutouts. Williams Valley”s defense has proven equally formidable, with Trevon Bair leading with 8.6 tackles per game and Achenbach making his mark in the secondary.
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the focus remains on executing their game plans and showcasing their best performances on the field. The District 11 2A Championship game promises to be an exciting showdown, with both teams eager to claim the title and advance to the state playoffs.
