ORWIGSBURG – In a remarkable display of resilience, the Williams Valley Vikings triumphed over the Schuylkill Haven Hurricanes to secure the District 11 championship, despite trailing 24-7 in the second quarter. The game took place on Friday at the Eagles Nest at Blue Mountain, where many spectators believed the undefeated Hurricanes would dominate, given their impressive season record of outscoring opponents 663 to 155.
The Hurricanes had been a formidable force throughout the season, with each of their victories coming by a margin of at least seven points. Yet, the Vikings, who had previously claimed back-to-back District 11 titles, were not ready to relinquish their crown without a fight.
“Just people doubting us, it just gives us so much motivation,” said Fletcher Thompson, a sophomore running back for the Vikings. “It makes us become better versions of ourselves and to just become the best we can possibly be and play the best game that we can.”
As the game progressed, Williams Valley began to shift the momentum. After conceding a field goal that extended Schuylkill Haven”s lead to 24-7, the Vikings found their rhythm. They marched down the field, culminating in a 10-yard touchdown run by Thompson, narrowing the gap to 24-14. This scoring drive reinvigorated the Vikings” spirit and their supporters.
Shortly after, the Vikings generated a turnover on downs, and head coach Ben Ancheff opted for a bold strategy. He called for a fake punt, a decision that proved pivotal. The play worked seamlessly as a direct snap to Brady Shomper allowed him to connect with Thompson, who raced 61 yards for another touchdown, bringing the score to 24-20 at halftime.
In the second half, Williams Valley continued to capitalize on their newfound momentum. Following a Schuylkill Haven punt, they quickly took the lead at 27-24 with a 39-yard touchdown reception by Blazer Lords.
However, late in the fourth quarter, Schuylkill Haven responded with a 15-yard touchdown run by Logan Goad, putting them back on top 31-27 with just over four minutes remaining. It seemed as though Williams Valley”s comeback would end in heartbreak.
The Vikings, known for their resilience, were not finished. On a crucial fourth down with less than two minutes to play, Shomper connected with Trevon Bair for a vital first down, showcasing their determination. “That was the play of the night for us,” Ancheff stated, highlighting Bair”s ability to maintain possession despite a hard hit from a defender.
Just a few plays later, Shomper hit wide receiver Colin Criswell with a perfect 42-yard touchdown pass, giving the Vikings a 34-31 lead with only 61 seconds left on the clock. To seal their victory, Shomper intercepted a pass from Max Heim deep in Vikings” territory, solidifying their triumph.
“It feels unbelievable,” Shomper expressed after securing his third consecutive district championship. “We”ve been doubted through the years, through the season.” With this victory, the Vikings now turn their sights on the PIAA Class 2A playoffs, embracing the underdog status that has fueled their journey.
