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South Harrison football defied expectations this year, ending their season as conference runners-up after being predicted to finish sixth. Coming off a 3-8 record last season, the Bulldogs put in the work, made critical adjustments, and showed resilience on the field.

“We didn’t know what to expect going into this season,” Head Coach Schoning admitted. “We had a big junior class with a lot of experience over the last two years, but with only two seniors on the team, we wondered if that might hurt us.”

The team began their preparations in March, dedicating themselves to the weight room and a summer of hard training. “The boys did a great job pushing each other all summer,” Schoning said. “That effort laid the foundation for the season.”

A Challenging Start

This season brought new challenges, including a reshuffled schedule due to two new conference opponents. For the first time during Schoning’s tenure, the Bulldogs opened the season with a conference game against defending champions Milan.

“We knew we were underdogs going into that game,” Schoning said. “But the boys had put in the work and wanted to prove to everyone—and themselves—that we were a good football team.”

Prove it, they did. South Harrison pulled off an impressive win in their opener and went on to win their next five games, solidifying their place as serious contenders.

A Season of Growth

The final stretch of the season brought a mix of results, with the team going 2-3 in the last five games. Despite the setbacks, the Bulldogs showed resilience and determination.

“It was a great learning experience for the guys,” Schoning explained. “They battled and prepared every week like it was their last, which says a lot about their character and commitment.”

By the end of the season, the team more than doubled their wins from last year and secured second place in the conference standings.

Leadership Matters

Coach Schoning credits much of this year’s success to the team’s two seniors, Briar Hudlemeyer and Cooper Johnson.

“Even though we only had two seniors, they showed the younger guys what it takes to be a Bulldog,” Schoning said. “They led by example and stepped into a leadership role we had been missing. Their contributions over the past four years have been invaluable.”

Looking Ahead

With the season behind them, excitement is building for 2025. The Bulldogs are set to return a large senior class with significant experience, along with a promising group of juniors and sophomores.

“After this season, the boys are really excited for what’s next,” Schoning said. “We’ve got a strong foundation, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this team grows.”

As the Bulldogs look to build on their momentum, one thing is clear: South Harrison football is heading in the right direction.