ST. HENRY, Ohio (WLIO) — It's been a season to remember for St. Henry football. After a regional quarterfinal exit in 20-24, the Redskins bounced back in a big way. They're 13-and-1 heading into the final week of high school football.

"I think it's a really exciting feeling to know that you're the group that gets head down there for the first time in 19 years. Obviously, not being around for it, it's really hard to see it and even think about what it was like, but talking to relatives and everything, they said just an awesome experience and I'm just really hoping that we can bring that home," said St. Henry senior offensive guard/defensive lineman Kale Schwartz.

After a 7-5 season last year, St. Henry bounced back in 2025 with a 13-1 record and a trip to the Division Seven state title game. Second-year coach Josh Werling credits the senior leadership for the team's success.

"We spend a lot of time, December to May, trying to figure out what can make the best version of this team. We are a physical, tough-minded football team who plays together. So I can appreciate very much the seniors, you know, kind of seeing that vision and seeing it through here. And we got one more and again, we're going to have our hands full with a very good Hillsdale program," said Coach Werling.

And like Coach Werling said, St. Henry will face a 13-1 Hillsdale team averaging over 40 points per game. But the Redskins, riding an 11-game winning streak, have been battle-tested all season long.

"The game's not too big for us. We're just going to go out there and do what we've done every game so far. I think we're pretty confident going into this game. You know, we've earned our chance to be here and now we just have to go put one more game together and hopefully bring home gold," said St. Henry senior defensive back/wide receiver Jack Huelsman.

"You know, three, four weeks, you know, we've had championship programs we've had to play, you know, to Breeman, Mary Local, Columbus Grove, all great, great programs. But our team found a way and we get the earned opportunity to play in the last one," said Coach Werling.

And as the team continues to prepare for Saturday, the Redskins are not just playing for a trophy. They're playing for an entire village that has supported them every step of the way.

"They were there for volleyball. They were there for our baseball run a few years ago, basketball. This community is a wonderful place and our surrounding community. So to have that support, you have to win at the dinner table to have a chance to win on Fridays, and I hope they're proud of what they've watched this team do," said Coach Werling.

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