Written by Ricardo Villafan, Staff Writer
Strong northwest winds and bitter cold temperatures kept points off the scoreboard for most of the Indian Trail High School & Academy’s homecoming football game against Oak Creek High School on Oct. 11.
But in the end, the Hawks prevailed with a score of 12-0, improving their record to 6-2 overall and 5-1 in the Southeast Conference.
“I’m glad it was in their face and not ours,” said Coach Paul Hoffman. “It definitely affected the passing game and kicking game for both teams. Crosswinds can make for the ball to do unexpected things while in the air.”
Despite the frigid temperatures, Jaskwhich Stadium’s bleachers were full of students, teachers, and parents.
The Hawks didn’t hold back against the Knights, and both teams with their matching records played strong defense, not allowing any points on the board during the first half.
“It was a complete team game,” Hoffman said, explain- ing what he thought made the difference. “Both sides of the ball stepped up when it was needed. The consistency of effort throughout the whole game by the entire team.”
Hawk defense had three takeaways that led to two touchdowns, including a blocked eld goal returned to the 30-yard line, followed three plays later by a touch- down. Senior defensive end Curtiss Tolefree III recovered that eld goal block, a key play that changed the momentum in the game.
“It was very exhilarating because a lot of key moments in the game start on special teams, and after that play the game really picked up pace for us,” Tolefree said.
Other highlights included sophomore running back Xavi- er McWhorter who plowed forward for 58 yards on 14 carries in the second half and junior Kameron Lee’s 57-yard touchdown catch from quarterback junior Argjent Ismaili.
“Hawk Family would like to thank the Hawk Nation for their support,” Hoffman said. “It was great to see a big student section regardless of the weather. To play in it is what we do, but to be a fan in that weather takes dedication. We appreciate it.”