Nine area players named all-state
PEORIA -- Every football player that puts on the pads on the first day of practice wants to walk onto the field at University of Illinois on Thanksgiving weekend.
While four area teams still have that opportunity, nine players will definitely be at Memorial Stadium next weekend.
The Illinois High School Football Coaches' Association recently named its all-state teams, with 18 players selected in each of the eight classes.
In Class 8A, running back Erik Smith of Bolingbrook, linebacker Brandon Nigro of Lincoln-Way Central and wide receiver/defensive back Chris Schultz of Plainfield Central were named.
Class 6A selections, all of whom will be in action today, were linebacker Nick Clancy and quarterback John Ruettiger of Joliet Catholic Academy and quarterback Brett Nagel and lineman Graham Pocic of Lemont.
In Class 5A, Morris receiver/defensive back Zach Thetard was selected, while running back Noah Roseland of Coal City was named in Class 4A. Both will also be trying to lead their teams to the state title game today.
In Class 3A, Wilmington lineman John Kerulis was selected.
North will meet Mount Carmel or Glenbard North in the 8A title game.
The Huskies' Jordan Tassio completed 10-of-15 passes for 98 yards. He also scored on a 1-yard run. Nick Mlady rushed for 90 yards on 14 carries.
Russell Ellington led the Vikings (8-5) with 36 yards rushing on 14 carries. He scored on a 2-yard run.
H-F was attempting to become the first four-loss team to reach an IHSA football final.
