Johnsburg Skyhawks Face No. 3 IC Catholic in State Playoff Second Round

The Johnsburg Skyhawks will travel to face No. 3 IC Catholic at 2 p.m. Saturday for the second round of the Class 3A state playoffs. The 8-2 Skyhawks advanced to this game after defeating No. 22 Marian Central 27-0 last Friday night in Johnsburg. This victory marks the team's first postseason win since 2022. Johnsburg finished last season as a one-and-done team, and they missed the playoffs entirely in 2023. The current squad's eight wins represent their most since going 10-1 in 2017.

Senior two-way lineman Micah Welch and senior wide receiver Ryan Franze set program records during the regular season. Welch, who stands 6-2 and weighs 225 pounds, became the school's career sack leader. He surpassed Jack Kegel's previous mark of 17.5 sacks. Welch added one sack against Marian Central, bringing his career total to 19.5. He recorded 12.5 sacks during this season. Franze, a 5-11, 185-pound wide receiver, broke C.J. Fiedorowicz's record for career receptions. Fiedorowicz's previous total was 174. Franze caught six passes against Marian Central, pushing his career total to 190.

Both players have spent three years on varsity football. Welch credited a specific mentor for his development. He cited 'Meech,' or CJ Ameachi, who played senior for the team in Welch's sophomore year. Welch said seeing Ameachi play defense against the quarterback inspired him to work harder. Franze described himself as blessed for reaching his personal goal of breaking the reception record. He noted that Fiedorowicz, a former NFL tight end, is a prominent name in the program's history. Franze thanked his coaches and teammates for pushing him throughout his three-year tenure.

The players identified different victories as the best of the year. Welch chose the 49-8 win over Sandwich in Week 9. He said the defense's performance in that game demonstrated the strength of the team's run defense. He noted that Sandwich possesses talented running backs. Franze pointed to the 31-6 win over Woodstock North in Week 3. Woodstock North had beaten Johnsburg in the two previous seasons, with scores of 27-13 and 26-21. Franze said playing on Woodstock North's turf and forcing them to stop after the third quarter due to lightning was a major personal achievement. He described having a chip on his shoulder entering that matchup.

The seniors also named teammates they consider underrated or most improved. Franze identified junior cornerback Brennan Ducak as the most improved player. Ducak stands 6 feet tall and weighs 170 pounds. Franze said Ducak has pushed him harder in practice from the start of the season to now. Franze told Ducak this week that he has gotten much better this year. Welch selected junior defensive lineman Gavin VanDyck. Welch said VanDyck has stepped into a larger role on the defense. VanDyck plays multiple positions, including nose tackle and end on the defensive line, and tackle, guard, and center on the offensive line.

Welch outlined what the team must do to succeed against IC Catholic. He said the group needs to work together and make the Crusaders earn every yard. He stated that the team cannot give away free opportunities. Welch expressed confidence in the team's chances if they stick to their plan. Franze emphasized a mindset of fearlessness. He said the receivers, quarterback, and himself adopted a 'why not us' attitude entering the playoffs. Franze urged the team to fear no opponents in the coming game.