2025 Football Preview: Normal U-High aiming to prove its not a one-year wonder

NORMAL — Everyone remembers an underdog story. But does everyone truly understand what made them an underdog? Everyone roots for the underdog story once the headline gracefully falls into their hands. 

But does everyone understand how enthralling the moment is for the fans who sat through every game, both good and bad?

The 2024 football season for Normal U-High was a special moment for the Pioneers community. Heading into the year, the team had one winning season since 2015 and hadn’t won a playoff game since 2013. 

Last year saw U-High be victorious in three consecutive playoff games before losing to Mt. Zion in the Class 4A state semifinals. Head coach Brody Walworth and a memorable senior class helped build a season that will always be remembered in the history of Pioneer football. 

“The best thing about last year was our players,” Walworth said. “Our seniors were such great leaders and such great people. I mean, it was so much fun just to be around them every day.”