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Writer's pictureWesley Stombaugh

U-High’s comeback effort comes up short, Pioneers fall one game short of state title appearance


Normal U-High football
The Normal U-High Pioneers watch action from the sideline. Gabe Holowka/Clutch Sports Media

NORMAL, IL – Normal U-High faced off with Mt. Zion on a frigid Saturday evening at Hancock Stadium for a chance to play for a state title at the same venue. 


Despite a final drive full of heroics in the last two minutes, the Pioneers’ comeback effort fell short with Mt. Zion taking a 21-14 victory and advancing to the IHSA Class 4A State Finals.


For the Pioneers, it’s a game that felt very much within reach, and a loss that will sting. However, the Pioneers posted a historic season in 2024, sharing the Central State 8 title and advancing further than any Normal U-High football team ever had before. 


They hope it will be the beginning of a highly successful run for the program.


“We’re gonna have to replace a lot of guys next year, but we’re excited about those guys,” Normal U-High head coach Brody Walworth said.

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