By BUTCH HARMON
Led by a senior class that has left a lasting legacy, the Pewamo-Westphalia football team enjoyed another big season this fall.
After going 8-1 during the regular season and winning the Central Michigan Conference title, the Pirates added a district title and reached the Division 7 regional final before dropping a 31-14 decision to defending Division 8 state champion Harbor Beach.
The loss marked the end of the career of a senior class that has left a lasting impression. This year’s senior class won three district titles and two regional titles over the last three seasons.
“These guys left a great legacy,” said coach Jeremy Miller.
This year’s team was ranked as high as 5th in the state in Division 7. The Pirates began the season with eight consecutive wins that started with a 20-7 win against Lansing Catholic in week one.
The Pirates reeled off eight straight wins before falling in week nine to New Lothrop 47-33.
Pewamo-Westphalia finished the conference season with a perfect record. The Pirates allowed just four touchdowns during league play and recorded three shutouts.
For the season, the Pirates averaged 36.3 points per game. They boasted a balanced offense, led by quarterback Kyle Nurenberg. Ross Wolniakowski paced the ground game, while senior wide receiver Lane Simon was the leading receiver and a force on defense.
Pewamo-Westphalia defeated Saugatuck 57-21 to win the district title, as Wolniakowski rushed for 107 yards and scored five touchdowns. The Pirates then defeated Carson-City Crystral 20-14 in the regional semifinal before falling to Harbor Beach in the regional final.