UPDATE: In an electrifying showdown, the Kingsley Stags triumphed over Kent City with a decisive 14-0 victory, securing their spot in the Division 6 state championship game. The match unfolded Saturday at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Cadillac, MI, and saw Kingsley’s defense making history with a crucial interception that changed the game.
With just 2:59 left in the third quarter, senior linebacker Colton Goethals intercepted a Kent City pass and sprinted 46 yards for a touchdown, breaking a tense scoreless tie. Kingsley built on this momentum with a 5-yard touchdown run from junior Nolan Hodges in the final minutes, culminating in a hard-fought victory.
The win propels Kingsley (11-2) to face Jackson Lumen Christi (10-3) in the Division 6 state championship game on Friday at 4 p.m. at Ford Field. Lumen Christi reached the title game after a nail-biting 25-19 triple-overtime win against Almont.
“I saw the pass, and I just dropped back as quickly as I could,”
said Goethals, reflecting on his game-changing interception.
“I owe it to our edge guys for putting pressure on the quarterback. I knew all I needed was a couple of blocks.”
Goethals made another critical play earlier in the game, preventing a potential Kent City touchdown by knocking the ball loose from senior fullback Logan Thompson just before he crossed the goal line, resulting in a touchback.
The Kingsley offense, initially stifled by Kent City’s strong defense, finally broke through. The Eagles halted three Kingsley drives in the first half, showcasing their resilience through two goal-line stands and an interception by senior Kale Freeland.
However, once the Kingsley defense scored, Kent City was forced to play catch-up. An untimely fumble near midfield shifted the momentum back to the Stags, leading to Hodges’ touchdown run that sealed the game.
“That was a huge play for us,”
said Hodges, reflecting on his late score.
“We went all out because we knew how badly we needed that score. It just felt amazing.”
As time dwindled, Kent City was pushed to the air, yet Kingsley’s Gavin Lewis intercepted a pass to confirm the shutout victory. The emotional weight of the game was palpable, leaving Kent City’s head coach Zach Gropp to reflect on a season filled with significant milestones.
“It’s gonna suck. It might suck tomorrow or next week, but life sucks sometimes,”
Gropp stated, encouraging his players to hold their heads high after an unforgettable season that saw them finish 12-1, capturing the school’s first-ever district and regional championships.
Despite the loss, Kent City’s senior class, including Thompson, Stinson, and Meade, will be remembered for their leadership and contributions. Gropp praised their character and determination throughout the season.
Kingsley’s ground game was formidable, racking up 209 yards on 54 carries, with Hodges leading the charge with 111 yards and a touchdown. The defense, spearheaded by Goethals and Lewis, made critical stops that ultimately determined the outcome.
As Kingsley prepares for the championship, the team is fueled by the memory of their previous title win in 2023. Goethals expressed excitement for the opportunity to play a pivotal role this time around.
“After having experienced it once, I’m really excited to be at Ford Field,”
he said, focusing on the importance of preparation for the upcoming game.
“We just have to focus up this week so we can get another win at Ford Field.”
Stay tuned as Kingsley looks to capture another title and Kent City reflects on a landmark season that set new standards for their football program.
