Boot Camp: Experienced U-High ready for playoff run again

NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — The U-High Pioneers are experienced and hungry.

U-High ended an eight-year playoff drought last fall when it posted a 7-3 record and earned a trip to the class 4A state playoffs. It was a sweet season for coach Brody Walworth who’s first two teams posted 3-6 records at U-High.

Now the senior class, which came in as freshmen when Walworth was hired, is ready to bring the Pioneers to consecutive playoff appearances for the first time since the program had a run of five straight postseason run from 2011-2015.

“Growing up through that and seeing the progress of that (growth), has been a real blessing. It’s been awesome to watch,” said senior Drew Rader. “(Walworth) comes in with all this wisdom, willingness to help us change and grow not only as players but as young men.”

U-High was one of six teams in the rugged Central State Eight Conference to earn a playoff spot a year ago. The Pioneers bring back 17 offensive and defensive starters from that team which was beaten by Coal City in the first round of the playoffs.

They think Walworth will lead them back to the postseason this fall.

“It’s amazing playing for Coach Walworth. I think he’s a great coach. He’s just amazing,” said senior Martin Donahue. “I love playing football for him. Game nights, it’s just so thrilling. We have to practice harder than we play. We have to make practices (hard) so the games are (easy). In the end it’s going to pay off if we play that way.”

U-High opens the season at home Aug. 30 against Peoria Manual.

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