Leader Staff
Shawano Community High School scored 28 points in the second quarter en route to a season opening 28-7 victory Friday at Lakeland Union High School in Minocqua.
The Hawks and Lakeland were deadlocked until an 8-yard touchdown run by senior Chase Henning early in the second quarter. Henning had 19 carries and contributed 60 of the team’s 97 rushing yards.
Senior defensive back Zack Sousek had a 66-yard interception return, one of six turnovers for the Shawano defense.
“He is always known as a good athlete on offense, defense and special teams,” Hawks’ coach Alan Tomow said.
Sousek also performed on the other side of the ball as the team’s leading receiver, catching four of Cole Huntington’s passes for 84 yards, including Shawano’s third touchdown of the second quarter.
Huntington, a senior, is in his second season as the Hawks’ starting quarterback and drew praise from Tomow for his 116-yard passing game.
“He has really come a long way in understanding our system,” said Tomow, who also praised Huntington’s ability to lead the team on the field.
The quarterback added the final touchdown in the closing seconds of the first half with a 1-yard sneak into the end zone.
Huntington also connected with junior Adam Bartz, who had 32 yards receiving on the night.
Shawano was able to hold on in the second half despite minor injuries, leading to offensive and defensive adjustments. Tomow does not anticipate any of the injured players will miss playing time in the home opener against New London next week.
“We had some guys play positions that they did not get much reps at during practice,” Tomow said. “The defense played an awesome game tonight.”
Shawano allowed the Thunderbirds’ sole touchdown in the final quarter.