The Kirtland High School varsity football team is set to make the program’s fifth consecutive state championship game appearance when the Hornets play Maria Stein Marion Local in the Division VI title game on Saturday morning in Columbus.
Senior all-state selection Peter Gabor sealed Kirtland’s championship game berth with a goal-line interception in the waning moments of the team’s 13-9 state semifinal win against Grandview Heights.
Hornets celebrate after Gabor intercepts in the end zone to advance Kirtland to another D6 State Final appearance pic.twitter.com/vx0o5N3DkO
— Kirtland Hornets (@kirtlandsports) November 29, 2015
The Hornets, who last brought home the championship hardware in 2013, is seeking the program’s third state title. They’ve only lost three games – including regular season and postseason contests – since 2011.
In addition to Gabor, Kirtland (13-1) is led by all-state honorees David Allchin, Joey Bates, Michael Bragalone, Owen Loncar, Evan Madden, Jonathon Miller and Antonio Rini.
Kirtland Seniors thanks fans and parents for all of their love and support pic.twitter.com/f5PwIpkeFV
— Kirtland Hornets (@kirtlandsports) December 4, 2015
Hornet Pep rally ends with a bang! pic.twitter.com/NFhatGUReQ
— Kirtland Hornets (@kirtlandsports) December 4, 2015
Head coach Tiger LaVerde spoke about his team and the title game with reporters from across the state via teleconference on Monday.
Kirtland FB coach Tiger LaVerde talks about Hornets, Div. VI title game by vadorsey
Marion Local (13-1), between Divisions VI and VII, is looking for its fifth consecutive state championship.
Kickoff is set for 10 a.m. at Ohio Stadium
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2015 Kirtland High School varsity football team
