By: Jordan Frantz

On November 15, the Bellbrook Varsity Football Team defeated Wapakoneta 24-21 at Troy High School to advance to the regional finals. Wapakoneta was ranked as the 2 seed and was 12-0 on the season before facing the Eagles. Bellbrook was ranked as the 3 seed and was 11-1 going into the game against Wapakoneta, but managed some late game heroics to end up on top.

The Eagles were tied 21-21 with Wapakoneta with 3:36 left in the game. They were able to charge their way up the field to Wapakoneta’s 35 yard line. With less than 10 seconds remaining, Riley Ferrin came on to the field and kicked a 35 yard walk off field goal game winner. This was Ferrin’s second game-winning field goal of the tournament. 

“It felt really good to have the whole team support me,” senior kicker Riley Ferrin said. “I’m excited to keep playing with the boys this upcoming week.” 

The previous game the Eagles faced Archbishop McNicholas High School. The team won 24-21. With another late game winning field goal by Ferrin. 

The first week of playoffs the team faced Meadowdale High School. The Eagles won 47-13. 

With three tournament wins under their belt, this is the Eagles first appearance at the regional finals since 2021, when they were defeated 21-9 to Hamilton Badin. 

“The last time I went to the regional finals was my freshman year,” senior Lucas Heckler said. “It’s like a full circle moment in a way, being able to achieve both as a freshman and senior.” 

“I think that without a doubt, we will be able to win this game against London because of all of our preparation and hard work,” senior Gavin Thobe said.

The team wrapped up its last practice on Thursday in the snow as its final preparation before the Friday game. 

The Eagles will now face No. 4 ranked and undefeated 13-0 London on November 22 at Springfield High School.