Late rally propels Rockets past the Sages into 3A quarterfinals


Unity edged Monticello 21-20 in a dramatic Class 3A playoff rematch at Hicks Field. The Rockets sealed the victory on a last-second interception by Tre Hoggard.

Tre Hoggard catch wins Unity football game
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Tre Hoggard makes a leaping catch in front of a pass intended for Monticello's Jake Robinson on a two-point conversion attempt by the Sages. The snag by Hoggard as time expired ended the game with the Rockets on top 21-20 and advancing to the Class 3A quarterfinals.

TOLONO — The atmosphere was as electric and palpable as expected from the opening kickoff to the final interception that sealed Unity’s one-point victory over Monticello (8-3) at Hicks Field in their Class 3A second-round playoff game on Saturday. In a gritty, hard-fought battle, the Rockets avenged last year’s semifinal loss at Monticello with a dramatic finish of their own, winning 21-20 in a finale for the ages.

Unity, which advanced to the state quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive season and the 18th time in program history, will play at Williamsville (11-0) at 2 p.m. next Saturday.

Monticello receiver Zeke Young goes up for a Nolan Buehnerkemper pass
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Monticello's Zeke Young goes up for a pass between Unity defensive backs Tyler Henry and Adam Reedy early in the second half of their playoff game.
The matchup between the rival Illini Prairie Conference programs was a classic gridiron struggle filled with big plays and momentum swings on a gray, overcast day. Fueled by determination, athleticism, and sound fundamentals on both sides, “epic” might have been an understatement.

“Monticello is a great team with a great game plan,” Unity head coach Tony Reetz said. “We knew they would give us everything we could handle. They did a great job of making long drives and keeping our offense off the field. We never really got the field flipped the way we wanted. Hats off to them.”

Monticello senior quarterback Nolan Buehnerkemper’s swan song was bittersweet. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound senior played quarterback, safety and kicker, seemingly everywhere for the Sages. He completed 24 of 35 passes for 363 yards and two touchdowns.

Buehnerkemper scored Monticello’s first touchdown on a 1-yard plunge that gave the Sages a 7-0 lead with 5:56 left in the first quarter. Just over two minutes later, he connected with Zeke Young on a 75-yard touchdown strike, stunning the heavily favored Rockets with a 14-0 advantage.


Crewe Eckstein
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Crewe Eckstein pushes Sages' Drake Weeks away on his way to the tying touchdown before the end of the first half. The senior ran for 157 yards on 25 touches.

Down two scores at the start of the second quarter, Unity responded immediately. On the first play of the quarter, Tre Hoggard ran nine yards for a touchdown. With 6:16 left in the half, Crewe Eckstein found the corner of the west end zone for another score. Kicker Ty Rodems converted both extra points to tie the game 14-14 at halftime.

“A lot of respect to them. They are a good team,” Eckstein said after posing for photos with friends. The senior finished with 157 yards on 26 carries. “They filled all their gaps. They hustle and they play hard.”

Neither team scored in the third quarter as both defenses stood firm.

Unity took a 21-14 lead with 9:41 left in the fourth quarter on a 1-yard quarterback sneak by Dane Eisenmenger.

“We were all clicking in the second half. The first half was a little iffy,” senior defensive back Coleton Langendorf said. “But we picked it up in the second half.”


Keegan Germano puts a major hit on a Monticello reciever
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Keegan Germano tries to fold Monticello tight end Jake Robinson in half with a solid tackle during third quarter action. Teammate Coleton Langendorf said Germano delivered an outstanding effort on defense for the Rockets. "He was just flying around everywhere. He was making things happen," Langendorf said singing praises.

Monticello didn’t back down. With less than nine seconds remaining, Buehnerkemper found Heyden Ramano, who scooped the pass just inches above the ground for a touchdown to make it 21-20.

Instead of kicking the extra point to force overtime, Monticello head coach Cully Welter made the gutsy decision to go for two. Buehnerkemper threw over the middle to senior Jake Robinson, but before the ball could reach his neon-gloved fingertips, Hoggard leapt into the air and intercepted it — ending the Sages’ season and sending Unity to the quarterfinals.

“When the ball touched my finger, it was amazing,” Hoggard said. “I just knew the game was over.”

Not bad for a player who hadn’t played defense all year but stepped in for an injured teammate in the Sages' last drive in the third quarter. He was on the field for just six plays, but his presence made the difference.

“It feels good. I wouldn’t say I was responsible for the win. There are others on our team who stepped up when they needed to. Defense stepped up in the fourth quarter for sure.”

After the game, Monticello players, even after a heartbreaking loss, displayed an impressive level of class, sportsmanship and conference camaraderie during postgame handshakes, telling their opponents, “Go get the big win.”

“They were wishing us good luck,” Eckstein said. “A lot of respect to those guys. They are all nice. They are all great.”


Desmond Winfrey and Coleton Langendor celebrate a defensive stop for the Unity Rockets
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Desmond Winfrey and Coleton Langendor celebrate a defensive stop in the third quarter. The Rockets move on in the Class 3A bracket with a roadtrip to Williamsville next Saturday.



Tags: Unity Rockets Class 3A football playoffs, Monticello Sages vs Unity playoff game recap, Illinois high school football quarterfinal preview, Unity football Hicks Field Tolono Illinois, IHSA Class 3A playoff highlights 2025

Unity falls just short in thriller vs Bloomington Central Catholic


Rockets and Saints traded punches all night, but BCC had the last word. Unity drops tough 34-27 decision.

Unity's Crewe Eckstein scores a touchdown
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Crewe Eckstein drags Central Catholic's Greyer Pirtz into the end zone for a touchdown in the third quarter. Eckstein finished the team's first conference loss with 151 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns.


by Clark Brooks
The Sentinel


TOLONO — It was a beautiful evening at Hicks Field. The temperature at game time started in the low 80s and gradually dipped into the lower 70s as the sun set across Central Illinois. With more than 800 fans in the stands, two unbeaten Illini Prairie Conference heavyweights went toe to toe. From the opening kick to the final horn, momentum swung wildly, but in the end visiting Bloomington Central Catholic caught the last wave to victory, defeating Unity 34-27 in a high-quality high school football clash.

"We knew that it was going to be a heavy weight fight with two very good teams," said Saints head coach Kevin Braucht. "In a game like that, there are many swings in momentum and our ability to stay calm and focused on our jobs say much about out mental toughness and resiliency. We preach every day about looking at every moment as an opportunity vs. a burden regardless of the outcome."


BCC's Valshun Powe looks to turn the corner
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Bloomington Central Catholic's Valshun Powe looks at Unity's Brayden Henry as he tries to scamper down the sidelines for a first down.

Central Catholic found that opportunity when Unity’s first possession ended prematurely after a completed pass was fumbled near midfield. Central Catholic recovered and drove for a one-yard touchdown run. The Saints missed the extra point but struck again before the first quarter ended on a nine-yard run, extending their lead to 13-0.

The Rockets roared back in the second quarter. Dane Eisenmenger powered up the middle for Unity’s first score, followed by Crewe Eckstein’s four-yard burst that tied the game. Ty Rodems’ second extra point gave Unity a 14-13 edge. Minutes later, Brayden Henry’s interception set up Eisenmenger’s touchdown pass to Tre Hoggard, sending the Rockets into halftime with a 20-13 lead.

Central Catholic regrouped after the break, scoring on runs of nine and 26 yards to reclaim a 27-20 advantage.

"Coming out of halftime we wanted to limit their offensive snaps and wanted to control the clock better," Braucht said. A sound plan given how explosive the Unity offense had proven itself in the first two weeks of the season.

Eckstein punctuated that thought when responded with his second touchdown run of the night, dragging a defender across the goal line to even the score at 27 in third quarter.

"Our kids battled there to the end. I'm pretty proud of them," said Tony Reetz, now 2-1 as Unity's head coach. "They (BCC) were able to control the clock, control the ball, and kept our offense on the sideline. They kind of wore our defense down a little, so credit to them."


Unity players talk strategy on the bench
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Keegan Germano, Desmond Winfrey, and Coleton Langendorf defensive tactic to contain Central Catholic's run gam while taking a breather on the bench in the first half.

The decisive drive came late in the fourth quarter. Facing 4th-and-1, Valshun Powe slipped away from Unity’s Adam Reedy to keep the Saints alive. Moments later, a leaping catch in double coverage put BCC on the Unity 12. Matthew Brady finished the drive with the go-ahead touchdown at the 2:50 mark.

Unity mounted one final push, reaching the Saints’ four-yard line. On the last play, Eisenmenger rolled left under pressure and lofted a pass toward Hoggard in the corner of the end zone. The ball glanced off his fingertips as time expired, sealing Central Catholic’s win.

Unity’s offense posted strong numbers despite the loss. Eckstein finished with 151 yards rushing on 17 carries, including a 56-yard breakaway. Eisenmenger added 40 yards on the ground while throwing for 196 yards. Henry led Rocket receivers with four catches for 92 yards, while Hoggard hauled in five for 87.

Overall, Unity ran 52 plays for 382 yards, while the Saints executed 70 plays for 405 yards and held a 31–22 edge in first downs. The Rockets lost the turnover battle 3-1.

"They played us in a little bit different coverage than we were anticipating, so it took us a while to get the passing game going," Reetz said. "I was happy with the way we executed when we figured out what we could take from them."


Crayton Schnierle comes up with a big catch for BCC
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Central Catholic receiver Crayton Schnierle makes a reception on a huge play between Unity defenders Brayden Henry and Graydin Cler. The catch set up the game-winning touchdown from Saints' Matthew Brady.

Braucht praised his team’s balance and once again highlighted their overall resiliency. "When you have three players of their abilities, you need to make sure they are getting most of the calls," he said, pointing to Powe, Brady and Crayton Schnierle as difference-makers. "Those three are very good players, but the real difference in that game was our offensive and defensive lines and how we controlled the line of scrimmage in the second half."

Reetz said the Saints exposed a few weaknesses that the team will work on. The luxury of having a tough game early in the season is that it gives you plenty of time to turn those shortcomings into strengths.

"It is just week three of the season. We're in this for the long haul. We're not trying to be ready with everything Week 3," he said. "This will be a good case study to look at."

The loss drops Unity to 2-1 heading into a road trip to unbeaten St. Joseph-Ogden (3-0) next Friday at Dick Duval Field. The Spartans dominated Illinois Valley Central 51-16. Central Catholic improves to 3-0 and will host Rantoul.


TAGGED: Unity Rockets football 2025, Bloomington Central Catholic Saints football recap, Unity vs Central Catholic Hicks Field 2025, Illini Prairie Conference week 3 football results, Illinois high school football Unity vs St. Joseph-Ogden preview


Unity High School announced first semester honor roll students


The students named below earned recognition for their academic performance and attention to excellence at Unity High School. Congratulations to each on their exceptional scholastic effort last semester.

Seniors

High Honors: Evelyn Albaugh; Connor Cahill; Analyse Carter; Rebecca Carter; Brenlee Dalton; Taylor Drennan; Natalie Ellars; Bailey Grob; Brooklyn Haas; Madison Henry; Shelby Hoel; Margaret Ingleman; Caroline Jamison; Eden Johnson; Cassidy Keller; Caelyn Kleparski; Jocelyn LeFaivre; Reagan Little; Tatum Meyer; Eric Miebach; Lauren Neverman; Dean Niswonger; Anna Polonus; Aiden Porter; Meredith Reed; Maci Richmond; Briana Ritchie; Aubrey Sanders; Tsihon Shotton; Logan Siuts; Carsyn Smith; Piper Steele; Lily Steffens; Brock Suding; Ruby Tarr; Andrew Thomas; Darren Weckle; Erica Woodard; Abigail Woolcott; Emberly Yeazel; Ava Price; Erin Sanders; Bayleigh Jones; Isaac Ruggieri; Jeremy Wells; Madysen York; Brooke Hewing; Kendra Cromwell; Emma Plackett; Alexis Ritchie; Lynndsay Talbott; and Henry Thomas.

Honor Roll: Emma Fish; Trevor McCarter; Keaton Roether; Bailey Wayne; Caedmon Cazares; Zachary Lorbiecki; Carly Scroggins; Elianna Duo; Matthew Short; Santiago Sanchez; Rylee Richardson; Bryson Weaver; Isabel Sellers; Dalton ONeill; Aubrey Schaefer; Bridget Vazquez; Kolten Wells; Nicholas Brown; Desire De Los Santos; Ava Holladay; Raegen Stringer; Hector Jimenez Gil; Aileen Vasquez Munoz; Tanner Chilton; Kamryn Edenburn; Gabriel Pound; Jay Saunders; McKayla Schendel; Breanna Weller; Addison Ray; Aidan Ward; Sophia Wozencraft; Anna Wood; Olivia Hosley; Gillian Rice; Kate Thomas; Riley FitzGerald; Tyler Gumm; Grant Siuts; Nathan Bleecher; Kaylin Owen; and Thayden Root.


Juniors

High Honors: Avery Alagna; Noah Bryant; Elle Cheely; Madelyn Darnall; Ashlyn Denney; Kade Dubson; Chloey Duitsman; Ava Fenter; Catharine Ford; Kadence Goff; Sophia Hartke; Dallas Hollingsworth; Wyatt Huffstutler; Alex Mowrer; Camryn Reedy; Rylee Reifsteck; Lydia Rossi; Savannah Rubin; Lauren Shaw; Daniel Stein; Avery Watson; Ashely Rennels; Jenna Adkins; Lindy Bates; Paige Brewer; Faith Hall; Lauren Hellmer; Ryan Rink; Josephine Cler; Emily Decker; Maegan Rothe; Estella Dodd; and Molly Baxley.

Honor Roll: Joseph Tempel; Oscar Boldt; Gracie Meharry; Gavin Weaver; Sophia Beckett; Paige Garretson; McKenzie Hart; Nolan Wishall; Jordan Daugherty; Logan Church; Hunter Eastin; Tessah Williams; Austin Mikeworth; Logan Zumbahlen; Bentten Cain; Franke Davis; Sophia Frye; Andrew King; Brady Parr; McKinley Weller; Lindsey Johnson; Sydney Jackson; and Nathaniel DeNeal.


Sophomores

High Honors: Anna Amias; Mylie Castle; Eli Crowe; Ella Darnall; Crewe Eckstein; Callie Ellars; Camden Fairbanks; Margaret Garcier; Collin Graven; Isabel Grob; Faith Lampe; Kallista Lancaster; Mylie Loftsgaard; Claire Meharry; Harry Polonus; Dallas Porter; Mackenzie Pound; Ty Rodems; Katie Ruggieri; Vanna Schriefer; Hunter Shike; Annalise Shunk; Caden Stierwalt; Ginna Stierwalt; Madelyn Stierwalt; Emma Swisher; Carter Tiemann; Anna Vasey; Lucille Wiesbrook; Paula Wilson; Lucas Hood; Deakin Moore; Isaac Neverman; Olivia Egelston; Olivia Rawdin; Claire Zorns; Kaylee Cooke; Caden Hensch; Logan Jeurissen; Bailey Tompkins; Savanna Cruz; Chason Daly; and Kenley Harris.

Honor Roll: Chloe Cousins; Samantha Gumbel; Ian Taber; Phoenix Molina; Mason ONeill; Shelby Smith; Aria Battaglia; Maddix Buchanan; Jillian Schlittler; Andrew Ray; Dane Eisenmenger; Anna Kuhns; Analea Popovics; Shelby Zoch; Brayden Henry; Tyler Henry; Desmond Winfrey; Johanna Langley, Ethan Mohr; Heath Stringer; Cameron Kaiser; Brody Osterbur; Kyla Reed; Kamden Schuckman; Olivia Tempel; Bryan Crosby; Abram Davidson; Tanner Gallivan; and Joshua Heath.


Freshmen

High Honors: Dominic Baxley; Clare Bryant; Caleb Coy; Lillian Daly; Hudson DeHart; Danika Eisenmenger; Allison Fenter; Journey Gabbard; Bailee Gadeken; Colton Harmon; Avery Kamradt; Kathryn Knoll; Audrey McDaniel; Emily Osterbur; Adam Reedy; Allyson Shaw; Evalyn Skibbe; Piper Staley; Grace Tempel; Jacob Ward; Leah Watson; Maggie Weckle; Grace Wherley; Rylan Wolf; Broderick Irwin; Cash McCann; Elizabeth Wayne; Grace Bickers; Max Rossi; Alex Bromley; Berkley Cloud; Lucy Kleiss; Cadence Chandler; Reese Frye, Brooklyn Mumm; Kendal Zerrusen; and Aidan Ellis.

Honor Roll: Addison Davis; Olivia Hall; Madison Spohn; Paige Bradley; Braedyn Dalton; Taylor Finley; Landrey Mohr; Addison Wyatt; Alyssa Shields; Isaac Siegwald; Ethan Schaefer; Nicole Paeth; Evan Puckett; Juan Acosta Toro; Noah Conde; Sadie Polonus; Ava Wolf Rice; Natalie Haas; Nicholas Montgomery; Elizabeth Farney; and Rush Little.



Unity crushes Golden Aces, playoff rematch set for Saturday against the Monticello Sages


The Rockets rolled over Mt. Carmel in the first round and now prepare for a revenge-fueled playoff rematch with the Monticello Sages at Hicks Field.

Unity's Colton Langendorf celebrates a sack
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Colton Langendorf celebrates after putting Mt. Carmel quarteback River Deisher on the turf for a stop during first half action of their Class 3A first-round playoff game. Langendorf was a beast, leading the defensive unit to hold the Golden Aces to just 208 yards in the Rockets' seventh consecutive win.

by Clark Brooks
Sentinel Sports


TOLONO - The echoes of last November still linger in Tolono. A bitter 23-20 semifinal loss to Monticello ended Unity’s state title dreams and sent the Sages to the Class 3A championship game. Now, nearly a year later, the Rockets are rocketing toward redemption - and the rematch is set.

Unity made that clear Saturday afternoon at Hicks Field, where the fourth-seeded Rockets (9-1) dismantled Mt. Carmel 42-14 in a first-round playoff rout that felt over before it began.

Tyler Henry celebrates a second-quarter pass TD
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Tyler Henry celebrates his 46-yard TD catch in the east end zone at Hicks Field. The score came after his 35-yard pick-six less than two minutes earlier in the second quarter.

On a sun-splashed Saturday at Hicks Field, the Unity Rockets didn’t just win a playoff game - they made a statement. From the opening kickoff, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be one of those nail-biters fans talk about years later. It was domination, pure and simple, wrapped in maroon and white. The Rockets scored on their second play from scrimmage - just 28 seconds into the game - and never looked back, building a 42-0 halftime lead before turning the second half into a showcase for their freshman squad.

The win marked Unity’s seventh straight and punched their ticket to a second-round showdown with fifth-seeded Monticello, a rivalry game steeped in history, heartbreak, and high stakes.

But before we get there, though, the Rockets had business to take care of first. Let’s rewind to Saturday’s statement win.

Fast Start, Furious Finish

Crewe Eckstein wasted no time setting the tone. The junior running back sliced through the Golden Aces defense for a 21-yard touchdown run on Unity’s opening possession, then added a second score minutes later on a 10-yard burst. By the end of the first quarter, Unity led 21-0.

Tre Hoggard added to the fireworks with an 18-yard touchdown run in the first frame, then hauled in a 47-yard over-the-shoulder strike from quarterback Dane Eisenmenger in the second quarter. Eisenmenger was nearly perfect, completing 6 of 7 passes, while Hoggard finished with three catches for 70 yards.

Tyler Henry delivered the exclamation point before halftime. With 2:17 left in the second quarter, the senior intercepted a Mt. Carmel pass and sprinted 35 yards to the end zone, igniting the Unity bench and student section. Henry had already scored earlier on a 46-yard reception and finished with 55 yards on two catches.


Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Golden Aces' Jack Webb makes a leaping catch despite tight coverage by Rockets' Brayden Henry. Webb, a senior, finished the last game of his prep career with just three yards rushing on two touches and six yards on this catch.

Defense Dominates

Unity’s defense was relentless. The Rockets held Mt. Carmel to just 208 total yards on 48 plays - a stark contrast to Unity’s 306 yards on 34 plays. Chason Daly recorded two sacks, Desmond Winfrey added a tackle for loss, and Graydin Cler snagged an interception to cap a suffocating defensive effort.

Mt. Carmel’s lone bright spot came in the second half against Unity’s JV unit. Senior Elliott Acree led the Golden Aces (5-5) with 83 all-purpose yards, including a 22-yard reception and 61 rushing yards on 13 carries. Jack Webb and Owen Blake each scored late touchdowns, but the damage had long been done.

Looking Ahead: Monticello Awaits

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Tre Hoggard runs the ball for a Unity touchdown in the first half. The senior rolled up 24 yards rushing and 70 receiving yards. Hoggard and the Rockets turn to defeating Illini Prairie foe Monticello for a second time this season.


The last time the two teams met, Unity rolled to a 34-7 win on the road in their regular season contest back in September. But the memory of last year’s semifinal heartbreak, when Monticello edged Unity 23-20 to reach the state title game, still lingers and there is redemption that needs to be settled.

Last November, nearly 50 weeks ago, Monticello stunned Unity on the last play of the game on their home field, sending the Sages to the state final. Saturday, with revenge and redemption on the line, the Rockets are will put the 2024 game behind them once and for all.

Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Saturday at Hicks Field, where the fence line is expected to be packed three deep with fans, for an Illini Prairie team advance to a quarterfinal game.


TAGGED: Unity Rockets playoff football, IHSA Class 3A second round, Unity vs Monticello rivalry, Tolono Illinois high school sports, Unity Rockets dominate Mt. Carmel 42-14, Unity football wins

Unity Junior High 2nd quarter Honor Roll



Yesterday, Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved honor roll and high honor roll status during the second quarter. Congratulations to the students who earned the requisite grade point average to celebrate the honor.


6th Grade Honor Roll

Joseph William Willard Baird
Beckam Krystopher-Wayde Brown
Brayden Michael Burke
Madison Grace Castor
Garrisan Martin Cler
Shamya Merari Davis
Andrew Patrick Donovan
Kinzey Nicole Duitsman
Dillon Michael Ellars
Nolan Myles Elliott
Haley Elizabeth Ennis
Shae Lin Fournier
Peyton Leanne Goyne
Hallie Lynn Handal
McKenzie Kathryn Heiple
Brooke Raelynn Henson
Eve Oksana Isberg
Karleigh Grace Jamison
Jax Hunter Logsdon
Tysen Mac McConaha
Clint Michael McCormick
Larissa Marie Parr
Kandace Lachelle Reed
Mia Lynn Reifsteck
Journee Lynn Ring
Lillian Yvonne Ring
Riley May Schendel
Caleb Joshua Siegwald
Bradley Scott Jr Smith
Kole David VanSickle
Gavin James Warren
Sawyer Allen Franks Weller
Adilynn Michelle Wilson


6th Grade High Honor Roll

Cameron Barnes
Patrick Benjamin Baxley
Cooper Charles Beckett
Brilynn Creola Cain
Sadie Jo Carpenter
Jackson Christopher Cheely
Skyler Andrew Chilton
Soren Lovell Davis
Kaylee Grace Estes
Carson David Fairbanks
Reagan Elizabeth Lisle Fisher
Mackinzee Brooke Gumm
Jordan Stephen Harmon
Roman James Hastings
Tessa Lynn Horn
Lincoln Banner Johnson
Joseph Brooks Kamradt
Tatum Anne Kirby
Bryan Michael Kleiss
Nolan Mark Tempel Meharry
Dalton Robert Moose
Rhianna Olivia Ocasio
Khison Able Reifsteck
Caleb Arthur Saxon
Carter Charles Schmid
Sophia Grace Seidlitz
Lillie Jean Vanderpool
John William White
Austin James Wiersema
Olivia Ann Williams
Reece Earl Winfrey
Olivia Ruth Witheft


7th Grade Honor Roll

Andrew David Berkey
Wyatt Leon Blanchard
Paige Nicole Bradley
Maddix Jacob David Briggs
Aelyas Brito
Braedyn Lucas Dalton
Addison Tyler Davis
Austin Michael Drewes
Ava Nicole Grace
Olivia Ashlyn Hall
Dustin Rose Harris
Ava Fay Jones
Rush Matthew Little
Carson Wesley McCune
Audrey Claire McDaniel
Sadie Jane Polonus
Evan Alexander Puckett
Malakai Roth
Alyssa Renae Shields
Gabrielle Marie Spanglo
Madison Amanda Spohn
Jacob Michael Ward
Maggie Jean Weckle
Tayleigh Sue Wilson
Addison Danielle Wyatt


7th Grade High Honor Roll

Grace Michele Bickers
Alex Martin Bromley
Clare Faustina Bryant
Brody Ray Butler
Ronin Carman
Cadence Marie Chandler
Berkley Jane Cloud
Caleb Benjamin Coy
Hudson Lee DeHart
Danika Ann Eisenmenger
Allison Renee Fenter
Reese Bella Frye
Journey Maddison Gabbard
Bailee Mae Gadeken
Walker Dale Hall
Colton Ray Harmon
Broderick Wayne Irwin
Avery Nicole Kamradt
Kathryn Clara Knoll
Cash Cohen McCann
Landrey Michelle Mohr
Brooklyn Marie Mumm
Nicole Elizabeth Paeth
Adam Lucas Reedy
Max Warren Rossi
Ethan Daniel Schaefer
Lane Edward Sexton
Allyson Lynn Shaw
Isaac Benjamin Siegwald
Evalyn Alexandra Skibbe
Piper Estelle Staley
Grace Lynne Tempel
Leah Marianne Watson
Elizabeth Johnna Wayne
Grace Ann Wherley
Rylan Kade Wolf
Kendal Lea Zerrusen


8th Grade Honor Roll

Andrew Kenneth Bryan
Maddix Buchanan
Cameryn Dayle Cobb
Chloe Noelle Cousins
Taylor Renee Daly
Annaliese Birtukan DeNeal
Crewe William Gene Eckstein
Olivia Breann Egelston
Tanner Elizabeth Gallivan
Samantha Nicole Gumbel
Kenley Jo Harris
Joshua Todd Heath
Brayden Jonathon Henry
Tyler Jason Henry
William Robert Hoggard
Lucas Alexander Hood
Tyler Reed Huntington
Cameron Elise Kaiser
Anna Maeve Kuhns
Coleton James Langendorf
Johanna Ilene Langley
Isabelle Joy Levingston
Sade Jean Lybarger
Maxwell Cort McCabe
Travis Lane McCarter
Coleson Thomas Miller
Phoenix Sky Molina
Leah Jolynn Nickle
Brody Michael Osterbur
Dallas Jordan Porter
Kyla Lanae Reed
Theda Marva Roether
Connor Charles Sheppard
Lauren Patricia Stratton
Heath Edward Stringer
Tyler Jackson Styan
Maddix Douglas Sutherland
Ian John Taber
Olivia Danielle Tempel
Sophia Louise Jean Toney
Anna Vasey
Evan Eugene Vlahovich
Desmond Mychel Winfrey


8th Grade High Honor Roll

Anna Carolyn Amias
Aria Eve Battaglia
Mylie Lynn Castle
Kaylee Marie Cooke
Eli Samson Crowe
Chason Robert Daly
Ella Jean Darnall
Dane Robert Eisenmenger
Callie Marie Ellars
Camden Michael Fairbanks
Margaret Rose Garcier
Collin William Graven
Isabel Grace Grob
Brooke Autumn Hartman
Caden Maddox Hensch
Logan Phillip Jeurissen
Miles Kennedy Johnson
Faith Lyn Lampe
Kallista Jean Lancaster
Mylie Emily Margaret Loftsgaard
Claire Lynn Meharry
Ethan Lee Mohr
Deakin Frederick Moore
Isaac Julian Neverman
Mason Robert ONeill
Harry Matthew Polonus
Mackenzie Rose Pound
Ty Steven Rodems
Katie Marie Ruggieri
Jillian Brooke Schlittler
Vanna Lee Schriefer
Liana Grace Sheets
Hunter JamesShike
Shelby Lynn Smith
Caden Alexander Stierwalt
Ginna Mae Stierwalt
Madelyn Rose Stierwalt
Emma Marie Swisher
Bailey Nicole Tompkins
Alexander Lane Wells
Paula Louise Wilson
Claire Morgan Zorns

231 Unity Junior High students make first quarter Honor Roll



Earlier this week, Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved honor roll and high honor roll status during the first quarter. Congratulations to the students who earned the requisite grade point average to celebrate the honor.


6th Grade Honor Roll

Beckam Krystopher-Wayde Brown
Brayden Michael Burke
Sadie Jo Carpenter
Garrisan Martin Cler
Shamya Merari Davis
Andrew Patrick Donovan
Kinzey Nicole Duitsman
Nolan Myles Elliott
Zoe Margaret Fish
Shae Lin Fournier
Makayla James Goff
Nathaniel Howard Hammer
Brady Cullen Harris
Brooke Raelynn Henson
Kane William Knudsen
Tysen Mac McConaha
Clint Michael McCormick
Payten Renee Niles
Larissa Marie Parr
Clayton Wyatt Pruitt
Mia Lynn Reifsteck
Lillian Yvonne Ring
Caleb Arthur Saxon
Riley May Schendel
Sophia Grace Seidlitz
Caleb Joshua Siegwald
Lillie Jean Vanderpool
Austin James Wiersema
Adilynn Michelle Wilson
Reece Earl Winfrey
Cole Thomas Zorns


6th Grade High Honor Roll

Joseph William Willard Baird
Patrick Benjamin Baxley
Cooper Charles Beckett
Brilynn Creola Cain
Jackson Christopher Cheely
Skyler Andrew Chilton
Soren Lovell Davis
Dillon Michael Ellars
Kaylee Grace Estes
Carson David Fairbanks
Reagan Elizabeth Lisle Fisher
Mackinzee Brooke Gumm
Hallie Lynn Handal
Jordan Stephen Harmon
Roman James Hastings
Tessa Lynn Horn
Eve Oksana Isberg
Karleigh Grace Jamison
Lincoln Banner Johnson
Joseph Brooks Kamradt
Tatum Anne Kirby
Bryan Michael Kleiss
Nolan Mark Tempel Meharry
Dalton Robert Moose
Rhianna Olivia Ocasio
Kandace Lachelle Reed
Khison Able Reifsteck
Carter Charles Schmid
Bradley Scott Jr Smith
Kole David VanSickle
Gavin James Warren
John William White
Olivia Ann Williams
Olivia Ruth Witheft


7th Grade Honor Roll

Andrew David Berkey
Paige Nicole Bradley
Jackson Robert Dylan Briggs
Maddix Jacob David Briggs
Aelyas Brito
Aiden Jacob Sharples Brooks
Brody Ray Butler
Ronin Carman
Addison Tyler Davis
Austin Michael Drewes
Elizabeth Lynn Farney
Reese Bella Frye
Bailee Mae Gadeken
Ava Nicole Grace
Ava Fay Jones
Mackenzie Michelle Jones
Rush Matthew Little
Carson Wesley McCune
Landrey Michelle Mohr
Nicole Elizabeth Paeth
Evan Alexander Puckett
Max Warren Rossi
Gabrielle Marie Spanglo
Maggie Jean Weckle
Andrew Jackson III Weller
Ava McKenna Wolf Rice
Rylan Kade Wolf


7th Grade High Honor Roll

Dominic Russell Baxley
Grace Michele Bickers
Alex Martin Bromley
Clare Faustina Bryant
Cadence Marie Chandler
Berkley Jane Cloud
Caleb Benjamin Coy
Hudson Lee DeHart
Danika Ann Eisenmenger
Allison Renee Fenter
Journey Maddison Gabbard
Walker Dale Hall
Colton Ray Harmon
Dustin Rose Harris
Broderick Wayne Irwin
Avery Nicole Kamradt
Kathryn Clara Knoll
Cash Cohen McCann
Audrey Claire McDaniel
Brooklyn Marie Mumm
Sadie Jane Polonus
Adam Lucas Reedy
Ethan Daniel Schaefer
Lane Edward Sexton
Allyson Lynn Shaw
Isaac Benjamin Siegwald
Evalyn Alexandra Skibbe
Madison Amanda Spohn
Piper Estelle Staley
Grace Lynne Tempel
Jacob Michael Ward
Leah Marianne Watson
Elizabeth Johnna Wayne
Grace Ann Wherley
Addison Danielle Wyatt
Kendal Lea Zerrusen


8th Grade Honor Roll

Athea Elizabeth Baird
Derilynn May Behm
Andrew Kenneth Bryan
Matthew Parker Chavira
Graydin Martin Cler
Kaylee Marie Cooke
Chloe Noelle Cousins
Taylor Renee Daly
Olivia Breann Egelston
Dane Robert Eisenmenger
Lilly Ann Griffin
Kenley Jo Harris
Brayden Jonathon Henry
Tyler Jason Henry
William Robert Hoggard
Matthew Eric Hollett
Tyler Reed Huntington
William Ryan Hutson
Miles Kennedy Johnson
Cameron Elise Kaiser
Connor John Kleiss
Anna Maeve Kuhns
Coleton James Langendorf
Johanna Ilene Langley
Isabelle Joy Levingston
Sade Jean Lybarger
Maxwell Cort McCabe
Travis Lane McCarter
Isaac Julian Neverman
Brody Michael Osterbur
Reagan Lynn Paceley
Olivia Grace Rawdin
Kyla Lanae Reed
Theda Marva Roether
Jillian Brooke Schlittler
Shelby Lynn Smith
Lauren Patricia Stratton
Maddix Douglas Sutherland
Ian John Taber
Olivia Danielle Tempel
Anna Vasey
Evan Eugene Vlahovich
Kadince Rilee Wells
Paula Louise Wilson
Austin Stephen Winters


8th Grade High Honor Roll

Anna Carolyn Amias
Aria Eve Battaglia
Mylie Lynn Castle
Cameryn Dayle Cobb
Eli Samson Crowe
Chason Robert Daly
Ella Jean Darnall
Annaliese Birtukan DeNeal
Crewe William Gene Eckstein
Callie Marie Ellars
Camden Michael Fairbanks
Tanner Elizabeth Gallivan
Margaret Rose Garcier
Collin William Graven
Isabel Grace Grob
Samantha Nicole Gumbel
Brooke Autumn Hartman
Joshua Todd Heath
Caden Maddox Hensch
Lucas Alexander Hood
Logan Phillip Jeurissen
Faith Lyn Lampe
Kallista Jean Lancaster
Mylie Emily Margaret Loftsgaard
Claire Lynn Meharry
Ethan Lee Mohr
Phoenix Sky Molina
Deakin Frederick Moore
Leah Jolynn Nickle
Mason Robert ONeill
Harry Matthew Polonus
Dallas Jordan Porter
Mackenzie Rose Pound
Ty Steven Rodems
Katie Marie Ruggieri
Vanna Lee Schriefer
Liana Grace Sheets
Hunter James Shike
Annalise Rose Shunk
Caden Alexander Stierwalt
Ginna Mae Stierwalt
Madelyn Rose Stierwalt
Emma Marie Swisher
Bailey Nicole Tompkins
Sophia Louise Jean Toney
Alexander Lane Wells
Desmond Mychel Winfrey
Claire Morgan Zorns

Unity Junior High list 4th quarter honor roll students



Today, Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved honor roll status during the third quarter. Congratulations to the 76 students who earned the requisite grade point average to celebrate the honor. See the names of UJHS students who made the quarter's High Honor Roll list here.


6th Grade Honor Roll

7th Grade Honor Roll

8th Grade Honor Roll



Unity Junior High 3rd Quarter Honor Roll



This week, Unity Junior High School announced the names of students who achieved honor roll and high honor roll status during the third quarter. Two hundred and twenty-two students earned the requisite grade-point average to be recognized as an honor student.


6th Grade Honor Roll

Cameron Barnes
Sadie Jo Carpenter
Madison Grace Castor
Garrisan Martin Cler
Kinzey Nicole Duitsman
Nolan Myles Elliott
Haley Elizabeth Ennis
Cohen Louis Fincham
Zoe Margaret Fish
Nathaniel Howard Hammer
Brady Cullen Harris
McKenzie Kathryn Heiple
Brooke Raelynn Henson
Payton Nicole Kinney
Jax Hunter Logsdon
Tysen Mac McConaha
Clint Michael McCormick
Nolan Mark Meharry
Payten Renee Tempel Niles
Clayton Wyatt Pruitt
Mia Lynn Reifsteck
Rainer Arizona Robinson
Caden Del Rogers
Riley May Schendel
Ian James Skibbe
Bradley Scott Jr Smith
Sawyer Allen Franks Weller
Cole Thomas Zorns


6th Grade High Honor Roll

Joseph William Willard Baird
Patrick Benjamin Baxley
Cooper Charles Beckett
Beckam Krystopher-Wayde Brown
Brilynn Creola Cain
Jackson Christopher Cheely
Skyler Andrew Chilton
Soren Lovell Davis
Dillon Michael Ellars
Kaylee Grace Estes
Carson David Fairbanks
Reagan Elizabeth Lisle Fisher
Mackinzee Brooke Gumm
Hallie Lynn Handal
Jordan Stephen Harmon
Roman James Hastings
Tessa Lynn Horn
Eve Oksana Isberg
Karleigh Grace Jamison
Lincoln Banner Johnson
Joseph Brooks Kamradt
Tatum Anne Kirby
Bryan Michael Kleiss
Dalton Robert Moose
Rhianna Olivia Ocasio
Kandace Lachelle Reed
Khison Able Reifsteck
Lillian Yvonne Ring
Caleb ArthurSaxon
Carter Charles Schmid
Sophia Grace Seidlitz
Caleb Joshua Siegwald
Lillie Jean Vanderpool
Kole David VanSickle
Gavin James Warren
John William White
Austin James Wiersema
Olivia Ann Williams
Adilynn Michelle Wilson
Olivia Ruth Witheft


7th Grade Honor Roll

Andrew David Berkey
Wyatt Leon Blanchard
Aiden Jacob Sharples Brooks
Kydie Cain
Emma Rose Carrington
Cadence Marie Chandler
Braedyn Lucas Dalton
Addison Tyler Davis
Elizabeth Lynn Farney
Ava Nicole Grace
Dustin Rose Harris
Ava Fay Jones
Rush Matthew Little
Miles Spencer Thomson Owens
Nicole Elizabeth Paeth
Sadie Jane Polonus
Evan Alexander Puckett
Malakai Roth
Isaac Benjamin Siegwald
Gabrielle Marie Spanglo
Madison Amanda Spohn
Maggie Jean Weckle
Tayleigh Sue Wilson
Ava McKenna Wolf Rice
Joel Mitchell Yergler


7th Grade High Honor Roll

Dominic Russell Baxley
Grace Michele Bickers
Paige Nicole Bradley
Aelyas Brito
Alex Martin Bromley
Clare Faustina Bryant
Brody Ray Butler
Ronin Carman
Berkley Jane Cloud
Caleb Benjamin Coy
Hudson Lee DeHart
Austin Michael Drewes
Danika Ann Eisenmenger
Allison Renee Fenter
Reese Bella Frye
Journey Maddison Gabbard
Bailee Mae Gadeken
Olivia Ashlyn Hall
Walker Dale Hall
Colton Ray Harmon
Broderick Wayne Irwin
Cheyenne Jean
Avery Nicole Kamradt
Kathryn Clara Knoll
Cash Cohen McCann
Carson Wesley McCune
Audrey Claire McDaniel
Landrey Michelle Mohr
Brooklyn Marie Mumm
Adam Lucas Reedy
Max Warren Rossi
Ethan Daniel Schaefer
Lane Edward Sexton
Allyson Lynn Shaw
Alyssa Renae Shields
Evalyn Alexandra Skibbe
Piper Estelle Staley
Grace Lynne Tempel
Jacob Michael Ward
Leah Marianne Watson
Elizabeth Johnna Wayne
Grace Ann Wherley
Rylan Kade Wolf
Addison Danielle Wyatt
Kendal Lea Zerrusen


8th Grade Honor Roll

Athea ElizabethBaird
Athea Elizabeth Baird
Graydin Martin Cler
Chloe Noelle Cousins
Chason Robert Daly
Taylor Renee Daly
Dane Robert Eisenmenger
Korina Mary Finical
Tanner Elizabeth Gallivan
Samantha Nicole Gumbel
Kenley Jo Harris
Joshua Todd Heath
Brayden Jonathon Henry
Tyler Reed Huntington
Anna Maeve Kuhns
Coleton James Langendorf
Johanna Ilene Langley
Isabelle Joy Levingston
Maxwell Cort McCabe
Travis Lane McCarter
Coleson Thomas Miller
Leah Jolynn Nickle
Andrew Neal Orr
Brody Michael Osterbur
Kyla Lanae Reed
Theda Marva Roether
Jillian Brooke Schlittler
Kamden Michael Schuckman
Lauren Patricia Stratton
Maddix Douglas Sutherland
Ian John Taber
Olivia Danielle Tempel
Sophia Louise Jean Toney
Desmond Mychel Winfrey


8th Grade High Honor Roll

Anna Carolyn Amias
Aria Eve Battaglia
Maddix Buchanan
Mylie Lynn Castle
Cameryn Dayle Cobb
Kaylee Marie Cooke
Eli Samson Crowe
Ella Jean Darnall
Annaliese Birtukan DeNeal
Crewe William Gene Eckstein
Callie Marie Ellars
Camden Michael Fairbanks
Margaret Rose Garcier
Collin William Graven
Isabel Grace Grob
Brooke Autumn Hartman
Tyler Jason Henry
Caden Maddox Hensch
Lucas Alexander Hood
Logan Phillip Jeurissen
Miles Kennedy Johnson
Faith Lyn Lampe
Kallista Jean Lancaster
Mylie Emily Margaret Loftsgaard
Sade Jean Lybarger
Claire Lynn Meharry
Ethan Lee Mohr
Phoenix Sky Molina
Deakin Frederick Moore
Isaac Julian Neverman
Mason Robert ONeill
Harry Matthew Polonus
Dallas Jordan Porter
Mackenzie Rose Pound
Ty Steven Rodems
Katie Marie Ruggieri
Vanna Lee Schriefer
Liana Grace Sheets
Hunter James Shike
Annalise Rose Shunk
Shelby Lynn Smith
Caden Alexander Stierwalt
Ginna Mae Stierwalt
Madelyn Rose Stierwalt
Tyler Jackson Styan
Emma Marie Swisher
Bailey Nicole Tompkins
Anna Vasey
Alexander Lane Wells
Paula Louise Wilson
Claire Morgan Zorns

Unity topples SJO in conference meet wrestling showdown


CHILLICOTHE - In a clash between perennial rivals, Unity soared to a commanding victory over St. Joseph-Ogden in a dual meet that showcased the prowess of Unity's senior wrestlers. The match, held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, underscored Unity's dominance as they clinched a decisive 49-17 win over their opponents on the way to the Illini Prairie Conference title.

Unity, boasting a lineup featuring four seasoned seniors who were all state finalists last season, delivered a masterclass performance from start to finish. Leading the charge was Hunter Eastin, the defending state champion who stepped up in weight to 215 pounds for this encounter. Eastin's technical proficiency was in play as he pinned his opponent from SJO, Nathan Phillips, in 2 minutes and 10 seconds, contributing crucial points to Unity's overall score.

Unity's Hunter Eastin is declared winner after his 5-2 win over St. Thomas More's Brody Cuppernell in the 190 pound title match at the 2024 IHSA Individual Wrestling State Finals. See more photos from his state victory here. Eastin made short work of St. Joseph-Ogden's Nathan Phillips in their 215 pound match at the Illini Prairie Conference Meet.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

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Joining Eastin in Unity's formidable senior quartet were Kaden Inman, Holden Brazelton, and Ryan Rink, each bringing their own stellar track records to the mat. Inman, a senior standout who narrowly missed the state title last year, left no room for doubt in his match at 144 pounds, securing a dominant technical fall victory over SJO's Landen Butts with a commanding score of 19-4. Brazelton, who recently transferred to Unity from St. Joseph-Ogden, won his 150-pound match with a convincing tech fall, earning 17 unanswered points against his opponent, Thomas Ware.

Ryan Rink, another integral part of Unity's senior cadre, demonstrated his resilience and skill at 175 pounds, overpowering his counterpart from SJO with an 18-3 tech fall victory. These performances highlighted Unity's depth and experience, underscoring their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference and beyond.

The dual meet began with early momentum swings, as SJO claimed forfeit victories at 106 and 113 pounds, courtesy of Ben Wells and Jackson Walsh, respectively. However, Unity quickly turned the tide with a series of strategic victories, starting with Zayden Mansfield's hard-fought decision over Camden Getty at 120 pounds, setting the stage for Unity's dominant run.

St. Joseph-Ogden's only bright spot was once again at heavyweight. Sophomore Cameron Wagner stuck Unity's Jaden Dene at 5:45 to give the Spartans their only contested win against the Rockets.

Throughout the match, Unity's conditioning and mental toughness, exemplified by Bryce Martin's controlled decision over Eli Birt at 126 pounds and Taylor Finley's decisive pin at 138 pounds. Keegan Germano and Abram Davidson continued Unity's winning ways with pins at 157 and 165 pounds, respectively, solidifying their team's dominant victory.

As the final whistle blew, Unity celebrated a resounding 49-17 triumph over St. Joseph-Ogden. With the postseason around the corner, Unity looks locked and loaded for another trip to Bloomington for the state team dual championships.

With state-ranked seniors Inman, Brazelton, Rink, and Eastin leading the Rockets, the program is poised take this year's Class 1A team title.


Box Score
106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Unity), FORFEIT; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Forfeit, (Unity), FORFEIT; 120 - Mansfield, Zayden (Unity) over GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO), Decision 14-8; 126 - Martin, Bryce (Unity) over BIRT, ELI (SJO), Decision 11-4; 132 - Forfeit, (Unity) over Forfeit, (SJO), Double Forfeit; 138 - Finley, Taylor (Unity) over HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO), Fall 4:28; 144 - Inman, Kaden (Unity) over BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO), Tech Fall 19-4; 150 - Brazelton, Holden (Unity) over WARE, THOMAS (SJO), Tech Fall 17-0; 157 - Germano, Keegan (Unity) over DALY, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 3:55; 165 - Davidson, Abram (Unity) over MOORE, JONATHON (SJO), Fall 3:58; 175 - Rink, Ryan (Unity) over SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO), Tech Fall 18-3; 190 - Winfrey, Desmond (Unity) over Carter, Liam (SJO), Maj Dec 16-2; 215 - Eastin, Hunter (Unity) over PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 2:10; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Dene, Jaden (Unity), Fall 5:45.




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