Herman Griffins takes the cup home ninth time in a row

The Herman Griffins took home the WECSSAA football championship for the ninth time in a row. Herman battled it out with Holy Name Knights and came out victorious 25-17 in regulation time at the University of Windsor’s Alumni Field.

The playoff kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Herman was losing 17-3, but stormed back during the third quarter, edging the Knights to tie 17-17. With six minutes left on the clock, Herman scored a second touchdown, putting them in the lead 25-17.

Mike Beale, quarterback for Herman, and his team came back strong in the final round.

“We had to find it somewhere in our third quarter and we did, and it was no turning back,” said Beale. “It was a moment I will never forget and will cherish forever.”

It was also an unforgettable night for Brandon McCraney, Herman’s receiver, who was equally applauded for the winning ticket.

“It was hard work,” said McCraney.

“Everybody that came here today gave us that strike we needed to pull through real quick.”

For McCraney, there were three important things that helped him win this game.

“Keep practicing, work hard and stay focused.”

Harry Lumley, head coach for Herman, called it a very special game.

“This one is very special,” said Lumley. “They came prepared. They played their guts out.”

Lumley wasn’t surprised at Herman’s comeback, from 17-3 to the winning point.

“We’ve come back for nine, 10 years,” said Lumley. “We know how to come back, and we know once we get on a roll, we get really strong.”

The Griffins play for the 2016 championship at OFSAA Nov. 28 at Tim Horton’s Field in Hamilton.