In 2017 the most popular song was Kendrick Lamar’s “Humble,” everyone owned fidget spinners, the world hadn’t heard of COVID, and the Saxons made their last appearance in the IHSA football playoffs.
Looking to end their playoff drought, Schaumburg High School football team started the 2024 season 4-1, the best start since 2013.
The Saxons began the season 4-0 before losing their Homecoming game to Palatine 35-0. Down only 7-0 at the end of the first quarter, the Saxons were unable to find their stride, giving up 28 unanswered points over the next three quarters.
Despite the loss, the coaching staff were able to see some silver linings, especially given the fact that PHS is also enjoying a 4-1 start to their season.
“Palatine is a really talented football team. I think we learned some things about ourselves that are just going to make us better,” Coach Mark Stilling said. “I have no doubt we will respond just like we have all season.”
Coach Stilling has good reason to be confident. The team has been playing well and demonstrating some real grit.
The Saxons came away victorious in the season opener at Antioch, winning 12-7. Having lost to them 42-13 last year, this debut set a new tone. The next matchup was the 2024 home opener where the Saxons converted a nail-biting two point conversion to win 22-21. The Saxons then earned another victory against Niles North, winning 49-21. Next, the Saxons won a hard-fought game against Niles West, 21-14.
“The impressive thing about our start is coming from behind to win two of those games and the kids have never stopped believing,” Stilling said. “I am still excited about the next four weeks because we are 4-1 and we still haven’t played our best football.”
The Saxons have faced strong competition as well as adversity, but have found a way to succeed.
“What’s most encouraging about our start is our collective ability to respond to adversity.” said Coach Stilling.
Junior Ray Black. Black was a starter at wide receiver and safety before senior quarterback Lucas Wagener suffered a devastating collar bone injury. Since then, Black successfully stepped into the quarterback role with the help of sophomore running back, Vince Heydecker. The two have made a great tandem, and both were nominated for MSL player of the week, with Black winning.
“I am confident and excited for the rest of the season because I feel like there’s a lot we can work on, but the team is ready for that,” Black said.
It is necessary for the team to keep improving heading into conference because the MSL west is stacked. The MSL has some of the best football teams in the state, so winning will be no easy task.
Schaumburg hopes to bounce back by securing their fifth win this week at Conant. Victory this week would secure a playoff spot for the first time in seven years. The next home football game will be 10/18 against Fremd; we hope to see you there.