By RICHIE HALL
Reporter Sports Editor
The senior class that played football for Westfield High School last season were sectional champions all four years.
That run was topped with a state championship last November, with the Shamrocks winning a dramatic Class 5A state title game over Columbus East. Westfield’s seniors finished up their career with a record of 38-14.
Next year will be a season of changes for the ‘Rocks. Westfield will make the move into Class 6A, into a sectional that contains Carmel, which won the state title in Indiana’s highest football class. It seems like the Shamrocks will have a daunting task ahead of them, especially after graduating 40 seniors.
But if Westfield has proved anything over the years, it’s up to any challenge. The ‘Rocks have been keeping themselves busy this summer with the usual sets of workouts and practices, as well as football camps for all levels – these days, the preparation must begin well before high school.
Westfield coach Jake Gilbert has scheduled a scrimmage for his team. The Shamrocks will host perennial powerhouse Bishop Chatard at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Riverview Health Stadium. The Westfield crew that takes to the field will be mostly new to varsity, but there are still a few familiar players that will provide leadership.
The main man for the Shamrocks is likely to be incoming senior Nate Froelich. As a junior, Froelich was by far the Westfield rushing leader, totaling 1150 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns. His last touchdown of the season will never be forgotten, as it was the go-ahead score in the state championship game.
Also back from the state championship game will be senior Kaleb Pettijohn. He made a pair of catches in that game, giving him 15 for the season. Senior linemen expected to return are Matthew Robinson and Joe Marra, with Kyle Pepiot also back.
The defense includes senior Koby Hauser, who Gilbert said has committed to the Air Force Academy. The coach said Hauser is the only player committed thus far, although others are being recruited. Hauser has 47 tackle assists and 27 solo stops, along with four interceptions.
Another senior defender returning is Griffin Lickfeldt, who had 26 assists and 16 solos last season. Two juniors, Dorian Henson (14 solos, seven assists) and Collin Caldwell (10 solos, 32 assists and four sacks) are also in the mix.
“We have a long ways to go and must get a lot better, but I’ve been very happy with the culture and leadership,” said Gilbert.
Westfield’s schedule remains unchanged from last year. The Shamrocks host Harrison in their opener, then travel to Southport in Week 2. Westfield then plays its Hoosier Crossroads Conference schedule in Weeks 3 through 8, finishing up the regular season at Brebeuf Jesuit.
Westfield’s Nate Froelich was the Shamrocks’ leading rusher last season, carrying the ball 1150 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns. (Darren Dedman)
Koby Hauser, one of Westfield’s leading defensive players, has committed to the Air Force Academy. (Brian Reddick)