Johnsburg Skyhawks Seek Upset Against IC Catholic After Playoff Win

The Johnsburg Skyhawks defeated the No. 22 Marian Central Monarchs 27-0 on Friday night to secure their first postseason victory since 2022. The win eliminated the team from the one-and-done bracket they faced in the previous two seasons and advanced them to the second round of the Class 3A state playoffs.

The Skyhawks, who finished the regular season with a record of 8-2, will travel to face the No. 3 IC Catholic Raiders at 2 p.m. on Saturday. IC Catholic entered the weekend with a 9-1 record. This matchup marks the highest ranked opponent Johnsburg has played this season, following their victory over a Marian Central team that had previously won eight of its last nine games.

The team's recent success is underscored by individual milestones set by two senior players. Micah Welch, a two-way lineman, and Ryan Franze, a wide receiver, both broke program records during the season. Their statistical achievements contributed to the Skyhawks' eight total wins, the highest number of victories for the school since the 2017 campaign when the team finished 10-1.

Welch, who stands 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 225 pounds, became the school's career sack leader. He surpassed the previous record of 17.5 held by Jack Kegel. Welch added one sack during the win over Marian Central, bringing his career total to 19.5. He recorded 12.5 of those sacks during the current season. Welch noted that he drew inspiration from former senior CJ Ameachi during his sophomore year, which motivated him to increase his effort against quarterbacks.

Franze, who stands 5 feet 11 inches and weighs 185 pounds, broke the career receptions record previously held by C.J. Fiedorowicz. The former NFL tight end had accumulated 174 receptions for the program. Franze caught six passes against Marian Central to push his career total to 190. He described breaking a long-standing record held by a prominent name as a primary personal goal for the season.

Both players have been varsity athletes for three years. They credited their coaches and teammates for their development. Franze specifically thanked his coaches for believing in him throughout his three years on the team. Welch highlighted the strength of the defense during a Week 9 victory over Sandwich, noting that the unit forced the opposing running backs to work for every yard.

The team has relied on depth and improvement from younger players. Franze identified junior cornerback Brennan Ducak as the most improved player on the roster. Ducak, who measures 6 feet and 170 pounds, has increased his intensity in practice. Welch pointed to junior defensive lineman Gavin VanDyck, who has expanded his role to play multiple positions on both the defensive line and the offensive line.

The Skyhawks prepare for a difficult challenge against IC Catholic. Welch stated that the team must make the Raiders earn every yard and avoid giving away free plays. Franze emphasized a mindset of confidence, suggesting the team should approach the game without fear of the opponent's reputation. The contest will determine if the Skyhawks can extend their season beyond the second round.