Sports

PHOTOS/VIDEO: Cougars in 7th Heaven Over Win Against Big Reds

For the seventh straight year, the Dakota High School varsity football team defeated district rival Chippewa Valley High School to take home the Superintendent's Helmet Trophy.

From the first kickoff to the last whistle, the -Chippewa Valley raged in Cougar Stadium, but it was the Cougars that claimed victory, holding onto a 21-14 lead to defeat the Big Reds for the seventh straight year.

Thousands packed the stadium on both sides to witness the Friday night battle.

"It's a great win for our team, for our program and it was a tough game," said Dakota head coach Mike Giannone. "This is always a tough game. (Chippewa Valley) coach (Scott) Merchant had his guys ready to play, he always does."

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As for winning the Superintendent's Helmet Trohpy for the seventh consecutive year, Giannone couldn't be more pleased.

"It's been here for a long time so it's nice to keep it here," he said. "We have a spot for it in the showcase, so I didn't really know what to do if we had to vacate that spot."

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Along with bragging rights, the trophy offers a tangible prize in the district rivalry.

The first quarter came and went without either team making it on the board, but with six minutes left in the second quarter, Chippewa Valley took the lead 7-0. 

Dakota answered with its own touchdown and field goal with 1:46 left in the second quarter.

The teams were tied heading into the second half, but Dakota managed to find the end zone twice before the third quarter was out for a 21-7 lead.

With 9:41 left in the fourth, Chippewa Valley made one last touchdown, making the final score 21-14. 

"We threw the ball, we ran the ball, we did some good things and they chased up on us like crazy, but I give our kids credit, they battled the entire time," Giannone said. "I think our quarterback played outstanding tonight. That's the first time he's been in the heat of a battle like this and I thought he showed up well."

Dakota fans also won the Believe in Miracles bucket race in the second quarter, raising $185 to Chippewa Valley's $120.

More photos and video highlights to come in the next few minutes.


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