Lake Holcombe puts a scare into Thorp visitors

Lake Holcombe senior Trent Lee snaps the ball to sophomore quarterback Emmit Johnson, in a home game Sept. 13, against conference opponent Owen-Withee. Photo by Ginna Young

By Ginna Young

Before they were eight-man, the Thorp football squad was part of the Cloverbelt Conference, so any opponent can tell you they are a tough team to play. That didn’t seem to phase the Lake Holcombe Chieftains, as they hosted Thorp Sept. 13.

The Cardinals struck first in the conference bout, but Lake Holcombe wouldn’t be denied their first touchdown of the year, coming before halftime. The game eventually went to Thorp, 30-6, but the Chieftains held them to a lower score than many teams, which speaks volumes as to the dedication of the Chieftains athletes.

“We’re young yet,” said coach John Stender.

On the night, Lake Holcombe had 142 yards rushing, with a 32-yard completion in passing, from sophomore Emmit Johnson, to freshman Connor Kane. Kane was also responsible for carrying the rushing touchdown, with 69 yards.

Defensively, Johnson led with 9 tackles and 8 assists.

“We’re going in the right direction, at least,” said Stender.