The lights are bright, the crowds are loud, and the Woodland Hawks are chasing history.

The Hawks haven’t completed a perfect regular season since 2004, more than two decades ago. With a commanding 9–0 record, Woodland has dismantled every opponent so far and has reached the end of regular season with one game left to decide their future. 

Tonight, the Hawks host the Seymour Wildcats, the other top-dog of the NVL who also withstands a 9-0 record, in a rivalry showdown that could determine NVL supremacy and who will take home the NVL crown.

In just two weeks the Hawks have more than doubled their stats with the Pringle brothers leading the front line. Junior wide receiver Justin Pringle is ranked 8th in CT with over 840 passing yards also averaging 93.4 yards per game. Senior runningback Ean Pringle has rounded a total of 16 touchdowns this year alone averaging about 96.9 yards per game. Quarterback Jack Brunetti, a senior, ranks 4th in the state with 1,951 passing yards. With talent like this, the Hawks have become one of the NVL’s most balanced and composed squads. (MaxPreps)

“We have a strong and well rounded team this year,” said Ean Pringle. “I believe we are a force to be reckoned with.”

But Seymour enters tonight’s matchup with momentum of its own. The Wildcats have confidently stood near the top of the conference standings, highlighted by a statement win 25-24 over the Waterbury Career Academy Spartans. 

“Going into the game with a 9-0 record definitely puts a target on our back,” said senior captain for the Wildcats Scott DeMarco. 

Seymour brings solid stats that demand Woodland’s attention. Junior running back Connor Shea is ranked 3rd in the state with 1,496 rushing yards and averaging 166.2 rushing yards per game, all while accumulating a total of 16 touchdowns. (MaxPreps)

“This season is special compared to the past,” said DeMarco. “We are only the second team to reach 9-0 in Seymour football history.”

Yet, Woodland remains unfazed.

“We know what’s at stake,” said Ean Pringle. “We know they will come out just as aggressive but we are prepared to show no mercy.”

As the countdown to kickoff approaches, anticipation grows across the NVL. Two undefeated powerhouses, a title to capture, and a historic season on the line. All is left is to wait and see who will take home the crown.