Rockets back in state title game

Rapid River is back in the Eight Man Football state championship game after defeating Kinde-North Huron, 40-8 on Saturday, Nov. 16. The Rockets (12-0) will face Peck (12-0) in the Eight Man championship Friday, Nov. 22 at Legacy Field in Greenville.

The Rockets would have preferred to play the championship game at the Superior Dome, but they’re happy to have another shot at winning a state title.

“It’s unexplainable I think if we can go out on top our senior year,” said Rockets center Hayden Hardwick.

“This program has been doing well for a couple years now and we just haven’t quite been able to make it there,” said Rockets quarterback Jake Pearson on making it to the state title game. “Winning the state championship would be a huge step for us and awesome for this community.”

“Would we like to play at the (Superior) Dome? Absolutely. It’s nice to stay in the U.P. and represent U.P. football. But down there, they (the Michigan High School Athletic Association) made a decision,” said Rockets head coach Steve Ostrenga about his preference of playing the state title game in Marquette rather than Greenville.

The Rockets last trip to the state title game back in 2011 ended in a 59-20 defeat to Carsonville Port Sanilac. Kickoff between the Rockets and Panthers is set for 7 p.m.