URGENT UPDATE: Trinity Classical Academy’s playoff run ended abruptly on November 14, 2025, as they were defeated 14-6 by Pioneer in a Division 14 game played in relentless rain at Hart High School. The loss marks a significant moment for a team that battled through numerous challenges this season, including a limited roster of just 23 players.
Despite a valiant effort led by two-way standout Andrew Carlson and fellow leader Hudson Sweitzer, Trinity struggled to maintain offensive momentum due to consistent penalties and challenging conditions. Head coach Dave Eastham noted, “In the rain, especially with the injuries we’ve had, we just don’t have a passing offense. Getting into second-and-long or third-and-long made it difficult for us.”
Trinity opened the scoring early when senior defender Patrick Cherry intercepted a tipped pass from Pioneer quarterback Noah Anderson and sprinted into the end zone, giving the Knights a 6-0 lead after a blocked extra point. However, Pioneer quickly responded with a dominant run game, allowing them to take control of the tempo.
As the game unfolded, the Titans capitalized on a series of Trinity penalties that hampered their offensive drives. A key moment came when Pioneer scored late in the first quarter, with Anderson executing a short touchdown run to push the Titans ahead 7-6.
The second half saw both teams maintain a ground-based attack. Trinity’s defense showed resilience, with players like Christopher Brown making crucial stops. However, the Titans’ offensive line proved effective, allowing them to convert vital plays in critical moments.
In a turning point early in the fourth quarter, Pioneer intercepted a pass from Carlson, setting up a touchdown that extended their lead to 14-6 with just 9:03 remaining. Trinity’s hopes for a comeback faded as they faced penalties and crucial missed opportunities, including a deep pass that slipped through Cherry’s fingers in the rain.
With the clock winding down, Pioneer converted a critical fourth-and-1, effectively sealing the game. Coach Eastham reflected on the season, saying, “They were physical up front and they were the better team tonight… I will take my boys over anybody, anytime. It just wasn’t our night tonight.”
Despite the heartbreaking end, Eastham expressed pride in his team and their accomplishments throughout the season, especially their first-ever victory in an 11-man playoff game just a week prior. “It’s hard to end for these guys, but I’m proud of us… all in all, we had a great season.”
As the Knights look to regroup and prepare for next year, the emotional impact of the loss resonates deeply, particularly for the seniors who played their final game. The resilience shown by Trinity this season will be remembered as they move forward.
