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is a great pleasure to dedicate this issue to the 3Peat State Champion team
share it with the community. Special thanks to Kevin Conrad for eloquently capturing the season and this championship with his contribution of (title of story here), photographer Lindy Scott for the awesome action shots, and a big thank you to the advertisers that made this special issue possible. Support Local is not just a saying – it’s a way of life for Center Grovers.
HEAD COACH: ERIC MOORE
ASSISTANT COACHES: CHAD DANIELS, BRAD TIMMONS, NICK LYON, KEVIN HUTCHINS, TOM BLANCK, JOE SIDEREWICZ, TROY DICE, KEVIN DIETEL, BRIAN HARBIN, RYAN SPOONMORE, JOEY SIDEREWICZ, DANIEL WEEMS, ED BRICKLEY
FRESHMAN COACHES: BRANDON PAINTER, MATT ADAMS, JOHN SUMMERS, ADAM LUTGRING, GAVIN EVERETT, JOE RUSHKA MANAGERS: JIMMY MUELLER, ELI HITZ, MATTHEW PHILLIPS, HUNTER FUGETT, PAIGE STAAB, ANNA STEELE VIDEOGRAPHERS: LOGAN MEYER, HUNTER PETKOVICH, SID PRASSAD
SUPERINTENDENT: DR. RICH ARKANOFF
PRINCIPAL: DR. JEFFREY M. HENDERSON
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: JOE BRONKELLA
ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: KATIE FISHER
ATHLETIC SECRETARY: JOANNY TOLLE
GREENWOOD ORTHOPAEDICS TEAM DOCTOR: DR. EVAN ARMINGTON, MD
COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK: JESSICA SCHABER, LAT, ATC; JACOB LEACHMAN, MS, LAT, ATC
Writer / Kevin Conrad Photography Provided by Lindy Scott LIFE + SOUL
Coach Eric Moore
The Center Grove High School (CGHS) football program was loaded with talent in 2020 and 2021, and was viewed as the heavy favorite to win the state championships in those two seasons. However, with the loss of that talent through graduation, Center Grove wasn’t given much credence to win a third straight title in 2022.
“This was a team that flew under the radar,” says Eric Moore, CGHS head football coach. “I appreciated the way they took advantage of their opportunity. What will your legacy be? You’re going to get credit for what happens this year. How do you want to be remembered?”
The Trojans took this to heart - the seniors in particular.
“The seniors stood up,” Moore says. “No one, to the very last week of the season, gave them much of a chance to win. They were underdogs. They took control of their legacy.”
Following back-to-back undefeated championship seasons, the Trojans suffered two losses during the 2022 regular season and lost key contributors throughout the season due to injuries. However, the coaches and players stayed the course and were able to overcome any adversity that came their way.
“The most impressive part of this program is how everyone is willing to step up and take charge when called upon,” says Center Grove Athletic Director Joe Bronkella. “Injuries decimated our roster, but other players changed roles and did what they could to help make the team as successful
as possible. In most places, that would not happen. Instead, excuses come out. Here, there were no excuses, just the execution of game plans. I was proud of how our athletes and coaches represented us this fall and especially in the state tournament.”
Dynasty? Based on what Center Grove has done on the field through the past three seasons, the answer is a resounding “Yes.” In this decade, the Trojans are 40-2 with an unprecedented three consecutive 6A state titles, and are 25-0 against the Metropolitan Interscholastic Conference teams.
“I feel like we’ve been the king of football for the past decade,” Moore says. “[Seniors are] the class with the most wins and the most rings in a row. It’s just a tribute to those guys for staying with the process.”
“Very few senior classes across the state can say that they made an appearance in the state finals game every year of their high school career, walking away with a
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runner-up and three state titles,” says CGHS Principal Jeff Henderson. “These seniors have provided our community with a tremendous amount of enjoyment and pride as we have watched them grow into the powerhouse that they became.”
This was Moore’s 24th season as head coach of the Center Grove football program. How did Center Grove football become a state and national powerhouse during his tenure? One word - toughness. Moore and his coaching staff preach toughness during the season and out of season.
“It’s being physically and mentally tough,” Moore says. “The drills we do, we’re flipping tires, doing up-downs, sled pulls, push-ups, things that make kids tough. Our practices are tougher than anybody’s. In practice we run the ball, our defense has to tackle and our scout teams run the football. At Center Grove football, we create a buy-in program. When I work, my money goes into the bank. The players bank on that throughout the winter and throughout the summer. When it’s game time, it’s payday. If you put in a lot of time, you’re going to get a nice reward with a victory. Victories are more important than anything for your kids. Our guys are going to block you, tackle you and they’re going to hit you. It’s just a different culture here.”
“Coach Moore has been committed to building a championship-caliber program throughout his career at Center Grove,” Henderson says. “His dedication to youth opportunities through the Bantam program,
the middle school program, the high school program, all the way to the hard work he puts in helping players and parents navigate the recruiting process as they move on to play at the next level, is second to none. Center Grove has been blessed to have Coach Moore leading our football program, top to bottom. The number of lives that he has positively impacted is too many to count, and we appreciate his dedication and passion.”
Behind great head coaches are great assistant coaches. Center Grove football is no exception.
“We’re a bunch of addicts,” says Moore of the Center Grove football coaches. “We’re addicted to winning. We work so hard seven days a week for 17 weeks. We love to walk in the locker room on Friday nights to be together as men and hug and high-five, and take pride in the product we put on the field and take pride in what happens out there. We’re all on the same page. It’s all about the team winning.”
“All I can say about this program is that it is better than advertised,” says Bronkella, currently in his first year as athletic director at CGHS. “Being an outsider coming in, I had an expectation. However, the product far exceeded it. We have the best coaching staff in the state and the best student-athletes. I cannot describe how much this team meant to so many people in the community. I also am gracious that they all accepted me as a newcomer. Every coach and player I interacted with this past season was very respectful and professional. A team is a direct reflection of its leader, so kudos to Coach Moore and his assistants.”
“What an incredible run - back-to-backto-back state championships in the toughest class in football,” Henderson adds. “Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Five state championships and counting. Onward Trojans!”
JALEN THOMESON #1
Congratulations J, you’ve earned this. We are super proud of you. Heck of a way to finish your senior year. From day one, I knew you were going to be something special. You have a gift. We love you. Your #1 fan, DAD
of the challenges thrown your way. You played some amazing football at Center Grove and we can’t wait to see what you do in college! Your future is going to be bright wherever you land! We love you! Mom & Dad
ZACH GRELLER #9
Congratulations on a wonderful high school football career - 3x State Champs. Your work ethic and team-first mentality will take you far. Now, run fast and turn left this spring. Love, Mom, Dad and Ben!
ELI HOHLT #14
Congrats to Eli and the entire CG team! The past 4 seasons, the senior class has had tremendous pressure to perform and win State. Your class wrote your own legacy and found a way to become one. Proud of your perseverance. That’s Ring 11 in Football for the Hohlt brothers! We love you! Mom & Dad
GRANT BALDWIN #6
OWEN WRIGHT #2
We had so much fun going to your games and love watching you play. We could not be prouder of you. When you think back to these years, I know you will feel proud too. Thanks for these memories. We love you!
Way to make it happen, son! We are so proud of you. You are tough enough to handle anything that comes your way. We love you.
To my oldest son -- I don’t think we would be the parents we are today if you hadn’t come into our lives 18 years ago. You’ve taught me strength, patience, dedication and, most importantly, love. You’re kind, respectful, obedient and a great role model to your siblings. You have so many great things to do in this life. I love you, son. Love, Momma
Trojan football was the norm for you growing up. You’ve learned many life lessons and made priceless memories being a part of this program. I’m very proud of you and your coaches for giving so much time to what you love. I’ll forever be your cheerleader. Xoxox Mom
ETHAN JAMES WATT #4
We are so very proud of your drive, perseverance, love for your coaches & teammates and heartfelt dedication to the CG Tradition. We love you and thank you for taking us on this beautiful journey. Four State Championship showdowns in your high school career! And winning the State Title three years in a row! Epic! We have enjoyed every minute! Love you E!
What a way to end your Senior season of High School Football!! Back2Back2Back State Champs!! You stuck it out and rose above injury and illness. I am extremely proud of you and the young man you have become! Love you forever; never hate you… Mom
The dedication. The drive. The pain you’re willing to endure. This is a short list of things that are incredible about you. You have many special gifts. Not just as an athlete, but as an all-around amazing person. Never lose focus of that. Stay humble. Stay true. Remember to give yourself grace. You’re fierce. You’re Micah Coyle. With a love as fierce as you, Mama
Congrats on an incredible football career! Now on to track! We’re so proud of the man you are on and off the field. Can’t wait to see what your future holds. Keep your eye on God, stay humble/ kind, and know we love you! Represent! Dad, Debbie and Family
DREW WHEAT #5
We know your senior year wasn’t quite what you expected, nonetheless, we are so proud of you and the way you have handled all
MATTHEW NEFF #21
We love watching you on the football field! What a way to end your senior year! Back-to-back-to-back state champions!! We’re so proud of your accomplishments and the young man you’re becoming. Can’t wait to see what your future holds!! Love, Mom, Taylor, Lexie & Andrew
EVAN SPOMAR #26
GAGE REES #29
GAVIN OAKES #21
Congratulations on an incredible high school football career! We are so thankful to call you our son! Your hard work, dedication, and love for football were evident to all who watched you play. These characteristics will carry you in your future endeavors. We love you! #3peat Mom, Dad, Griffin, Gabi
Congratulations, Evan! It has been so fun watching you play football and making history as a 3-peat state champion! The life lessons you have learned will serve you well. You have many Godgiven gifts and talents and we can’t wait to see you use them! We love you very much and are very proud of you!
Love, Mom, Dad, & Family
We are so proud of the phenomenal year you have had! Your contagious energy and stellar leadership gave everyone the faith and strength to conquer another State Championship! Congratulations on your 3-peat!! We love you so much! Love ALL of your Family
Keegen, Dad, Mike, your Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles!
BRENDEN NELLANS #33
Brenden, congratulations on ring #4! What an incredible journey it’s been! Watching all your hard work and dedication pay off has been something we will never forget! We are all so proud of you and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!
Love Mom, Rae,
KYLE WILLIAMS #42
Indomitable - Impossible to beat; Resilient - Able to withstand difficult situations. You are both! Despite severe injuries, your integrity, humility, intellect, and perseverance allowed you to overcome. We applaud you on your football career and 3 straight championships.
Love, Dad & Mom
MICHAEL SIEMONS #43
What an incredible ride these four years have been! Proud of you for always showing up, working hard and never giving up on yourself or your teammates. State Champs X3, what a legacy you all have left. Can’t wait to see what the next chapter has in store.
Love Mom, Dad, Kaitlynn & Mads
your friends, teammates, and family is evident to all who know you. Your faith has always led you and your determination for success is second to none. You are a natural-born leader and we can’t wait to see what God has in store for your future. Congratulations on 3 State Championships! We love you so much!
Mom, Dad and Mandy
it’s going to be worth it.”
Congratulations Cooper! What an amazing four years. We’re so proud of you. Your hard work and character will take you far.
years of football! We know this is not the end of the tremendous things that you will accomplish and we look forward to seeing you achieve your future goals. Never lose that sweet smile and silly sense of humor. We love you so much! Mom, Dad and AJ
ISAAC RITCHIE #73
JOHN LYON #50
Thank you for turning us into a football family. It was fun watching you develop into the player and young man you are today. We are excited to see where you go from here. Love Mom and Dad
CHARLIE GARDNER #67
Charlie, you are a man of unwavering faith and steadfast principles. Your desire to serve the Lord and others is the hallmark of your character. Stay true to your convictions and continue to lead with integrity and honor in the service of others. We love you immensely and are proud of you beyond measure. Love, Dad, Mom, and Margo
Always remember - “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you know.” We are so inspired by your dedication with football for the last four years. You made precious memories and lifelong friendships! Your presence lights up a room and we cannot be prouder of the man you are becoming! We love you forever & always, Mom, Brent, Dad & Tori
LOGAN CRAVENS #78
Congratulations on a great senior season! We are so proud of you and the young man that you have become! We can’t wait to see what your future holds -- we know you will do great things! Love, Mom, Dad, and Connor
ISAAK FISCHER #52
We are so very proud of you! We know it wasn’t the season you wanted, but you handled it well! We all look forward to what comes next. Love, Mom, Dad, Mike, and Emmett
HUNTER DEAN #69
Congratulations! We are so proud of what you and your teammates have accomplished this year. This state championship came from working together as one and having heart! We can’t wait to see what the Lord has in store for your future. Love Mom and Dad
SHANE FOLCO #74
Congratulations on your dedication and perseverance to be part of four amazing years of football. We love you, are very proud of you, and are blessed to have you as our son.
Love, Mom & Dad
ANDREW SPOMAR #81
Congratulations, Andrew! It has been so fun watching you play football and making history as a 3-peat state champion! The life lessons you have learned will serve you well. You have many God-given gifts and talents and we can’t wait to see you use them! We love you very much and are very proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad, & Family
LUKE MCDANIEL #54
“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” 2
Chronicles 15:7. Luke, you followed the words of this verse, and through your faith and hard work, your dreams came true! Your love of the game of football,
COOPER RAKOW #70
“I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy - I’m telling you
AUSTIN WIESE #77
Congratulations, Austin! Three-time state champion! We are so proud of all of your hard work, dedication and growth through participating in this outstanding program. What an amazing way to end 14
CHRISTIAN CLARK #83
Congratulations on being part of the winningest football program in Center Grove history. We know you’ll continue to work hard and accomplish great things. We love you so much! Mom, Dad, Rick, and Val
future takes you, we will always be your biggest fans. We love you, Tim, Mimi & Sissy
NOLAN FOLEY #98
ELI HITZ - MANAGER
JAKE BISHOP #86
We are all so proud of you! Who would have thought when you started playing in 6th grade you’d finish so strong your Senior year?! Back to back to back! Such an awesome way to end a career! Love from your Mom, Dad, and Brothers!
SHREYAS SEERUM #95
We know there have been tough times between your studies and football practices but we are glad you didn’t give up. Your Grandparents are proud of you and we are sure that you learned a lot of life lessons and made great memories with your football team and coaches.
Who would have guessed elementary recess kickball would lead to this? It’s been so fun watching God orchestrate your journey. Your family is extremely proud of what your team accomplished on the field, but also how you have carried yourself off the field. What an absolute blessing it has been to be part of the Center Grove community and football program. Love, Your Family
Congratulations on a highly successful and memorable high school football career! Making the transition to manager couldn’t have been an easy decision but we are proud that you have continued to support your team after all these years!
Love Always, Mom & Dad
LANDEN MONTFORT #89
We are so proud of you for all of your hard work and taking risks to be a part of this team your senior year. What an experience! We could not be happier for you and your teammates. Keep that smile and drive. We are so excited to see what is planned for you next. We love you!
Dad, Mom, Brynnan and Gracyn
RYNE ROEHLING #96
Hard to believe 9 years ago your helmet went on for the first time. As you find your way in life never underestimate the power of your patience and perseverance. You waited your turn and look at the sweet victory.
DENNON HALE #99
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHO YOU ARE AND WHO YOU WANT TO BE IS WHAT YOU DO.
Great job this year D! We’re so proud of you! Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. Love, Mom and Dad
Jimmy, I am so incredibly proud of the kind and caring young man you have become. Watching you bring energy and joy to the team under the Friday Night Lights will forever be a highlight of my life and I know Dad was smiling from Heaven. You can and will accomplish big things in the future. Congratulations Bimmer! Both Dad and I love you very much!
#90
Isiah, your senior year brings so much to celebrate and be proud of. You’ve worked so hard and we couldn’t be more proud. Wherever your
