The highly-ranked fighting Saints started the season out 4-0 going into a tough game against Rogers, but after some mishaps in the second half and a few injuries, they head into homecoming against St. Michael-Albertville’s tough defense.

The coaches and players say the team is tough, but they think they got it. The history-making shut out against the Cambridge Blue Jackets earlier in the season gave them a huge boost considering The Saints have not been 4-0 since the 1981 season.

“It’s only been done 3 other times in history,” said Coach Mike Stoffel. “This is also one of the best defenses we’ve had in 12 years.”

The coaches said the seniors impressed them the most this season by really stepping up and helping the underclassman learn the game better.

“It’s a really good feeling, but once we get 5,6,7 wins I’ll feel a little bit better,” said Coach  Brent Swaggert.

St. Francis plays St. Michael Albertville this Friday for the homecoming game.

“Their defense is really strong,”said Stoffel, “but I think we can pull out the win.”

One hurdle this season was the loss of John Santiago. Stepping in his place is senior Max Greene. He didn’t have as much time at running back for varsity in past seasons because of Santiago and Max Gust. He’s starting this year and the coaches think he’s doing great stepping up. Greene puts in a lot of work in the weight room and at practices.

“He’s really understanding the game a lot more this year” said senior quarterback Hunter Trautman.

The guys have talked about a championship run already according to Swaggert.

“That’s been the goal since day one,” said Trautman. “ We want to max out our potential, and, me along with the guys, feel we can pull out a championship this year.”

With 4 wins and 1 loss under their belts, they may be well on their way, and while some may feel the pressure this Friday, Swaggert encourages the team to keep it in perspective.

“It’s just another game on the season,” said Swaggert “the gameplan is the same.”