Winhawks football program makes a U-turn

WINONA, Minn. (WKBT) — “You always hope that your guys can just keep believing in what you are doing and keep working hard.

“I think you could put a Mack Truck in front of them right now and they would find a way to get it out of the way.”

Winona head football coach John Cassellius can’t be happier with the way his team has performed this season.

Winona football, stuck in neutral for nearly three decades, is back on the move to the Minnesota state tournament.

“It’s been crazy, it’s a different world,” said junior quarterback Riley Bosteter. “I’ve had some people Facebook message me. They said we are proud of you guys but lets finish the job this time.”

The 1987 Winhawks team still talks about the state title game loss. 13-7 to Moorhead.

And after 1-8 finish in 2014, no one in Winona knew this turnaround was right around the corner.

“A lot of buzz from a lot of people,” said Cassellius. “Some parents that were in high school in 1987, they went along, now their kids are living it too. It’s been a long time coming.”

The turnaround starts up front. After playing out his sophomore season with a broken arm, senior Jacob Stanislawski is a Minnesota Mr. Football award finalist.

“It’s been a blessing to be on this team. We are super close. It has been crazy to see a turnaround like this.”

Number one ranked South Saint Paul intends to end this comeback tale Friday night. But if you hear rock&roll blaring on a bus back to Winona, you’ll know it’s another “80’s Night” for the Winhawks.

“I think we are ready for them,” said Bosteter. “I do not think they have seen a team that matches up quite like we do.”