For the second consecutive season, the Decatur Central Hawks have punched their ticket to the Class 5A state championship game. After a heart-wrenching loss to Fort Wayne Snider in last year’s final, the Hawks are back at Lucas Oil Stadium with one mission in mind: to finish what they started.

The sting of that defeat has been a driving force for the team, fueling their determination to go one step further this time around.

“It feels good to be back, but this is a business trip,” junior playmaker Kasmir Hicks said. “After last year, our one goal since January has been getting to the state championship and winning it. That’s been the focus all year.”

A Different Mindset

Decatur Central’s return to the title game feels markedly different from their journey last season. This year’s squad has grown, both mentally and physically, and they’re bringing a sharper edge to Lucas Oil.

“This year is a lot different from last,” said junior defensive lineman Cayden Cole. “We’re coming into this game with a different mindset. Returning for a second time is a big achievement and shows the growth and determination of our team.”

Linebacker Brayden Smith echoed the sentiment, emphasizing how last year’s loss motivated him and his teammates to elevate their play.

“Getting back to Lucas Oil has been the goal all season,” Smith said. “Last year’s loss hurt badly, and it pushed me to take my game to the next level. This year, we’re not in it for the experience. We’re in it to win.”

Turning the Season Around

The Hawks’ journey to the title game hasn’t been without challenges. After a 1-3 start to the season, many wrote them off. But instead of folding, the team rallied, posting nine consecutive wins. Over that stretch, the Hawks have averaged 36 points per game while holding opponents to just under 20.

“It was a slow start, but the turning point was continuing to work because we knew we weren’t playing our best football,” Hicks said. “We kept pushing, and now we’re here.”

Senior N’po Dodo credited the team’s confidence and physical style of play for their turnaround.

“Decatur Central football is fast and physical, and I never doubted we’d make it back,” Dodo said. “The experience of last year helped us a lot. This time, we’re coming for it all.”

The Opponent: Warsaw Tigers

Standing in Decatur Central’s way is Warsaw, a team making its first-ever state championship appearance. Under head coach Bart Curtis, the Tigers have pieced together a remarkable postseason run, defeating the top three ranked teams in the state along the way.

Warsaw brings a bruising rushing attack and a disciplined, mistake-free style to the championship game. Last week, the Tigers forced four turnovers, avoided penalties, and rushed for over 300 yards in a win against Merrillville.

“They’re a tough team,” Cole said. “We’re going to have to play our best game, which we still haven’t done yet.”

Keys to Victory

The Hawks understand what’s at stake and what it will take to secure a win.

“For us, it’s going to come down to whoever is more physical,” Smith said. “Warsaw won’t beat themselves. We have to play our game, and if we do that, we’ll leave with a blue ring.”

Hicks emphasized the importance of staying focused and executing the game plan.

“We know what it feels like to lose at this stage,” Hicks said. “This year, we’re confident, and we’re treating it as a business trip.”

What a Win Would Mean

For Decatur Central, a state championship would be monumental, not just for the team but for the entire community.

“It would mean everything,” Cole said. “It would be history for Decatur Central and validate all the hard work we’ve put in.”

Dodo added that a win would be the ultimate reward for the team’s perseverance.

“Losing last year hurt a lot,” Dodo said. “The job is not finished, and we’re ready to go compete Saturday night.”

The Hawks are set to take the field against Warsaw with one clear goal: to bring the state championship trophy back to Decatur Township. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium.