For the first time since 2014, the Glenbrook South football team made the playoffs. And it came after a 1-8 season in 2016.
“This is a big step forward,” Glenbrook South coach Dave Schoenwetter said. “We told them this is something they should expect to do. Get that mindset.”
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The Titans’ strength was their running game: Seniors Savontae Garner and Ben Hides and junior Jack Jerfita each rushed for 500 yards or more.
While Glenbrook South, the 31st seed, amassed 144 yards on the ground in the opening round of the Class 8A playoffs against second-seeded and undefeated Barrington, the host Broncos won 48-3 on Friday.
Garner led the way for Glenbrook South (5-5) with 11 carries for 51 yards.
Although Garner and Hides will be lost to graduation, the running game will be in good hands again next season, according to Schoenwetter. In addition to the return of Jerfita — who had 113 carries for 585 yards and six touchdowns this season — the Titans expect to welcome back senior-to-be Harry Panagakis.
Panagakis was slated to be Glenbrook South’s starting fullback this season, with Jerfita sharing time at tailback. But Panagakis tore the ACL in his right knee in a 7-on-7 competition over the summer and was lost for the season.
“That was one of the hardest things I had to go through —devastating,” said Panagakis, who lives in Glenview. “I was lifting weights back in seventh grade preparing to play varsity football.”
Because of the injury, Schoenwetter had to juggle his backfield and moved Jerfita to fullback. He had played tailback on the freshman and sophomore teams.
Panagakis helped teach Jerfita his new position.
“After I was injured I went over all the plays with Jack,” Panagakis said. “He really adapted fast. Right now he might know the plays better than me.”
As for next season, Schoenwetter will have a decision to make, albeit a good one.
“I’m not sure how we’re going to do it yet. Harry will be back, so he might play fullback and Jack at tailback,” Schoenwetter said. “No matter what, both will be starting somewhere.”
Panagakis can’t wait.
“I’m just thrilled,” Panagakis said. “It’s one more chance to put on my helmet and shoulder pads and hit someone.”
Mark Perlman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press