Sacred Heart football returns for the 2025 season.
By: Alex Madsen and Noah Howard
Irish Football is back, and expectations are sky-high for this powerhouse. Sacred Heart is rich in tradition; how could it not be with eight championships and a Hall of Fame coach? Since Coach Doug Goltz took the helm in 1986-87 the Irish have had only two losing seasons: 2023 and 2024. The rebuilding effort has been more than a success, with multiple new weapons in each position partly fueled by a talented freshman class.
The fighting Irish lost multiple assets on the gridiron last season after the senior class of nine graduated. Sacred Heart suffered with turnovers and moving the chains last season.
The experience of the line will play a major factor this year. With only Evan Bailey graduating, senior Cooper Knobbe and juniors Toby Baxter and Trayce Stutheit will be difference makers. All saw legitimate time on the O-line last year.
Senior Quarterback Brenden Lemerond looks forward to his first full season under the center. Last year featured plenty of learning for Lemerond, which will hopefully carry over. Coaches have been impressed with Lemerond’s mobility, ability to climb the pocket, and his quick release. Junior Hayden Clow is expected to get quality reps as well.
The receiver core has recently been a strong suit for the Irish. Seniors include Cole Taft, Alex Madsen and Kyler Sipple. Taft led the team in receptions last season. These ends should provide experience and skill to the passing game.
The backfield is composed of standout senior Elijah Canonico and junior Kayden Groth. Canonico was a class hardnosed Irish running back last year who punished pursuing linebackers with his physicality. The backs provide experience and grit which will certainly help the Irish. Freshmen Noah Howard and Cash Witt might find themselves behind the QB this season.
Sacred Heart’s defense was one of the biggest concerns this offseason. Losing four of the leading contributors will hurt, but luckily many younger guys received experience and will step up. The defensive formation will play a factor in deciding who’s in. The expected 4-2 front line is composed of Baxter, Knobbe, Madsen and Stutheit. Discipline and technique will be the focus for this group. Coach Goltz emphasizes “chucking” offensive ends to keep them from blocking the linebackers along with a crucial point of containing plays into the inside. Freshman Aiden Scheitel might find himself making an impact this season.
The linebacker room is crucial for the defense to thrive. The Irish return key contributors including Canonico and juniors Groth and Charlie Rottinghaus. Reading and flowing will be the key to linebacker success.
Finally, the defensive backs feature Lemerond, Taft, and Sipple. All three have seen varsity time and are intelligent ballplayers. Stopping the pass and reading the run will be crucial for the secondary defense. Freshman Noah Howard will gain experience this season as well.
