Owatonna High School’s football team is off to a running start. They are undefeated in the first four games of the season and are ranked third in the state for Class 5A. Owatonna Football is led by senior receiver Nolan Ginskey, senior center Jack Meneguzzo, senior linebacker Blake Davison and senior linebacker Blake Fitcher.
On the offensive side of the ball, Owatonna takes pride in an offense that can both pass and run the ball effectively. This allows for big plays. In terms of passing plays, Ginskey has been a key contributor. Through four games, he has received the ball 26 times for a remarkable 474 yards. The Huskies’ running game has also been strong, anchored by Meneguzzo and the rest of the offensive line. Junior running back Tristan Graham has benefited from the strong offensive line. Graham has carried the ball 50 times for a total of 343 yards this season. Overall, the offense has been very successful.
The defensive side of the ball has continuously shut down opposing offenses. They have held other schools to just one touchdown per game. Davison and Fitcher have led the charge with 36 and 21 tackles respectively. Ginskey also has three interceptions to complement his strong offensive performance.
Ginskey, along with the rest of the team, has high expectations because of this strong start. Ginskey’s goals are “a state championship, 13-0 [record], and [to] have fun with the fellas.” Ginskey said that to achieve these goals, the team needs to “prepare and work hard every week, trust the game plan and execute it and go out on Friday nights and get a dub.”
Head Coach Jeff Williams spoke on the culture of the team this year. Coach Williams said, “They enjoy each other’s company. Weight room sessions are spirited and fun. Practices are spirited and fun.” He went on to describe the team as a “big family.”
The Huskies return home for their homecoming game on Oct. 4 against Mankato West at 7 p.m.
