The Benet varsity football team began their 2025 season with a wildly successful start. Benet Academy hosted Hillcrest High School on August 29th at Benedictine University at 7:30PM. Beginning with an assortment of explosive plays and gutsy calls, Benet Academy saw a back and forth first quarter with 6 points off of field goals before Hillcrest responded by scoring 8 points after a two point conversion and a touchdown. Next, Benet was able to take a kickoff return to the endzone for a quick and successful touchdown, giving them a more comfortable 13-8 lead. Soon after, Benet was able to score another field goal to give themselves a 16-8 lead and extend their lead even further. The final points of the game went to Benet Academy, and the defense was able to force a safety to give Benet a 10 point lead in the fourth quarter. Benet went on to hold onto their lead and secure a win against Hillcrest, winning 18-8 in their season opener.
It wasn’t just the Benet football team that gained recognition on August 29th. The Benet Boys Cross Country program was honored for their achievement of winning the ESCC Catholic conference championship for twenty five straight years in a row. Coach Kevin Renicker impressively led the team to their successes in these years, and only just this year stepped down from this role. Under the leadership of new head coach Kevin Veselik, the team hopes to add to their streak this year at the ESCC conference championship meet in October.
Benet’s football home opener saw a huge turnout in student attendance, as the vast majority of the student body represented Benet. The theme for the game was blackout, and it was quite a success. When asked about his thoughts on the first football game and starting out his season with a win, sophomore Mason Kelanic, a member of the varsity team, stated that “It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. An unforgettable memory. And we’re just getting started.” All in all, the first varsity football game for Benet was a blast, and the students and players are ready and excited for the next game.
