This was the third time Parkland made the big dance at the 4A classification. They were runner-ups in 2007 and 2015. They won their only football state title back in 2002.
The same could be said for Parkland’s head coach Jim Morgans. This will be the fourth time that Morgans made the trip to the sweetest place on earth, Hershey, PA.
His first time was in 1993 when Allentown Central Catholic defeated Blackhawk, 40-0. In 1998 the Vikings defeated Moon Area 10-0 and lost in 2007 to Pittsburgh Central Catholic 21-0.
“I am so fortunate to be surrounded with great coaches and players when I was at Allentown Central Catholic and now at Parkland.”
In 11 seasons at Parkland he has a record of 111-31 with five conference and District 11 titles. He is 2-2 in state final games.
Turning point of the season
After the week six loss to Bethlehem Liberty, the Trojans ripped off nine wins all the way to Hershey. After the loss they defeated Easton, Freedom, Nazareth and Emmaus to finish out the regular season. They outscored their opponents 122 to 29.
“Our kids said it was the Liberty game that was the turning point. I think it was after the loss, the kids were more focused in that stretch at the end of the regular season. That got our season turned around.”
Historic win against District 12
It was no secret going into the matchup against LaSalle College High School out of District 12. Since joining the PIAA, District 11 4A teams hasn’t gotten over the hump with a win until December 5th. The 16-13 OT win broke the District 12 win streak against District 11 teams.
“It was a heck of a effort to beat a well coached LaSalle Team. Our kids fought to the end and got the job done. It was certainly a big win for our program and our conference.”
Photo credit: mcall.com
