The 2020 football season came to a close in the second round of the MHSAA playoffs on Saturday evening as GR Christian lost a tight game to rival South Christian by a score of 6-21. South Christian came into the contest highly ranked in the state while the Eagles had been building momentum over the course of a four game winning streak. A one-possession game until late in the 4th quarter, GR Christian battled hard in a contest that truly could have gone either way.

The Eagles came out strong when the Sailors first offensive drive was ended by an interception that was snatched out of the air by junior safety Ace Thomas. The ensuing Eagle drive showed promise as the offense moved the ball down the field, only to have a touchdown called back because of a penalty. After trading missed field goals, South Christian took a 7-0 lead late in the first quarter on a short touchdown run. 

The Sailors extended the lead to 14-0 on a 2nd quarter touchdown pass of 29 yards. Junior quarterback Ronin Russell-Dixon answered with a drive just before halftime that was marked by big plays on the ground and through the air. The lone Eagle score came on a 13 yard pass from Russell-Dixon to senior wide receiver Brian Hunter just before halftime. A scoreless 3rd quarter went back-and-forth as an Eagle drive stalled inside the 10-yard-line just before the 4th quarter began. The Sailors punched in the decisive final score late in the 4th quarter, giving them a lead they would not relinquish.

Many different Eagles contributed positively; strong play in the trenches was lead by senior Adam Sarjo, junior Ahmon Parks, and sophomore Luke Selfe. Senior receiver Marcellus VanderKodde chipped in 3 catches for 75 yards while Te'Von VanderKodde, Noah Christenson, Alec Koval, Amir Nixon and Brian Hunter all added receptions. Russell-Dixon threw for 138 yards and added 23 more on the ground.

Defensively the Blue & Black was paced by the dynamic duo of the Russell-Dixon brothers - freshman linebacker Kellen and junior safety Ronin combined to lead the team in tackles. Sarjo, Parks, and Koval all added quarterback sacks as well. Strong play by the defensive secondary kept the potent Sailor receivers in check most of the evening.

The GR Christian team showed incredible toughness and perseverance in navigating many challenges this season as they stayed committed to each other and the work of getting better. This group of seniors built upon the strong foundation of Eagle football and helped the program move forward. Each young man in the program grew in Pride, Purpose, Love, and Tenacity and is now better equipped to make a difference in contemporary society for Jesus. Until next year - Eagles forever!