The Papillion-LaVista High School varsity football team took down Omaha Creighton Prep on Thursday, Oct. 12. The Monarchs defeated the Jr. Jays 34-7 in the district championship. Accompanied with their win, the team will continue to prepare and focus for the final games of the season. 

The Monarchs secured an early start on the game, ending the first quarter 6-0. Weeks worth of preparation helped the team come ready to play. Sophomore offensive lineman Landen Vonseggern was just one player who went all out at practice leading up to the game.

“We watched a lot of film and went hard at practice,” Vonseggern said. “We didn’t take it lightly.” 

With the second quarter coming to an end, the Monarch’s held the Jr. Jay’s back, keeping them from scoring. Meanwhile, Payton Prestito marched down the field and scored a touchdown, helping to close the first half 21-0. Junior lineman Garin Maley appreciated Prestito’s major plays towards the team.

“My favorite [play] is when Tito runs the ball a lot,” Maley said. “He is our running back.”

After another quarter the Monarchs continued to stop the Jr. Jays from scoring. Prestito scored another touchdown, helping the team keep their lead 28-0 in the third quarter. Determination and teamwork helped the team continue to succeed. 

“Sticking together and hard work has really helped our team get to where we are.” Vonseggern said. 

The fourth quarter ended 34-7. Although Creighton Prep was able to score a touchdown by a pass play, Papillion-La Vista continued to stay in the lead. In these intense plays, the team utilized positivity and optimism. 

“The coaches and our family help us stay positive during the game.” Maley said. 

Thanks to a great win, PLHS’s football team can continue to keep looking forward towards the future. Each game, play and run are taken one step at a time. With another win added to their record, the team can focus on the rest of the season. 

“Next we have to take care of North Platte,” Maley said. “Then we’ll start with the playoffs.”