LIBERTY TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The Lakota East football team proudly stood in front of the school’s band Friday night where the scoreboard above showed the final score of 42-28 in favor of the Thunderhawks.

Lakota East defeated Lakota West for the first time since the 2018 season. It was a moment to cherish for the Lakota East school community. More than 5,000 fans watched the memorable victory.

Lakota East coach Jon Kitna, a former longtime NFL quarterback, put the journey in perspective. It's a path he shared with this year's senior class since he was named the Thunderhawks coach in February 2023.

“Proud of this team feels so insufficient,” Kitna said. “I truly love this team and what they represent.”

Lakota East senior running back Ryder Hooks rushed for 290 yards — his second-highest ru

See Full Page