Editorial: Area football is on an upswing

Published 9:45 am Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Albert Lea wideout Sam Chalmers attempts to elude Waseca's Nick Buchele during the Tigers' season opener at Jim Gustafson Field. — Micah Bader/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea wideout Sam Chalmers attempts to elude Waseca’s Nick Buchele during the Tigers’ season opener at Jim Gustafson Field. — Micah Bader/Albert Lea Tribune

Losing streaks from high school football teams in Freeborn County are ending. 

The low point was in 2013, when Albert Lea, Glenville-Emmons and Alden-Conger went a combined 0-27.

Alden-Conger’s football team halted its 25-game losing streak last season against Heron Lake Okabena, and the Knights already notched a 56-32 win this season over West Lutheran.

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Glenville-Emmons followed suit on Friday with a 24-20 comeback win over West Lutheran to snap a 20-game skid. Congratulations to Wolverines coach Jared Matson and his staff.

The game was an example of how schools with higher enrollments don’t always prevail over the little guys. According to the Minnesota State High School League, West Lutheran’s enrollment is 145; Glenville-Emmons is 54.

Spring Grove, an opponent of the Wolverines and Knights, has about half of West Lutheran’s enrollment — 77 students — but is ranked No. 2 in the Associated Press’ 9-Man state polls.

Albert Lea has a good chance to snap its 21-game losing streak in the next two weeks.

The Tigers host Worthington at 7 p.m. Friday. The Trojans are 0-2 coming off a 31-30 double overtime home loss against St. Peter after a 34-0 loss at Lu Verne.

Then, Albert Lea will host Jordan at 7 p.m. Sept. 11. The Hubmen are 0-2 coming off a 42-26 loss at Fairmont after a 68-0 loss against No. 7 AAAA Marshall.

Head out to Jim Gustafson Field to support the Tigers and help to provide a memorable atmosphere for the team.

Coach Kevin Armbrust, his staff and players worked hard in the offseason, and we’re ready to see their efforts rewarded.