Tag Archive for: CVC

FALCONS FALL TO HIGH POWERED EAGLES OFFENSE

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Jefferson, OH — The Jefferson Falcons wrapped up their 2024 high school football season on a challenging note, falling 56-16 to the Geneva Eagles in a hard-fought game at home. Despite the defeat, the Falcons showcased resilience and playmaking, while Geneva celebrated a dominant season finish with an impressive 9-1 record and a perfect 5-0 in the CVC Lake Division.

The game opened with Geneva’s ground attack firing on all cylinders. Less than two minutes into the first quarter, Luke Barbo pushed through Jefferson’s defensive line for a 2-yard touchdown, putting Geneva on the board at 10:31. Just three minutes later, Bryce Peet added to Geneva’s lead with a 23-yard touchdown run, making it 14-0.

Jefferson answered in electrifying fashion with a spark from Kaige Boczar. The senior standout delivered a thrilling 95-yard kickoff return, weaving through Geneva’s coverage to put the Falcons on the board. Boczar’s efforts, along with a successful two-point conversion, cut Geneva’s lead to 14-8 and energized the Jefferson crowd.

However, Geneva’s offense remained relentless. Hayden Diemer responded with a 1-yard touchdown plunge, and with another extra point, the Eagles extended their lead to 21-8 before the end of the first quarter.

Geneva’s control of the game continued into the second quarter. Mason Lomas scored on a short 1-yard run at 11:56, and Bryce Peet broke free for a show-stopping 73-yard touchdown run midway through the quarter. Heading into halftime, Geneva held a commanding 35-8 advantage.

Jefferson found the end zone again in the third quarter as quarterback Mason Kalil connected with Terry Brown on a 19-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful two-point conversion, trimming the deficit to 35-16. But Geneva quickly countered; less than 20 seconds later, Caden Proy sprinted 53 yards for another Eagle touchdown, restoring their substantial lead.

The Eagles added two more scores before the final whistle. Diemer broke free for a 38-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter, and Ricky DiPetta closed out Geneva’s scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth, sealing the 56-16 victory.

With this result, the Falcons conclude their season with a 3-7 record and 2-3 in the CVC Lake Division, while Geneva advances to the OHSAA playoffs. Geneva will face the Madison Blue Streaks (7-3) in a highly anticipated first-round rematch at home next week, where the Eagles will look to continue their playoff journey

DRAGONS CONQUER WARRIORS IN ANNUAL BATTLE FOR THE BRIDGE

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Story by: Larry Jennings

Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics

Ashtabula, OH- The Edgewood Warriors and Lakeside Dragons clashed in their much-anticipated “Battle of the Bridge,” a traditional season finale that brings out the best in both teams, regardless of their season records. The rivalry runs deep, as many players have grown up together, some even switching schools over the years. This contest, more than any other, is about pride and local bragging rights.

As expected, it was a defensive struggle early on. Both teams showed plenty of grit, keeping the first quarter scoreless. The intensity of the game was palpable, with neither defense willing to budge an inch.
The deadlock was broken midway through the second quarter, as Lakeside’s Nate Bartone plunged into the endzone from three yards out, capping off a drive that fired up the Dragons’ sideline. Evelyn Stein’s extra point put the Dragons ahead, 7-0, with 10:36 left in the half.
Edgewood responded with determination. The Warriors marched down the field, fueled by big plays and a determined drive led by quarterback JJ Dufour. With 7:19 left until halftime, Dufour connected with Ben Swartfigure for an 8-yard touchdown pass. However, the missed extra point left the Warriors trailing 7-6 as they headed into the locker room.
The second half began with more fireworks, this time courtesy of Lakeside’s Devan Miller. After an Edgewood punt, Miller weaved through defenders and showcased his speed on a thrilling 80-yard return touchdown. Stein’s steady foot made it 14-6, giving the Dragons a surge of momentum.
The Lakeside defense followed up with a game-changing moment late in the third quarter. Under heavy pressure from the Dragons’ front line, Dufour’s pass was intercepted by Jay Anthony Williams, who sprinted 88 yards for a pick-six that left the crowd roaring. The successful extra point put Lakeside up 21-6.
But Edgewood wasn’t done yet. Just seconds later, Michael Ochoa ignited the Warriors with a 60-yard kickoff return touchdown, a brilliant response that cut the deficit to 21-12. The Warriors’ attempt at a two-point conversion fell short, but the team’s spirit remained high.
Lakeside’s Devan Miller took over once again in the fourth quarter. First, he broke free for a 68-yard touchdown run with 8:32 left in the game, extending the Dragons’ lead to 28-12. Minutes later, Miller found the endzone again, this time on an 18-yard scamper, securing his third touchdown of the night. Bartone converted the two-point attempt, giving Lakeside a commanding 36-12 advantage.
Edgewood added a final score with 1:30 remaining, as Dufour connected with Jasaih Pope for a 5-yard touchdown pass. It was too little, too late, with the Dragons sealing a 36-18 victory to capture the coveted “Battle of the Bridge.”
The win not only concluded Lakeside’s season on a high note, but it also marked a triumphant end to the rivalry matchup. Both teams showed heart, grit, and a true love for the game, embodying the spirit of the annual clash. As the clock struck zero, the Dragons celebrated a hard-earned victory, securing local bragging rights until next season

DRAGONS OUTLAST SPARTANS FINAL CHARGE

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Conneaut, OH- The Lakeside Dragons secured a 42-24 victory over the Conneaut Spartans in a thrilling high school football county game. Lakeside got on the board late in the first quarter when Nate Bartone punched in a 2-yard touchdown, but a missed extra point kept the score at 6-0.

In the second quarter, Devin Miller extended the lead with a 1-yard touchdown run, and Bartone followed up with a successful two-point conversion to give the Dragons a 14-0 edge. Conneaut responded as Colby Stiltner connected with Ryan Turner for a 20-yard touchdown, though the Spartans missed the two-point attempt, leaving the score 14-6 at halftime.

The Dragons exploded in the third quarter, with Jay Anthony Williams breaking free for a 40-yard touchdown run, followed by Sincere Turner adding a 20-yard touchdown. A two-point conversion after Turner’s run pushed the score to 28-6. The momentum continued when Omar Ambriz hit Turner with a 29-yard touchdown pass, stretching the lead to 35-6.

Conneaut fought back in the fourth quarter, beginning with a 1-yard touchdown run from Stiltner. Although the two-point conversion failed, the Spartans closed the gap to 35-12. Isaiah Boles added a 3-yard touchdown later in the quarter, but another missed two-point conversion kept them at 18 points. A recovered onside kick gave Conneaut new life, and Stiltner fired a 41-yard touchdown pass to Brady Vera, bringing the score to 35-24. However, Lakeside’s Devin Miller sealed the game with a 14-yard touchdown run in the closing seconds, and the Dragons tacked on the extra point to make it 42-24.

Lakeside (3-6) will look to build on their momentum in Week 10 as they host the Edgewood Warriors (1-8) in the “Battle of the Bridge.” Conneaut (2-7) will aim to rebound when they face the Madison Blue Streaks (6-3) at home.

FALCONS RECLAIM HOADLEY CUP TROPHY

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East Ashtabula, OH- The Jefferson Falcons claimed the Hoadley Cup in emphatic fashion, defeating the Edgewood Warriors 44-20 in the 72nd meeting of this storied rivalry. This year’s game held extra significance for Jefferson running back and linebacker Matthew Webster, the great-great-grandson of Ed Hoadley, for whom the trophy is named. The Falcons, eager to avenge last year’s 54-7 defeat, delivered a statement win in front of their home crowd.

Jefferson wasted no time establishing control, with Webster breaking loose for a 26-yard touchdown run midway through the first quarter. Michael Riffle’s successful two-point conversion put the Falcons up 8-0. Just minutes later, Jefferson’s special teams came up big, blocking an Edgewood punt and setting up shop deep in Warriors’ territory. Though they couldn’t capitalize on that opportunity, the Falcons’ defense struck before the quarter’s end, sacking Edgewood’s JJ Dufour in the end zone for a safety, extending their lead to 10-0.

The second quarter saw both teams struggle to sustain drives until Webster punched in his second score of the day on a 7-yard run with just over two minutes remaining. Edgewood finally found its footing late in the half when Dufour connected with Devon Sanchez for a 7-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful two-point conversion to Nate Stewart, narrowing Jefferson’s lead to 16-8 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Jefferson’s Kaige Boczar hit Terry Brown with an 11-yard touchdown pass to extend the Falcons’ lead to 22-8. Though the Warriors forced a fumble and recovered it late in the quarter, they couldn’t convert it into points.

The final quarter was all about Jefferson’s ground game. Michael Riffle tore through the Edgewood defense for a 26-yard touchdown run early in the fourth, giving the Falcons a 30-8 lead. Edgewood answered with a 29-yard touchdown pass from Dufour to Josiah Pope, but it was too little, too late. Riffle added a 6-yard rushing touchdown, and quarterback Agnew followed with a 3-yard run to seal the win for Jefferson.

Dufour’s 60-yard touchdown bomb to Pope in the waning seconds brought Edgewood a final score, but it wasn’t enough to derail Jefferson’s dominant performance. The Falcons improved to 3-6 on the season and will now prepare to face the Geneva Eagles (8-1) in Week 10. Edgewood, now 1-8, will look to rebound when they face the Lakeside Dragons in another heated rivalry, the “Battle for the Bridge.”

SPARTANS HOLD OFF WARRIORS IN CLOSE GAME

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Story by: Larry Jennings

East Ashtabula, OH- Corlew Stadium buzzed with energy on Friday night as the Edgewood Warriors hosted the Conneaut Spartans in a crucial Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division clash on Homecoming. A packed house of fans watched an exhilarating game that saw momentum swings, big plays, and a comeback that came up just short for the home team. Despite a spirited effort by Edgewood, the Spartans emerged with a hard-fought 29-27 victory.

After a slow start by the Warriors on their opening drive, Conneaut wasted no time striking first. Ryan Stiltner capped off a steady drive with a 3-yard touchdown run. A series of penalties — an offsides and a facemask — moved the Spartans closer on the ensuing extra point attempt, and Isaiah Boles punched in a two-point conversion to put Conneaut up 8-0.
The Warriors responded swiftly. Quarterback JJ Dufour launched a 46-yard touchdown pass to Devon Sanchez, electrifying the home crowd. However, Edgewood’s attempt at a two-point conversion came up short, leaving the Spartans with an 8-6 lead.
Conneaut’s next possession appeared promising, but Riley Baldwin came up with a critical interception in the end zone, keeping Edgewood within striking distance. However, the Warriors couldn’t capitalize on the turnover, and after a short punt, Conneaut regained control. With 8:10 left in the second quarter, quarterback Colby Stiltner connected with Ryan Turner on a 4-yard touchdown pass. Thaddaeus Huya’s extra point extended the Spartans’ lead to 15-6.
Edgewood showed resilience as they found success in their running game behind Jaiven Pope’s tough off-tackle runs. Dufour then connected with Brayden Hall on a 9-yard touchdown pass, followed by Dufour’s two-point conversion run to cut the deficit to 15-14 just before halftime. Dufour continued his strong play on defense, intercepting Stiltner’s pass late in the half to prevent another Conneaut score.
The Spartans started the third quarter with a bang. On the first play from scrimmage, Boles broke free for a 75-yard touchdown run, sending the Conneaut sideline into a frenzy and pushing the lead to 22-14 after the extra point.
The Spartans kept the pressure on. Stiltner found Turner again for a 5-yard touchdown pass with 9:13 left in the game. Huya’s kick made it 29-14, putting Conneaut comfortably ahead by 15 points.
But Edgewood wasn’t done yet. Facing a critical 4th-and-15, Dufour fired a 68-yard touchdown strike to Sanchez, his second of the night, closing the gap to 29-20. Then, with just under eight minutes left, the Warriors successfully recovered an onside kick, igniting hope for a dramatic comeback. Dufour delivered again, this time connecting with Sanchez for an 11-yard touchdown — their third scoring link of the game. Kachersky’s extra point made it a two-point game, 29-27.
Edgewood attempted another onside kick, but Conneaut covered the ball and looked to run out the clock. The Warriors had one last chance from their own 20-yard line with 29 seconds remaining, but the Spartans’ defense held strong, sealing a thrilling 29-27 victory.
Conneaut, now riding high, will look to continue their momentum when they host Lakeside next week. Edgewood, meanwhile, will try to bounce back in their upcoming matchup against the Jefferson Falcons

EAGLES FLY BY DRAGONS

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- The Lakeside Dragons faced a tough challenge against the Geneva Eagles, resulting in a lopsided 43-0 defeat on Friday night. Geneva dominated from start to finish, using a combination of power running and strong defense to secure the victory.

Geneva struck early in the first quarter when Bryce Peet powered into the end zone on a 3-yard run with 5:50 left. Although the extra point attempt was no good, Geneva took an early 6-0 lead. As time was winding down in the first quarter, Geneva quarterback Luke Barbo connected with Peet for a 5-yard touchdown pass with just 11 seconds left. The extra point was again missed, but Geneva extended their lead to 12-0.

The second quarter saw Geneva break the game wide open, starting with Caden Proy’s 5-yard touchdown run at the 11:26 mark. This time, Geneva converted a 2-point attempt to make it 20-0. Bryce Peet scored his third touchdown of the night with a 5-yard run at 7:27, increasing the lead to 27-0. Just minutes later, Ricky Dipetta sprinted 52 yards for a touchdown, and the extra point made it 34-0. As the half was closing, Geneva’s defense tackled Lakeside in their own end zone for a safety, sending the Eagles into the break with a commanding 36-0 lead.

After a scoreless third quarter, Geneva capped off their dominant performance early in the fourth quarter. With 11:05 remaining, Hayden Diemer scored on a 5-yard run, and the extra point pushed the score to 43-0.

The Lakeside Dragons were unable to mount a response throughout the game, falling to 2-6 on the season. Geneva, now 7-1, continues their impressive campaign and will face the Madison Blue Streaks in a critical matchup next week for the Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division title.

The Lakeside Dragons will face a Conneaut Spartans team coming off a victory in Week 9. Both teams, with matching 2-6 records, will be hungry for another win as they meet in what should be a competitive game.

WARRIORS CLINCH FIRST DIVISION TITLE IN 19 YEARS

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Story by Larry Jennings

Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics

In a showdown to decide the Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division title, the Edgewood Warriors hosted the Jefferson Falcons in a thrilling volleyball match that captivated a packed gymnasium. Going into the contest, Edgewood carried a perfect 9-0 conference record and had already secured at least a share of the title. The Falcons, with an 8-1 record, were determined to avenge their only conference loss, which had come at the hands of the Warriors earlier in the season.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that this match would be a battle. The Warriors burst out of the gate, building a commanding six-point lead. However, the Falcons showed resilience, slowly chipping away at the deficit to pull within one point at 16-15. Edgewood responded in emphatic fashion, taking the lead to 21 -17 run to regain control. But once again, Jefferson fought back, tying the score at 25 in a nail-biting finish. In the end, it was the Warriors who found the composure to claim the first set, 27-25.
The second set proved just as competitive, with the Falcons taking an early lead. Though the Warriors fought back to tie it at 14, Jefferson held strong and pushed the set into overtime. This time, it was the Falcons who emerged victorious by the same narrow margin, 27-25, leveling the match at one set apiece.
Edgewood, however, was not to be denied. Behind the powerful kills of Faith Vencill and the precision attacks of Addy Lamson, the Warriors regained momentum in the third set. They dominated Jefferson with a 25-13 victory. The fourth set saw Edgewood in full control, sealing the match with a convincing 25-12 win.
For the Falcons, Abby Cotton and Marilla Matuz led the charge with kills, while Matuz was also a standout on defense with a game-high number of digs. But it wasn’t enough to stop the Warriors, who claimed their first conference title in 19 years with the victory.
With the win, Edgewood looks ahead to their next challenge in the postseason tournament. They will face the winner of the West Geauga vs. Cleveland Central Catholic match on October 19, with home-court advantage. Jefferson will also be in action the same day, hosting the winner of the Conneaut vs. Warrensville Heights game.
This was a season-defining moment for the Warriors, and their eyes are now firmly set on making a deep run in the sectional / district tournament

WARRIORS SWEEP BLUESTREAKS TO STAY UNBEATEN IN CVC LAKE DIVISION

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Story by: Larry Jennings
Ashtabula, OH- The Edgewood Warriors took part in a triple-header against the Madison Blue Streaks on Tuesday evening at the Edgewood Gymnasium.  The Edgewood Freshman team took the win, 2 sets to 1, and the JVs took their match in two straight.
The varsity Edgewood Warriors maintained their undefeated conference record with an impressive sweep of the Madison Blue Streaks in a Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division volleyball match. The Warriors, who improved to 15-5 overall and 9-0 in conference play, showed why they are the team to beat in the division, overpowering the Blue Streaks (9-12, 4-6) in three straight sets.
The match got off to a dominant start for Edgewood, as they blitzed Madison 25-8 in the opening set. Edgewood’s offensive precision and unrelenting attack left Madison scrambling, with senior Faith Vencill leading the charge.
In the second set, Edgewood head coach Kyra Vencill was able to rotate her roster confidently, giving key players a chance to rest while still maintaining control of the game. Despite a stronger showing from the Blue Streaks, the Warriors secured a 25-17 victory to go up 2-0 in the match.
The third set played out similarly to the second, with both teams engaging in several lengthy rallies. Madison fought to stay in the game, but Edgewood’s consistency and depth proved too much. The Warriors closed out the match with a 25-16 win, completing the sweep and inching closer to claiming the Lake Conference title outright.
Edgewood’s offense was led by a stellar performance from Faith Vencill, who racked up 18 kills on the night. MaKenna Rhodes added 7 kills, while Gianna Ianetta delivered 3 aces to keep the Blue Streaks off-balance. Luci Paolillo contributed 13 points to further fuel the Warriors’ attack.
Madison’s Olivia Miller stood out with 11 kills, and Jadeyn Zepeda added 2 serving aces, but the Blue Streaks couldn’t find a way to slow down Edgewood’s high-powered offense.
“It was great to get off to a fast start and carry momentum through the night,” said Coach Vencill after the match. “We’re getting ready to face Jefferson tomorrow, and it’s important to keep this momentum going as we work towards securing the Lake Conference title.”
With the win, the Warriors are now in position to claim the conference championship with only the one match remaining. Meanwhile, Madison will look to bounce back in their next game against Perry.
As the season winds down, Edgewood’s eyes remain firmly set on a perfect conference record and a deep playoff run.
Match Stats:
Edgewood Warriors:
– Kills: Faith Vencill (18), MaKenna Rhodes (7)
– Aces: Gianna Ianetta (3)
– Points Scored:** Luci Paolillo (13)
Madison Blue Streaks:
– Kills: Olivia Miller (11)
– Aces: Jadeyn Zepeda (2)
Next Matches:
– Edgewood vs. Jefferson
– Madison vs. Perry

BLUE STREAKS TOO MUCH FOR WARRIORS

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Story by: Larry Jennings
Photo Credit: Edgewood Athletics
Madison, OH- The Madison Blue Streaks showcased their prowess on both sides of the ball in a commanding 42-7 win over the Edgewood Warriors. The Blue Streaks improved to 5-2 overall and 2-0 in the Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division, while the Warriors fell to 1-6, struggling through a season marred by injuries and setbacks.
The game began with Madison’s defense setting the tone, stifling Edgewood’s opening drives and preventing any early momentum for the visiting Warriors. Madison struck first with a 27-yard field goal by Ben Amos, giving the Blue Streaks a 3-0 lead.
Momentum shifted further in Madison’s favor early in the second quarter when quarterback Will Randall Jr. broke free around the left side for a 19-yard touchdown run. The Blue Streaks successfully converted the two-point attempt with a pass to Chase White, pushing their lead to 11-0.
Edgewood answered back on a big play of their own, as quarterback JJ Dufour connected with Jasaih Pope on a 44-yard touchdown pass. Aidan Kachersky’s extra point cut Madison’s lead to 11-7, giving the Warriors a brief glimmer of hope.
However, that hope was short-lived. On the very next drive, Randall hit Alexander Davis in the flat, and Davis raced 63 yards for a quick touchdown, extending Madison’s lead to 18-7. After an Edgewood punt, the Blue Streaks capitalized again, with Randall punching in another score on a 1-yard run. Amos’s extra point made it 25-7.
As the first half wound down, Edgewood’s misfortunes continued when a costly fumble gave Madison another chance to extend their lead. With time expiring in the second quarter, Ben Amos drilled a 44-yard field goal to give the Blue Streaks a commanding 28-7 lead at halftime.
The second half saw more of the same from Madison. Randall and Davis connected once again for a 25-yard touchdown pass, and with Amos’s extra point, the score ballooned to 35-7. Madison’s dominance was capped off with a 31-yard touchdown run by Chase White in the third quarter. The final extra point made the score 42-7, as the Blue Streaks coasted to victory.
Madison’s defense was stellar throughout the game, forcing key turnovers and never allowing Edgewood to establish any rhythm offensively. Randall’s dual-threat ability, combined with Davis’s playmaking skills, proved too much for the Warriors to handle.
The Blue Streaks will look to continue their hot streak next Friday when they take on the Jefferson Falcons, while the Warriors will attempt to regroup as they return home to face Conneaut.
For Madison, this victory not only solidified their standing in the division but also reinforced their position as one of the teams to beat in the Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division. As for Edgewood, another tough night on the field leaves them searching for answers as their season slips further away.

LAKESIDE’S LATE GAME MAGIC LIFTS DRAGONS PAST FALCONS

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Photo Credit: CM Photography

Jefferson, OH- The Lakeside Dragons pulled off a dramatic last-minute comeback to edge the Jefferson Falcons 21-20 in a nail-biting CVC Lake Division showdown. Both teams exchanged leads throughout the game, but a late touchdown pass and key defensive play lifted the Dragons to victory in a thrilling contest that came down to the final seconds.

Jefferson started fast, with Kaige Boczar returning the opening kickoff 65 yards for a touchdown, though the extra point was missed, putting the Falcons up 6-0. Lakeside responded midway through the first quarter when Devin Miller broke free for a 36-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 6-6 after the missed extra point. Lakeside took the lead with just under a minute remaining in the first quarter as Jay Anthony Williams scored on a 20-yard run, and the extra point gave the Dragons a 13-6 advantage.

In the second quarter, Jefferson’s Michael Riffle powered his way into the end zone on a 7-yard touchdown run. The Falcons converted the two-point try, with Dylan Burlingham keeping it himself, putting Jefferson back on top, 14-13.

The game remained tight, and in the third quarter, Jefferson extended their lead when Matthew Webster rushed for a 5-yard touchdown. However, the two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the Falcons with a 20-13 lead heading into the final quarter.

With time winding down in the fourth quarter, Lakeside’s defense made a crucial play, as Jay Anthony Williams forced a fumble that the Dragons recovered. With under a minute left, Lakeside quarterback Omar Ambriz connected with Devin Miller on a screen pass that Miller took 78 yards for the game-tying touchdown. Nate Bartone’s two-point conversion run gave the Dragons a 21-20 lead.

The Falcons were unable to answer, and the Dragons held on for a dramatic victory breaking up a pass in the corner of the endzone as time expired.

Lakeside (2-5, 1-1 CVC Lake Division) will host the Geneva Eagles (6-1, 2-0 CVC Lake Division) in Week 8, while Jefferson (2-5, 1-1 CVC Lake Division) will travel to face the Madison Blue Streaks (5-2, 2-0 CVC Lake Division)  in week 8.