Saints Gear Up for Playoff Showdown: Coach Braucht Reflects on Season and Strategy

NORMAL Ill. – In a pivotal moment for Bloomington Central Catholic Football, head coach Kevin Braucht reflects on a rollercoaster season as his team prepares to face the formidable Tri-Valley Vikings in the first round of the IHSA 2A playoffs. With a hard-fought 5-4 record and a historic victory against Tolono Unity under their belts, the Saints are primed for the challenge ahead, emphasizing the critical role of their offensive and defensive lines in this win-or-go-home clash.

Braucht is entering his 6th year as head coach of the Saints. The Saints finished the 2024 regular season with a 5-4 record, and 3-3 record in the Illini Prairie conference.

Braucht added this when asked about his team so far this season.

“We are 5-4 currently, kind of had an up and down season. But we are at a point right now where this is win or go home football.”

The highlight so far of the Saints’ season was their game versus Tolono Unity. The Saints went on to win the game 20-10 but Coach Braucht was able to add on to what made this game stand out; 

“We have never beat Unity on the road in my time here as coach…the way we played on both sides of the balls really stood out to me. Very tough conditions with 40 mph winds. The kicking game was obsolete. But overall a solid team win.”

Coach Braucht feels this Saints squad is ready and battle-tested ahead of their game versus Tri-Valley.

“Our offensive and defensive lines are gonna be key to stopping this team. The guys up front are gonna dictate the traction of the game for us.”

The Saints have worked hard to get to where they are right now. Their game later tonight will be one that is not far from Central Catholic. Their opponent, the 8-1 Vikings of Tri-Valley in Downs, Illinois.

This will be round one of the IHSA 2A playoffs. If the Saints win, they will play the winner of Illini West and Chicago Christian.