Highlanders Lose in Semi-Finals 35-0

The Rochester Adams Highlanders ended their season and 20 game consecutive win streak with a 35-0 loss to Muskegon on Saturday November 20^th. 

Not much seemed to go right for the Highlanders on this day as their high-powered offense was stymied by Muskegon.  The inability to run the football against the lightening–fast opponent caused mistakes, turnovers and penalties that were uncharacteristic of Adams this year.  Even the large and agile offensive line that had delivered all year long struggled to open holes. 

Muskegon opened the scoring with a 9 yard run late in the first quarter that came after an Adams fumble at the 23.  A 12 play, 67 yard scoring drive came next for Muskegon, which was then followed with a touchdown that came from a lofted pass with no time left on the clock before the half.  A 21-0 Halftime lead, although not insurmountable, seemed like an unlikely hill for the Highlanders to overcome. 

The Highlanders never game up and fought hard right to the end.  They displayed the championship- caliber character that we have all come to marvel.  Although there were many teary eyes from the players and fans, everyone realizes the 2004 Highlanders can hold their head high.  A 2003 championship, the State’s longest win streak this year at 20 games and an appearance at the semi-finals is a resume that any player and program would love to have. 

The pain the players now feel will eventually turn to smiles as they remember this year.

For the underclassmen:  A hard off-season workout regime and emergence of leadership will continue the momentum the program has gained the last two years.  We know that you are up to the task. 

For the Seniors:  Although many of you will scatter in the next year after graduation, you share a common bond, a brotherhood, a link with each other that will last a lifetime.  The memories of your senior year of Football at Adams. 

To all of the members of the 2004 Highlander squad: 

Thank you… for the joy and proud feeling that you have given to all of your fans. 

Thank you for your teamwork and the fine character that you’ve displayed. 

And most of all, Thank YOU for being the role model that WE can all aspire too. 

You truly are CHAMPIONS!

GO HIGHLANDERS!