Year after year, it feels like a near certainty that Andale will make an appearance in the state championship game. However, last season broke the mold when the Cheney Cardinals achieved the unthinkable—not once, but twice.
Cheney first snapped Andale’s remarkable 57-game winning streak and later ended the Indians’ hopes for a state championship, marking a rare and historic setback for one of Kansas’ most dominant football programs.
“Getting back on track was the number one goal in the off-season,” head coach Dylan Schmidt said. “As a group, we only discussed a state championship.”
Andale wasted no time getting back on track, returning to the dominant style of football that has defined their program for years. The Indians proved their resilience and determination, reclaiming their place at the top.
In the Class 3A state championship game, Andale faced Holcomb and secured a decisive 36-19 victory. While the Indians allowed the most points they had all season, it didn’t matter—their relentless play and championship pedigree carried them to another state title, cementing their status as the kings of 3A football once again.
“I’m proud of our players for all the work they put in throughout the season and off season to get back on track and it’s always a blast to finish with a championship,” Schmidt said. “Hard work pays off and teams that are selfless are tough to beat.”
