NEWS CHRONICLE PHOTOS BY STEVE BRANT – STC senior linebacker Kyle Youngbear attempts to take down Centerville quarterback Mack Murdock.

It was a tough 2026 homecoming for the STC Trojan football team, as Centerville came to town and left with a commanding 40-6 victory.

The contest remained close for the first quarter and a half. After Centerville scored on their first possession of the game — an 11-play, 80-yard touchdown drive — the Big Red took an early 6-0 lead. However, the Trojans stymied Centerville on their next two offensive possessions, forcing a turnover on downs and a punt.

But turnovers doomed the STC offense, as they threw two interceptions late in the second quarter. The Big Red capitalized on both, returning one for a touchdown and taking the other possession on a 7-play touchdown drive. At the half, Centerville held a 20-0 advantage.

Adding 20 more points in the second half, the Big Red found themselves up 40-0. STC added a late touchdown in the game on a 10-play, 85-yard touchdown drive. Highlighted by the running of senior running back Eric Medina, the Trojans added a 51-yard pass from junior quarterback Ryan Brant to junior receiver Izak Schroeder to extend the drive. In the end, Medina rushed for a 7-yard touchdown to put the final score at 40-6.

For the game, Medina finished with 58 yards rushing on 19 carries. Brant threw for 97 yards on 11 of 14 passing. Senior Eli Cruikshank had 6 receptions for 24 yards, while Schroeder had 2 receptions for 58 yards. Senior Kyle Youngbear finished with a team high 14 tackles. Other leading tacklers included: sophomore Jet Chyma (7), junior Edwyn Perez (6.5), senior Josiah Houghton (6), and Cruikshank (6).

STC senior Eli Cruikshank looks for room to run against Centerville.

The Trojans will travel to Pella on Friday night, Oct. 9, to take on Pella Christian. The Eagles come into the contest with a record of 0-5. Last season, STC beat Pella Christian in a thrilling, close contest, 28-27. Kickoff will be at 7 p.m. at Pella Christian High School.

STC senior Eric Medina rushes against Centerville. Medina ran for 58 yards in the game.

STC junior Jonas Sheetz attempts to block the pass of Centerville quarterback Mack Murdock.