The 2022 LT football season was unlike any other fans have experienced in the last decade. With the quarterfinal loss, LT finished 9-3, all three losses coming from playing against three of the final four teams left in the class 8A playoffs. The team found themselves in the quarterfinals for the first time in 10 years after snaking their way past notable playoff opponents: Naperville Central High School and Plainfield North High School. Plainfield North boasted a perfect 10-0 record previous to their home matchup against LT. 

“That was a big win for us for sure,” lineman Eddie Tuerk ‘24 said. “We really cranked up our defense in the second half and that’s what gave us the advantage.”

Tuerk played both offensive and defensive lineman this year receiving an IHSA 8A All-State Honorable Mention for both positions. 

LT held Plainfield North’s offense scoreless in the final 24 minutes of the game, resulting in a 24-13 victory. Other significant wins include their 10-7 win against rival Hinsdale Central on Sept. 9. LT hosted the Red Devils of Hinsdale Central High School for their annual “whiteout” game, this being their first home game of the season. 

“Beating Hinsdale set the tone for the rest of the season,” linebacker/wide receiver Noah Pfafflin ‘24 said. “We couldn’t have asked for a better environment. Not only did the win feel great but it felt even better knowing we were able to make all the LT fans and the community proud.” 

Although LT’s season concluded on Nov. 12 following their 17-30 loss against Loyola Academy High School, the praise and recognition continues to shine for captain Danny Pasko ‘23, who played running back and linebacker for the team this year. Pasko was named to the IHSA 8A All-State Team after setting a program record 83 tackles, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, 15 sacks, and five rushing touchdowns while playing both running back and linebacker. 

“Making the All-State Team means a lot to me,” Pasko said. “That [was] a personal goal I had set for myself before the season started and I know my younger self [would be] proud of all the hard work my teammates and I put in.” 

This year’s team was composed of mostly seniors and juniors, although some sophomores were moved up to the varsity team for the playoffs. 

“Our senior group this year was special, they put in a lot of work over the off-season but most importantly they believed and played for each other,” varsity head coach Jon Beutjer said. “Outside of LT these guys do so much that goes unnoticed.” 

Whether it was spending time in the weight room, organizing their own seven on sevens, or even taking the time to watch film and study their opponents, these are all reasons for the team’s success this year, Beutjer said. 

“Our seniors held our underclassmen accountable, and we have them to thank for a great portion of the achievements we reached this year,” Beutjer said.

Gallery • 18 Photos

(Pictured from left to right) Cooper King ‘23, Graham Smith ‘23, James Georgelos ‘23, Danny Pasko ‘23, and Head Coach Jon Beutjer lock arms as they approach midfield for the coin toss before their first round matchup against Naperville Central (Klos/LION).