By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

A bit of history was made during Mogadore’s 48-13 victory over the Columbus Crusaders on Saturday.

After 26 years, the Pendergast name was responsible for delivering points as a place-kicker for the Wildcats.

In the historic 1996 state-championship football game — considered by many in the area and throughout Ohio as the greatest high school football game ever played — Aaron Pendergast booted the game-winning 31-yard field goal to give Mogadore the Division VI championship over St. Henry.

The kick completed an unimaginable 35-3 deficit and gave the Cats a thrilling 61-58 triumph in triple-overtime.

The complete game can be watched here.

On Saturday, Mogadore freshman Tyler Pendergast, who was filling in for an injured Austin Constantine, kicked an extra point as part of the team’s win over the Crusaders.

“I felt luck to witness this kick 26 years after that incredible (1996 state championship) game,” said Rich Brumbaugh, who is a retired Mogadore athletic director.

A unique story, but one that makes Portage County sports so special.