Huntingdon football coach Eric Swenson wins 100th game in blowout of Wayne County

HUNTINGDON — Huntingdon’s football team gathered at midfield.

The Mustangs had just defeated Wayne County 49-0 in a Region 6-1A matchup. Assistant coach Robbie Miller told the team to take knee and listen. Miller had a special announcement for coach Eric Swenson. Miller presented the game ball to Swenson for his 100th career victory Friday night at Paul Ward Stadium.

Swenson didn’t realize until before the game he was approaching the milestone.

“I thought I was close, but I never basically sat down and counted or anything like that,” Swenson said. “I really didn’t go through and map it out.”

Swenson made a brief statement to the team before being congratulated by the team, friends, and family. He thanked them and got a little emotional and said he didn’t deserve to coach this team.

“It’s just one of those teams that comes along ever so often as far as their attitude and things like that,” Swenson said. “It’s just the way that they are. No coach deserves to have guys that are that dedicated. I think we all feel that way that we’re just very blessed to have guys like we have.”

The team stayed on the field for a while, soaking in the dominant win. Swenson said the victory wasn’t just for him. But it’s for every player and coach that’s been involved in the program.

“It means a lot to the staff that I have also, it’s not just my 100th win, it’s their 100th win,” Swenson said. “We’ve gone through some adversity and had some great teams. It’s just a testament to all the kids that have come through our program. It’s not about me certainly. It’s all about the effort they put in.”

Huntingdon (8-0, 4-0) had struggled against Wayne County in previous meetings. Swenson was 0-3 against the Wildcats entering the game. An efficient and an economical performance by quarterback Kade Pearson made sure the losing streak ended.

The senior had 12 carries for 187 yards and two touchdowns and was 2-of-2 passing for 32 yards and one touchdown.

“We finally got the monkey off of our back,” Pearson said. “It feels really good. … It makes it all the more special to finally beat Wayne County in (Swenson’s) 100th (win).”

Tailback Tyrese Mebane added 98 rushing yards and two touchdowns and a 21-yard reception.

Wayne County (4-3, 2-1) struggled in the first half. The Wildcats turned the ball over on downs twice and lost a fumble on a reverse. Huntingdon took advantage and iced the game when Pearson threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to give the Mustangs a 35-0 lead at halftime.

With a milestone in tow, Swenson is looking forward. He also told his team it has a chance to do something great this season. Win No. 100 was just the next step.

“It’s special because it’s 100, but it’s just more special because we got a really good shot to be region champs,” Swenson said. “I wanted it for these guys. They’ve had some adversity the last couple of years.”

Reach Luis Torres at ltorres1@jacksonsun.com or 731-425-9638 and follow him on Twitter @LFTorresIII