He can’t believe it's been 25 years already, but former Jenison Football Coach Dave Larkin can remember the showdown against Grand Rapids Creston like it was yesterday.

It was the district championship game at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids and on paper the Wildcats didn’t stand a chance.

“They had seven D1 scholarship players on their team, we didn’t have any, and we were playing on their home field,” Larkin said. “They were probably the most talented high school team I’ve ever coached against. It was an exciting game. Our players didn’t flinch, they never gave up, they played their hearts out, and we came away with a great win against a great team.”

The winningest football team in school history, the 2001 Jenison football squad, will be honored at Thursday’s home football opener.

In between the first and second quarter, an announcement will be made acknowledging the team and their accomplishments. Team members present at the game will stand at their seats as pictures from that historic year will be shared on the video board, Athletic Director Michael Johnston said.

Larkin said it's a great honor for the players to be recognized for their amazing season that ended with a state runner-up finish. The players, parents, and coaches are all looking forward to the reunion.

“They had a great work ethic, commitment, positive attitude, overcame adversity, never gave up, and were fun to coach,” Larkin said. “... We were the only team in Jenison Football history to play in the state championship game. Also, we won more games (11) in that season than any other team.”

The defense was known for being tough, hard hitting and physical, even though they were undersized compared to most teams. Defensive Coordinator Kelly Cole said when they walked on the field they truly believed they could beat anyone.

"Defensively...they played team defense, each player doing their job and trusting their teammates to do likewise," Cole said. "My favorite memory was the Creston game when Joe Diekevers made an incredible one handed interception that turned the tide of the game. It was the result of tremendous athletic ability and preparation because we repped that play over and over in practice. The whole defense was like that and  they were a joy to coach."

The offense was exciting as well and the team broke the school single season rushing and passing records in the same season.

Larkin said besides the Grand Rapids Creston victory, he remembers the excitement, hype, and amazing support from the Jenison community for the state championship game, along with the police and fire department escort from I-196 to the high school with sirens blaring and lights flashing.

He concluded that the evening should spark extra excitement for the school's football program.

"Hopefully this recognition will give hope and inspiration to future Jenison football teams to do the same," he said.