The Upper Arlington High School football team is headed to the semi-finals for the first time in 21 years.
Ahead of the game, a pep rally was held for the team.
For the first time in more than two decades, Upper Arlington head coach Justin Buttermore will lead the Golden Bears to their first state semi-final since 2000.
“It’s special. You know you’re playing in big games when you’re practicing on Thanksgiving Day," Buttermore said.
The team is preparing to face Lakewood St. Edward on Friday night.
For senior athletes, they're grateful to end their high school careers on a high note.
"It’s great to see all these people out here," senior quarterback Simon Monnin said. " Faces you haven’t seen in a long time excited about the program and the game. We’re really appreciative of the support and everyone being out here.”
"It's been such a long time since the team has made it this far. It just feels great to be that senior class that has done it in so long," senior right tackle Riley Shimp said.
The stage is set for Friday night lights in Mansfield.
The winner will play in the state final on December 3.