Well, here we are on the fortnight of a wild ride through the last championship of the PIAA fall sports season. At present, there are only 32 teams left playing football in the state of Pennsylvania and they are all on one mission; to win a state championship; THE PIAA CHAMPIONSHIP. Nothing else is the goal; the PIAA CHAMPIONSHIP IS THE ULTIMATE PRIZE.

This is an important point here because football is different than any other PIAA championship event. You see, this is a champions only event. That is a purists dream.

You win your district, you advance; no runner-ups; no arguments that our district is stronger than yours so our second, third or fourth place teams are better. No way. Champs only; game on; let's play. It's a beautiful thing and makes for great arguments by the faithful of woulda, shoulda, coulda.

The simple fact is this; those who made the plays won; those that did not are watching; you made it or not; it was in or out; you win or you lose. It's simple; cold; bold; hard facts. Win or not.

With that being said, let's tip a cap to the Clairton Bears, who set a Pennsylvania record winning 60 straight games and have the nation's longest active winning streak. During this streak, they have posted 31 shutouts; outscored opponents 2700 to 284; won 4 PIAA District VII championships and three PIAA championships. Yo baby!

Guess what; we just put all champs on notice; everyone's gunning for you......so play well; play hard; play fair and leave it all on the field. It's game time! No one in the championship brackets is going to make it easy for you to win the game. All will give their absolute best efforts, so good luck.

Finally, on a somber note, we received word that a long time loyal, highly respected, PIAA wrestling official, teacher, coach, administrator, passed away unexpectedly yesterday. Francis "Yogi" Michael was the epitome of fairness, integrity and friendship. He always had a friendly word and big smile. We, at PIAA, are saddened by his passing and our thoughts and prayers are with his family. God bless you Yogi. You will be missed.