CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — When a team experiences a playoff drought after a history of regular appearances, it faces a choice: either put the past behind them or use it as a driving force for improvement. The Centennial Chargers are taking a mix of both approaches.

Centennial missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 COVID-19 season, finishing with a 4-5 record in 2024.

“There are definitely events from last year that we want to move forward from, maybe revise or improve upon, but it’s still a fresh memory for us,” said head coach Kyle Jackson. “Our primary objective is clear: we want to return to the playoffs. That’s our number one aim.”

The Chargers lose quite a few seniors from last year’s team, but the returning players still bring experience despite their age.

“Although we’ve lost some seniors, I really feel that the current team has stepped up and shown they understand the game,” remarked senior right tackle Cooper Lang. “Personally, I’ve always aimed to reach the playoffs, and if we manage to succeed this year, my hope is that we advance further than before. That would mean a lot to me.”

Centennial opens up the season with a conference clash, hosting Peoria on August 29.