Cheshire Rams: A Season of Gritty Comebacks and a Trip to the Title Game.

The Cheshire Rams 2025 high school football season was a remarkable journey defined by resilience, a dominant defense, and an electric offensive attack that carried them all the way to the CIAC Class L State Championship game. Finishing with an impressive 9-4 overall record, the Rams proved their ability to compete with Connecticut's top teams under Head Coach Don Drust.

Season Defining Wins

The Rams demonstrated a "never-say-die" attitude throughout the season, with two comeback victories standing out:

Stunning Daniel Hand: Trailing by 10 points at halftime, the Rams rallied for a thrilling 28-27 overtime win against the then No. 4-ranked Hand, a victory that significantly boosted team confidence.

Playoff Opener vs. Ludlowe: In the CIAC Class L quarterfinals, Cheshire faced a 19-point deficit in the first half but scored 22 unanswered points to win 32-29, with a game-winning touchdown pass from Aiden Gregorich to Liam Suomala in the final seconds.

Dominant Defense and Key Players

Cheshire's defense was a cornerstone of their success, allowing an average of just 13.4 points over their final eight games heading into the championship. Key players included:

Aiden Gregorich: The senior quarterback was the team's "Mr. Clutch," a dual-threat player who made game-winning plays with both his legs and arm, and also contributed on defense.

Michael Chopak: A force in the backfield, Chopak had several multi-touchdown games, including a dominant performance in the season opener against Xavier where he rushed for 154 yards in the first half.

Hunter Hearrin: The junior offensive/defensive lineman was a key part of the dominant front, recording three sacks in the state semifinal shutout and helping the offense control the line of scrimmage.

Noel Martinez: The junior running back/linebacker contributed significantly on both sides of the ball, notably scoring two touchdown runs in the semifinal victory.

A Trip to the Finals

The Rams' momentum carried them through a 21-0 shutout of Ridgefield in the state semifinals, securing their first trip to a state championship since 2009. The season concluded with a 34-13 loss to the top-seeded New Canaan in the CIAC Class L championship on December 13, 2025, but the team's inspiring run showcased the program's legacy and resilience.

In addition to Aiden Gregorich, Michael Chopak, Hunter Hearrin, and Noel Martinez, other key standout players for the Cheshire Rams during their successful 2025 season included a strong contingent of offensive and defensive players.

Liam Suomala: A vital receiver who caught the game-winning touchdown pass in the dramatic Class L quarterfinal comeback win over Ludlowe. He was also a top returning receiver at the start of the season.

JC Sutherland: A senior wide receiver and defensive back who was a key part of both the offensive and defensive units. He had a 34-yard touchdown reception in the season-opening win against Xavier.

Sean Kennedy and Johnny Heavens: Both senior wide receivers and defensive backs, they were critical members of the secondary and receiving corps, contributing to the team's depth on both sides of the ball.

Brendan Kilpatrick: A senior fullback and linebacker who provided a physical presence in the backfield and was an important part of the defense.

Chuck Williams: An offensive lineman who earned All-Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) First Team honors, helping anchor the line for the Rams' offense.

Evan Gonzalez: A linebacker who was named to the All-SCC Second Team defense.

Tim Reinhard: The junior kicker and punter, whose successful kicks were crucial in high-scoring games and shutouts alike.

Players to Watch for the 2026 Season

Hunter Hearrin: A dominant force on both the offensive and defensive lines, Hearrin (Class of 2026) was a key component of the Rams' success in 2025 and his presence will be vital upfront.

Michael Chopak: As a junior, Chopak was a strong running back with several multi-touchdown games. He is a significant returning threat in the backfield for the 2026 season.

Noel Martinez: A versatile player at running back and linebacker, Martinez (Class of 2026) contributed significantly on both sides of the ball and will be a key leader.

Evan Gonzalez: An impactful linebacker who earned All-SCC Second Team honors in 2025,

Gonzalez (Class of 2026) is expected to anchor the defense next season.

Tim Reinhard: The junior kicker and punter will return for his senior year, providing reliability in special teams.

Rocco Vitanza: Listed as a junior wide receiver and middle linebacker on the 2025 roster, Vitanza (Class of 2026) is another two-way player to watch.

Ash Ramos: A junior wide receiver and cornerback, Ramos (Class of 2026) adds depth and playmaking ability to the receiving corps and secondary.

These returning players will form the core of the team as they look to build on their successful 2025 campaign and make another push for a state championship.

Image Representation of Cheshire Rams Celebration.