The defending 6A state champion Watauga Pioneers closed out the regular season in style on Senior Night, defeating St. Stephens 35-22 Friday night at Watauga High School.
The victory marks Watauga’s fourth straight and improves the Pioneers to 5-5 overall and 4-1 in conference play. After opening the season 1-5, Watauga rallied to finish in a three-way tie for the Northwestern 6A/7A Conference championship with Alexander Central and Freedom.
Now, the Pioneers turn their attention to the postseason as the No. 13 seed in the 6A West bracket. Watauga will host No. 20 Olympic in the first round of the NCHSAA playoffs Friday, November 6, at 7 p.m. at Watauga High School.
The winner advances to face No. 4 Kings Mountain in the second round on November 13.
Watauga is looking to defend its state championship after finishing a perfect 15-0 last season and defeating Middle Creek 47-25 in the 6A title game.
Congratulations to the Pioneers on a strong finish to the regular season. The road to another state championship starts Friday night in Boone!