Running back Hayden Groves then scored the go ahead touchdown early in the first quarter.  Emporia State answered back with a touchdown of their own and took the lead 7-6 because Washburn kicker Jeremy Linn missed the extra point.  Washburn then scored a field goal on their next drive to take the lead and hold it until the end of the first quarter.

 

The flood gates opened in the second quarter when ESU scored 17 unanswered points and 21 more in the third as well. Washburn held Emporia to only 10 points in the fourth quarter while scoring 14 themselves.  This was all for not as they finished the game and their season with a loss.

 

“I thought we didn’t finish the season strong and that the team didn’t play with enough physicality.  We were a young team that needed a year under our belt.” said Hayden Groves, junior running back.

 

As disheartening as this loss was for Head Coach Craig Schurig, his players were able to find something positive to focus on afterwards.  It was senior day after all and gave those who were playing their last game a chance to think back through their collegiate career at Washburn.

 

“It’s been an awesome experience to be with the Washburn family,” said Steve Dieckhaus, senior offensive lineman.  “I wouldn’t change it for anything.” Dieckhaus recently received First Team All MIAA honors for his play this season.

 

Tight End Tore’ Hurst was named to the Second Team All MIAA.  Kyle Duncan, Corey Walker, Jayveri Kelly, Bryce Atagi, Jahmil Taylor, Devon Connors, Willie Williams, and Aaron Hummert all received honorable mention as well.

 

With the departure of the 2012 squad of seniors it is now time for new leaders to step up.  Groves believes that he can be a leader going into the 2013 season and sees leading by example as a key aspect for that to happen.  “I want to become the starter next season.” said Groves.  “Bigger and stronger” are things that he says he will focus on for offseason conditioning.  “I want to be a team leader and lead by example.  Doing the little things and making sure everyone is working hard and on the same page.”