The Stallion Surge: 5 Key Takeaways From The Columbus St. Francis DeSales Football 2025 Season And Historic Legacy
The St. Francis DeSales Stallions football program in Columbus, Ohio, has cemented its status as one of the state's most storied high school athletic traditions, and the 2025 season has only added to that legacy. As of the current date, December 22, 2025, the Stallions have showcased a powerful resurgence, navigating a challenging schedule in the competitive Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) landscape and demonstrating why the 'Pouring Purple' faithful have so much to cheer about. This deep dive explores the latest achievements, the new leadership driving the team, and the foundational history that makes DeSales football a perennial powerhouse.
The 2025 campaign, under the direction of new leadership, has been a significant step forward, concluding with an impressive 9-3 overall record and a strong showing in the OHSAA playoffs. The team’s success in Division II, Region 7, highlights their ability to compete at the highest level of Ohio high school football, building momentum for future seasons and reinforcing the program’s commitment to excellence both on Walt Plank Field and off it.
The 2025 Season: A New Era Under Coach Ryan Wiggins
The 2025 season marked a pivotal moment for the St. Francis DeSales Stallions, introducing a new chapter led by Head Coach Ryan Wiggins. Coach Wiggins, in his first official season at the helm, quickly established a winning culture that translated into a remarkable 9-3 overall record for the Stallions. This successful run solidified DeSales as a major threat in both the Central Catholic League (CCL) and the broader OHSAA Division II, Region 7 playoff picture.
2025 Season Snapshot and Key Victories
The Stallions’ 2025 schedule was packed with traditional rivals and tough non-conference opponents, a hallmark of the program's commitment to preparing for the postseason grind. The team demonstrated resilience and offensive firepower throughout the year, securing key victories that defined their season:
- Playoff Triumph: A significant highlight was the 33-29 victory over Ashland High School in a thrilling contest on November 7, 2025, a crucial playoff win that showcased the team's ability to perform under pressure.
- Rivalry Dominance: The Stallions continued their long-standing dominance over the Columbus St. Charles Cardinals, leading the all-time series 50-4, with their 2025 matchup on October 10, 2025, being another hotly contested CCL battle.
- Divisional Strength: Competing in Division II, Region 7, the team’s 9-3 finish positioned them among the elite, earning them a spot in the OHSAA playoffs and advancing to the second round, a significant improvement over the previous year's 5-6 record.
The transition to Coach Wiggins' system, following a solid 8-4 playoff season in 2024 under the previous staff, was seamless, focusing on a strong defensive front and a balanced offensive attack. The team’s success is a testament to the hard work of the players and the strategic vision of the coaching staff, including a strong focus on player development and fostering a deep sense of 'Stallion Pride.'
The Enduring Legacy of St. Francis DeSales Football History
St. Francis DeSales High School's football program is synonymous with excellence in Ohio high school sports. The 'Pouring Purple' tradition is built on decades of success, championship banners, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. This historical foundation is the bedrock upon which the current team continues to build.
A Tradition of State Championships
The most celebrated achievements in DeSales football history are the three OHSAA State Championships. These titles are a source of immense pride for the Columbus Catholic High School community and represent the pinnacle of high school football success in Ohio:
- 1985 State Champions: The first state title, setting the standard for the program.
- 1997 State Champions: A dominant performance in Division III.
- 1998 State Champions: Back-to-back titles, cementing an era of dominance in Division III.
Beyond the championships, DeSales has also appeared in the State Runner-Up game six times, showcasing a consistent ability to reach the final stage of the state tournament. This level of sustained success places the Stallions in an elite category among Ohio high school football programs.
Playoff and Regional Dominance
The Stallions are known for their perennial presence in the OHSAA playoffs. The program boasts a staggering 32 OHSAA Playoff Appearances and has accumulated 63 playoff wins, demonstrating their ability to thrive in the high-stakes environment of the postseason.
Furthermore, the team has captured 12 Regional Championships throughout its history, with recent regional titles in 2020 and 2016, proving that their championship pedigree is not just a relic of the past but a current reality. They have also secured 26 CCL/OCL Championships, highlighting their consistent excellence within their conference.
The Future Outlook for St. Francis DeSales Stallions
With the 2025 season successfully concluded, the focus now shifts to the future. The program's strength lies in its deep-rooted tradition, coupled with a renewed energy under Coach Ryan Wiggins. The Stallions are consistently ranked highly in the state and are always a factor in the Division II playoff race.
The coaching staff's emphasis on developing talent, combined with the strong support from the alumni network and the Columbus community, ensures a steady flow of dedicated athletes ready to uphold the 'Stallion Pride.' Key returning players for the upcoming seasons will look to build on the 9-3 record, aiming for a deeper playoff run and ultimately, a fourth State Championship banner to hang in the gymnasium.
The rigorous Central Catholic League schedule, which includes annual matchups against formidable opponents, will once again serve as the perfect proving ground for the team. The Stallions are expected to maintain their status as a top contender, making their games must-watch events for high school football fans across Ohio. The blend of historical prestige and current success makes St. Francis DeSales a compelling story to follow in the world of prep sports.
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