Menominee senior Lucas Thune, 73, warms up before the MHSAA Division 7 regional semifinal game against Houghton Lake on Nov. 2, 2024 at Walton Bresch Field in Menominee. I am uploading it. (“The Big Dog” Mitch Vosburg/Daily Press)
MENOMINEE — Many high school football teams dream of playing a playoff game.
Some want to take home the district championship trophy. Some people may be tickled to win the game.
Then there’s Menominee.
The Maroons don’t just want to win one game. They don’t just want to win a district championship.
In 2024, the Maroons are doing everything they can to reach Ford Field in Detroit with a shot at a state championship. That was the stage they were at a year ago, ultimately falling 34-30 to giants Jackson Lumen Christi.
The road to Ford Field began Saturday when Maneomy hosted Houghton Lake in the district semifinals.
The Maroons defeated the Bobcats 62-6. And for the 15 seniors, the win brings them one step closer to returning to Ford Field on Thanksgiving weekend.
One of those seniors is Lucas Thun. A young behemoth that influences offense and defense.
Daily Press Sports Editor “Big dog” Mitch Vosburg sat down with Thune to talk about the 2024 season, revenge tour and more.
Big Dog: Well, this is my senior year and I’m getting my first playoff win. What does it feel like?
Lucas Thun: It’s electricity. Actually, this feeling is the same as last year. We made this deep run and I feel like we can come back again with the same energy from everyone on the team. None of us want each other to quit football. we love each other
BD: Every team is different in some way, shape, or form. How will this Menominee team be different from the 2023 team?
LT: Our defensive line. We are much bigger and much more robust there. We’ve been working on that in the offseason. I think the will to win is already baked into us. we are here now. Ready to play right away.
BD: When do you feel like you guys hit your stride this season?
LT: Losing to Kingsford really helped us. It showed everyone that we are not invincible. Sometimes you lose. Now we have to play these games like we are not invincible.
BD: I know Menominee has a proud tradition when it comes to football. What are you most proud of playing for Menominee?
LT: Everyone is here to watch over you. People who played in 1970 are here to watch the Maroons. It’s a family and the home environment is insane. I love everyone on the team. I think what makes me most proud of playing for this team is the family environment. Being by everyone’s side.
BD: What is your pre-game meal?
LT: The subway. Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich topped with lettuce, pickles, cucumber, onion, chipotle sauce, and peppercorn ranch. Very good. Very good.
BD: Who do you think you get along best with on the team and why?
LT: Everyone. That’s the difference with our team. I can go out there and spend all day with any of those guys. It’s not just about cliques and groups and everyone. I love everyone, they love me too. I don’t think there is any other team like this.
