PELLA, Iowa — After missing the post season the last couple of years, the Pella Dutch are back.
They finished 6-3 this season, the complete opposite of last season where they went 3-6.
"We're super hyped up to play more football," said senior quarterback Luke Hardman. "You know, last year was kind of tough going 3-6. This year, we're definitely more excited to play more football, not be done yet, not turn in our pads yet."
Even though their record may not have reflected it last year, they started to build a foundation for future success and it's paying off big time.
"They have something to prove this year," said head coach Jay McKinstrey. "That's our slogan. They wanted to get back to the playoffs and now that we're here, we didn't come this far just to come this far. We want to keep going and our guys are excited about that."
With impressive wins over top teams like Xavier and Bondurant-Farrar, Pella has become one of the teams to watch in Class 4A.
"Growing up, we always went to the games in the dome and watch the Dutch win championships," said senior linebacker Carson Leathers. "So, we all knew that one day we wanted to do that and now our time has come so giving it all we have."
Pella will go on the road to face Bondurant-Farrar in the first round of the 4A playoffs Friday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m.