Batavia Dominates Glenbard East, Advances to Class 7A Quarterfinals

UPDATE: The Batavia Bulldogs have clinched their spot in the Class 7A quarterfinals with a decisive 42-21 victory over the Glenbard East Rams on November 8, 2025. This marks Batavia’s fourth consecutive advance to the quarterfinals, showcasing a dominant performance that set the tone early in the game.

Junior quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren led the charge, amassing 263 passing yards and throwing three touchdowns, demonstrating an impressive ability to distribute the ball. Vander Luitgaren connected with eight different receivers in the first half alone, establishing a varied offensive strategy that caught Glenbard East off guard. “I’m just throwing them the ball, they’re making all the plays for me,” Vander Luitgaren stated post-game.

Batavia (9-2) exploded to an early lead, finishing the first half with a staggering 28-0 advantage. Senior Brett Berggren and junior Darin Ashiru were standout performers, with Ashiru recording four receptions for 42 yards and two touchdowns, while Berggren added three catches for 83 yards, including a touchdown just before halftime.

The Bulldogs didn’t neglect their ground game either. Senior Henry Hahn led with 99 rushing yards and two touchdowns, supported by senior Preston Brummel, who contributed 51 rushing yards and a touchdown. Coach Dennis Piron praised his team’s cohesive effort, stating, “The way they’ve worked all year has been very special.”

The Rams (9-2) faced a challenging start, failing to score in the first half for the first time this season. Coach John Walters rallied his team during halftime, urging them to reclaim their fighting spirit. “We just told the guys that this isn’t how we play ball,” Walters said, emphasizing their resolve to end the game on their own terms.

In the second half, senior quarterback Michael Nee stepped up, throwing for 220 of his total 313 yards and three touchdowns, igniting a fierce comeback effort. Senior Lucas Freese and junior Malachi Miller each caught a touchdown, with Freese finishing with 88 receiving yards. Nee reflected on the challenge, stating, “I didn’t want to go out with a goose egg. After that first touchdown, we just got some momentum.”

Despite the valiant second-half effort, the Rams ultimately fell short, marking the end of their season. As the team graduates 28 seniors, Walters acknowledged their significant contributions to the program’s history. “This is a team that you see and just tell everyone that this is where we want to get to,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Batavia awaits the winner of the upcoming matchup between No. 5 Moline and No. 21 Glenbard North. With their eyes set on continuing their playoff run, the Bulldogs are poised for another exciting contest in the Class 7A quarterfinals.