Photo Credit: Freeze Frame Photos
The Korah Colts senior football program reaffirmed its status in 2024 with a dominant 6-0 undefeated season, securing first place in the standings. Now setting their sights on a second consecutive Senior High School League Championship with training camp starting on August 20th, the Colts are preparing to capture their seventh title in the last eight years. With 25 returning players, the team enters the 2025 Sault Ste. Marie Senior High School Football League season.
The path to the title was nothing short of dominant. In the 2024 Senior Semi-Finals, Korah cruised past Sault’s St. Mary’s College (SMC) with a convincing 43–13 victory. That win marked a continued trend of excellence, as Korah has now captured six of the last seven Senior City Championships.
Their dominance extended beyond city borders during the NOSSA playoffs, where Korah overwhelmed the competition. In the semi-finals, they handled Lo-Ellen (Sudbury) with a 41–18 win, followed by a commanding 37–6 victory over Algonquin (North Bay) in the finals. The NOSSA title marks Korah’s fifth in the last six seasons, further reinforcing their supremacy in Northern Ontario football.
With their NOSSA championship in hand, the Colts once again represented the region at the 2024 OFSAA Bowl Series, taking on the #1 nationally ranked Huron Heights Warriors from Newmarket. While Korah fell 35–15 in a hard-fought battle, their ability to compete with the country’s best underscored the program’s elite status.
As the 2025 high school football season approaches, the Korah Colts are poised for another strong campaign thanks to a core of returning senior talent and an exciting group of up-and-coming players stepping into senior roles. The veteran leadership and depth on both sides of the ball make Korah one of the teams to watch this fall.
On the defensive line, Aiden Wonch enters Grade 12 as a disruptive force at defensive end. His strength off the edge and motor will be key in setting the tone for Korah’s defensive front. In the backfield, Payton Melchiorre returns at running back, bringing a bruising running style and valuable experience. He’ll share duties with AJ Coccimiglio, a versatile threat who contributes as a running back, linebacker, and kicker—making him one of the most well-rounded athletes in the lineup.
At linebacker and fullback, Koen Manchulenko adds toughness and grit, anchoring the middle of the defense while opening lanes on offense. On the offensive line, Connell Smith returns as a senior presence tasked with protecting the quarterback and driving the run game. In the secondary, Cam Williamson brings coverage ability and leadership at defensive back, while Nathan Higham adds flexibility as a defensive back, quarterback, and receiver—making him a true utility player capable of impacting the game from multiple spots.
Joining this experienced group are three standout Grade 11s stepping into senior football with big résumés. Logan Lajunen, the 2024 Jr. League MVP, is a hard-hitting linebacker with great instincts and sideline-to-sideline speed. Evan Boville, a dominant defensive end, earned 1st Team All-Province honours at the JV level and will immediately strengthen Korah’s pass rush. Rounding out the trio is Max Fuselli, another ONHSFB JV All-Province 1st Team selection, whose presence at linebacker gives the Colts added depth and tenacity on defense.
With this mix of proven senior veterans and elite younger talent, Korah’s roster is loaded with playmakers. Expect this group to lead the charge as the Colts aim for championship contention once again.
Korah’s 2024 campaign showcased the same grit, talent, and consistency that can we expect from the Colts led by coach Tom Annett. Korah has become a program that is a powerhouse for nearly a decade. With eight straight league titles, multiple NOSSA championships, and regular appearances at OFSAA, the Colts have built a legacy that continues to set the standard in high school football across Northern Ontario.
