Photo Credit: Freeze Frame Photos
After closing out the 2024 Sault Ste. Marie High School Football League season with a 2-4 record and a hard-fought semi-final loss to the St. Mary’s Knights, the Superior Heights Steelhawks are ready to turn the page. The team returns to the turf August 21st at Superior Heights with a fresh mindset, a determined attitude, and a roster brimming with returning talent and offseason progress.
With a strong group of grade 12 players leading the way, the Steelhawks are optimistic about the 2025 campaign. “We’re excited about the experience we have coming back,” said coach Matt DeSando. “This group has been working tirelessly throughout the offseason, putting in countless hours of training and preparation. We know the league will be competitive, and we’re ready for that challenge.”
Much of the Steelhawks’ success will hinge on their strength in the trenches. Anchoring the line are Grayson Maneiro, Keegan Staniforth, and Lucas Cruikshank—a trio known for their toughness, consistency, and leadership. Their performance will be key in establishing physicality on both sides of the ball.
Under center, quarterback Dylan Wootton returns to guide the offense. His experience and steady presence in the huddle will be critical as the Steelhawks aim to be more efficient and explosive in 2025. Wootton will have plenty of support from skill players like Ben Trevisanut and Max Shillingford, whose playmaking ability and veteran instincts will help drive the offense forward.
Defensively, the Steelhawks will count on proven contributors like Ethan Fisher, Cooper McAuley, Oliver Smith, and Carter Girardi to set the tone. In addition, a number of young players are expected to step up and make an immediate impact, adding energy and depth to a hungry defensive unit.
Headlining our group is Sault College Cougar commit for 2026, Will Middaugh who we feel very confident with in all three phases of the game. Coming off a highlight grade twelve season, we turn to him to anchor our team with toughness, grit, football IQ and provide leadership.
With experience, leadership, and a commitment to hard work, the 2025 Superior Heights Steelhawks are aiming to make noise in the league this fall—and they’re ready to show just how far they’ve come.
