Clifton Central QB Cash Minard breaks TD record in payback, second-round win over Dwight

The roar of the crowd wasn't just about touchdowns; it was about payback, perseverance, and rewriting history. Clifton Central’s Cash Minard, a name now etched in program lore, didn’t just lead his team to a resounding 48-12 victory over Dwight Saturday in the IHSA Class 1A second-round playoffs—he shattered a single-season touchdown pass record previously held by his mentor, Brady Shule. It's a sweet moment for a community that has seen its share of challenges, and a testament to the power of dedication and teamwork.

Minard’s five touchdown passes in Saturday’s triumph brought his season total to 35, surpassing Shule’s previous record. This win wasn't just about individual accolades; it was a cathartic moment for the Comets, who had suffered a heartbreaking loss to Dwight in last season's second round. The team's current winning streak stands at 10 games, averaging over 43 points per game and securing a spot in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2019. Illinois High School Association playoffs are a source of pride for many families in our area.

Just a year ago, Minard was a freshman, observing Shule’s record-breaking performance from the sidelines. “The first game was a struggle, but I put my mind to it and kept working,” Minard said. “I didn’t actually know I was going to play quarterback until a day into the summer workouts, and it was a struggle. But Brady [Shule] was a dog, and I just learned after him.” That initial struggle – a 7-6 loss to Salt Fork – seems distant now, considering he’s amassed 2,214 passing yards this season, just 150 shy of Shule’s record, with an impressive ratio of 35 touchdowns to only six interceptions. The dedication it takes to overcome early setbacks is a lesson that resonates far beyond the football field—a lesson about resilience and the importance of mentors.

Saturday’s performance saw Minard complete 20 of 26 passes for 240 yards and one interception, alongside five touchdowns. While the offense soared, the Dwight defense struggled to contain the Comets’ attack, particularly with Everett Bailey, their usual 1,000-yard rusher, facing an unusually stout defensive front. The passing game shined, with Kaden Neveu hauling in two touchdowns, and Derek Meier, Mayson Mitchell, and Andrew Rohlwing each catching one. Meier's versatility was also on display with a 75-yard touchdown pass to Neveu on the first play and a 50-yard punt return touchdown. Neveu himself had an outstanding day with 11 catches for 205 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating the power of teamwork and trust within the offense. Naperville Park District programs often foster these same values of collaboration and dedication.

The significance of this victory extended beyond the scoreboard. For senior Jake Thompson, it represented a long-awaited triumph over a familiar foe. “We haven’t beaten these guys all through childhood, from the [Central Stars youth football team] to JV, they always beat the hell out of us,” Thompson stated. “We finally did it, and that was a revenge game.” The collective memory of past defeats fueled a week of intense preparation, resulting in what coach Perzee described as “one of our best weeks of practice all season.” This kind of dedication and commitment—the willingness to push through adversity—is a hallmark of strong communities and successful teams.

Senior Leadership

The success of Clifton Central’s football program this season is also attributed to the senior leadership. Dwight’s team, led by seniors Collin Bachand, Ayden Collom, Joseph Duffy, and Will Anderson, had a strong run of three consecutive eight-win seasons. Coach Luke Standiford praised their legacy: “These last three seasons, those seniors have played a big part in all the success this team has had. They’ve shown what the standard is for how to win and have success as a football program.”

Community Reaction

The victory was celebrated not just by the players and coaches but also by the Clifton Central community. Head coach Jeff Perzee, a 1994 graduate of Clifton Central, expressed his pride in the team: “I went here, I coached here for a while, I left, I came back, and this win is right at the top. Going to the quarterfinals, a big win with a special group of kids, this is a special place in my heart.”

What's Next

With the victory, Clifton Central will now face Heyworth (11-0) in the quarterfinals next weekend. The Comets are eager to continue their momentum and secure a spot in the state playoffs. Head coach Jeff Perzee expressed his hopes for the future: “I just hope we can keep it rolling and keep it rolling for our fans and our community.”

The victory also marks a significant milestone for Clifton Central’s program, bringing joy and pride to the community. Coach Perzee’s sentiment reflects the shared values of the community: “This is a special place in my heart.”

Mark's Take

Watching Cash Minard’s journey this season has been a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship and perseverance. It's easy to get discouraged when facing early challenges, but Minard’s willingness to learn from Brady Shule and work through his own struggles is a testament to his character. This isn’t just about football; it’s about life. The lessons learned on the field – teamwork, discipline, resilience – are invaluable tools for navigating the complexities of adulthood. The success of Clifton Central’s football program reflects the values we cherish as a community – dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, the Comets face a formidable challenge in Heyworth next weekend. Heyworth remains undefeated at 11-0, presenting a significant hurdle for Clifton Central. But with the momentum they’ve built and the chemistry they’ve developed, the Comets have a chance to make a deep run in the playoffs. The question now is: can they maintain their focus and intensity as the stakes get higher? And can they continue to embody the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance that have brought them this far? The entire community will be cheering them on.

For those wanting to support the team, information about game schedules and ticket availability can be found on the Naperville Community Education System website. The team’s success is a source of pride for all of us, and we can all play a part in supporting their journey.

The Dwight Trojans, despite their season ending, should be commended for their consistent success. Their senior class leaves behind a legacy of excellence, setting a high standard for future players. The Will County community recognizes and celebrates the achievements of all our local athletes.

The commitment shown by both teams—Clifton Central's relentless drive and Dwight’s unwavering tradition—underscores the vital role that sports play in fostering community spirit and instilling valuable life lessons. It’s a reminder that success isn't just about winning games; it's about building character, strengthening relationships, and creating lasting memories. The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce often highlights the positive impact of such community-building activities.

As Clifton Central prepares for their quarterfinal matchup, the entire Naperville area holds its breath, eager to witness the next chapter in this remarkable season. The journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and the future remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the Comets have captured the hearts of their community and inspired a generation of young athletes.

The unwavering support of families, coaches, and fans has been instrumental in the team's success, reinforcing the importance of strong community bonds. The dedication shown by everyone involved serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. And as Clifton Central continues its playoff run, we can all take pride in being part of such a vibrant and supportive community.

The legacy of this season—the touchdowns, the victories, and the lessons learned—will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the unwavering belief in oneself. And as Cash Minard continues to write his name in the record books, he’ll be doing so as a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the enduring spirit of Clifton Central.