Every town has its team. In Zionsville, Indiana, that team is the Zionsville Eagles. Football runs deep in this community. Over the years, the Eagles have made their mark. They’ve had thrilling wins, unforgettable players, and moments that brought the whole town together.
Let’s take a look at some of the top Zionsville football moments that helped shape their winning legacy. These aren’t just game stats. These are the moments that made fans cheer, dreams soar, and Zionsville proud.
1. The 1996 State Championship Run
This was the year everything changed. In 1996, Zionsville made it all the way to the state championship game. It was one of the most exciting seasons in their history. The team was fast, strong, and determined. Fans packed the stands for every game.
Quarterback Mike Howard led the charge. His accuracy and cool attitude made him a fan favorite. The defense, led by linebacker Joe Hammond, dominated the field. Play after play, they crushed their opponents.
Though they didn’t win the final game, their journey there became legendary. It was the beginning of a new era for Zionsville football.
2. Friday Night Lights Against Carmel – 2010
Few games were as electric as the Friday night showdown with Carmel in 2010. Carmel was a powerhouse. They had size. They had speed. Nobody gave Zionsville a chance.
But Zionsville came ready. The team played their hearts out. The defense was rock-solid. The offense hit explosive plays. Running back Nate Williams had over 150 yards and two touchdowns.
The final score? 21-20, Zionsville. The Eagles stopped Carmel’s last-minute drive to win the game. The student section stormed the field. It was pure joy and total chaos—in the best way.
3. Taylor Wilkes’ Record-Breaking Season – 2015
Every few years, a star player comes along. In 2015, that star was wide receiver Taylor Wilkes. That season, he set school records for receptions, touchdowns, and receiving yards.
He had 89 catches, 1,200 yards, and 14 touchdowns. These weren’t just stat-padding numbers. They made a difference in real games. His catches helped the team win big games and stay competitive against top schools.
Wilkes’ ability to go up and grab the ball over defenders made him highlight-reel material. Scouts noticed. Fans adored him.
4. The 2018 Comeback vs. Westfield
In 2018, Zionsville faced a tough Westfield team. By halftime, the Eagles were down 28-7. The fans were nervous. But head coach Scott Turnquist gave a rousing speech in the locker room.
What happened next was magic.
The Eagles came out firing. Quarterback Ben Slaton threw three touchdowns in the third quarter. The defense stepped up with two big interceptions. With five minutes left, Zionsville took the lead for the first time.
Final score: 35-31 Zionsville.
Fans called it the greatest comeback they’d ever seen. And they weren’t wrong.
5. The Inception of the “Green Out” – 2003
In 2003, Zionsville introduced something new: the “Green Out.” Everyone in the crowd wore green shirts, hats, and face paint. The idea was to create a sea of green in the stands to boost team spirit.
The first Green Out was against Noblesville. And it worked like a charm. The noise was deafening. The energy was through the roof. Zionsville won in overtime, 27-24.
The “Green Out” became a staple at big games. It’s not just about fashion. It’s about pride.
6. Jack Pruitt’s Game-Winning Kick – 2020 Sectional Final
The 2020 sectional final was a tense showdown. Zionsville vs. Fishers. The score was tied at 17 with seconds left. Everyone held their breath.
Enter kicker Jack Pruitt. With 3 seconds on the clock, he lined up a 42-yard field goal. The crowd fell silent. The snap, the hold, the kick… it sailed through the uprights!
Zionsville won 20-17.
It was one of the most clutch moments in school history. Pruitt became a local hero overnight.
7. The 2019 Student Section Awards
You can’t talk about Zionsville football without mentioning the fans. Especially the students. In 2019, their student section was named the best in the state by the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).
They brought drums, megaphones, and wild costumes. They never stopped cheering. Rain or shine, win or lose—they showed up.
This award wasn’t just about volume. It was about community. It showed how Zionsville football brings people together.
8. Bradford’s 4-INT Game – 2009
Defense wins games. And in 2009, cornerback Aiden Bradford showed what elite defense looks like. In a critical conference game, he picked off FOUR passes in a single night.
Each one was more dramatic than the last. One was a one-handed grab. Another sealed the game in the final minute. He read the quarterback like a book.
That performance is still talked about like a legend. It was pure defensive dominance.
9. Breaking Through to Semi-State – 2021
Reaching the semi-state round is tough. In 2021, Zionsville finally broke through. Led by coach David Mauk, the team had a powerhouse season.
With strong teamwork and clever play calls, the Eagles pushed deeper into the playoffs than most expected, beating top-tier competition along the way. The win against Fort Wayne Snider was especially sweet. Final score? 31-28.
Though their playoff run ended at semi-state, it was clear. Zionsville football was back and better than ever.
10. The Future Looks Bright
Zionsville football isn’t stuck in the past. The future looks bright. Young players are stepping up. New coaches bring fresh ideas. The town still shows up in droves every Friday night.
From touchdowns to tackles, from loyal fans to legendary players—Zionsville football keeps growing. The legacy is real, and every season adds a new chapter.
Who knows what the next big moment will be? One thing’s for sure: when it happens, the Eagles will soar, and Zionsville will be watching, cheering, and believing.
Go Eagles!