The 2025 Section 4 high school football season will be remembered as one of the most competitive in recent memory, with five distinct champions emerging across its five divisions.
Tioga's historic run
The five‑time state champions from Tioga entered the Class D final with a 13‑game winning streak and a roster reshaped by the graduation of star running back Logan Bellis. In a back‑and‑forth battle against Tuckahoe, the Tigers pulled away in the fourth quarter to secure a 42‑31 victory, cementing their latest sectional crown.
Elmira extended its dominance in Class AA with a 53‑18 win over Corning, marking the third straight sectional title for the Express. Union‑Endicott captured its first Class A championship since 2022, edging Horseheads 21‑20 in overtime, while Owego claimed its inaugural Class B crown by defeating Waverly 27‑7, avenging earlier losses to Maine‑Endwell. Chenango Forks followed with a 42‑6 triumph over Oneonta to claim back‑to‑back Class C titles.
Key performances highlighted the season’s narrative. Logan Bellis, who had led the section in rushing yards before his graduation, scored five touchdowns in the Class D final, underscoring his impact even after leaving the field. All‑state selections Dylan Brace of Owego, Marco Konrad of Maine‑Endwell and James Howey of Tioga earned first‑team honors, reflecting a depth of talent across the section.
All‑state recognitions and future outlook
The poll to determine the region’s best teams of 2025 closed on August 24, inviting fans to weigh in on the standout squads. The results will be announced later this month, but the on‑field achievements have already set a high bar for the next season.
As the summer heat fades, the excitement remains. Coaches are already planning strategies for 2026, and the community looks forward to seeing how the newly crowned champions will defend their titles.