Following a heartbreaking defeat to Elkhorn that concluded the 1996 season, the Thunderbolts completed district and post season play in 1997 by outscoring opponents 231-14, including a 26-0 victory over Elkhorn in the state semi-finals on a frigid day in November that ended Elkhorn’s 28 game winning streak.

Pius X celebrated more all-state players (8) than any team in Pius X history en route to an 11-1 championship season that saw the Bolts defeat teams by an overage of over 37 ppg, including a 39 point victory in the state championship game over Lexington.