LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - Bishop Neumann is back in the NSAA State Football Finals for the second straight year. However, the Cavaliers’ journey has looked much different than their runner-up finish in 2024. All-State running back Conor Booth is now in college and Bishop Neumann has a new head coach.

Joe Pavlik guided the Cavaliers to an 11-1 season, including an impressive 34-0 shutout over previously-unbeaten Kearney Catholic in the Class C2 Semifinals. Pavlik said his players deserve praise for Bishop Neumann’s success. Pavlik, who previously coached at Syracuse, praised his current squad for embracing him and his coaching style.

Bishop Neumann plays Grand Island Central Catholic in the Class C2 championship at 2:45pm on Tuesday.

Copyright 2025 KOLN. All rights reserved.

See Full Page