Northern High has a lot to celebrate this week after their football team brought home their fourth state football championship in five years.

The team defeated Matthews Weddington 14 to 7 Saturday night in the NCHSAA Class 3-AA State Championship even after losing star running back C.J. Freeman when he injured his left foot. He was named offensive player of the game with 50 yards and a touchdown. Tre Marsh was named the outstanding defensive player.

Cam Harris was named Player of the Game after throwing for 136 yards, running 35 and picking off two passes.

Northern Principal Will Laine says he’s proud of his Nighthawks, not just the football team but the whole school community.

“We are very thankful for the support that our cheerleaders, band and the Northern community demonstrated on Saturday as they cheered our team on to victory,” said Laine.