Marian University celebrates their NAIA football title

INDIANAPOLIS(WISH) - In a 30-to-27 win, it was a sweet ending marking the Marian University’s incredible journey. A football program that started nearly seven years ago has now climbed to the top.

In Thursday night’s win against Morningside College from Iowa, the Knights are bringing with them a NAIA national trophy that symbolizes not just a football win, but a story full of obstacles on their journey to get here.

A game won in overtime will go down in the history books for Marian University.

“It took strong leadership from the top, even though some people didn't want football, but now we've checked off all the four reasons why we started,” explains Marian University football coach Ted Karras.

Coach Karras was hired in 2006 when Marian University decided they wanted a football team. The problem was they didn't have a football field or even a place to practice. Longtime supporters like Sister Norma Rocklage thought it wasn't going to work.

“I have to tell you, initially I was a  naysayer because  … I was afraid academically we wouldn't get students, and who would want to come to a school where they didn't have a place to practice or a place to play?” explains Sister Rocklage.

In just a few short years the school has built a field and brought on players that can bring home national titles.

“It’s an incredible story for sure,” says Coach Karras. “I'm just proud of our players and coaches and everyone that's helped turn this thing into a national championship.”

The team was scheduled to return home from Rome, Ga. to a welcome home ceremony Friday night.