After the 38-8 loss to Hazelwood Central in the Missouri Class 6 football semifinal Nov. 21, some may consider the 2009 season a failure since Oakville Senior High School didn’t make last Friday’s championship game at the Edward Jones Dome.

But the Tigers have nothing to be ashamed about considering the progress Oakville has seen over the past five years under head coach Arlee Conners.

Under Conners’ watchful eye, Oakville has amassed a record of 32-23 with two district championships as well as the Nov. 21 appearance in the Class 6 semifinal game, which was a first in school history.

Oakville quarterback Joe Plassmeyer was hands down one of the best in the area and the best in school history with more than 2,000 yards passing, 204 yards rushing and a total of 18 touchdowns.

On defense, Zach Melber was one of the top defensive players in the area with a total of 129 tackles, 6 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries and 1 interception before the Nov. 21 game.

Oakville fans also should consider some of these highlights throughout the course of the season:

• In week 2 against Mehlville, running back Paul Taylor scored three touchdowns against the Panthers for Oakville’s first regular season win against the Panthers since the 2005 season.

• In week 8 against Northwest, Plassmeyer completed 22 of 33 passes for 306 yards and two touchdowns. Mike Cyliax caught 10 of Plassmeyer’s passes for 153 yards and one touchdown. Cyliax racked up 511 yards receiving this year, which is third best in school history.

• Week 9 saw Oakville running back Darrion Moore carry the ball 20 times for 172 yards and two touchdowns against Seckman. Moore’s 911 yards rushing is third best in school history.

So the bottom line is this: Tigers, walk the halls of Oakville with your heads held high because you’ve gone further than any other team in school history.

You electrified the Oakville community and made Friday-night football a ritual for many of your fans. When your 20-year high school reunion comes around in 2030 — it will come much quicker than you think — everyone will remember that you guys made the Final Four and not the final score.

Stephen Glover is the Call’s longtime sports correspondent.