RIMERSBURG — The Union football team has been setting new standards for the program throughout the season.

Friday could mark another first for the Golden Knights.

Union (9-1) will host Elk County Catholic (7-2) in a District 9 Class A quarterfinal at 7 p.m.

“Union has never had a 10-win season, so that’s one of our goals,” said Union coach Dave Louder. “Also a first-ever home playoff win would be a huge notch in our belt. ... It’s all part of making history as a team.”

Despite great anticipation for a postseason clash, Louder hopes his team approaches the contest like it’s any other game.

“We’re keeping things light. We don’t want to put too much pressure on the boys,” the coach explained. “They know it’s a big win to try to earn. It could mean a lot for the school and the seniors.”

The seniors in particular have led a steady rise in the Union football program.

The group saw the Golden Knights win just two games — one by forfeit — during their freshman year, but Union has been heading upward ever since.

The seniors would love nothing more than to treat the home crowd to a victory in their final showing on the Union High School field.

“These guys have been with us since their freshman year. They’ve seen the team get better and better,” said Louder. “To be able to do things that haven’t been done is just huge.”

Quarterback Brody Shick has thrown for 1,032 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions this season, while Cody Kline has paced the rushing attack with 489 yards on 130 carries. Keenan Rankin has tallied 250 yards rushing and 256 receiving.

“Union is a nice ballclub,” said Elk County Catholic coach Travis Skrzypek. “They have a couple backs who are quick and the quarterback is pretty mobile. They’re able to stretch the field out with some success.”

Union’s chances to reach the semifinals — where top-seeded Port Allegany awaits — should be bolstered with the expected return of Kaden McGregor and Aaron Graham to the lineup.

McGregor has missed the past two games with a toe injury, while Graham was sidelined last week with a shoulder problem.

“They look like they’re a green light for Friday barring any setbacks,” said Louder.

McGregor has been key to the Knights with 368 yards rushing, 248 receiving and 13 total touchdowns. Graham leads the team with 412 receiving yards, averaging nearly 30 yards per catch.

The injuries could prove to be a blessing in disguise, as the Crusaders didn’t have a chance to heavily scout either player.

“Hopefully, it’s kind of like a secret weapon,” Louder said. “We know about them and the KSAC knows about them, but I don’t think Elk County is aware of how dangerous Kaden and Aaron can be.”

However, the Crusaders — the No. 3 seed in the Allegheny Mountain League — have some weapons of their own.

Brock McCullough leads Elk County Catholic in rushing with 887 yards and eight touchdowns on 128 carries. Hank Capiello provides the Crusaders a secondary rushing threat at fullback with 580 yards and six scores on 79 attempts.

Louder believes playing at home will be an advantage, while Skrzypek admits it’s never easy to travel for a big game.

“It’s always tough being on the bus for an hour and a half or so,” said Skrzypek. “We’ll try to get there early, stretch our legs out and see what we can do.”