To see Austin Sikorski push through a seven- or eight-man front and break free for a 20- or 30-yard run in spite of the defense focusing completely on stopping him is a study in determination.

On Wednesday, with a cast and support covering the entire bottom half of his left leg and with crutches holding him up, the leading rusher for Stevens Point Area Senior High still is holding out for a chance to dazzle fans once more before his high school career ends.

Last week, the crushing news surfaced that the senior running back had broke a bone in his left foot and he likely would lose the rest of his season after undergoing surgery on Friday. But that procedure, which included putting a supportive screw into the foot, may be the key to a quick recovery.

Sikorski, who has played through injuries for weeks even before suffering the break against Oshkosh West in SPASH's WIAA Level 1 playoff game, said there is a small chance that he may put his number 28 jersey on once again should the Panthers go far enough.

"We have a great team with me and a great team without me," Sikorski said. "I think they'll succeed, it's not going to change anything, none of the goals have changed. Who knows, we win two games, I could come back," Sikorski said.

The news hinges on a set of X-rays that will be taken on the foot on Friday, with good enough news a new opportunity may surface.

"I think that was a real stroke of confidence and exactly what (Sikorski) needed at the time," SPASH coach Pete McAdams said.

Should SPASH win on Saturday against Appleton North in Level 3 play, there will only be two possible games left, the most important being the WIAA Division 1 state championship game Nov. 20, a full 24 days after the injury was suffered.

"It's kind of a stretch, but we'll see what happens," Sikorski said.

SPASH hasn't lacked for inspiration this season -- it's looking to break through into state after three straight years losing in Level 4 and it already has one fallen teammate it has been playing for in starting defensive back Josh Barnes, who suffered a season-ending concussion in Week 3. Now with Sikorski, the Panthers have an added goal, one that could make a state run feel complete.