Saber Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Franklin High School

Sports run deep in Franklin, and Franklin High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Saber uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Franklin High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.

1. Sean McGuire – CFL Quarterback and Grey Cup Champion

Franklin High School alum Sean McGuire went on to play quarterback at Western Illinois before launching a professional football career in the Canadian Football League. Signed by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2019, he served as a backup and short-yardage specialist, scoring his first touchdowns in 2021 and helping the team win a Grey Cup championship. McGuire eventually earned a starting opportunity and completed his CFL career with a total of five rushing touchdowns. (Sources: Western Illinois University Athletics, CFL.ca)

2. Lily McCreary – Multi-Sport Standout and Flag Football Trailblazer

A four-sport athlete at Franklin High School, Lily McCreary made history as the quarterback of the school’s newly formed girls flag football team. In addition to playing varsity soccer, basketball and club softball, she helped lead Franklin to a strong debut season in flag football, earning media recognition for breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. McCreary also competed in the Packers' QB Challenge and plans to pursue a career in physical therapy. (Source: FOX 6 Now)

3. Evan Kruczynski – Professional Baseball Pitcher

Evan Kruczynski helped lead Franklin High School to back-to-back state baseball titles before continuing his pitching career at East Carolina University. After being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017, he progressed through the minor leagues and earned Florida State League All-Star honors and reached Triple-A. He wrapped up his pro career with the Lake Country DockHounds in independent ball. (Sources: MiLB.com, East Carolina University Athletics)

4. Kaylee Knaak – Flag Football Team Captain and National Award Nominee

As a team captain and founding member of Franklin High School’s girls flag football program, Kaylee Knaak quickly became a standout leader on and off the field. During the team’s inaugural season, she led in tackles and pass breakups while maintaining a 4.1 GPA and contributing extensively to community service. In 2025, the Green Bay Packers nominated Knaak for the Maxwell Football Club’s Girls National Flag Football Player of the Year award. (Source: Packers.com)

5. Eric Bugenhagen (‘Rick Boogs’) – NCAA Wrestler Turned WWE Superstar

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