On November eighth, the football team competed in their first playoff game of the season against Walker Valley. The team prepared for the game by practicing all week, reviewing game film, and being extra cautious of any challenges faced on the field. The triple overtime would eventually be the reason for the playoff victory that filled the crowd with pride and excitement.
Senior captain, Gabe Cannon (12) the running back and outside linebacker for the varsity team explains his expectations going into the playoff game.
“To go out there and play as hard as I can, I mean it’s potentially my last High School game ever. I was going to leave it all out on the field and give it all I had for the win.” Cannon said.
Cannon was prepared and ready to push his absolute hardest and strive for victory in winning the game, not just for himself but also for the team and supporters. Each game Cannon steps foot on the field with motivation, aggression, and full focus on leading his team toward a win. During the Walker Valley game, a different side of Cannon’s athleticism showed its face, intense and ready for action. Cannon had a total of three touchdowns, 150 rushing yards, six tackles, and an interception for pick-six.
“I left it all out there and did everything I could to win that game. It was a really tough game with triple overtime but stayed in it the whole time and really put it all out on the field… I think I performed pretty well. I mean I would say that’s my best game all season. I mean I was glad I was able to contribute that much and do that much for our team to get the win and I’m looking to do the same thing this week.” Cannon said.
Throughout the season, the team has faced diversity, climbed mountains, and overcome roadblocks. The team is not familiar with laziness or slacking off hard work and determination. They take the competition face to face and learn from their mistakes. Cannon expresses the challenges the team faced throughout the game.
“ We definitely had ups and downs. We played really well at some points and we gave up some stuff at other points but I feel like overall we played really well as a team. We came together and we knew we had a goal in and we met that goal.” Cannon said.
Along with the ups and downs, the crowd continued to provide energy and liveliness in support of the football team. Cannon mentions the crowd’s animation for the game reflects the team overall. A fan base that is ecstatic and hyped up will bring the energy for the players.
“When we went into overtime and the student section all moved down to the end zone where we were, it really affected. I mean that energy is just insane it’s electric and it really helped us up it helped us a lot cuz at that point we were all tired we were ready to end the game but having that extra support from the stands from the students from our coaches from our teammates I mean, it just lit us back up and helped us to come out with a dub.” Cannon said.
Spectators and supporters are an important aspect of all sports. The momentum and energy from fans affect the player’s ability to perform. Cannon’s favorite memory of the playoff game was the thrill and excitement of the student section.
“My favorite moment was when we won and the student section rushed the field. Everybody rushed the field, it was insane. I mean there are people everywhere all around just jumping and yelling and it was surreal just to know that we pulled that dub out after being that close and knowing how ecstatic and happy everyone was after the game.” Cannon said.
Overall, the team performed an amazing and highly entertaining game. Many memories and highlights were cherished by the players. Cannon and his teammates alongside him are prepared and energized for the second playoff game.
