The FVHS varsity football team has officially advanced to the playoffs after a season of grit, teamwork and dedication. From the first kickoff to the last regular season game, the players demonstrated that discipline and unity can lead to success. With excitement growing, the team is ready to carry their positive attitude into the postseason.
The players’ bond has been an important aspect of their journey. Whether celebrating a major win or recovering from a difficult loss, they’ve grown together. This season, their connections have grown to be one of their most valuable traits.
Junior Justin Odom said, “Our biggest factor to our success was determination. In some of our strongest games we showed how determination and grit can win games. We aren’t the biggest, fastest or strongest, but our mindset is what puts us above others.”
Throughout the season, the team experienced challenges that tested their energy and resilience. The players never lost sight of the ultimate goal, even after hard losses or rough practices. Each week brought new lessons, and the desire to improve drove them closer to the playoffs.
“I think the game that I realized we had a chance in the playoffs was the Garner game. We might have not won, but during that game we showed that we can do good things as a team, and we played well against a top 20 team in the state,” said junior Garon Coello.
Even though they lost, the game still confirmed the team’s status as serious competitors. The players understood they had something special, a bond that formed while working together to achieve a common goal. Each win and loss demonstrated that teamwork and trust could overcome any challenge.
Junior Cayden Yount said, “A lesson the team learned is that there is always a chance and that it doesn’t matter who they have or what team we’re going against. We just need to play our game and give it 100% no matter what.”
As the playoffs approach, that mindset will be the team’s greatest strength. The players are focused on continuing to work and being cooperative as they prepare for a more serious game. Regardless of the outcome, this season will be remembered for the team’s resilience, development and commitment to one another.
The Bengals’ first round playoff game will be away against Holly Springs, this Friday, Nov. 7 at 7:00 p.m.
