A new season means a new opportunity. This year, the Newton Railer football team is preparing for a sensational season. The players have been constructing a stronger foundation over the summer by not only attending summer weights and morning practices, but also building relationships with new and former players. Maize South has been Newton High School’s rival school for as long as some can remember.
“Maize South, definitely the most exciting game. They’ve been chirping a lot about the off-season,” senior Kolbie Espada said.
An important aspect of a football team is the number of players. It can be a hit or miss with the number of incoming freshmen who may have participated in football in middle school but choose not to play in high school. This will make an impact on the team and could affect the overall performance during games.
“Right now, we are just playing JV. We are not going to have a ‘C’ team as of now,” Coach Taylor Counts said.
Instead of looking at the negative side of having a small freshman team, we can look on the bright side. Having a smaller freshman team can lead to more one-on-one time with coaches and can allow the players to show their talent. But this is not where the spirit ends. Grace is what some players need, and Counts is here to provide it.
“[The numbers] can always change; we have kids that were on the fence wanting to come out at the last second. If they’re a freshman, we’ll give them a chance. We’ll, cut them some slack, but make them earn it,” Counts said.
Team spirit is one thing, but the spirit from coaches is of paramount importance. In the month of August, there is a lot of prep work that goes into the season. Once September hits, it is game time every Friday till the end of October.
“[I’m excited for] every single game,” said Coach Jermey Newhouse. Newhouse may not work at the high school, but spends every day at practice with the players, “because Friday nights are the best.”
Along with having an exciting time at Friday Night Lights, the grit and the commitment to take the team to the end of the season with their heads up are crucial. The team needs every player working their hardest every day, not only at games but also at practice. What will the Newton Railers expect?
“Definitely a winning record. I can say that,” Espada said.