Written by: Jaymi Firestone
August is coming to a close, and with the Roosevelt County Fair ending, it means one thing. Football Season is here!
For many in the area, football fever runs deep. When school starts, it doesn’t mean summer is ending, it means it’s time for Friday night lights. Football isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life for towns like Portales, Dora, and Floyd.
Kids grow up playing, cheering for, or watching games. It’s a culture, a way of life. It’s something special to be part of.
When those lights turn on, it’s game time. And the Rams, Coyotes, and Broncos are ready to play this season. The players have spent hours practicing, working hard to be ready for their first games.
The Dora Coyotes Head Coach, Mason McBee, is ready for his players to perform at a high level. “We may only have 10 players, but they are working hard and are ready to compete,” said McBee about his team. The Dora players spend 2-2 1/2 hours a day practicing, plus an hour Monday thru Thursday lifting weights. It’s dedication like this that teams need to be able to stay healthy and finish a season out successfully.
Dora’s program was only 4 years old when Coach McBee took over, and he enjoys being able to write the history of the program and establish a culture for years to come.
That’s what solid football programs all have in common.
Tradition.
Steve Foust, the head coach at Floyd High School, has been coaching there for 7 years. When asked about the upcoming season, Foust said, “you can expect the Floyd Broncos to leave it on the field every game.” He thinks his players are what make the Floyd football program special. “[My favorite part about Broncos Football is] the attitude and effort of the players! They come out and work hard, and are eager to be part of the Bronco team.” Foust said his team is prepared to play hard and asks that fans continue being such a positive, encouraging support to the team and program.
As for Portales, the Rams are in the mix of competitive teams in Division 4A. They finished their season last year 10-2, competing at the state level. Their season ended with a loss in the semi-finals to Robertson, out of Las Vegas. They completed their season in the top 4 in their class.
With players returning this year, it’s lined the Rams up to have another winning season. As Hope Christian comes to Greyhound Stadium tonight, the matchup is sure to be a good one.
Elida Tigers are preparing for their season as well. The season opener is tonight against Lake Arthur. With hard work, much like the other teams in the county, they’ll come away with a win.
All 4 programs are seeking their players to improve with each quarter played, and want to see them put their hearts into the game. Wins come one game at a time, and these high school athletes are prepared to face stiff competition this season.
Fans can expect 4 teams dedicated to competing at a level worthy of their support.
Roosevelt County has players and coaches who have worked hard to prepare for potentially winning seasons, and look forward to getting out on the turf to play the sport they love.
Portales’ first game is tonight at 7 pm at their home field, Greyhound Stadium. Floyd will face their first opponent, Carrizozo, on Aug. 31 at 3:00 pm at home. Eliza’s first game is tonight against Lake Arthur in Elida at 7:00 pm. And Dora’s next game will be against Foothill out of Albuquerque on Aug. 31 at 1:00 pm in Dora.
So pack up your stadium chairs, get some cash for the concession stands, and prepare yourself for some exciting Roosevelt County football. The season is upon us, and these players are ready to play!
