Overlooked freshman football team goes undefeated
The future looks bright for the SHS football team, as the Broncs saw the freshman team go undefeated, a rare feat at any level. While the varsity team will lose several key seniors as the graduate, this strong crop of freshman will be competing next year along with returning players, hoping to help the Broncs get back to the state championship game.
For the first time in a while, the 9th grade football squad was able to win 9 straight games, a dominate overall season performance, the closest score of any game being 18-0. They played a schedule that included the typical 4A opponents, Gillette and Natrona both split into two different teams at the freshman level, as well as Worland and Cody.
Very talented and athletic, head coach Bob Hanchett, has been head coach for three years, said the team’s attitude and effort separated them from the rest. “They had great work ethic. I’ve never seen a class with such drive and commitment.” Doing the extra things like putting in the off-season work and showing up early for practiced showed a dedication that is necessary for a perfect season.
For the players, the coaches were an integral part for the victories. “The coach’s strategies were good, everything they taught us made sense and helped us win” said Dontae Crow. Coach Hanchett, Coach Hurst, and Coach Martini made up the coaching staff, helping the team both win but also prepare for playing at a higher level. “They worked a lot with us on our technique and prepared us for things that we will be doing in the junior varsity and varsity future” said Blake Godwin.
Hanchett believes they will be ready too, hopefully able to contribute to an already strong Broncs team. “They’re going to be a blessing to varsity. They’re hungry for it, already wanting to put varsity stuff in as freshman.” Perhaps they will able to keep the success up, and Sheridan will see another state title in its future.