The Byrd Yellow Jacket football teams took to the field for the first time this year on Thursday,  August 21st. The outcome could have been better, but there is reason for optimism. 

Players were optimistic going into the scrimmage. Many predicted a “total blowout” in favor of the Jackets. Unfortunately, the Jackets did not reach the type of success that they were expecting. The freshman team was outscored 12-0 by Ruston, and our varsity team was outscored by 21-7.This begs the question, what should we expect from the Jacket football team this year? 

Last season, the team’s win-to-loss ratio was 9-4. This was a huge improvement from the previous  season, enhancing  the winning percentage by 33% overall. With 9 wins, the Yellow Jackets were determined to have a successful season, even finishing 3rd in the district. There are hopes of an equally victorious or even more successful season this year.

Thursday night's scrimmage was just that, a scrimmage. These are glorified practices used to prepare the team for real games at the beginning of the season. Though the Jackets “lost”, it was not a real win or lose situation. In games like scrimmages, the score is not put on the record.  

“We did okay playing a well coached team” remarked Roman Woolridge, Freshman Defensive End. Many players expressed a new commitment to using what they learned on the field and to gain a better understanding and skill. 

Even though this was considered a “loss,” the team seems ready to pivot. Discussions with players and coaches focused on implementing strong practices, building more trust, and having faith to dominate on the field this season. Coach Ballew mentions, “Ruston is a very good football team and they showed us what we need to improve on.” This scrimmage was an excellent time for the new jackets to practice and get a feeling for the approaching season.

The coaching staff feels confident that the teams can show off all of their talents, skills, and strengths. With an enormous amount of school spirit and pride in sports at C. E. Byrd, the Jackets will have no problem getting the school support rallied behind them.