2024 YJ Fall Program FINAL by DenisonAthleticBoosterClub

Denison - Main 931 W. Main St. Denison, TX 75020 (903) 463-3510

Denison - West 3326 FM 120 Denison, TX 75020 (903) 463-3510

Denison ISD Clear Bag Policy

DENISON ISD CLEAR BAG POLICY

The Denison ISD Clear Bag Policy, in conjunction with Denison ISD Board of Trustees policy, and University Interscholastic League (UIL) guidelines, applies to all events and activities held at Denison ISD facilities including athletic events and other ticketed events. All bags are subject to search.

Permitted items

PERMITTED ITEMS PROHIBITED ITEMS

Permitted items Prohibited items

· Clear tote bags, must be clear plastic or vinyl; cannot exceed 12” x 6” x 12”.

· Includes diaper bags.

Prohibited items

· Purses, totes, or bags larger than a clutch, fanny packs, backpacks, coolers, cameras, luggage and computer bags.

Exceptions to this policy may be made by Denison ISD Administration prior to the event date for medically-necessary items.

Clear tote bags,must be clear plastic or vinyl; cannot exceed 12" x 6" x 12".

· Clear zip lock bags- not to exceed one gallon

· Small clutch bags- no larger than hand (4.5” x 6”x 6.5”)

Includes diaper bags

· Tobacco products, e-cigarettes

· Alcohol

· Controlled substances

Includes diaper bags

· Unopened bottled water

· Phones

Clear zip lock bags- not to exceed one gallon

· Folding stadium seats

· Handheld signs (only with permanent ink... cannot run when wet or be taped to structures.)

· Cowbells

Small clutch bags- no larger than hand (4.5" x 6.5")

· Weapons

· Outside food, drinks, opened packages

Purses, totes, bags larger than a clutch, fanny packs, backpacks, coolers, cameras, luggage and computer bags.

· Frisbees, balls, bats, etc.

Purses, totes, bags larger than a clutch, fanny packs, backpacks, coolers, cameras, luggage and computer bags

· Cannons, train horns, air horns, artificial noise makers, confetti, laser pointers, etc.

Small clutch bags- no larger than hand (4.5" x 6.5")

Unopened bottled water

Phones

Unopened bottled water Phones

Folding stadium seats

Handheld signs (only with permanant ink-cannot run when wet or be taped to structures.)

Handheld signs (only with permanant ink-cannot run when wet or be taped to structures )

· Animals (with the exception of service animals.)

Tobacco products, ecigarettes, alcohol, controlled substances, and weapons

For events held at all Denison ISD facilities, patrons are subject to security check at the gate upon entry, and a strict no re-entry policy will be enforced.

Outside food, drinks, opened packages

Frisbees, balls, bats, etc

Frisbees, balls, bats, etc.

Noise makers, confetti, lasers, signs

Animals (with the exception of service animals.)

For events held at Munson Stadium, you are subject to security check at the gate upon entry, and a strict no re-entry policy will be enforced

The Denison ISD clear bag policy, in conjuction with Denison ISD board policy and UIL guidelines, applies to all events and activities held at Denison ISD facilities inlcuding athletic contests and other ticketed events All bags are subject to search *Exceptions to this policy can be made or medically-necessary items.

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS Letter from the Superintendent

Welcome to the Home of the Denison Yellow Jackets!

On behalf of the Denison ISD Board of Trustees and our entire DISD family, I proudly welcome you to historic Munson Stadium and Gerard Field, located in the heart of beautiful downtown Denison. Thank you so much for your loyal support of the students who are competing and performing here tonight. Your positive commitment to their academic and personal success is greatly appreciated.

I would also like to thank the generous Denison community for providing the support and funding needed to make this historic stadium a state-of-the-art venue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Because of the vision and generosity of our loyal partners and sponsors, Munson Stadium continues to rank among the best athletic and performance venues in North Texas, offering a comfortable and exciting experience for all our fans while allowing many thousands of students to compete and perform in an arena that is second to none.

Denison ISD and the City of Denison take great pride in our students’ many exceptional accomplishments as well as the countless hours spent preparing for tonight’s events. I also appreciate our coaches and sponsors who support, mentor, guide and prepare our students for success, both on and off the field. I truly believe that the values, teamwork and good sportsmanship nurtured and learned here will reap lifelong benefits.

As University Interscholastic League members, Denison ISD observes and enforces all rules and regulations regarding high school contests. No smoking or alcoholic beverages are allowed in the stadium or in any school facility, premises or property. In addition, please be mindful of our newly implemented Clear Bag Policy this school year that includes some changes. We also encourage everyone to exhibit good sportsmanship, courtesy and respect for all players, coaches, referees and fans. Please help us make tonight’s event a safe, successful and rewarding experience for everyone.

We Are Denison…and It’s Great to be a Yellow Jacket!

David Kirkbride, Ed.D.

Denison ISD Superintendent of Schools

Dr. David Kirkbride

Another Winning Season

BEST OF TEXOMA AWARDS

Named Best Hospital, Best Freestanding ER, Best Home Health, Best Physical Therapy, Best Place for a Mammogram, Best Rehab Services, Best Sleep Services, Best Urgent Care/ Walk-in Clinic and Best Place to Work in the Herald Democrat’s 2023 Best of Texoma readers survey

CARDIOLOGY

Awarded the American College of Cardiology’s HeartCARE Center National Distinction of Excellence designation for the second year in a row

HIGH

PERFORMING

Named a High-Performing Hospital for COPD, Diabetes, Heart Failure, Kidney Failure, Pneumonia and Stroke by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025

JOINT CARE

Received The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced

ROBOTIC SURGERY

Designated a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by Surgical Review Corporation

STROKE CARE

Awarded the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association® Get With The Guidelines-Stroke GOLD PLUS with Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Achievement Award

WEIGHT LOSS

Recognized with Blue Distinction® Center+ Designation for quality and cost-efficiency in bariatric surgery

Named a Bariatric Center of Excellence for Optum (UnitedHealthcare) for meeting clinical qualifications and maintaining a cost-effective contract for participation in the network

Fully accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program and named a Surgical Quality Partner by the American College of Surgeons

WOUND CARE

TMC Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine named a Center of Distinction by Healogics™

texomamedicalcenter.net

Denison Athletic Booster Club

The Denison Athletic Booster Club is a group of volunteers that help support student athletes and all athletic programs in Denison ISD. We strongly believe athletic programs enrich the educational exprience.

Our goals are to provide funding to support athletic programs, athletic scholarships, promote attendance at sporting events, and build school spirit within the student body and community.

Come visit us for your Yellow Jacket merch!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President - Ty DeHorney

Vice President - Kelly Spiegel

Secretary - Jennifer Dawson

Treasurer - Zac Duce

Coach Liason - Tina Kurtenbach

Communications - Jenn Eaves

Thank you for supporting your Denison Athletic Booster Club!

If you would like to become a member please visit us at the tent on the North end of the field or by visiting our website. Use the QR code below to choose the membership plan best for your family and to purchase even more Yellow Jacket gear! #igtbayj

2024-2025 Denison Athletic Booster Club

Jodi Mandrell

Monica Syler

Keri Abbott

Brandi Galloway

Marty & Marla White

Manuel & LeAnn Watson

Doug & Jenny Hotalen

Dan & Tina Kurtenbach

Horace Groff

Michael & Mindi McGehee

Alexis Relford

Eddie & Elisa Benson

Dustin & Jennifer Dawson

Jennifer Vincek

David W Davis

Zac & Jessica Duce

Cherish Slape

Baca Family

Caleb & Ashley Smith

Jeff & Toni Nunn

Martin & Denise Garry

Amanda Matthews

Scottie & Sarah Moody

Nicole Garza

Kristi Mihm

Phil & Kelli Kempson

Ryan & Suzanne Hall

Giuliana Sheff

Katie Burtis

DeLoran Blanton

Trey & Meredith Doty

Todd & Staci Gruhn

Shane & Richelle Beesinger

Nathan Beck

Aaron & Amy Quarles

Roxana & Michael Castillo

Members

Kolya Byers

Travis & Morgan Helm

Amy McKay

Jeremy & Toni McMillen

Nathan & Billie Knottingham

Katherine Kohli

Kylon & Jennifer Harvey

Nate & Lori Dickinson

Trevor & Jenn Eaves

Kris & Kelly Spiegel

Sylvia Stroud

Shane & Kimberly Brem

Amber & Ty Dehorney

Kelsey Morris

Anthony & Erin Cox

Tamara Gallett

Brent & Lisa Whitson

Shawnda & Juan Blanton

Ashley Hayes

Dana Waddle

Joel & Misty Luper

Kimberly & Chris Anderson

Jennifer Green

Jennifer Bucher

Samantha Vajda

Christopher Killgo

Jeff Wade

Benita Garcia

Billy & Kimberly Teague

Jon Williams & Brandi Conary

Maria Nicholas

Angela Turner

Brandi Rowland

Michelle Ramy

Amanda Thiele

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS

Letter from the Athletic Director Jacket Fans!

Yellow Jacket Football is here again and Munson Stadium is a special, special place to watch young people compete and perform. We have proud traditions here in Denison on the field and in the classrooms. 2024 will be another year of student and athlete successes for your Denison Yellow Jackets. We can’t wait for you to see Denison kids perform and show you how much they believe in themselves and their program. Thank you for being here to support our hard-working players and coaches.

A special welcome is extended to the many proud Yellow Jacket alumni attending tonight. Your legacy is one of excellence and the young people you watch perform tonight have gladly accepted the high standards set by those before them. Our challenge is to continue raising the bar.

Denison High School student athletes are committed to doing the things that make champions on and off the field of competition. Being part of Denison’s legacy of academic achievement gives our athletes additional examples of success to point to in our community. Their efforts and the outstanding quality of our kids, faculty, and coaches will be reflected as excellence in every area we are measured going forward.

Sportsmanship is one of the most critical life lessons we teach in high school athletics. Please be a part of that lesson by exhibiting only the best behavior toward our opponents, opposing fans, and our game officials before, during, and after the game. In Yellow Jacket Athletics we will work every day to produce better people, better citizens, and better athletes. We ask your assistance in achieving this part of our mandate to develop high quality character in our kids.

Tonight’s show presented by Yellow Jacket Football, the Touch of Gold Marching Band, our Jacket Cheer squad, and the Stingerettes drill team will be exciting and worth every penny! Thank you once again for being here in support of people.

It is Great to Be a Yellow Jacket!!! #95miles,

Brent Whitson

Brent Whitson

Denison ISD Athletic Director Head Football Coach

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Athletic Director/ Head Football Coach

Coaching History: Coach Whitson has been coaching for several years and his career includes time at the following schools: Ada, OK 1982-1984; Weatherford, TX 1996-1999; Shawnee, OK 20002003; Broken Arrow, OK 2004-2006; Richardson, TX 2007-2010; South Grand Prairie, TX 20112020; Denison, TX 2021-Present.

Brent is married to Lisa and they have two sons: Tanner and Carter. two daughters-in-law: Ashley and Katie, and two granddaughters: McKenlee and Landry. His favorite coaching memories are winning the state championship in Shawnee, OK in 2003 and coaching with his brother and father in Broken Arrow, OK.

Brent graduated from Ada HS in Oklahoma and went on to attend East Central University. He practiced as a CPA for 7 years and owned a private business during his time away from coaching (1984-1995). Lisa, Coleman, and I love this place! IGTBAYJ!!!

Offensive Coordinator/ QB Coach

Coaching History: Coach Wilson has been coaching for 18 years and included time at the following schools: Texas Tech University Graduate Assistant Offense (WR/ QB) 2007-2010; Eastern New Mexico University WR Coach 2011; Texas Christian University- Graduate Assistant Offense (QB) 2012-2014; Flour Bluff High School WR Coach 2015-2016; South Grand Prairie High School Passing Game Coordinator/ WR 2017-2019, Offensive Coordinator/ WR 2020; Denison High School Offensive Coordinator/ QB 2021-Present

Bryan is married to Kallie Wilson (7 years). They have 2 sons: Jackson and Rhett who was welcomed to the family in April. The support of his wife and family allows him to continue to chase his dreams and gives him the best opportunity to be the best coach that he can be.

One of his favorite coaching memories was in 2008 at Texas Tech when they beat the #1 team in the country, UT. They went ahead on a back shoulder fade from Graham Harell to Michael Crabtree with 7 secs left. The fans stormed the field 3 times in the last secs of the game and it was pure pandemonium. His favorite Denison coaching memory is coaching against Sherman in 2022. We were down going into the 4th quarter and many people thought the game was over. It shows the character and grit of our player by coming back and winning 28-21 to complete the comeback. It is always great to be a Yellow Jacket!

Defensive Coordinator/ Recruiting Coordinator

Coaching History: Coach Wallis has been coaching for several years and has spent his time at the following schools: 2006-2011 Eastern New Mexico University Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, Secondar Coach, Inside Linebackers, Defensive Line, Special Teams Coordinator & Recruiting Coordinator; 2011-2014 Robert Vela High School in Edinburg, TX Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator; 2014-Present Denison High School Defensive Coordinator

Todd is married to Michelle (22 years) and they have two children, William and Lauren. He is a devoted family man and enjoys watching his son play at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and his daughter grow as an athlete at Scott Middle School.

Wallis had a successful collegiate football career playing for Eastern New Mexico University from 1994-1999. His experience as a player provides him with a unique perspective when mentoring and developing young athletes.

Todd Wallis

Brent Whitson

Bryan Wilson

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Defensive Tackles/ Track- Hurdles

Coaching History: Coach Quate has been coaching for 18 Years. He has spent 17 years in Denison and 1 year in Saginaw at Wayside Middle School.

Brandon is married to Mattie (15 years) and they have two children: Anistynn (12) and Witten (9).

His favorite sports memory is watching his kids play their sports and how much they love and work hard for it.

Defensive Ends/ Head Power Lifting

Coaching History: Coach Bigelow has been coaching for 25 years and is in his 16th year at Denison. He has previously been a coach at Coppell, North Garland, Blue Ridge, and Leonard.

Gary is married to Gayle (29 years) and they have 2 sons: Justin and Hunter. They have one daughter-in-law, Lauren and a grandson named Boone.

His favorite sport memory is winning the NAIA National Championship as a player at SWOSU in 1996.

Wide Receivers and HS Track

Coaching History: Coach Morrison is entering his 12th year of coaching. He is a graduate of Utah State University.

Stanley is married to Brooke and they have two daughters, Leighton and Marlee. When not coaching he enjoys spending time with his family and eating whatever tastes good.

Stanley’s heroes growing up were past Yellow Jacket athletes. His greatest influence on his coaching career is Charlie Means.

Gary Bigelow

Stanley Morrison

Brandon Quate

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Linebackers/ Track: Throwers

Coaching History: Coach Rhodes has been coaching for 13 years and they have all been in his hometown of Denison, Texas.

Vinny is married to Crystal and they have 3 kids: Alyssa, Ty, and Chasen.

His favorite sports memory is coming back to beat Sherman for the 10th time in a row after being down the entire game in 2022.

Tight Ends & HS Track

Coaching History: Coach Kurtenbach has been coaching for 28 years and has coached at schools throughout Oklahoma and Texas. He has been a Varsity head coach and Athletic Coordinator. His coaching history includes student coaching at Oklahoma State University. He graduated from Oklahoma State University.

Dan is married to Tina and they have two sons: DJ and Josh. Josh currently plays football at the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor and DJ is a HS football coach.

His favorite sports memory from playing is winning a triple overtime game vs. Clinton. His favorite memories from coaching are winning a state championship in Shawnee, Oklahoma in 2003 and watching his son Josh be a part of the comeback BOTA win in the field as QB in 2022.

Every stop of coaching has been a joy to coach all the student-athletes to try and reach their full potential.

Offensive Line & Powerlifting

Coaching History: Coach Knox is in his 17th year of coaching and has spent his time at the following schools: Hardin Simmons University Graduate Assistant for 2 years, Clear Springs High School for 3 years, San Antonio East Central for 1 year, and Denison High School for 10 years.

Josh is married to Katie (17 years) and they have 2 daughters Kaye (14) and Madelyn (11). He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, and listening to heavy metal. He recevied his Bachelors and Masters degrees from Hardin Simmons University. While playing he was All American for 2 years at Center, and the 2006 Rimington Trophy Winner. In 2019, he was inducted into the Hardin-Simmons Athletic Hall of Fame.

His favorite sport memory is all of the relationships he has developed over the years with players and coaches.

Vinny Rhodes

Dan Kurtenbach

Josh Knox

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Clint Burns

Safeties/ Head Boys Track

Coaching History: Coach Burns is in his 15th year of coaching where he has spent time at Richardson High School 2008-2011, South Grand Prairie High School 2011-2021, and Denison High School 2021-Present.

Clint graduated from Ardmore High School in 1998 and went on to Austin College where he studied International Economics and Finance and play football. He has two beautiful nieces and a dog named Rooster. He is thankful that he has been able to play with many great athletes and even better men throughout high school and college.

His favorite memory from playing is during his senior year of high school when they beat their rival, Ada HS. His favorite coaching memories are seeing the young athletes he’s coached grow and mature into young men, receive their degrees, start jobs or professions and become successful in their pursuits. He has enjoyed many go onto become husbands and fathers as well as productive members of society. “Winning football games is fun but that’s why we do the job.” Another good memory is beating nationally ranked Trinity in the first round of playoffs in 2015. “No one saw that one coming but us.”

Special Teams Coordinator/ Running Backs

Coaching History: Coach Mullins started his coaching career at South Grand Prairie High School where he spent 10 years before moving to Denison. He is in his 4th year of coaching with the Yellow Jackets.

Ronnie is married to Jamie and they have 3 children, Gracie, Major, and Reese. When he has free time he enjoys spending time with his family.

His favorite coaching memory is watching the game winning field goal against Euless-Trinity in the playoffs in 2015.

Cornerbacks & HS Girls Track

Coaching History: Coach Luper has 21 years of coaching experience where he has spent the past 16 years in Denison and previously in Bryan ISD and McKinney ISD. He earned his degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in PE and Recreation. He has a Master’s degree in Sports Administration and Education Administration. He is a graduate of Denison Higsch School where he played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track.

Joel is married to Misty and they have three children: Jaida, Maddi, and Tayden. He enjoys camping, hunting, fishing, and family activities.

His hero is his mother, Lucy. The greatest influences on his coaching career are Marty Criswell and David Norman.

Ronnie Mullins

Joel Luper

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Freshman Head Coach/ WR Assistant/ Assistant Varsity Baseball

Coaching History: Coach Taylor is in his 7th year of coaching with the Denison Yellow Jackets.

Corbin is married to Megan and they have one son named Trenton and one baby girl named Tatum.

His favorite coaching memory is coming back from behind again Sherman in the 2022 Battle of the Ax.

Freshman Football, Assistant Baseball, Equipment Manager

Coaching History: Coach Mitchell is in his 3rd year of coaching and has served all 3 years in Denison.

Devin is married to Alexis.

His favorite sports memory is from playing in the Live United Bowl during his college years and winning.

Freshman Football and Powerlifting

Coaching History: Coach Bigelow is in his 6th year of coaching. He has spent the past two years coaching with the Denison Yellow Jackets and previously in Gainesville ISD.

Justin is married to Lauren and they have one son named Boone.

His favorite memory is from playing in the 2013 Battle of the Ax game against Sherman and bringing the Ax home to Denison where it has stayed for 10 years in a row.

Corbin Taylor

Justin Bigelow

Devin Mitchell

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Freshman Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers/ Assistant High School Track

Coaching History: Coach Rhodes has been coaching for 12 years and has spent his career in Denison, TX.

Dale is married to Nicole and they have two kids Trey Rhodes and Heath Brown.

His favorite sport memory is watching his son Trey catch the first touchdown during the 2021 Battle of the Ax game against Sherman. He jump started what ended up being a great night for the entire Yellow Jacket team. He thinks it’s pretty cool that he has been able to coach his son (Trey), and nephew (Ty-QB this year) in his hometown of Denison along with sharing the sidelines on Friday nights with his brother (Vinny) and cousins (Stanley Morrison and Joel Luper), all of which are former Denison Yellow Jacket greats themselves! Not too many people can say they’ve done that.

Freshman Quarterbacks and Safeties/ Freshman Basketball

Coaching History: Roy is entering his 8th year of coaching with the Yellow Jackets. After graduating from Denison in 2012 he attended Kilgore College and completed his degree at the University of North Texas.

Roy is married to Icis and they have 2 kids: Oliver and Mazie.

His favorite memory is from Denison’s last playoff run of 5 rounds in 2009.

Roy and his wife grew up in Denison and both graduated in 2012. Every year, he looks forward to giving back and serving the same community who served us. He loves what he does and couldn’t accomplish anything without the support of his family.

Middle School Coordinator

Coaching History: Coach Anthony has been coaching for 31 years. He has spent his coaching career in Sapulpa, OK; Noble OK; Norman, OK; Durant, OK; and is in his 8th year in Denison.

Todd is married to Debbie (38 years) and htey have 3 children, Morgan, Spencer, and Caleb. They also have one granddaughter named Hadley.

Roy Patti

Dale Rhodes

Tddd Anthony

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Middle School Football, Basketball, and Track

Coaching History: Coach Eaves is in his 6th year of coaching with the Yellow Jackets. He attended Wayland Baptist where he played for one year and then was a student coaching assistant from 2012-13. He completed his degree at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Coach Eaves is married to Jenn and they have 2 kids, Presleigh and Walker. He graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 2015.

His favorite sports memory is from traveling to Poland and volunteering with the Krakow Tigers football team during the summer of 2015.

His favorite memory in Denison is being a part of the 2009 State Football Playoff run.

MIddle School Football, Basketball, and Track

Coaching History: Coach Banks has been coaching for 11 years and has spent his career in Denison.

Coach Banks has one daughter named Jayla.

His favorite sports memory from playing is from 1992 when he was playing HS basketball in Illinois and he beat Chicago Martin Luther King who had two 7 foot post men and was ranked #1 in the state and nation for High School Basketball. His favorite memory from coaching is from 2019-2020 when he coached the freshman team and they came back from being down by 20 to beat Wylie East. They won the game by 15 points.

Middle School Football/ Assistant High School Baseball

Coaching History: Coach Patterson has been coaching for 6 years. He spent 2 years at Marietta Public School and is in his 4th year at Denison.

Jake is married to Roni and they have one son, Carson!

His favorite memory from coaching so far is when we beat Lovejoy at their field in the baseball in the last inning of the game while Kyson Lusane decided to do a backflip after he scored during the 22-23 basebeball season.

Durrell Banks

Jake Patterson

Trevor Eaves

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

Middle School Football and JV Boys Basketball

Coaching History: Coach Kohli has been coaching for 11 years. He spent 1 year coaching in Colbert, OK and has spent the last 10 years coaching in Denison.

Steven is married to Brooke and they have 2 sons, Isaac and Isaiah.

His favorite sports memories are from setting a school record for taking the most charges in a basketball game in college at Southeastern and making the McDonald’s All American team in High School.

Middle School Football, Basketball, and Track

Coaching History: Coach Storie has been coaching for 12 years in Tennesse, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas. He graduated with his Bachelors and Masters from Tennesse Tech University.

Jeff has been married to Darlene for 19 years. They have 2 children, Hannah and Jaden, attending Denison High School.

His favorite memories are being a part of turning around one of the losingest programs in Georgia and turning them into a winning program and winning a middle school championship.

Jeff Storie

Steven Kohli

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL STAFF

Athletic Trainer

Cabello has been a certified athletic trainer for 7 years and is entering her 5th year with the Yellow Jackets. She received her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and Master’s in Education from Baylor University.

Cabello is married to James, they have one daughter, Olivia, and 3 dogs Ruby, Judge, and Chewie. They enjoy traveling, hiking national parks, and sports. Her favorite part of her job is returning athletes back to the sport they love.

Dana Payne

Athletic Trainer

Payne is in her 7th year of being an athletic trainer at the secondary level and is entering her 3rd year with the Yellow Jackets. She completed her undergraduate degree in Athletic Training from East Texas Baptist University and her graduate degree in Sport Stuides and Athletic Administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Dana is married to her high school sweetheart, Samuel and they have one daughter, Eleanor. Her favorite part about athletic training is watching students overcome injury and returning to their sports.

Athletic Secretary

Stephanie is in her 16th year with Denison and her 3rd year as the Athletic Director’s Secretary.

She is married to Kerrick (8 years) and they have 4 children.

Her favorite part of her job is getting to know all the students and watching them excel and grow in their activities and in life.

Stephanie Brown

Christian Cabello

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL TRAINERS

Pedro Wences, Elizabeth Arnold, Liliana Byrum, Jenna Matthews

Korbin Talbert, Janet Barrientos-Garcia, Kaitlin Pena, Erika Martinez, Yuli Selado

Rylan Perkins, Zoey Moore, Olivia Jimenez, Shay Clark, Breanna Bush

Jackie Cruz, Priscila Foullon, Zander Collum, Lilian Shaw, Olivia White, Bianca Sauceda

*Not Pictured: Ava Barrier, Emily Barrera

Seniors

Class of 2025

Ava Barrier

Yuli Salado

Olivia Jiminez

How SWEET

Denison Yellow Jacket!!

WIN JACKETS WIN!

Hey Jacket Fans!

The wives and families of your Yellow Jacket football coaches thank you so much for the love and support that you give them and the young men they coach each week.

Denison High School

ALMA MATER

Hail to thee, our Alma Mater School we love so dear. With our friends and fellow comrades, We spend our happy years.

Though we leave we’ll always cherish Memories old and new Hail to thee our Denison High School, We are all for you.

JACKET WAR SONG

We sing the Jacket War Song. We sing the battle cry. We sing the Jacket War Song. Jackets ever do or die.

Jackets will never fail you History cannot deny So save a page or two for Denison’s fighting crew Beneath the Texas skies.

Proudly serving our members of Grayson and Collin Counties since 1937!

“Our mission is to provide the very best service possible at the least cost possible.”

Located west of Van Alstyne at 14568 FM 121 Van Alstyne TX, 75495. Our local number is 903-482-7100, our website is www.gcec.net and you can follow us on Facebook @GraysonCollinEC and Twitter @GCEC

DENISON

HIGH

SCHOOL 2024 VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE TIME OPPONENT LOCATION:

Aug. 22 7:00pm North Garland (Scrimmage) Home - Munson Stadium

Aug. 30 7:00pm Sherman - BOTA Home - Munson Stadium

Sept. 6 7:00pm Decatur Away - Eagle Stadium

Sept. 13 7:00pm Frisco Independence* Away - Kuykendall Stadium

Sept. 20 7:00pm Frisco Emerson* + Home - Munson Stadium

Sept. 27 7:00pm Prosper Walnut Grove* Away - Children’s Health Stadium

Oct. 4 BYE

Oct. 11 7:00pm Frisco Memorial* ^^ Home - Munson Stadium

Oct. 17 7:00pm Frisco Liberty* Away - The Star

Oct. 25 7:00pm Anna* ^+ Home - Munson Stadium

Nov. 1 7:30pm Lovejoy* Away - Leopard Stadium

Nov. 7 7:00pm Melissa* ++ Home - Munson Stadium *District Game + Homecoming ^^ First Responder ^+ Pink Out ++ Senior Night

Principal: Dr. Cavin Boettger

Athletic Director/ Head Coach: Brent Whitson

Assistant Athletic Director: Aaron Bach

Assistant Athletic Director: Dana Waddle

Superintendent: Dr. David Kirkbride

Athletic Secretary: Stephanie Brown

Athletic Trainers: Christian Cabello & Dana Payne

It’s Great To Be A Yellow Jacket!

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL SENIORS

Lathyn Bailey

Noah Rayford

Gage Suter

Blake Benson

Josh Turner

Bryton Starr

Nick Wilson

Roman Henderson

Aden Keener

Austin Crawley

Octavio Ayala

Devon Jeffries

Jonavon Raglin

Kaden Sanders

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL SENIORS

Ty Rhodes Jackson Bridges

Greyson Downing Noah Roten

Josh Akin

Landon Sylvester

Jaylen Johnson

Corbyn Johnson

Gabe McMillen

Bradley Morris

Ethan Hunt

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL JUNIORS

Deriyon Vaughn

Erik Ayon Garrett Simmons Ryan Hiberd

Braydon Owens Grayson McGehee

Saul Enriquez

Ryder Harrell

Caleb Cox

Dakota Horne

Jayson Cannon

Thomas Rendon

Cedrick Harper

Trace Olson

Don Wences

Kingston Walker

Cayleb Grimes

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL JUNIORS

Not Pictured: Braydon Owens, Zailyn Butler, Ja’Darius Isom, Jeremiah Peters, Warren Rattan, Za’Raylyn Jones, Lucas Womack, Jericho Heinaman

Raylon Barnum

Camrin McKee

Jaylen Butler

Evan Ewton

Jorden Raglin

Dorian Liles Easton Means

Jonathan Hamilton

Jokarin Briscoe

Steven Jobe Nathan Woods

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL SOPHOMORES

John Mandeville Ryan Shubert

Austin Syler

Brandon Douglas

Noah Gross Robert Andrews

Bralin Thomas

Izaiah Mendoza

Wyatt Dawson

Noah Fletcher

Jayce Turner Gavin Mandrell

Shandon Love Tyler Escandon

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL SOPHOMORES

Dominic Plaza

Trey Walker Chandler Lopez

Christian Ramos

Bryce McQueen

Josiah Norbert

Cylas Hanson

Zoryian Duffie

Jovani Castro

Adan Gonzalez

Omari Smith

Not Pictured: Jacob Sheff, Bryson Smith, Anton Bucher, Alex Camacho, Kalib Heineman, Jeremiah Brown, Jimarius Brown, Denver Morse

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL 2024 JV FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE TIME OPPONENT LOCATION:

Aug. 22 5:30pm North Garland (Scrimmage) Home - Munson Stadium

Aug. 29 5:30pm Sherman Away - SHS Stadium

Sept. 5 5:30pm Decatur Home - Munson Stadium

Sept. 12 5:30pm Gunter or Frisco Independence TBD

Sept. 19 5:30pm Frisco Emerson* Away- Emerson HS Stadium

Sept. 26 5:30pm Prosper Walnut Grove* Home - Munson Stadium

Oct. 3 BYE

Oct. 10 5:30pm Frisco Memorial* Away - Memorial HS Stadium

Oct. 16 5:30pm Frisco Liberty* Home - Munson Stadium

Oct. 24 6:00pm Anna* Away - Coyote Stadium

Oct. 31 5:30pm Lovejoy* Home - Munson Stadium

Nov. 6 5:30pm Melissa* Away - Kenny Deel Stadium

*Denotes District Game

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMAN FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE TIME OPPONENT LOCATION:

Aug. 22 5:30pm North Garland (Scrimmage) Home - Munson Stadium

Aug. 29 5:30pm Sherman Away - SHS Stadium

Sept. 5 5:30pm Decatur Home - Munson Stadium

Sept. 12 5:30pm Gunter or Frisco Independence TBD

Sept. 19 5:30pm Frisco Emerson* Away- Emerson HS Stadium

Sept. 26 5:30pm Prosper Walnut Grove* Home - Munson Stadium

Oct. 3 BYE

Oct. 10 5:30pm Frisco Memorial* Away - Memorial HS Stadium

Oct. 16 5:30pm Frisco Liberty* Home - Munson Stadium

Oct. 24 6:00pm Anna* Away - Coyote Stadium

Oct. 31 5:30pm Lovejoy* Home - Munson Stadium

Nov. 6 5:30pm Melissa* Away - Kenny Deel Stadium

*Denotes District Game

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL FRESHMAN

Tatum Hanson

Jason Carney

King Brem

Octavio Ramirez Noah Pugh

Neyo Wylie

Evan Doty

Antoine Hudson

Jozsi Perez

Hayden Crump

Tyler Bibbs

Chance Brumlow

Ace Hernandez

Austin Stroud Isaiah Moody

King Collins Preston Noe

Davyon Gallett

Isaiah McKinney

Brendon Bowling

Michael Castillo

Darrin Carroll

Sebastian McPherson

Ethan Arnold

Zaedrian Andrews

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS FOOTBALL FRESHMAN

Not

Willie Coleman

Jonah Rodriguez

Logan Lassabe

Ethyn Harvey Tayden Luper

Rashaun Dehorney

Maddox Dodson

Elijah Robbins

Jake Mihm Chase Courtright

Abel Gonzalez

Jermoney Foster

Tre’kell Green

Nathan Daniel Logen Lewers

Jayden Gibson

Jovani Martinez

Ethan Robinson

Zane Hemingway

Mason Kalla

Monte Nicholson Gavin Bach

Pictured: Jaden Castro, Faith Clark, Chandler Currie, Kyler Grigg, Kayden Haywood, Greg Jones

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS TENNIS

DHS JV TENNIS SCHEDULE 2024-2025

Date

8/22

8/29

9/5

9/12

9/19

9/26

10/3

11/15

DHS VARSITY TENNIS SCHEDULE 2024-2025

Date

8/1

8/3

8/6

8/9

8/14

8/20

8/27

9/3

9/10

Jack

DHS TENNIS ROSTER 2024-2025

VARSITY TENNIS TEAM 2024-2025

Coaches Head Coach: Derek Roscoe

Gretel Hix

Jack Anderson

Price Hotalen

Hank Nunn

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS CHEER

Varsity

Savannah Anderson, Lucy Doty (Co-Captain), Avery Pearson, Madelaine Hamilton, Tacorian Babers, Julianne Spiegel, Allie Kempson (Captain), Kennedy Thomas, Aly Dotson, Camryn Geisler

Zoe Brown, Shelby Russell, Chassis Mendoza, Ella Moody, Kenley Owens, Sh’Nilah Biggers (Mascot), Daniela Ruiz, Indi Crow, Georgia Walters, Makayla Tilley, Cassidy Julsing

*Not Pictured: Charleigh Crow, Dior Jenkins

Julia Bacon

Olivia Ruiz-Demaree

Kaye Knox

Alexia Patterson

Kendall Pamplin

RyAnn Kellow

Tessa Spiegel (Captain)

McKenzie Scrivner-King

Jaliyah Baker

Adalyn Kempson

Robin Julsing

Junior Varsity

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS CHEER

Class of 2025

Coaches

Shelli Taylor Ashley Glover

Shelby Russell Camryn Geisler

Allie Kempson Zoe Brown

Savannah Anderson

DENISON LADY JACKETS VOLLEYBALL

COACHES

As a 2006 graduate of Denison High School, I can truly say “It’s Great to be a Yellow Jacket!” and there is no place else I would rather be. After graduation from DHS, I attended Texas A&M University and earned my Bachelors in Kinesiology. I soon discovered my passion for teaching after taking a teaching job in a town just a little south, but I got home as quickly as I could. Since being back in Denison, I have coached 2 years at the middle school, 5 years at the JV level, and will be starting my 3rd season as the varsity head coach. I have been married to my husband Cody for six years, and we have 2 sweet boys, Parker and Hayes.

My name is Jana Kelly and I am entering my 21st year in education. Thirteen of those years have been right here with DISD coaching volleyball and track and teaching elementary PE at Terrell Elementary. As a graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, I have called the Texoma area home for several years. I have been married to my husband, Kevin for 10 years and we stay busy raising 5 kids; Alyson(17) and Jamison(15) Milner, Cameron(9), Jordan(7), and Blair(3). Teaching and coaching have been a huge blessing to me and I look forward to having a positive impact on the lives of my students.

Hello, I’m Gayle Bigelow, proud to have spent 16 incredible years at DENISON ISD, capping off 26 years of inspiring students through teaching and coaching. Currently, I am thrilled to be an assistant varsity coach for girls volleyball and basketball. My life is enriched by my 29- year marriage to fellow Yellow Jacket, Gary Bigelow, our three amazing children Justin, Hunter, and daughter in law, Lauren. The icing on the cake is our precious grandson, Boone.

Dana Waddle

Jana Kelly

Gayle Bigelow

DATE TIME

DENISON LADY JACKETS VOLLEYBALL 2024 SCHEDULE

OPPONENT

LOCATION:

8/13 9/JV 5:00 PM @ Paris Paris HS

Var 6:00 PM

8/15-17 Varsity Only @ Denton Ryan Tournament Denton Ryan HS

8/20 9/JV 5:00 PM Pilot Point Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM

8/22-24 ALL Teams Denison Invitational Denison HS

8/27 9/JV 5:00 PM Whitewright Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM

8/29-31 Varsity Only Fourney Tournament Fourney HS

9/3 9/JV 5:30 PM @Irving MacArthur Irving MacArthur HS

9/6 9/JV 4:30 PM @ S&S S&S HS

Var 5:30 P

9/7 ALL Teams Denison 9/JV Tournament Denison HS

9/10 BYE

9/13 9/JV 6:00 PM @ Walnut Grove Prosper Walnut Grove HS

Var 5:00 PM

9/17 9/JV 5:00 PM Lovejoy Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM

9/20 9/JV 6:00 PM McKinney North Denison HS

Var 5:00 PM

9/24 9/JV 5:00 PM Melissa Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM Teacher Appreciation

9/27 9/JV 6:00 PM Greenville Denison HS

Var 5:00 PM

10/1 9/JV 5:00 PM @ Sherman Sherman HS

Var 6:00 PM

10/4 9/JV 6:00 PM @Anna Anna HS

Var 5:00 PM

10/8 9/JV 5:00 PM Walnut Grove Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM

10/11 9/JV 6:00 PM @ Lovejoy Lucas Lovejoy HS

Var 5:00 PM

10/15 9/JV 5:00 PM @ McKinney North McKinney North HS

Var 6:00 PM

10/18 9/JV 6:00 PM @ Melissa Melissa HS

Var 5:00 PM

10/22 9/JV 5:00 PM @ Greenville Greenville HS

Var 6:00 PM

10/25 9/JV 6:00 PM Sherman Denison HS

Var 5:00 PM

10/29 9/JV 5:00 PM Anna Denison HS

Var 6:00 PM Senior Night

11/2 District Certification

11/4 Playoffs Begin

11/16-18 State Tournament

DENISON STINGERETTES 2024-2025

Trinity Williams, Layne Sparlin, Estelle Shires, Hannah Moody, Hallie Sue Prater

Meara Harris, Kori Follis, Samantha Stegman, Lesly Alva

Diana Gonzalez, Madi Dunn, Averie Clouse, Kira Courtright, Rayley Mitchell

Zoey Hudson, Raelynn Brown, Courtlynn Rice, Bailee White, Brendalynn Fulce, Samauri Brown, Emma Knott, Carlyn Becker

Cailey Hendricks, Alexis Price, Jaya McCoy, Kylie Jo Turner, Ashlee Wilcox, Landry Baugh, Brinley Brown

Directors: Christi Mitchell & Jenna Dornstadter

*Not Pictured: Kenzleigh Barrett & Addyson Shivers

CLASS OF 2025!

Meara Harris

Samantha Stegman

Layne Sparlin

Kori Follis

Hannah Moody

Estelle Shires

Captain- Estelle Shires

Head Lieutenant: Layne Sparlin

Lieutenant: Trinity Williams

Lieutenant: Hannah Moody

Sergeant: Hallie Sue Prater

2024 - 2025 OFFICERS

2024 - 2025 SOCIAL OFFICERS

Spirit Chair: Lesley Alva

Public Relations: Emma Knott

Public Relations: Meara Harris

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL TOUCH OF GOLD BAND

CLASS OF 2025

DRUM MAJORS

PRESLEY HALL

JADEN JONES

FISCHER ROGERS

TOUCH OF GOLD BAND COLORGUARD

Rylei Brattain, Bravarie Garica, Serenity Gray, Abigail Holmes, Khylee Holt, Cadence Hopper, Angie Ibarra, Jaden Jones, Patrice Keihn Rice, Jordan Kellow, Zoe Owen, Madison Rice, Emma Sanders, Mileigh Stewart, Mariah Sutton, Kailynn Wood, Maci Yeley

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL TOUCH OF GOLD BAND

Patrick Amezcua, Aiden Castelli, Rylee Clinkscales, Abraham Gonzalez, Gabriel Haines, Joseph Miller, Abigail Smock, Terrance Walker

Indie Crow, Yair De la Cruz Coronel, Sophia Flores, Hannah Geesey, Raya Hively, Emily Mabry, Regina Munoz, Matthew Shook, Maya Verduzco, Serenity Carson, Sarah-Lydia Castro, Sevance Feaster, Dez Francisco, Emmalie Griffis, Presley Hall, Koston Hathcock, Sora Hudgens White, Dan Languell, Isaiah Louis, Vivian Marquez, Maverick Wood

Jade Andaverde, Seth Banks, Seamus Doherty, Isaac Ingram, Waylon Johnson, Chris Luis, Bronx Shaw, Truitt Sorensen, Jackson Stone, Janet Villafana

Valeria Aguilar, Santiago Amezcua, Olyvia Atkinson, Natouree Brown, Tara Bullard, Avarie Campos, Serenity Carson, Hannah Earls, Kylar Feaster, Brooklyn Hall, Addisyn McCrory, Itzaak Villalobos

Deanna Boyd, Abigail Eanes, Noah Evans, Graycie Giffis, Kadence Massey, Andrew Mitchell, Laila Nisbett, Dannon Oonk, Emma Rice, Lilian Shaw, Fisher Sorensen, Fernando Villalobos,

Nallely Arellano Estrada, Anna Atchley, Deanna Boyd, Jeremiah Brown, Charleigh Crow, Chandler Currie, Manuel Garcia, Johanna Horne, Leo Marquez, Avan Nava, Shiann Oglesbee, Erick Rivas, Fischer Rogers, Johnathan Saunders, Jordan Smith, Aidan Taylor, Will Wright, Itati Zuniga

Perla Andaverde, Eva Arellano-Flores, Alana Behrens, Lucy Doty, Haven Guillory, Gabrielle Howard, Melissa Meza de Leon, Alyssa Montgomery, Amelia Morataya, Karyssa Mulvaney, Rilee Reynolds, Angela Salazar, Brooklyn Spaugh, Zaylee Stanglin, Audrey Valdivia, Tera Watt, A’Jaelia Woodson

Morgan Bonner, Rebekah Clayton, Quentin Cole, River Connor, Sevance Feaster, Zayden Fitch, TJ Gaines, Venuki Gamage, Gracelyn Kilgo, Emily Mabary, Major McLemore, Alyssa Montgomery, Haley Preskitt, Brayden Quarles, Vidia Stoddard, Aidan Taylor, Abigail Turner, Dylar Turner, Jayce Turner, Marcie Willard

Ava Barrier, Liam Hudson, Alejandro Mancilla, Zoey Moore, McKenzie Scrivner-King, Ayrrhiauna Woodson

DENISON BROADCASTING YELLOW JACKET TV

Board of Directors

Media Director: Hannah Miller

Technology Director: Hector Hernandez

Flores

Director: Landon Bucher

Social Media Director: Ally Gunter

Aaria Robertson

Ayrrhiauna Woodson

Bryce McQueen

Cael Cole

Diana Gonzalez

Jayla Hernandez

Jaide Brexton

KJ Turner

Alexia Patterson

Guadalupe Salazar

Miles McFarland

Preslee Palmer

Regina Palmer

Regina Benitez Puerto

Titus Knottingham

Faculty Sponsors

Victoria Lowe

Casey Blanton

Hector Hernandez Flores & Ally Gunter

CONTACT ME TODAY TO GET YOUR customT-SHIRT QUILT!

r i c e h o t a l e n WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!

GREYSON Downing

Russell

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” 2 Chronicles 15:7 Lone toy, Momma and Mel

Tylan Demond, We are so proud of you. Keep God first and the sky is the limit. Love, Mom, Dad, Lyssa, and Diesel

R H O D E S

Shelby Russell Shelby Russell

Sunday Wednesday

Sunday School 9:45AM Meal 6:00pm 6:30pm

Worship 11:00 am Children and Youth Classes 6:30pm—7:30pm

Adult Prayer &Bible Study 6:30pm—7:30pm

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

DENISON HIGH SCHOOL Battle of the Ax History

Historical Timeline is Rich for Denison Yellow Jackets Football

By Lynn Burkhead Radio Play-by-Play Voice of the Yellow Jackets

When the Denison High School Yellow Jackets visit their neighbors to the south to open up the 2023 season on Aug. 25th, the annual grudge match between Denison and Sherman will add another storied chapter to the longest continuous rivalry among two high schools anywhere in the state of Texas. With Denison seeking an 11th straight win in this series that dates back to 1901, the 125th edition of the Battle of the Ax (BOTA) promises to be a special contest between these two rivals.

Interestingly, games between the two schools are believed to have been played in 1900 and 1907 but there are no newspaper records to verify that either way (both the Denison Herald and the Sherman Democrat newspaper offices burned down in the early years of the 1900s). Research conducted by longtime Yellow Jackets reporter and Herald Democrat sports editor Jason Della Rosa shows that the first newspaper story about a game between Denison and Sherman was in 1901 and it doesn’t say that it was the first football game between the two schools. By 1906, the Yellow Jackets began to play other high schools in Texomaland and beyond, producing a 5-0 season that year where DHS tied Harshaw 0-0, beat Sherman 5-0 on two occasions, and also defeated Celeste, Van Alstyne, and Elmwood College. Over the next decade, the Yellow Jackets would also play Pottsboro, Bonham, Denton, Gainesville, McKinney, Greenville, Durant, Whitesboro, and even the Austin College B Team in 1914, a game that the Jackets won by a reported 26-6 margin.

After no games were played in 1918 due to the influenza pandemic that swept across the world, the Jackets would earn their first district championship and playoff appearance in 1922 when Denison went 8-1-1, losing only to Cleburne in the quarterfinal round of the playoffs to end the season. Over the years, the Jackets have earned 27 district titles and 32 playoff appearances, the most recent district title being in 2013 and the most recent playoff appearance occurring in 2021.

A mix of triumph and loss would then take place through the remainder of the 1920 and 1930s, with one of the biggest games of note in that era occurring on Sept. 15, 1939 when the first game was played at Munson Stadium. While Sulphur Springs upended Denison on Sept. 15 that year by a 13-7 margin, it would mark the beginning of the Jacket’s longtime run at the iconic location (Note: the old Munson Stadium was rebuilt from the ground up after the 2013 season had concluded).

The next decade was kind to the Yellow Jackets program, with the team and its city enjoying a superb run of success in the 1940s thanks to championship caliber coaches like Pat Pattison, Leroy Crabtree, and Les Cranfill among others. That included the Jacket’s state semifinal berth in 1948 where a 20-8 loss ended Denison’s hopes for a state title.

Since 1949, the BOTA rivalry’s coveted trophy - inscribed on the wooden handle with the words Ye Olde Battle Ax - has gone to the game’s winner for the next year. Originally featuring a single silver ax blade (where the winner, score, and year are engraved), the trophy was created by Denison ice cream parlor owner Jack Barker to give the teams something positive to compete for after a run of vandalism. A symbol that represents good sportsmanship, a never quit competitive spirit, and athletic excellence, the Ax - which had a second silver ax blade added in 1989 - has endured for generations now.

The 1950s were a mix of wins, losses and ties for the Jackets, while the 1960s were good for the Jackets, including a 9-1 campaign in 1962. The 1970s featured a mixture of success and disappointment, but a bright spot was the 6-3-1 season during the 1976 campaign as head coach Jerry Blankenship led the way. Denison would upset Plano 14-9 to spoil the Wildcats homecoming game that year and notch the only victory against the Wildcats that either Sherman or Denison has ever been able to secure.

After Marty Criswell arrived in 1981, a renaissance of Yellow Jackets football began with a 29-game winning streak and a 16-0 state championship run in 1984, a season that ended with a 27-13 win over Tomball. By the 1980s end, the Jackets were an annual power in Class 4A and during the 1990s, Bob Brown took over and led the Jackets to a 44-4 run from 1995-97 that featured three consecutive runs to the 4A state title game. After Brown retired as the Jackets’ winningest coach in program history, Cody White took over in 2007. Before he left five seasons later, the Jackets had authored a ferocious 44-43 fourth quarter comeback win in the 2007 BOTA game, a 12-1 season in 2008, and a 13-2 state semifinal run in 2009. Chad Rogers found success in Denison from 2012 through the delayed COVID-19 season of 2020, winning a co-district title in 2013 and going 8-1 against Sherman during his time in D-Town.

Now in his third season, Brent Whitson—only the fifth head coach the Jackets have had from 1981 until now—is continuing the run of Yellow Jacket success with a playoff berth and a perfect record against the rivals from the south including last year’s incredible 28-21 come-from-behind BOTA triumph. As Denison enters the 2024 season under Whitson, the Jackets will feature a powerful, balanced offensive attack; a talented defense hungry for success; and a program looking for more wins, trophies, and accolades.

No matter the outcome this year for the 121st team in Denison High School’s rich football history, the Jackets will storm onto the field every Friday night this fall believing they are going to win and that as Marty Criswell showed us all a generation ago with his iconic statement, that “It’s GREAT to be a Yellow Jacket!”