Friday Night Lights by Fox Press

FNL 2022 SulphurSpringsComoPickton Cumby Friday Night LightsFriday Night Lights Sulphur Springs News-Telegram

Friday Night Lights magazine is a publication of the Sulphur Springs News-Telegram and is published one time a year. Friday Night Lights is copyrighted by and a registered trademark of the Sulphur Springs News-Telegram in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Reproduction of any part of the publication is strictly forbidden without written permission from the Sulphur Springs News-Telegram. THE SULPHUR NEWS-TELEGRAMSPRINGS 200 Main Street Sulphur Springs, Texas (903) 885-8663 4

Can you believe that it’s already football season?

Letter

Let’s hope for winning seasons for all of our local football programs! from the

It feels like we just celebrated New Year’s and now, it’s already August. This season, football in Hopkins County is even more highly anticipated than usual. Sulphur Springs High School has its first new head football coach in more than 16 years. Cumby High School is welcoming back a former head coach, while Como-Pickton welcomes a new marching band director. So, what I’m saying is, football in Hopkins County should be absolutely amazing this season!! In this year’s edition of Friday Night Lights, we’ve tried to focus on the entire high school football experience. You’ll see photos and/or stories about the teams, the coaches, the marching bands, the cheer squads and the drill teams. All of these various groups work hard to give you the fans an experience you won’t forget. And always remember, whether your team wins or loses, always show your support because you know that they are out there giving it their all and doing their best. I hope you enjoy this year’s edition of Friday Night Lights. As always, I want to thank the advertisers who support the local football programs and I encourage all of you to stop by their businesses and say “thank you” to them. And we couldn’t do this without our amazing staff and contributors.

Publisher Staff and Contributing Writers Dave Shabaz - Publisher Don Wallace - Managing Editor DJ Spencer - Sports Editor Ashley Colvin - Reporter Daylan Millard - Advertising Sales Faith Whittle - Graphic Artist Dinh Tran - Contributing Photographer Carey Gable - Contributing Writer Cover Photos: Aubrey Williams - Drummer Como-Pickton - Carlos Perez Sulphur Springs - Brayden Morris Cumby - Armando Osornio

“Isuccess.giveCoach

FAIRCLOTH WILDCATSLEADSINTONEWGRIDERASULPHURSPRINGS

Faircloth said, “After I got out of college I found out how much

Owens the credit he deserves. This school has a state championship trophy because of him,” Faircloth said. “He’s a state championship coach and he has my deepest respect.”

While the Wildcats will still be wearing the traditional blue and gold uniforms they are known for, it’s the dawning of a new age, a differentLongtimeera.head coach Greg Owens opted for retirement. The Sulphur Springs graduate rolled up a 150-131 record in 31 years. Owens had a 91-89 mark at his alma mater, the crowning jewel, the 14-2 team which won the State Class 4A Texas football title in Faircloth2008.

Faircloth has some skins of his own on the wall and a football resume which dates back to his native Brownwood.

Sulphur Springs will take the football field with a new look under Brandon Faircloth, head coach and athletic director.

knows he’s coming into a proud program with a history of

Just the name Brownwood, makes fans think of winning and the excellence started by legendary Gordon Wood. Wood, who won state seven times and set the standard during his 40+ years as a coach.

Faircloth grew up in that atmosphere. He embraces the challenges of coaching a football program.

“I went to Sam Houston and played on a baseball scholarship,” Faircloth said. “But I always had the calling to be a high school football coach and run a program. Being from Brownwood was part of it, such a great place with a strong football tradition. I wanted to be part of a program like that. I dreamed of being a Brownwood Lion.” After being an assistant coach at some of the most high profile and glamorous programs in the state Austin Westlake, Highland Park and Odessa Permian - he moved on to Port Neches-Groves. “I was fortunate to coach at some great places with great coaches to learn under. They taught me so much, like having high standards and expectations. I learned how to do things the right way,” Faircloth said. “At Westlake we played for the state title, I wasn’t really a part of it. I was the freshman coach, but it was a great learning experience,” Faircloth said. “At Highland Park we were the 2005 state champion. I coached running backs and learned a lot, like my time at Odessa Permian.”

By Don Wallace Photo Credit: Don Wallace

I didn’t know until I put in the time at those programs Some great coaches taught me.”He got his Bachelor’s Degree at Sam Houston State University later received his Master’s Degree from the University of North Texas. In 13 years directing the PN-G Indians, he amassed a 102-51 record. As a head coach, his squads made the playoffs 12 of 13“Atyears.Port Neches, making the playoffs was how we defined the program. We’re after consistency from the field to the weight room to the X’s and O’s. We believed in the program, our standard. I was also extremely fortunate to have some very goodFairclothplayers.”said he took over the Sulphur Springs program not only for a new challenge, but to be closer to family.

continued, “The attitudes are great. I was very impressed from Day 1.They showed me that at 6:30 a.m. at off season practices.They know that the 0-10 record last year does not reflect on their talent. Going through an 0-10 season is not easy and I told them a times life would not be easy. You get lumps and get knocked down. It’s how you respond. They know it takes hard work to get better, you have to keep your focus. They’ve showed me they’re ready to put in the work.”

Topping the list is Peter Medlock, offensive coordinator. He served in the 7

He said, “The kids don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. The players are finding out how much we care and how we want them to be successful. We’ll pick them up, feed them, help them. If a player trusts you there’s not much he won’t do for you.”

Faircloth said, “I know what I expect, I have a standard and I’ve discussed it with the players. I’ve been fortunate in my coaching career to have coached some really good players. That’s why I had success.’“Iwas at Port Neches-Groves for 13 years, that’s a long time,” Faircloth said. “Now I am excited to be in Sulphur Springs. I’ve met and been around the players for a while and I like what I see. The kids here are hungry to get better every Friday night. They have bought into everything I said. We have great kids here. I am very pleased with everything I’ve seen.”Faircloth

“I’m really proud of the kids here have bought in,” Faircloth said. Nobody wants to go 0-10 again. They’re hungry and they responded to the challenge by working hard.Faircloth has assembled a staff that will help him guide the team this year.

Faircloth has been on the job in Sulphur Springs a while, taking over officially on Jan. 31, 2022. He immediately felt the drive and desire the team had as he met and talked with them. They were more than could be expected from a team that finished with a winless record. “I’m very blessed to be here at Sulphur Springs,” Faircloth said. “Before taking the job I talked to several coaching buddies I know who have coached here. They all said the same things, that is was great school, with a great administration and a wonderful town to live in. I’ve found that to be true since I’ve been here. The administration and teachers are just great and they all are concerned with doing the best of the students.”

same8 role under Faircloth for eight years at “HePN-G,isthe best in the state. If he hadn’t accepted my offer to come here I don’t think I would have come without him, he’s that good and that important,” Faircloth said. “He is the offensive coordinator, he runs the offseason. He runs the weight room. He is a great Christian man and is a big reason for the success we had a Port Neches-Groves. He gets the Fairclothcredit.”said, “Mat Newton is the special teams coordinator and defensive line coach, he also was at Port Neches with me. He is just in his third year of coaching in high school, his background is coaching in college. He’s a hard worker and a great line and special teams coach. “Bret Page is our defensive coordinator,” Faircloth said. “He coached 10 years at Bryan High School. He is a wonderful defensive coach, he teaches the 4-2. I know him from his time at Mary HardinBaylor. He was a linebacker in college and he has that mentality.”

Faircloth said, “We’re very blessed to have great kids here and we get to coach them. Other assistants like Keenan Clayton and Tyrik Rollison are back on the staff. The kids know they are hometown people and what they have done in their careers in college. When they speak, the kids listen. It’s great to have them here, it’s a blessing.”

When asked about the drop in classification Faircloth responded, “It’s a great time to be a Wildcat. Not just in football, but all sports. I think we have the talent and the coaches to have an outstanding athletic program.

Credit: Dakota Diener, Split Image VARSITY COACHING STAFF Athletic Director/ Head football Coach, Quarterback Coach - Brandon Faircloth Asst.

Faircloth said, “In football, we will face some really good 4A programs. We really don’t know that much about them since we just dropped down. But what it takes to win and be successful has not changed. We have a tough, very competitive schedule.”

The program this season will feature a spread offense and a 4-2 defense. Faircloth said, “Our offense will use the quarterback from the shotgun formation about 95 percent of the time. The defense will be totally new. Some fans might not notice it, but it’s how we teach it and practice it.”

Offensive

Offensive Line Coach - Peter Medlock DefensiveCoachCoordinator/Linebackers-BretPage Special Teams Coordinator/Defensive Line Coach, Mat Newton Secondary - Keenan Clayton Running Backs - Tyrik Rollison Defensive Line - Casey Jeter Wide Receivers - Trent Easley Secondary - Stephen Hardy H backs/Tight Ends - Andrew Dunn Linebackers - Jerrod Hammack Backs and Receivers - Colt Gresham Offensive Line - Kendall Mathis

Photo Head Coach, Coordinator/

Cumby Trojans

By DJ Spencer

Photo Credit: DJ Spencer 11

“Even with there being a big shortage of coaches right now, I have been blessed with a wonderful coaching staff,” said Dracos.Thisseason, the Trojans will have non-district games against Tom Bean (Aug. 26), Union Grove (Sep. 2), Fort Worth Cavalry Christian (Sep. 9) Tyler All Saints (Sep. 16), and Trenton (Sep. 23). Their district games will be against Detroit (Oct. 7), Maud (Oct. 14), Linden-Kildare (Oct. 21), Simms Bowie (Oct. 28), and Clarksville (Nov. 4). This season, the Trojans will play four home games and six road games. Dracos revealed that he actually enjoys playing on the road. They will also only play one scrimmage game as Trojans look tooldrecapturemagic Hoping for more success

Dracos also revealed that he has hired a brand new coaching staff this year, with no coach from last year coming back.

The Cumby Trojans haven’t done a lot of winning since the start of the new decade, having won just two games in 2020 and only one in 2021. COVID-19 played a huge role in that, because the Trojans were unable to get a lot of practice time in.2021 saw the Trojans be held to single-digit points on three different occasions and allowed over 40 points five different times. Because of this, the Trojans went just 1-7, avoiding a winless season by defeating the Detroit Eagles in their regular seasonHowever,finale.things appear to be getting better in Cumby, as Cumby ISD brought back the all-time winningest coach in school history, Tom Dracos, to steer the ship. Dracos returned to Cumby in February after former head coach Charles Boles accepted the head coach position at Water Valley ISD. He has noted that the transition back to Cumby has been going well. “It has been easy because everyone here already knew my expectations,” Dracos said. “I’ve known most the students here for nine years, because the seniors this year were in elementary school when I first started. I’ve even known some of the students since they were babies.”

12 TROJANS VARSITY Photo Credit: Dinh Tran Photo Credit: Dinh Tran

Dracos’ base offense scheme will feature one running back and four wide receivers along with the quarterback and offensive line, while defensively, they will run a 3-4 defense. Dracos also noted that the schemes are already familiar with the Cumby players, so it won’t take long for the players to re-learn everything.

Dracos will also look to improve both sides of the ball, as last season Cumby’s offense averaged only 16.9 points per game, and their defense allowed 35.3 points per game.

“Logan Butler, Armando Osornio, Colt Talley, and Christian Vizcaya are all four-year starters that have a lot of experience under their belts,” Dracos said. “They were part of the team when it was good and now they want to end their senior seasons on a high note. I’m gonna rely on them pretty heavily this year.”

“The big reason I like playing on the road is because all I have to is drive the kids to the game,” Dracos said. “For home games, I have make sure the sound system works, that someone is working the gate, and someone working the chains.”

All four players were named players to watch by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football. Dakota Ridings, who will also be a senior this year, was another player named as a player to watch. Other players that were noted by Dracos include Braylon Boggs, Caleb Morgan, Jorge Reyes, and Trenton Wood.

13 opposed to the traditional two.

This season will serve as the beginning of the next Dracos era in Cumby and the Trojans will look to replicate the past success they had during his first time around.

CUMBY CHEERLEADERS Photo Submitted Top row: Peggy Anderson, Juliana Osornio,Vicki Dixon Top second row: Jailyn Dixon, Captain Mariana Ugalde Third row: Audree McJohnston, Chloe Groves, Mascot - Misty Taylor, Kierstin Walden and Co-Captain Gaby Osornio Bottom row: Kelsie Stewart and Kylee Jimenez

Though the Trojans are set to return six starters on both offense and defense, Dracos noted that all starting positions are subject to change an that competition is open. This season, the Trojans were ranked sixth in their district by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football. Full rankings in order are: 1. Maud, 2. Simms Bowie, 3. Linden-Kildare, 4. Clarksville, 5. Detroit, 6. Cumby. Dracos stated that he is ready to challenge that prediction.

When assessing the upcoming roster, Dracos noted that there is a good group of seniors that will serve as the nucleus of the team.

“I would much rather prove people wrong. It’a more fun to prove people wrong than it is to prove them right,” Dracos said.

Dracos also noted that he is hoping to make the playoffs this season and to do so without being the fourth place team in the district.“Youdon’t want to be fourth in our district, because if you are, you’d have to play Mart in the first round,” Dracos said. “They are a great team and they will play hard.”

14 2022 CUMBY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

“We have been averaging about 85% of our athletes showing up on a weekly basis,” Dracos said. “It has been great, because the ones that show up everyday are the one that I know we can Cumby’s all-time winningest coach returns Looking to restore previous glory

From 2013 to 2019, Tom Dracos was the head coach of the Cumby Trojans football team. During that time, he guided Cumby to 38 victories and three playoff victories. With those wins, he surpassed Rick Frazier as the Trojans’ all-time winningest head coach. Frazier had amassed 28 wins as the Trojans’ leader.

After the 2019 season, Dracos left Cumby to become the assistant athletic director and offensive coordinator at Cuero High School. During his lone season at Cuero, Dracos led an offense that averaged 29.4 points per game, and helped Cuero to the playoffs, where they lost in the first round to Navarro.

ISD Superintendent, called and told me that I was the top choice to replace Boles. Afterwards I started laughing, and said that God has the funniest sense of humor.”

When he first came back, Dracos also served as the head softball coach.

By DJ Spencer

Ultimately, when Charles Boles left Cumby, Dracos was the top name on the search for a replacement.

After one season, there, he left Cuero to become the defensive line coach at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin.

“One of my buddies actually applied for the job, but didn’t get it. Afterwards, he was very upset” Dracos said. “After talking to him in an effort to console him, Shelly Slaughter, the Cumby

“I had previously served as head softball coach right before I left the first time,” Dracos said. “A coach had gotten sick and left, so after we shuffled everyone around, I ended up taking over“Thesoftball.”twoseniors from the 2022 team, Azlyn Hornsby and Savannah Kurn, were two girls that I was really close with, so it was great to spend time with them during their final semester,” DracosDracosadded.alsonoted that during this summer, there has been a lot of buy in from the athletes during summer workouts.

Dracos also noted that the schemes are already familiar with the Cumby players, so it won’t take long for the players to re-learn everything.

Dracos also noted there will be a group of seniors that he will depend on for the upcoming season.

Now that Dracos is back in the place where he made a big impact, he will look to leave the same impact during his second stint as the Trojans’ leader. He will also look to spark a turnaround in a team that has only won three combined games over the past two seasons.

count on during the season.” Dracos’ base offense scheme will feature one running back and four wide receivers along with the quarterback and offensive line, while defensively, they will run a 3-4 defense.

By Carey Gable

One of the unique characteristic of the Wildcat Band this year is its membership and size. Boasting its largest membership ever, in the history of the school, the Wildcat Band can do more and create a richer presentation than previous years. This is all thanks to a blooming junior high band program that continues to attract, train, teach, and motivate students. Each incoming freshman class, over seventy this year, brings with them a higher overall skill level that previous generations. This feeds into the high school marching band and allows a flexibility that Sulphur Springs has not seen in recent memory. As a result of this exponential growth, the Wildcat Band continues to grow, both in instrumentation but also in performance. In fact, the Wildcat Band has quickly become one of the premiere marching bands in North East Texas.This growth and success did not happen overnight. In fact, it has been the work and goal of several recent band directors. However, it has been Spencer Emmert that has seen the culmination of these years of progress. Beginning his fifth year as band director, Emmert has built a music program at SSISD that continues to

For those of use that have never been musically inclined, playing an instrument is daunting. Yet these one hundred and sixty students play, march, emote, and perform all simultaneously, each in lock step unison. I stood in awe of the chemistry that I was witnessing on the first day! One hundred and sixty people! One hundred and sixty marching in uniform line across a football field in timed precision, movements coordinated, all playing in rhythm, that is the Sulphur Springs Wildcat Band!

WILDCATBAND

My body vibrated, shook. I had chills, sweat poured from my goose bumped skin. My head swam in a volume and range of sound that echoed in my ears. I was lightheaded and a swoon was imminent. I was felt feverish in the hot sun of late July. But I knew I was not sick, not in the traditional sense at least. Instead, I was standing in front of one hundred and sixty people! One hundred and sixty playing instruments in unison, in time, and fully directed at me. The breadth and volume of the music was something I was not prepared for. Wave upon wave rolled across me as each note passed with a touch, a hint, at something even greater. This was the first day of Sulphur Springs Wildcat Band rehearsal. Out in the scorching July sun, each member took turns learning their individual parts and perfecting a selection of music that I would have never expected from a marching band. There were the traditional fight songs and up tempo crowd pleasers, but this band, a band on the precipice of achievements never dreamed of decades ago, shifted to pop and then to operatic compositions. Each one clearly defined and yet transitioned so smoothly that it cared the audience with them.

produce excellent musicians and is quickly becoming the envy of surrounding schools. Emmert started with SSISD twenty years ago as an assistant and was instrumental in the progress of the band throughout that time. For twenty years he invested in the school, the community, and, most importantly, a tradition of musicianship that has only grown. Each year has seen different challenges. Emmert has faced daunting obstacles during his tenure, from COVID to multiple realignments, yet he has guided the ship through each one. Marching band is different from most other UIL activities. The alignments do not favor the small school. Often aligned by UIL with much larger schools, Emmert and the Wildcat Band has repeatedly faced competition that outsized and out budgeted them. This past year, while still categorized as a 5A school, the Wildcat Band accomplished feats not seen in school history. For the first time ever, facing huge schools from the Metroplex, Sulphur Springs advanced to the finals of the area marching band contest. This accomplishment is a testament to the growth and maturity of a marching band program that has taken years to develop. Achieving this elite status was no easy task. This year the expectations are even higher! UIL has dropped Sulphur Springs from the large 5A classification to the 4A distinction. This will allow the Wildcat Band to move from one of the smaller schools to one of the larger. The preparation for this move has been underway since first learning of this change in the spring. As Emmert explained, “This is an actual apples to apples comparison.” This leveling of the field has fueled a desire to not just bring a top notch performance at halftime of football games, but also an opportunity for UIL success. Band competitions are hyper competitive at times. After the district group state, judged on a points system, the bands move to

24 regionals. Regionals features a head to head march off! This format continues all the way through the state competition. The Texas state marching contest is held the second week of February in the Alamo Dome in San Antonio. This has become the goal, the aim of the musicians. Emmert, like any good coach, tempers the expectations, “Lots of moments there! But looking forward to see what happens.” The excitement permeates the practices and is infectious to those that witness the work of the students. With most of the focus being on execution, one of the sometimes overlooked aspect of marching band is the actual performance. The challenge of any band director is finding music that can be engaging, interesting, and technically challenging. This year’s band has put together a performance that excels on all three of these levels. Songs featured this year will include selections from “How to Train Your Dragon” and Frank Sinatra. However, the most interesting pieces are operatic in theme. It is very rare that a marching band use opera in their performance and even more rare when the pieces are so easily recognizable. Each of these selections carry the same thematic feel, flight. All of this plays into the name of the performance, “Come Fly With Us.”

Photo Credit: Dinh Tran

Continuing this trend of surprising the audience (and eventually judges) with unique arrangements and selections in a solo from an instrument that is rarely featured in a marching band, the oboe. Katherine Starvyk is the featured soloist and her prominent role with the oboe will set the Wildcat Band apart from the more tradition trumpet and saxophone solo that is so often seen in band competitions. This unique feature is a highlight of the live performance! This fall is the beginning of a new era for Sulphur Springs ISD. While the focus has been on the football program and the hope of success, it is the band that continues to build a program that many will truly recognize this year. 2022 promised to bring multiple layers of success to Gerald Prim Stadium! I, for one, officially have Wildcat Fever!

Suphur Springs Wildcats

One month later, Sulphur Springs hired Brandon Faircloth to be the new leader of the Wildcats. Faircloth comes to Sulphur Springs following 13 seasons at Port Neches-Groves High School, where he compiled a record of 102-51.Faircloth, who has been in town since February, noted that the transition from Port Neches-Grove to Sulphur Springs has been great.

Faircloth also noted that he is bringing a different culture to Sulphur Springs.

To put it simply, 2021 was a very forgettable year for the Sulphur Springs Wildcats. The Wildcats endured an 0-10 season, which the offense average 24.6 points per game, while the defense allowed 45.5 points per game. After the season ended, legendary head coach Greg Owens announced his retirement after 16 seasons as the Wildcats’ leader.

By DJ 29

“The biggest expectation I have for this season is to just improve. Thats something I tell my players every year,” Faircloth said. “Other goals we have this year are to win the first game and to make they playoffs, whether that’s as the district champion or as the fourth placeThisteam.”season, the Wildcats will first partake in scrimmages against Lindale and Wills Point. Their non-district schedule puts the Wildcats against Jacksonville (Aug. 26), Mount Pleasant (Sep. 2), Hallsville (Sep. 9), Van Alstyne (Sep. 16) and Liberty-Eylau (Sep. 23). After a bye week, the Wildcats will begin their district schedule, with games against Community (Oct. 7), Mabank (Oct. 14), Paris (Oct. 21), Kaufman (Oct. 28), and Anna (Nov.Most4).of the teams on the schedule are teams that the Wildcats haven’t played in several years, with Kaufman being the only team they played last season.

“It will be a unique year. All of them will be tough teams with talented players that are well coached, so every game will be a battle,” Faircloth said.

“It doesn’t take long to figure out that we have great support from the administration,” Faircloth said. “We have a lot of great, hard-working kids that have bought in, including 250 kids showing up to speed and strength camp during the summer. I’m excited to be a Wildcat.”

Spencer

“I’ve been changing some things in the program: from offense to defense to special teams, to the weight room, we have a culture that we believe in and have had a lot of success with,” said Faircloth. With the team coming off an 0-10 season, many will say that there is nowhere to go but up. The fans of the team, along with Faircloth, certainly believe it.

Faircloth also noted that he is excited to get back to “Aspractice.acoach, getting back to practice is best time of the year,” said Faircloth. “It’s like Christmas coming.”

Though the Wildcats are set to return five starters on both sides of the ball, Faircloth stated that nothing is permanent and every starting position is always subject to change.

“Everyday we’re competing, so its possible that our starting lineup could change on a week-to-week basis,” said Faircloth.Playersfrom Sulphur Springs that were named as players to watch include Brady Driver, Cooper Faircloth, Matt

This season, the Wildcats were picked to finish sixth in their district by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine. Full rankings in order are: 1. Paris, 2. Kaufman, 3. Anna, 4. Community, 5. Mabank, 6. Sulphur Springs.

Faircloth noted that the five non-district games will be 20 quarters that will help the team find pit what they need to improve on before district starts. He also acknowledged that the scrimmages will be very important as well.

This year’s schedule also included six home games and only four road games, as opposed to the traditional fivehome, five-road formant. Faircloth stated that he is very excited for this format.

Mitchell, Sean Dial, C.J. Williams, and Luke Caton. Austin Cheney was named as top junior, and Riley Hammons was named as another prospect to watch.

“Matt is really wonderful athlete. He’s gonna catch, he’ll block, and he’ll do a little bit of everything and be a key piece of our offense,” said Faircloth.

Faircloth will also be changing the defensive scheme this season, transitioning from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense.

“We will mostly be a 4-3 defense, but we will be flexible in situations such as long passing downs,” said Faircloth.

Faircloth also brought a re-design to the weight room.

“I know we have great fans here in the community, so anytime you can get together in Sulphur Springs on a Friday night, there’s no better place to be,” Faircloth said. “We’re excited about being at Gerald Prim Stadium with our great fans and great town, and playing our best football.”

Mitchell, who played quarterback last season, will be transitioning to tight end this season.

Faircloth noted that other players to watch this year include Malachi Roland, Matt Clarke, and Brayden Morris.

“We changed, added, and moved things around in the weight room,” said Faircloth. “We will also have both metal and rubber weights.”

Faircloth also noted that the base offense will include one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers, but there will also be times where the team will have four to five wide receivers on the offense.

“I’ve been picked first and I’ve been picked to miss the playoffs before, so I usually don’t dwell on someone else’s opinions,” Faircloth said. “I do appreciate the motivation that comes with it, because it gives us a chip that we can carry on our shoulders every day. There’s nothing better in life than trying to prove people wrong.”

Faircloth stated that the main reason he came to Sulphur Springs was because he wanted to come somewhere different.“Afterbeing at PNG for 13 years, I was looking for something new,” said Faircloth. “I’ve heard so many 31

Photo Credit: Dinh Tran

32 great things about the community, the facilities here are second to none, and when I met the kids, I really felt like this was the best place for me and my family. I’m excited for theThischallenge.yearwill be the beginning of a new era for the Wildcats, and people will be looking forward to future success.

SS CHEERLEADERSSSVARSITY Submitted Photo Photo Credit: Mike Laeding

34 2022 SS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

35 GO WIGO L D C A T WIS! L D C A T S!

By Ashley Colvin

Meredith Dial, the new drill instructor for the Sulphur Springs Blue Blazes, plans to kick up some serious dust with her team this year. Bringing back the competition, she is now leading the Blue Blazes to a more advanced stage in their drilling careers — competition season.

The competitions are not recognized by UIL, so the team will be fundraising for donations to pay for their entry. “It’s expensive,” said Dial. Each entry is $300 per team. The Blue Blazes will compete next March for their second time since Dial became the new drill instructor. “It’s just one show,” she stated. The drill team comes up with one dance that will wow the judges for a chance to go to Nationals.

“It’s a dance competition, but larger, as opposed to a dance studio,” she said, “the competition will improve techniques and dance skills on the field.” Experimenting with techniques called “triples and quads,” the Blue Blazes will expand their dance horizons, according to Dial. Dial has been a drill instructor for two years. She was an assistant director in Winnsboro for the Raiderettes prior to joining Sulphur Springs Independent School District. Dial, herself, performed with the Blue Blazes from 1998 to 2002, participating in drill competitions during the reign of Drill Instructor Mrs. Ross. “After Mrs. Ross left, the competition did not take off,” said Dial, “it went away for a little while.”

“The girls haven’t really done hip-hop before, so we’re pulling that in for the first time,” she said. Competition season provides an opportunity to receive well-deserved recognition and honors that last a lifetime.

The Blue Blazes will be adding stunting and builds to their routine this year and more group work. From aerials and hand springs to floor leaps and more, they will have a few more tricks up their sleeve. As far as style goes, they are expected to know a little bit of everything, according to Dial. The team will be adding hip-hop to their already extensive list of dance genres.

Her inspiration for bringing back the competition? Proof. “It gives them validation — they can prove their accomplishments with a trophy — it was one of the things I wanted to bring back, to give to the girls,” she said, “Friday nights are amazing and fun, but when you bring home a trophy you really feel like you’ve done something — so we’ve decided to go ahead and start competing.”Dialentered an “elite” squad into competition last year in Lewisville — Showtime’s largest competition, which was completely sold out. The members who participated tried out to be a part of the “elite” team. They entered one “medium” ensemble routine since they haven’t competed in 15 years. “I didn’t want to overwhelm them,” she said. The squad ended up placing third in the competition. “They did amazing — they were right behind Rockwall High School and Liberty,” she added, “Rockwall is amazing and we were only four points behind them.”

“This next year, we’re going big — we’re taking eight routines,” said Dial. The team has gone from one to eight routines in a year’s time, an incredible achievement, characterizing the hard work and dedication of the girls. This year, the entire team will be competing — all 34 girls. The Blue Blazes will be competing at the Showtime International competition in Forney. Overall, the goal for Dial is to get the drill team up to 50 girls, although 30 is about average for most. Before, students were not allowed to try out for the drill team until their Sophomore year, but this year Dial is changing that. Now, students are allowed to try out coming into their Freshman year. “We’re hoping that will help out with numbers so we can get some growth,” she said. Also, for the first time ever, Sulphur Springs will introduce a junior varsity drill team, starting out with five girls. “I’m excited to get that started too,” she stated. The Blue Blazes are led by six selected officers. Each summer, the officers attend camp. Dial took them to “Crowd Pleasers” last year, a notoriously difficult officer camp. “My officers competed in the technique evaluation — they performed a chosen routine and a home routine — they brought back platinums in each category,” she said. The Blue Blazes also have “sergeants,” which are the “social officers.” The sergeants attend a separate camp in July. As the team works towards preparing for competition season, they will be getting ready for the Spring Show, a production that will take place indoors at the Sulphur Springs ISD Auditorium at the end of April. The team will be incorporating more “tap” for the show, 39

At the end of summer, the Blue Blazes begin two-a-days training during the summer —lining up their dance routines for their field performances during football season. For the first time ever, the team will be incorporating something different — “field skirts” — costume props which will appear in this year’s fieldTheperformances.BlueBlazesdo not have a mascot yet, but Dial stated they have joked about making her own daughter the squad mascot as, “Carol Blaze-kin,” — a hat tip to Carol Baskin from Tiger King. “She’s gonna walk around saying ‘hey all you cool wildcats and kittens,’” she laughed. Uniquely, the Blue Blazes do in fact, have their very own escorts, which they refer to as “gentlemen of the field.” They wear shiny blue blazers, complementing the glittery outfits donned by the girls.

40 including more contemporary style overall. Tryouts will also be taking place at this time, and afterwards they start prepping for summer and getting ready for camps once again.

Being dedicated is the biggest aspect of making it in drill. “These girls work year round. I think that’s one of the things that the community doesn’t understand. We don’t have an off season,” she stated, “it takes commitment and hard work.”

It is an honor to welcome Dial to the drill program at Sulphur Springs ISD. With no limitations, she seems determined to take the Blue Blazes to new heights — above and beyond the imagination. Although they are already working hard, the Blue Blazes begin training for competition season in October. Meanwhile, they will be juggling many other acts to make their team shine brighter than the stars over Texas. Do not miss out this football season, as they are sure to show up dressed to impress and all the rest.

Photo Credit: Dinh Tran

LONESTAR CLINIC Tiffany Gebel, MD, OB/GYN 1216 Church Streeet Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 903-885-2820 Lady Business - that’s her business Good Luck to all area athletes!

There’s a new sound at Como-Pickton this year!

By Dave Shabaz Photo Credit: Dinh Tran

Dr. Greg Bower, Superintendent of Como-Pickton, CISD, states, “We are excited about the energy and experience that Mr. Ingram brings to our school district. He looks to be the right man to improve and grow our band program into something that remains consistent with Como-Pickton’s standard of excellence.” Here in Como-Pickton, Craig will also be directing the band for 6th to 12th graders and will be looking for both quality and quantity to fill spaces in the marching band. But one space he won’t have to worry about filling is the position of Drum Major. Returning from last year’s band is Junior Drum Major, Boston Peeks. When asked about his duties as Drum Major, Boston stated, “my job is to be the ultimate servant to the band and to the team. For example, I need to watch the game closely and know when a first down happens, because that’s when we need to play our fight song.” Boston not only works closely with the drum line, but also with the cheer squad. Boston, who is a percussionist, looks forward to putting in the time and hard work it takes and says, “this is the start of something great.” Right now, Boston envisions himself attending Baylor University and wants to be in the college drum band.

If you say to someone, “hey, there’s something new and exciting happening over at Como-Pickton CISD,” you’re going to have to be more specific. You see, Como-Pickton has a school district that has recently been winning award after award. For example, they’ve been voted the Best Public School in Hopkins County three years in a row. In Region 8, they’ve had their Junior and Senior High School Principals both named Principal of the Year, along with Superintendent of the Year for the same Region. They’ve won many other honors, but the exciting event that this story is about is the introduction of the school’s new Head Band Director, Craig Ingram. Craig has spent the past eight years in Sherman, Texas working for S&S CISD, when he decided he wanted to be closer to family and Como-Pickton was the perfect fit for him. Craig has been working musically with 6th to 12th graders and in his previous position, was able to grow the music program from 98 students to 178 by the sixth year there.

Superintendent Bower said this about Boston Peeks, “Mr. Ingram’s arrival at the time that Boston Peeks is stepping up to be our drum major is perfect timing.

The outpouring of support was a great first impression for the new Head Band

Superintendent Bower concluded by saying, “Every year we equate the start of school with the start of Friday Night Lights! Our War Eagle football team brings our school pride and excitement and this year that excitement is at an all-time high! Coach Green is chasing the school’s record. If he gets our boys into the playoffs this year, he will tie the record for most playoff appearances by a CP coach.”

Boston is an incredible young man, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact he will have in leading our band students!” Working alongside Ingram will be Assistant Band Director, Seth Rambo. This will also be Rambo’s first year with Como-Pickton and is eager to get started working with the talented musicians at Como-Pickton. “I want to make them believe in themselves and I’m beyond excited to give them a great experience and share it along with them,” Rambo stated.What have they been doing to prepare for this upcoming school year and football season? Well, along with other band members and with the help of local volunteers, Ingram has been leading a cleanup crew. They’ve been organizing, cleaning and fixing up the music room, where the band meets and practices.

Submitted Photo Submitted Photo

Director. Ingram said, “I encourage all my students to have a positive mindset and to always try their best.”

Ingram states, “I was so happy to see 25-30 local volunteers come in and help us get everything ready for the upcoming school year.” This is no surprise when it comes to the Como-Pickton area.

Country World Rural Newspaper of Texas Start your subscription today! q12 mo., $40 q24 mo., $60 q36 mo. $80 Name: Phone:StateCity:Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________&Zip:___________________________________________________________________________SendCheckorMoneyOrderto:CountryWorld200MainStreet,SulphurSpringsTX75482 Local, State, National Ag News Livestock Markets and Grain Futures Calendar of Events for Counties and State Outdoors Feature by Reavis Wortham Featured Recipe in Country Cookin’ Country Classifieds Special Editions throughout the year Texas Trails by Clay Coppedge Call 903-885-2030Today! 47 Championsplayasone. Good Luck Como-Pickton, Cumby and Sulphur Springs Athletes!

COMO-PICKTON EAGLES

To say the least, the 2021 season was a rough one for the Como-Pickton Eagles. They finished just 2-8 overall and failed to win a district game, going 0-6. During that span, the Eagles averaged just 11.7 points per game on offense, and gave up 22.3 points per game on defense.

This season will be the Eagles’ fourth season under the leadership of head coach Ronnie Green. Green will be looking for his first winning season as the Eagles’ leader. Green noted there has been a lot of buy-in this summer.

“It well serve as motivation for the coaches and the players,” Green said. “I personally don’t feel like were gonna be the last-place finisher this year, so we definitely have something to prove.”

“We’ve been really lucky with stability,” Green said.

However, this year is the a new season, and the Eagles will be looking to erase the memories of last season, return to the playoffs, and win a playoff game for the first time in school history.

This season, the Eagles will be returning four starters on offense and six starters on defense. Players named as players to watch by Dave Campbell’s were Christian Gilbreath, Kevin Hernandez, Hayden Potts, Ian Rodgers, Klain Thomas and Cash Wilton. Green had positive things to say about each player.

“We’ve had quite a few kids show up this summer, and we practiced in the afternoons because it worked around a lot schedules,” Green said. “In the years I’ve been here, this has been one of the best summers, because the same kids have been showing up often. I’ve been pleased with it.”Green also noted that his coaching staff from last season is mostly in tact this season, having only had to replace one coach who retired.

By DJ Spencer

The Eagles were ranked seventh in their district by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football. Full rankings in order were: 1. Cooper, 2. Wolfe City, 3. Boles, 4. Rivercrest, 5. Honey Grove, 6. Alba-Golden, 7. Como-Pickton. Green noted that the last-place prediction will help motivate the team to do better this season.

“For a school our size, that’s a big deal, because all of the players know the coaches, and to me, that goes a long way.”Tobegin the season, the Eagles will compete in two tri-scrimmages, the first one being against Quitman and Boles Aug. 12, and the second one being against Chisum and Trenton Aug. 18. Green stated that trimmingscrimmages are a good way to prepare for the season.

“Tri-scrimmages are great because they allow you to play multiple teams, as well as see multiple different offensive and defensive formations,” Green said. This season, the Eagles will have four non-district games prior to district. These games will be against Simms Bowie (Aug. 26), Detroit (Sep. 2), Queen City (Sep. 9), and Tom Bean (Sep. 16). After those four weeks, the Eagles will begin district play. Their district schedule will include games against Rivercrest (Sep. 23), Boles (Sep. 30), Cooper (Oct. 7), Wolfe City (Oct. 14), AlbaGolden (Oct. 21), and Honey Grove (Nov. 4). Their bye week will be in between the Alba-Golden and Honey Grove games.

52 Photo Credit: DJ Spencer

“Klain is a returning two-year starter who works hard, and he will start on both the offensive and defensive line. Ian had a good offseason and gained a lot of speed, and were expecting a lot out of him this year,” Green added.

Green also noted that he is proud of his coaching staff, as well as the work ethic from his players. He also noted that the players will work hard and will play physically this year. He also mentioned that getting into the playoffs will be a big “Gettinggoal.into the playoffs is something that was discussed at our first team meeting. I don’t want the kids to get too high or too low on themselves,” Green said. “Getting into the playoffs is our ultimate goal and hopefully we will win a playoff game for the first time in school history, which is something that hasn’t been done in school history. That’s gonna be the motivation that will push us this season.”

This season will be a year for Como-Pickton to turn things around, and they will be looking to surprise their fans and the critics.

COMO-PICKTON 53 Submitted Photo

Other players that Green named as players to watch include Braxton Andrews, Alex Perez, Carlos Perez, and Diego Perez. Green also noted that they will have some JV players that will be stepping into big roles this upcoming season.Thisseason, the Eagles will run a 6-2, even front defense that will also feature some checks and adjustments. Offensively, they will run a Wing-T offense that will feature a heavy run game. The pass game will feature a lot of bootleg and play action play calls.

“Christian is coming off an ACL tear from last year, and has done well in recovery,” Green said. “Were looking forward to having him back on both offense and defense.”

“Kevin has been attending multiple camps during the summer, and has been working very hard. He’s gonna be our quarterback and will also play in the secondary.” Green said. “Hayden is a good lineman. Cash will be a starter on defense at inside linebacker.”

2022 COMO-PICKTON FOOTBALL SCHEDULE2022 Como-Pickton Football Schedu le DATE OPPONENT PLACE TIME SCRIMMAGES Aug 12 Quitman / Boles Quitman To follow JV scrimmage Aug 18 Chisum / Trenton Chisum To follow JV scrimmage NON-DISTRICT Aug. 26 James Bowie Home 7:30 Sept. 2 Detroit Away 7:30 Sept. 9 Queen City Away 7:30 Sept. 16 Tom Bean Homecoming Home 7:30 DISTRICT Sept. 23 Rivercrest Away 7:30 Sept. 30 Boles Home 7:30 Oct. 7 Cooper Away 7:30 Oct. 14 Wolfe City Home 7:30 Oct. 21 Alba Golden Senior Night Home 7:30 Oct. 28 Bye Nov. 4 Honey Grove Away 7:30 SUB VARSITY: 7TH, 8TH AND JV DATE OPPONENT PLACE TIME Aug 12 Quitman / Boles Quitman 6:00 JV Only Aug 18 Chisum / Trenton Chisum 5:00 JV Only Aug. 25 James Bowie Away 5:00 JV Only Sept. 1 Detroit Home 5:00 JH Scrimmage, JV Game Sept. 8 Queen City Home 5:00 JV Sept. 8 Queen City Away 5:00 JH Sept. 15 Tom Bean Away 5:00 JH and JV Sept. 22 Rivercrest Home 5:00 JH and JV Sept. 29 Boles Away 5:00 JH and JV Oct. 6 Cooper Home 5:00 JH and JV Oct. 13 Wolfe City Away 5:00 JH and JV Oct. 20 Alba Golden Away 5:00 JH and JV Oct. 27 Bye Nov. 3 Honey Grove Home 5:00 JH and JV Athletic Director/HFC: Ronnie Green Coaching Staff: Colby Rogers, Mitchell Green, Taylor Knickerbocker, Payton Turner , Darrell Franklin, Shane Wilton, Landon Wallace Trainer: Danny Superintendent:BullsDr. Greg Bower Principals: Kelly Baird, Buck Haynes Cheerleading Sponsor: Rebecca Gilbreath School Colors: Columbia Blue, Black & White Mascot: Eagles 54

COMO-PICKTON CHEERLEADERS 56

CHRISTUShealth.org CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Medical Building 5 103 Medical Circle; Ste B Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 Taking orthopedic care a step further. Medical Circle JacksonStNPipelineChurchStRdAirport Rd154 FREE InjuryAthleticClinic August 20 –November 12 For more information call903.885.6688Studentathletes7thgrade - College Saturday mornings | 9 – 11 a.m. Same-day MRI - requires insurance approval