The team was more of a family and though everyone was not always on the same page, they resolved their differences as family. The seniors Xavier Lee and Sammie Ceasar really stepped up according to Coach Burnette. He said that the two seniors really demonstrated leadership, which helped the coaches by their doing so. Carroll proved to everyone that they wanted the victory when in the fourth quarter, down by 12 points, they suddenly closed in; then tied the game and the rest is history, because from then on- Carroll took it on home!! He said the fans were such a big part in the victory, because they cheered the Bulldogs on like never seen before; needless to say, Carroll’s fans and fans from every where were elated at the Bulldogs’ victory. (I’m a wildcat and I was even excited!) Coach Burnette said that the support after the victory left him and the team speechless; he said it was overwhelming to see the superintendent, other school board members, band, administration and more fans after the ride home, all waiting at the school at about 9:30-10:00 p.m. That didn’t end the celebration for the Bulldogs; Coach Burnette said that the team had events all week, doing things as much as two and three times a day. Oh, I’m not finished yet! The Bulldog alumni got together and owned the weekend- All Star Weekend (which topped it off). Coach Burnette said that there will be a lot of expectations for next year. He still wants his team to stay focused even with them being champions, because even though there are no guarantees, he is hoping for another victory. As for now though, Coach Burnette, Coach Antonio Howard, Coach Adrian Wilson and Coach Mykill Chatman are taking it
all in and enjoying the sweet taste of victory, along with the champions (Carroll High School Bulldogs), the fans and the rest of North Louisiana! Coach Burnette has a message for his team: “I’m real proud of you. We had a remarkable run and I enjoyed every minute- the good, the bad, the wins and the losses. Let’s stay together, work hard and see what happens in the long run.” He also wants to thank all the supporters/fans for all of the overwhelming support and love shown to the ball club. Who let the dogs out? I don’t know, but somebody wasn’t playing when they did. I just think that next year somebody better take heed to that “Beware of the Dog” sign!! We at Roe City Lights just want to say, “Congratulations Carroll Bulldogs on your championship and all that has come with it!! You deserve it!”