In their final game of the season, the Redhawk football team (0-10) fell short of its first win, losing 48-13 to Sherman High School.

“I thought we made some great plays,” head football coach Matt Swinnea said. “Defense held them to field goals on 3 occasions, and we blocked 2 kicks. There were strong individual performances throughout the game.”

Even though the team didn’t win, senior Ethan Ashmore is thankful for his senior season.

“It is unfortunate we lost, but the way it ended was very special,” Ashmore said. “The season was far from a success record-wise, but I personally grew and improved as not only a football player but as a person, and I’m grateful for that.”

Playing in 5A Division 2 last year, the Redhawks moved up to Division 1 this year, a move Swinnea expected to be difficult.  

“We knew it was going to be tough playing in D1,” Swinnea said. “As one of the smallest in the state, it was a challenge. We wish we could have scored some victories, but overall I love our team and appreciate the time and effort that they gave to the program.”

For most of the team’s 28 seniors, Friday’s game meant hanging up their cleats for good.

“The thing I’m going to miss most about high school football is the student sections and being able to play my favorite sport every week with a team full of lifelong friends,” Ashmore said. “I have thought about continuing my football career at the D2 level, but I want to enjoy the college student experience.”