When asking any high school alumni what they miss the most about high school, nine times out of ten, they will say “Friday Night Lights.” In previous years, our school football team hasn’t been one to be proud of their statistics, but this year, they’re in full reverse. “Team 7. We gave them the name, they created the identity.” Coach Jordan was beaming when talking of his players. This year, he believes that his players have earned their new title, Team 7. Initially, the name was just a fun way to recognize the players, relating to “BUDS” a classing system used by Navy seals in specialized basic training.
When asking Coach Puskus if he believes that his players this year are different when compared to previous years, the answer was already shown in his face. “When looking at them as a group—I couldn’t be happier. They are one of the most tight-knit teams I’ve ever had.” In previous years, the attitude, “eat, or be eaten” was prominent among the players. “Something clicked this year” all coaches agreed. Over the summer, the off-season attendance was through the roof. Mostly all players participated in community service activities together on top of their basic weight training. They visited Metropolitan Ministries, St.Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, and many more. The coaches believe that this brought his team closer together, all while making them appreciate everything they have. This year, even with big setbacks such as major injuries to key players, the team remains strong and intact. Instead of being upset and storming off when they became injured, players like Cason Byrd stand along the sidelines, coaching and cheering on their substitute. “They have definitely lived up to their new title,” said Coach Puskus. “Team 7 is those who have played before us, and for those who will play for us.”
