August 2025
Impact goes beyond wins
Joining in mid-November of 2024, I didn’ t have the pleasure of meeting all the teams and knowing what their seasons were like. Making the rounds across Parker and Palo Pinto County for this magazine, it wasn’ t just about previewing 2025; it was about getting to know the programs.
There’ s more to the story than just a record, whether that’ s 15-0 or 0-10. It’ s more than just trying to win a district championship, a playoff
Armando Lutz, Sports Editor game or a state title.
The Gordon Longhorns look to three-peat and fulfill dynasty status; however, I’ m more interested in how a“ homeless” team overcomes the effects of a tornado and takes the biggest leap in program history by playing 11-man football.
The powerhouses of Aledo and Brock try to live up to yet another season of extreme expectations and from talking to the players, it seems like losing only made them better.
Peaster, Mineral Wells and Springtown turned a lot of heads last season. The Greyhounds won their first playoff game in program history. Cody Worrell has turned the Rams around and the Pines topped their district for the first time in the Brian Hulett era.
The big question is, can they replicate the magic and surpass it in 2025?
For Weatherford and Santo, we all hope this“ injury bug” goes away. No matter what team you root for, these are kids at the end of the day playing the sport they love. Of course my job is easier when the Roos or Wildcats win games, but it’ ll be more satisfying seeing the players come out of their games unscathed. And playoff berths would be the cherry on top.
Finally, for WCS, TCA and Millsap, the pride runs deep. What’ s on paper doesn’ t define what the program is, and progression doesn’ t always mean undefeated records and titles. I look forward to seeing what they accomplish.
It’ ll be an honor to watch from the sidelines in my first full football season. The best of luck goes out to all the teams and I hope to see you in December.
PUBLISHER Lisa Chappell
MANAGING EDITOR Sally Sexton
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