Excitement is in the air, bursts of purple and gold paint our dreams as we gear up for game day. It’s football season in wolf country and for some, this Friday will be their last-first football game of the season—ever. Senior  Brent Laneave, who plays left guard and nose guard said, “I feel great about Friday night, but it takes the whole team to believe we can win. What they believe is what we will achieve.” He is hopeful for this season as well. “The team works hard and can win as many games as they want to win,” he remarked.

     We have had many new additions to our coaching staff, among them is the new head coach, Jeff Stewart. Coach Stewart is very optimistic for this season. He says, “The boys are working hard and are believing in themselves. They’re getting better every week.” Though Heavener has struggled in the past, Coach Stewart isn’t letting that put a damper on things. “We’re not looking at the past. All we care about is the future,” he said. Coach Stewart believes that this team has the potential to make playoffs this year. “We have that much talent,” he remarked.

     For the senior football players, this Friday is bittersweet. When asked what he will miss the most, senior Hunter Gandy—who plays fullback and defensive tackle—says, “Playing and just hanging out with my friends.” Brent Laneave had the same sentiment, “I will miss the team and the Friday nights the most.” As our first taste of the Friday night lights near, we will be cheering on the Wolves loud, proud, and full of pride. Be there to support our boys as they play against the Gore Pirates at 7:00 p.m. on August 31st. Go, Wolves!

--Mackenzie Slusser