It is football season once again and the Varsity Bear Football players are pushing their limits and working hard for a successful season. The boys have been constantly preparing themselves for each Friday-night game.

The official Varsity practices started on Aug. 3, but returning players began preparation long before that. Many were working in the off season so when the official practice rolled around, they were ready to take it on.

“We were completely prepared to be there at 6 a.m. and take on whatever challenges the coaches had to throw at us,” Defensive player Daniel Killian said.

The team is led by Athletic Director and head coach, Randy Crouch. According to team members, he is a very dedicated coach and does just about anything he can to help ready his team. The players knows that he genuinely cares for them and wants to learn their strengths, weaknesses, and each player in general as an individual.

“He gives us these speeches that will not only apply to our football careers, but will apply to our lives in the future,” Killian said. “They’re always things we can take home and really think about.”

According to some of the seniors, the bond of this year’s team is very strong and they stay motivated in ways that many fans may not see on a daily basis.

“We have come such a long way from last season and we keep progressing and growing to be the best that we can,” Killian said. “That’s all that is asked of us is progress…just to never stop at good and to strive for perfection.”

As there are advantages to being on the Varsity team, there are also many challenges that come along with the territory. On the top team, the pressure is higher and the competition is tougher.

“We aren’t as big or as strong as the last couple of year’s teams, but what we lack in size, we make up for in our effort or dedication,” Killian said.

Being a good football player isn’t easy. It takes being smart on the field, aggressive, creative, dedicated, and most of all – passionate about the game. It also takes knowing how to be a team player.

“Being on the team is just like being a part of a big family,” Killian said. “Once you get into Bear football, it’s not just about you as an individual player and every coach will make you aware of that. Everything is about the team. No selfish action happens without consequences.”

It is pretty evident that being on Varsity isn’t for everyone and it definitely isn’t easy, as it takes an abundance of hard work, time, and dedication.

“The most unique thing about our team honestly is our willingness to play for each other,” Killian said. “When we step on the field Friday night, it isn’t hard to tell that everything we are doing is for the people playing beside us.”