For the past few years, Swigert has had a minimal number of people interested in playing football. Last year the 3 schools with the least football players came together to create a combined team called RSS. RSS combines Russell, Sabin, and Swigert students. This year we had around 40 B-squad players and around 30 A-squad players. We also had 5 coaches helping coach our athletes to prepare for their weekly games.
Game Recaps
This past season both our A-squad and B-squad teams fought hard at all of their games and showcased their determination and teamwork on and off the field. A-squad had a beginning-of-year tournament against many schools and won a few scrimmages. Their games lasted between 45 minutes to almost 3 ½ hours. Most of their games ended in a close score but still sadly lost most of their games. At their game against D2 East D2 sadly forfeited due to injuries leading A-squad to their first win. Both squads had an end-of-year tournament against D2 East but sadly D2 forfeited again. Diego Corral Orona one of our A-squad football players said “Football was tough but it got us into better shape and made us learn more about the game and improve.” B- squad’s games typically took place from around 4:30 to 6:00 PM, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Although the season did not end in a single victory, the B- squad made remarkable strides and came close to score on numerous occasions. One of their most memorable moments came during a nail-biting match against D2 East, Although they lost they ended with a thrilling final score of 19-20.
Practices
Our team dedicated themselves to going to practice every weekday from 4:30 to 6:00 PM at Russell. There was an open practice for both squads to kick off their training sessions early, diving into practice just before school began 2 days of each month of summer break. As they focused on refining their skills and enhancing the efficiency of their plays, a strong bond began to form among the players. Over time, they grew increasingly close, developing a friendship that felt much like that of a family.
Family
After every practice or game, the team would gather in a tight circle, their voices rising in unison as they chanted, “Family on me, family on 3…” This ritual had become a cherished tradition for our combined team, solidifying the bonds they had formed throughout the season.
Brandon Lytle, one of the standout players on the A-squad team, shared his thoughts on the experience saying,
“Personally I joined football because of my friends, it’s a great way to connect with people.”
His words reflected the sense of belonging and unity that the sport fostered among the teammates. Each practice and game not only improved their skills but also deepened their friendship, making the field feel like a second home.
Finishing off the Season
This year, our team celebrated the season with a delightful potluck at Fargo’s Pizza. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement as players and their families shared stories and enjoyed each other’s company. The coaches presented each player with a special reward, recognizing their hard work and dedication throughout the season. They also all gathered at Russell for their individual and team photos to remember the season. A sense of friendship filled the air as each player lined up, chatting with friends while waiting for their turn. The excitement was noticeable as players struck poses, showcasing their team spirit in each picture.
