Wheat Ridge, CO — The score doesn’t speak to how close this game really was in first half and how our game plan had us totally pumped up as a squad & the Farmers reeling. But, it does reflect this most difficult year - as the broken record keeps playing the same old song, again, and again. Two turnovers right before half resulted in a 21 point swing & best made plans out the window. What could have been a tie game or even a lead, turned into 36-14 halftime deficit. I am just sick that our seniors go out this way. They gave it all, yet again, in defeat. But, when perfection is the requirement to even compete, inexperience ensures imperfect outcomes. No matter hard we try, you just can't make up for the fact that many of our players are in their first year of football, let alone varsity starters. It takes more than 1 season, to gain the strength, game IQ, and just overall experience it takes to play this game at the scholastic varsity level. There is no short cut. Thus, our 2023 season crashes hard - yet again, at its merciless end… As hard as it is to go through this, it is also what makes our game of FOOTBALL the greatest game for the most competitive of men. The total team player who buys into the mindset and coachable spirit it takes to put it all on the line, physically, mentally, and spiritually each week. To experience both the highs and lows that go into the physical battle every practice, each game, and throughout an entire season. Its the early morning workouts, all summer long. The weight lifting and conditioning daily, to get our bodies to a place to take the physicality & pain required to literally run through a wall, and like it... FOR THE TEAM. It is about being the ones that show up. Every day. Each week. In front of everyone on the gridiron, on the stage, under the lights. The game never lies. It is brutally honest, but the reward immense. As a coach, a mentor, and teacher that has used this game, as my platform to teach life lessons. I truly believe that those who choose to go through it, and do it the right way - All The Way In, are truly unique and VERY special! Special MEN that are using this game as their platform to be better people. Young men that show up and WORK - willing to give it up, no accolades necessary. Just the inner content knowing that they are givers. NOT TAKERS. They are willing to make things better. They are willing to not get the credit. But they are first in line to help others! They step forward and they stand in front of what they believe in! They are shepherds and they are protectors. So, yes I have a very special place in my heart for those that give up so much for a cause much larger than themselves. I have personally hugged each and every one of these wonderful young men. I have shared bread with them, and I have told them that I love them. I have been blessed to hear them express that back to me... So, I have a unique perspective in that I know, even as difficult as this season has been, it will make them better and it gives them that special push (deep inside) it takes to be the best they can be, every day, for the rest of their lives. Why? Because when the going gets tough, they now have the EXPERIENCE. They know they have been here before and they know how to get up. They know how to NEVER GIVE UP... I am also forever grateful to Ryan, Boston, Colton, Kynan, NaShawn, Hunter, Armondo, & Michael. Our 1st group of “Loyal Lion Seniors” taught me a lot about courage, and taught us all about fortitude. You never hid, backed down, or pointed fingers. You faced the storm with the courage and resolve of TRUE WARRIORS . Thus you left permanent paw prints on our hearts, FOREVER… Much Love, Coach V #LifelongRelationships, #Brothers4Ever, #Lions4Life