August 2022

COLLINSVILLE — The Pirates came so close to keeping their playoff streak alive and as they attempt to start a new one, they will do it after dropping down in the latest realignment. Collinsville find itself in the Class 2A Division II ranks in an expected move since they were literally the smallest 2A Division I program with the exact enrollment to keep them up.

TIOGA — The first three seasons the Bulldogs played at the 11-man level since bringing back football a decade ago were unable to build on the success Tioga was having in the six-man ranks. After reaching the state quarterfinals and then the state semifinals before moving up, the program couldn’t gain immediate traction.

WHITEWRIGHT — The Tigers see the opportunity in front of them and hope it will lead towards some smooth sailing rather than dealing with choppy waters of recent seasons. By dropping down to Class 2A in the University Interscholastic League’s latest realignment, Whitewright feels it is in a better position to gain consistency in seeking its first playoff win since 2016 — which was also the last time it posted a winning record.

TOM BEAN — There’s a lot of changes happening in Tom Bean. Tomcat Stadium received an overhaul. An indoor facility is currently under construction behind the field house. And a new head coach is trying to raise the level of competition after the program went through a winless season.

BELLS — While the Panthers have turned themselves into one of the better teams in the region over the past couple years, they know what they need to do not just to stay in that class but to take one step further and into uncharted territory for the program.