Falcon High School’s sports season is off to an adrenaline-filled start. With the football team having the fifth best record in Falcon history and the volleyball team being a regional qualifier, Falcon now has its name on the map. Both teams surprised their competitors as they walked onto the field and the court with the passion to win, and they succeeded.The football team’s desire to work hard and succeed started early. Over the summer, 52 players went to the Nebraska-Kearney Football Camp for training and conditioning. Ten returning varsity seniors and seven new seniors helped the Falcons throw off their competition, and they ended their season erasing all doubts that Falcon could be beat. The Falcons were on the Gazette’s top-10 list for several weeks, and continued their success throughout the rest of the season.A play-making offense and unstoppable defense led the Falcons to victory. Senior Quarterback Trevor Gochenour broke four school records including most completions in a game, and most passing yards in a season. Also on the record-breaking list was Keith Thompson, with the most touchdown receptions in a season, and Bruce Roath, with a 96-yard kick return. The defense broke five school records including total yards allowed in a game and complete yardage allowed in a season.Senior Matt Bayless, as a key defensive end, also received a school record with most sacks in a season. Coaching was also a primary factor as head coach Eric Dinnel was named 3A southern league coach of the year. As the JV and C-team racked up the wins, they became another success story with the best lower-level record in Falcon history.Falcon volleyball started with new coaches and new goals. Four returning varsity seniors increased the Lady Falcon’s desire to go all the way. The leadership within the team helped them succeed, which resulted in a spot at regionals.Having an unbeatable offense and a floor-hitting defense, Falcon became the team to beat. Middle hitters Miranda Kitts and Sadie Maughan dominated the court, leading the team in kills and blocks. At the annual Machebeuf Tournament in Denver, the Falcons left with a second-place trophy, falling short in the championship match. Continued success led the Falcons to being seeded sixth in districts. Even with an eight-hour bus ride to Cortez, the Falcons had their goal in mind and brought home a district runner-up plaque.Regionals were the next feat they would have to overcome to make it to state. Coming out strong and beating the defending state champions the first game helped the Falcons’ confidence. There was a three-way tie for second place, and, even though they played an amazing tie-breaking match, the Falcons lost their opportunity to advance to state by 28 points. Falcon Volleyball hasn’t advanced to regionals in 18 years; ultimately, the Lady Falcons had no reason to hang their heads.Congratulations to all of the athletes who participated in sports this fall season.
