Halfway through the season: a look at Natalia sub-Varsity football

The Natalia Sub-Varsity squads also enjoyed their open week as they got back to work on the little things. Here is a look at what Coach Ilyan Martinez had to say about the progress of the junior high and junior varsity squads up until this point.
JH Mustangs
“I am really excited about our JH program,” Martinez said. “Right now our 8th grade is rolling and playing with a lot confidence. We are excited about that group and how well they are developing. They are big and physical and love to play the game. It’s been fun watching them grow this process and that’s a group we are really going to count on for the future.”
“Our 7th grade program has made great strides as they continue to gel and learn the game of football. It’s been a long time since we’ve had so many first year players but they are developing and learning the game. We are excited about the progress they’ve made and we know they’ll be ready when it’s their time.”
Junior Varsity Football
“Our JV program has really been a bright spot for our program. The JV is undefeated and hasn’t given up a defensive touchdown all year and our offense has been firing on all cylinders. We’ve had to move some players around and our offense hasn’t missed a beat. That’s really a credit to our offensive and defensive line. Those guys are physical and establish the line of scrimmage. Our skill players do a great job of making plays on both sides of the ball. It’s a special group we’ve worked really hard to keep together and develop. We know our future is bright with this group that will be moving up in the next year or so.”
Program Round-up
“Overall, I am proud of the work our coaches and kids have put in to put us in this situation. The most satisfying thing is that our kids and coaches understand that we still have a lot of work to do and put their heads down and stay humble and hungry. We know anything that has happened before this week doesn’t count and every day we are playing for keeps. The team has never been more focused and I’m excited for the opportunities we have this year in our district. It should be fun.”
Sub-Varsity Games set
This coming Thursday, the Natalia Jr. High Mustangs will play at home at 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. as the JV travels to Wilson County to battle the Brahmas at 5:30 p.m.
By Eric Smith
Staff Writer