By América Cárdenas
On Saturday, Nov. 7, the 2015-16 Pueblo varsity football team advanced to their first playoff appearance since 1991, taking on the Estrella Foothills’ Wolves. Unfortunately, the Warriors lost with a final score of 35-13.
The Warriors ended the season with a final record of 7-4, giving them their second consecutive winning season.
Junior Michael Beltran said, “Last year we set the trend of a triumphant season, and I hope this year we set the precedent for next year’s post-season performance and appearance.”
Pueblo secured their playoff status by being undefeated in their class to become section champions.
“We may not have finished our season with a state championship, but we are making a name for Pueblo again,” said senior David Greenwood. “We want the community to know that we are not a ghetto south side school and that we have so many great programs here including an outstanding athletics department with committed players with pride and devoted coaches who want us to learn the meaning of team spirit.”
Another senior, Jasiah Booth, said, “I couldn’t be any prouder of my team, and I want to wish all upcoming sports just as much luck in their seasons as our football team had this past season.”
On Nov. 23, several of our Warrior football players were honored by coaches for their commendable performances in Division IV, Section II, including:
- Justin Pledger (Offensive Player of the Year)
- Jorge Romero (First Team Running Back)
- Frankie Gomez (First Team Receiver)
- Michael Beltran (First Team Offensive Lineman)
- Jasiah Booth (First Team Offensive Lineman)
- Elliott Perez-Guillen (First Team Linebacker)
- David Greenwood (First Team Defensive End)
- Justin Pledger (First Team Defensive Back)
- Jasiah Booth (First Team Interior Lineman)
- Justin Pledger (First Team Returner)
- Armando Lucero (Second Team Receiver)
- Adrian Madero (Second Team Linebacker)
- Frankie Gomez (Second Team Defensive Back)
- Raul German (Second Team Interior Lineman)
- Jesus Rodriguez (Second Team Interior Lineman)
Booth added, “Pueblo is back on the map, and I am proud to say I am a part of the school’s turn around years. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior.”