Wakefield High School’s varsity football team is preparing for a match-up in tonight’s Homecoming game against Rolesville High School. At 7 p.m., the Wolverines will take on the Rams at home. Fans and students are expected to come out and pack the stands in a “Maroon Out” as the Wolverines fight to defend their home turf and secure a victory in one of the season’s most anticipated games.
Senior Devin Jugan, Wakefield’s starting center, has a positive attitude heading into tonight’s game.
“Rolesville is going to be the best team we play all year,” Jugan said. “With an extra week off [between games], we have time to prepare and get our team morale up, especially after the win [on Sept. 15].”
After a rocky start to the season, the Wolverines have prevailed in the past two games after a 29-24 win against Broughton High on Sept. 15 and a 41-7 victory over Franklinton High on Sept. 8. Corey Schneider is a senior running back and linebacker who has experienced his fair share of games throughout his four years on the team.
“Rolesville is a tough team, so we [have to] get our spirits high,” Schneider said. “We’re on a two-game winning streak, so we’re excited [heading] into this game.”
Team morale is undeniably one of the most crucial factors heading into a big match. Jugan attests the Wolverines’ victory streak to the team spirit cultivated throughout the past few games.
“Before the win [on Sept. 8, the morale] was dull, and everyone was tired of losing, but after the past two wins, the spirit is coming together,” Jugan said.
The team has put in unmatched time and dedication when preparing for the game. While focusing on the best plays against Rolesville is essential, the primary way to improve the likelihood of winning starts with the players. Assistant Coach Trent Wilson Sr. knows this and ensures the team has prepared adequately.
“We’re working on [ourselves] right now; we’re trying to clean up our mistakes and make sure we’re fluent in those as we go forward,” Wilson said.
The importance of this game can quickly get to players’ heads. Jugan acknowledges that mentors play a crucial role in guiding and motivating the team through every match of the season.
“Ultimately, our spirit comes from our coaches,” Jugan said. “The coaches know how to talk to us, they know how to motivate us, and they know how to get our spirits right [before a big game.]”
The Wolverines have an exciting game in front of them, as well as a winning streak to uphold.
“I’m excited about the [Homecoming] game,” senior kicker Chase Weisser said. “All the fans need to come out because with the Wackos support, we will play [our best.]”
No matter what happens tonight, the Wakefield varsity football team has prepared for whatever the Rams bring them.
“[The season] is turning around. There are a lot of wins occurring that don’t reflect in the win-loss column, and I think that’s got us going in the right direction,” Wilson said. “I’m proud of the kids and their progress.”
