By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of East Texas Gameday.

When the Hawks took over Bubba’s yard, the buzz wasn’t just about burgers and cheers—it was a clear signal that Pleasant Grove’s football program is rebuilding from the ground up.

Senior Exodus and the Search for Depth

Coach Darby opened the discussion by acknowledging the massive turnover: “You graduated 27 off last year’s varsity roster. That’s a big number to try to replace.” The departure of a highly‑charactered senior class has forced the coaching staff to look beyond traditional pipelines.

To fill the gaps, the program recruited athletes from other sports. “We went into the basketball gym, talked to a couple guys, and connected with some of our baseball guys,” Darby explained. Players like safety Eden Pree and quarterback Harrison Hoover, originally baseball athletes, now wear the Hawks’ colors on the field.

These cross‑sport athletes bring fresh energy and help mitigate the depth concerns that lingered after the senior class’s exit.

Emphasis on Fun, Fitness, and Community

The coaching philosophy this year centers on two simple goals: enjoyment and improvement. “Two of our big goals in the summer were to have fun and to get better,” said Darby, echoing the sentiment shared by the players during the pre‑season camp.

Strength and conditioning have become a cornerstone of the program. The team’s strength coach, Henry, highlighted the rigorous regimen: “Our strength program is top‑notch, college‑level. My bench is at 295 pounds and my squat at 475.” Players like defensive end Kai Ringwood and inside linebacker Henry Smith reported similar numbers, underscoring the physical preparation aimed at competing with regional powerhouses.

Beyond the gym, the community’s role is emphasized. “When people show up on Friday night, we want to take care of them. We want them to have a great experience,” Darby noted, stressing the importance of a welcoming stadium environment for fans and families.

New District Dynamics and Upcoming Challenges

This season introduces Carthage to the district, shifting the competitive landscape. While the Hawks are eager to face familiar foes like Kilgore, the addition of Carthage adds an element of anticipation. “Our biggest mindset is day‑by‑day, game‑by‑game,” Darby said, focusing on immediate opponents rather than long‑term predictions.

Reflecting on past matchups, Darby recalled close contests with Kilgore and Carthage in previous championship runs, noting that the team’s “intricate level” and detailed film study have improved. These adjustments aim to close the gap that previously led to narrow losses.

Player Voices: Pride and Persistence

Senior players expressed a blend of pride and determination. One senior remarked, “This is your senior year. Let’s give this a shot. It’s going to be a fun experience.” The sentiment underscores a collective desire to finish strong while mentoring incoming talent.

Another player highlighted the camaraderie that fuels daily improvement: “We’re pushing each other every single day. The energy in practice is incredible.” This internal drive complements the external support from the community and coaching staff.

Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Program

The Hawks’ strategy blends immediate competitiveness with long‑term sustainability. By integrating athletes from multiple sports, emphasizing rigorous conditioning, and fostering a fun‑first culture, Pleasant Grove aims to remain a contender in East Texas football.

As the season unfolds, the program’s success will hinge on how well these new pieces coalesce on the field and how the community rallies behind them.

The full episode of East Texas Gameday is available on OBBM Network TV.