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| Ram Forever32
November 28, 2013
7:55:42 AM
Entry #: 4106745
| Looking back at the 2013 version of the Rams a few things will stand out. They were a very physically talented group of kids, they had to deal with adversity on and off the field that many teams would have buckled under, they were forced to hear the doubting words of naysayers who claimed the schedule was too weak and they were picking on inferior opponents, and finally they were a gutsy group. It was enjoyable to watch them grow as a team, even though they were going through adversity the whole time. Many games during the season were so one sided that it seemed at times like they were lacking effort, when in fact they were just superior to the teams they were playing. Opening night of the season we were talking about 10 fumbles, and that we weren't sure this team would be able to get it together and play, but then when we stood and watched them play at Marian University against Cardinal Ritter for a chance to play this week at Lucas Oil, we realized they did get it together. No our best game of the season wasn't played against the team from Ritter, the critics got to say we had fallen short. Driving home from there that night though, it was hard to not feel proud of everything this team had accomplished.
Individually there were some things done this season that may not ever be done again at Paoli. Tanner W and his receiving ranks in the top 10 in individual performances for a season as Shizz has pointed out. Let's think about this for a little while, we are a running team, and even though our strategy changed in the tournament run, we played an entire season as a mostly running team. The effort of our defense in the sectional championship and then the second half against Southridge, while not individual has to be recognized. Then there is Brett. For him to play the tournament, in the amount of pain he was in, and do it every week, not only standing in the pocket but taking off and running when he had to, in some cases very crucial plays in both the Triton and Southridge games, was simply remarkable. Honestly it was amazing to watch him do what he did, and also puts in perspective some pro and college athletes who whine about very minor injuries.
In closing it was a great season for Paoli Football. No we didn't reach the pinnacle of Lucas Oil, but we came as close as you can come without getting there. The future looks bright with an undefeated JV team, and undefeated junior high teams as well. Thank you to the Seniors on this team for everything you have given to Paoli Football, your legacy has been left and it will be a tough act to follow. Nights on the hill are great Friday night events, let's keep up this tradition that has been put in place! See y'all in Chambers Gymnasium at James A Babcock court for some roundball. GO RAMS!!!!
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