By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

This season has been one to remember for the Port Isabel Tarpons, and it’s not over yet.

Last Friday, Port Isabel picked up its first playoff victory since 2013 by defeating previously unbeaten Carrizo Springs 23-8 in the Class 4A Division II bi-district round. The Tarpons were honored as the Class 4A Ozarka Fueled by Nature team of the week awarded by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football after beating a No. 1 seed as the No. 4 seed.

“It’s a Cinderella story,” Tarpons coach Tony Villarreal said. “The award is probably one of the biggest things I’ve ever been associated with. Just to win a playoff game is big. But then, for the state to recognize what we accomplished was monumental. It gives us a lot of credibility, you could say, in regards to our community and our self-esteem. The kids deserve a lot of credit for what they’ve achieved.”

Port Isabel used a “physicality package” to let its defense lead the way to victory. The Tarpons recorded five turnovers against Carrizo Springs — three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. Senior safety Christian Aguilera got the scoring started with a pick-six.

Villarreal said Port Isabel attacked the Wildcats in a way no other team had, leaning on the physicality it developed playing through the tough district schedule. He praised the coaching staff for putting together a top-notch game plan and the athletes for following it flawlessly.

“We noticed on film, nobody had really ever got in their face and hit them off the line,” Villarreal said. “Our assistant coaches came up with a great plan … a lot of coaches plan that stuff, but the kids don’t execute. Our kids did.

“Our seniors played lights-out, starting with Kaiden Martinez. He got his hands up, rushed the quarterback, deflected the ball. Derrin Valdez played strong safety, came up and made some big hits,” he continued. “We hit them quite hard. … They didn’t know how to react.”

Next up, the Tarpons (8-3) will battle Geronimo Navarro (8-2) in the area round at 7:30 p.m. today at Beeville Veterans Memorial Stadium. Villarreal said the teams’ offenses are “carbon copies” of each other, so the Tarpons are focusing on stopping Navarro’s run game while coming up with creative ways to run it themselves.

“We come from the same Slot-T philosophy, so they know us and we know them,” Villarreal said. “It’s a little bit of a challenge. They’re a little bigger than us. But you can’t measure the size of the heart in these kids. I would never count out the Tarpons. These kids are surprising me all the time. I hope I can coach as hard as they play.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

HARLINGEN — Since the start of the 2021 season, the players and coaches at Marine Military Academy believed winning a state championship was an attainable goal.

They were right. The Leathernecks went 8-1 during the regular season, picking up four shutout victories and outscoring opponents 266-67 to qualify for the playoffs.

On Friday, MMA stopped a two-point conversion with 16 seconds remaining in a state semifinal contest against Houston KIPP Sunnyside to claim a 35-34 victory.

Today, the No. 2 Leathernecks will battle No. 1 Spring Legacy School of Sport Sciences at 7:30 p.m. at Gupton Stadium in Cedar Park for the Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League state title.

“This was a great season. We did very well, as I knew we would,” junior quarterback/athlete Nathan Harvey said. “I really didn’t think there were any teams that could compete with us, looking at the athletes we have. I knew from Day 1 that we had the team, we had the dogs, to make it. It was just about execution from there.”

Harvey, William Webb, Malik Rivers, Brandon Flowers, Frankie Ratliff, Gage Casper and Jacob Scaife are the headlining playmakers for MMA. Webb is a junior right guard/defensive end in his third year playing varsity for the Leathernecks. He said the camaraderie of this squad has been a driving factor in the successful season.

“It feels amazing (getting to state). You’ve been working for something for so long, and then one day you’re there,” Webb said. “It’s a military school, boarding school, so everybody lives on campus with each other. We know everybody really well. So, the camaraderie we have between brothers is really key.”

Webb and Harvey both said MMA’s lone loss against La Villa was very influential for the team, showing the Leathernecks that they shouldn’t be too cocky or underestimate any team. They’re using that lesson to go into the championship game with reserved confidence in the team’s abilities, while also understanding how they can be better and respecting Spring Legacy’s play.

“(The semifinal) was a great game and great experience, probably one of the best games I’ve ever played,” Webb said. “We’ll be able to stop the run for sure. Only thing I’m a little worried about is the pass, but I think with all the practice we’ve been doing this week, we’ll be fine. We’re a very aggressive team and a well-conditioned team. We move fast, and we’re not afraid to hit.”

Harvey, who also has played receiver, outside linebacker and safety during his first season at MMA, credited the offensive line for anchoring the run game. The Arizona native is excited to play on the big stage in front of family coming to support him and believes MMA will get the job done.

“I’m expecting this to be a very good game,” Harvey said. “I’ve known about Legacy since second or third week. I’ve had them in my mind as the team to beat. They look pretty solid, but nothing we can’t handle. I think our blocking is great. We have a great O-line. They’re really what pushed us (in the semifinal). As much as me and Rivers were running it, all glory goes to the O-line on that game.

“This is what I came here to do. I had that goal at the beginning of the year to win state in football … and whatever I play,” Harvey added. “I’d like to thank the coaches for making this a great year. I haven’t had a good set of coaches like this ever. It’s been a lot of fun.”

Jim Morton is building on his family’s legacy as MMA’s coach and athletic director. His father held the same role for 25 years and led the Leathernecks to a state championship in 1977. Two of his brothers also spent many years on the sidelines at MMA.

“It’s a family tradition. I have one brother that’s still alive, and we talk about how my dad and brothers would be proud,” Morton said.

Three years ago, the Leathernecks won just one game. Then Morton and longtime coaching associate Bobby Lucio, who runs the offense, came to make things right. But Morton gives all praise for the turnaround to the athletes for buying in and working hard to get MMA back on top.

“It’s really them that decided, hey, we want to go to the state championship,” Morton said. “When young men get a mindset like that, as coaches we just put them in position to have success, and they’ve done the rest. I’m real proud of them. They never quit, and that’s what it’s about. They get knocked down, they get back up and they keep fighting. …

“Just to reach this state championship is a credit to these guys, win or lose. But we’re planning on going up there and bringing a state championship back to MMA.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

HARLINGEN — Dozens of people filled the Harlingen High cafeteria Wednesday — family, friends, teammates and supporters of Cardinals baseball star Thomas Lyssy, all ready to celebrate his latest achievement.

Lyssy signed his national letter of intent to continue his baseball career and study mechanical and aerospace engineering at Houston. He’ll be competing in the American Athletic Conference at the NCAA Division I level following his senior season at Harlingen High.

“Words can’t describe it,” Lyssy said. “You’ve been working for it your whole life, and for it to finally come to fruition, it’s just a dream come true.

“I couldn’t have done it without my family and friends, and the support system around me. They’ve really pushed me to where I am today and who I have become.”

The four-year starting shortstop and pitcher initially committed to the Cougars and coach Todd Whitting the summer before his sophomore year. He plays year-round with the Banditos organization, traveling around Texas and to Florida, Georgia, Arizona and beyond “to be able to get that exposure and reach the top level in the country.”

Lyssy wants to play professional baseball, and he believes the competitive environment and coaching staff within the Cougars’ clubhouse will help him achieve that.

“They’ve had a lot of success under Coach Whitting,” Lyssy said. “It was one of my top schools from the beginning. When they offered me, I jumped on it. It’s always been my dream to play in college and then go to the pros, so that’s what I’m working toward. They have the best guys, the best coaches, and there’s an insane amount of players around you that are all pushing toward the same goal and make you even better.

“I’m just trying to improve, and I don’t want to stop or stay where I’m at. Never settle,” he added.

Lyssy has been heavily rewarded during his Cardinals career. He was the District 32-6A newcomer of the year in 2019. In 2021, he led Harlingen High to an undefeated district championship, garnering the team, district and Valley Morning Star All-STAR MVP awards for his efforts.

But his talent is not the best thing he brings to the team, Cardinals coach Armando Rangel said. Lyssy’s attitude, coachability and leadership have made the program better during his career and will continue to when he’s gone.

“He brings a lot to the table, but the biggest thing is his attitude,” Rangel said. “He’s always ready to work. He takes criticism greatly, doesn’t get offended by it, and is willing to take it and listen and grow from it. That’s one thing that separates him. …

“He’s been tremendous for our program,” Rangel continued. “The kids look up to him, they feed off him and he’s a great leader to them, especially to the young ones. That’s going to help us in the long run, even when he leaves, because he’s going to leave a great legacy that others will follow.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

HARLINGEN — There was a lot of competitive basketball played Tuesday night as the Harlingen South and McAllen Rowe girls and boys programs faced off in non-district action.

The girls got the action started with the Rowe Lady Warriors using their physicality to pick up a 54-43 victory over the Lady Hawks. Rowe’s fast start in the third quarter set the tone for a dominant second half that clinched the win.

Rowe’s superior rebounding efficiency made a big difference in the contest. From the opening whistle, Evelyn Valero and Yulissa Yebra overpowered South in the paint and pulled down a multitude of rebounds, particularly on offense. Valero scored 12 of her 24 points during the opening quarter.

Harlingen South closed the second quarter strong to tie the game at halftime. Jasmine Ortiz, Grettell Corona and Sarahi Rodriguez battled down low and came up with clutch rebounds. Rodriguez and Corona used consecutive put-back buckets after rebounds to make it 25-25 at the break.

“Once we stopped the transition game, we were more effective in that halfcourt set,” South coach Rebecca Littleton said. “Rowe was a very physical team. They did a tremendous job against us tonight and showed us a couple things we need to work on.”

Valero, Yebra and the defensive effort from Destiny Menchaca helped Rowe outscore South 18-8 in the third quarter, creating enough separation to hold on for the win. Alyssa Cantu aided Rowe’s overwhelming defense that kept the Lady Hawks trailing by 10 consistently throughout the second half.

Alexes Rocha led the Lady Hawks with relentless effort and 24 points, including two 3-pointers. Isabella Marez and Katelyn Machen kept South fighting despite the deficit.

“Tonight showed us we need to work on those pressure situations, being more physical inside,” said Littleton, who is in her first year with the Lady Hawks. “That’s what these games are for. Saw a lot of good things, a lot of bad things, and I’m excited for us to grow and get better.”

The Rowe Warriors were victorious, too, holding off a fierce South Hawks comeback attempt to clinch a 41-38 win in a defensive contest. Rowe used its length to lock up the paint on defense, forcing the Hawks to throw up a lot of outside shots and holding them to just two points scored in the second quarter.

“Harlingen South was making us play fast, and they always play very good defense,” Rowe coach Jose Luis Yebra said. “Our kids, once they settled down and we came out in the third quarter and scored really quick, we relaxed and we were able to take the lead and maintain it.”

South jumped out to a 13-8 lead after the opening quarter, leaning on its fast-paced tempo and active hands to force turnovers and break away for easy buckets. Ddeen Badiru (13 points) started the second quarter by swiping a steal and going coast-to-coast with a strong dribble down low to sidestep a defender and finish the layup.

After that play, the Warriors went on a 16-point run. They used their height and athleticism to control the boards, resulting in second- and third-chance looks that helped them jump on top. Luis Emiliano Gudino, Julian Avila and Elijah Alcantar played big roles in the momentum swing.

“Our defense in the first quarter, we were in a zone and we were not moving our feet,” Yebra said. “Our defense started moving, got a couple steals and we played better in the second half.”

The Hawks got sloppy as they started to force things the longer they went without scoring and saw a lot of good shots go in and out of the hoop. But a strong seven-point stretch from Badiru to close the third brought a new fire to the Hawks, which they built on in the fourth.

“Give us the same opportunities on any other night, and we make a lot more baskets,” Hawks coach Brian Molina said. “Ball was going in and kicking out. They started pressing a little too much, trying too hard once they started missing shots.

“(Badiru) plays with a lot of passion, plus he’s an experienced four-year letterman, and I think the kids just trust him. He has that big-game experience.”

Luis Rios, Ethan Salinas and Xander Ysasi knocked down clutch shots and played tight defense to help South tie things at 37 with just more than one minute remaining. Badiru and Rios used strong moves in the paint to hit shots and notch rebounds.

“We did a better job of keeping them out of the paint … we were more aggressive in the second half and created opportunities in the fourth quarter,” Molina said. “I’m proud of the boys. I liked their effort, and I liked the way they fought at the end.”

Avila (11 points) nailed a deep 3-pointer and Daniel Fraire snatched an important rebound during the final minute to secure the victory for the Warriors.

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

HARLINGEN — Two blue-blood Rio Grande Valley programs squared off in a defensive battle Saturday at Boggus Stadium in the Class 6A Division I bi-district playoff round.

Harlingen High’s defense held up for four quarters, and the ground game got rolling during the second half to lift the Cardinals to a 21-0 victory over the Edinburg High Bobcats (5-6).

“Any time you can win a game in the postseason, it’s a blessing,” Cardinals coach Manny Gomez said. “Both communities showed up today, and it was a fun afternoon. Never know what tomorrow’s going to bring, but we know that today, we brought what we needed to bring and we got it done. God is good. Super excited for our kids.”

The defenses were the key factor in a first half that had little offensive production. The first and only points didn’t hit the scoreboard until the final two minutes of the second quarter. Harlingen High held a 3-0 lead at halftime after a 35-yard field goal from senior kicker Joseph Garza.

Harlingen High reached the red zone twice during the first half. Its first trip ended with an interception by Bobcats defensive back Albert Armendariz. He overpowered a Cardinals receiver in the end zone as they both high-pointed the pass and got hands on it, but Armendariz secured and hauled it in. Armendariz and Derrick Galindo teamed up on another pass breakup in the end zone to hold Harlingen High to the field goal.

Edinburg High’s only trip inside the 25 during the first half resulted in a turnover on downs. The Cardinals were dominant against the run and applied consistent pressure to the quarterback. On fourth down, Christian Luna trucked through the offensive line for a sack to stop the drive.

The Cardinals were particularly strong along the defensive line to set the tone for the win. Pedro Silguero was a standout on the line, busting off blocks to pressure Edinburg High’s quarterback and contain the run game. Luna, Nathan Huerta, J.C. Moradel and Albert Vasquez helped lead the defensive effort.

“Any time you face Manny Gomez and the Harlingen Cardinals, I knew it was going to be one of those games where you better bring a defense,” Bobcats coach Rene Guzman said. “We just couldn’t get anything going offensively. We’ll take it not as a loss but as a learning experience and move forward.”

An interception by Vasquez and a pair of sacks from Silguero kept the Bobcats from building any momentum while firing up the Cardinals’ sideline. Aiden Sandoval and Kian Torres led Harlingen High’s run game that put the game out of reach.

Good punt returns from Sandoval and Torres’ speed got Harlingen High moving the ball more effectively in the second half. Torres broke away for a 63-yard gain on the Cardinals’ first offensive play of the third quarter, putting his team at first-and-goal on the 3. Yael Herrera spearheaded a strong Bobcats defensive effort to hold the Cardinals to a 19-yard field goal by Garza.

“Coach Guzman is a defensive-minded individual just like I am, so I knew he was going to bring some juice and some firepower,” Gomez said. “We knew we had to run right at them. We came up with a formation and had some success. We did some great things and adjusted.”

Senior quarterback Joe Lopez notched the first touchdown on a 2-yard keeper late in the third. Dominick Capetillo bullied his way into the end zone to start the fourth. Capetillo used extra effort to carry defenders on a tough 15-yard run, then finished the job with a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Lopez found Ian Solis for the two-point conversion.

Quarterback Roland Abrego Jr. played tough to lead a Bobcats offense that didn’t go down quietly. Running back Noel Serna had some success on the ground and Edinburg High attempted to go up-tempo when it moved the chains, but the Cardinals held firm.

“I saw Bobcat pride today,” Guzman said. “I saw these guys fight all four quarters. Sometimes you play four quarters and you don’t end up winning, but the score is not indicative of what the program is about.”

Harlingen High (8-3) will face Laredo United South (8-3) in the area round at 7 p.m. Friday in Rio Grande City. The teams faced off in Week 1, and the Cardinals claimed a 35-10 victory. That doesn’t mean they’ll be overlooking the Panthers in Round 2.

“It feels fantastic. All of us, we’ve put a lot of effort into this and we’ve dedicated ourselves to this,” Torres said. “I wouldn’t be anything without my O-line, receivers, quarterback committed to this. Everyone balled out today. It was an awesome win. We tightened up our chin straps and decided, hey, we got to go.

“We can’t slack off just because we beat them. We got to keep going. Excited to be here, excited to play the game I love.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

CORPUS CHRISTI — It was a tough night for the Brownsville Veterans Memorial Chargers when they faced off with the Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial Eagles on Friday at Buccaneer Stadium.

The Chargers couldn’t get their offense going, and three turnovers during the first half put them in a hole too deep to come out of. Brownsville Veterans was defeated 28-0 in the Class 5A Division I bi-district game and ends the season at 7-4.

“Against a good team you have to capitalize on your opportunities and we didn’t, so hat’s off to them for playing tough and forcing us into some bad situations,” Chargers coach Kelley Lee said.

Brownsville Veterans played well defensively during the first half and notched an interception courtesy of junior Kenny Davis on Corpus Christi Veterans’ first possession.

While the Chargers stopped the run, the Eagles found success with short passing gains to move the chains. But with fumbles on their first two drives, an interception on the third and a three-and-out on the fourth, the Chargers left their defense on the field for too long, allowing Corpus Christi Veterans to open up things.

“The biggest thing was our defense played too many plays in the first half,” Lee said. “Defensively, we were playing really outstanding early in the game, but I think we only ran 10 or 11 plays in the first half (on offense) and our defense wore down. Then some of those short passes became 10, 12 yards, because we didn’t protect our defense enough.”

The Eagles moved the ball slowly and efficiently, primarily in the air. Senior quarterback Aiden Hinojosa hit five different receivers during the first half and completed more than 15 passes.

Hinojosa accounted for three Eagles touchdowns, giving them a 21-0 lead at halftime. He rushed for the first two, then with three seconds on the clock, he hit top target Cameron DeLaPena for a 5-yard passing score. DeLaPena dove full extension toward the end zone after the catch to break the plane.

Brownsville Veterans came out of the locker room determined to make a comeback and started the third quarter strong. Freshman running back Storm Montoya took his first two carries for first downs and 32 quick yards.

Senior running back/linebacker Jorge Alvarado, junior quarterback Reece Sampayo and junior running back Michael McHale helped Montoya get the Chargers to the 25. But on fourth down, Corpus Christi Veterans’ Nicolas Reyes broke up a pass to the end zone.

“We were going to run out of time and we wanted to try and come back and win the game, so we took some shots and it didn’t work out. But the kids fought hard,” Lee said.

Again, Brownsville Veterans’ defense played tough, forcing a punt that was blocked by junior defensive end Bryan Chavez to give the Chargers prime starting field position at the Eagles’ 35. Nicolas Guerrero recorded a sack to push the Chargers back and force a punt.

Corpus Christi Veterans then tacked on its only score of the second half. On fourth down, DeLaPena beat single coverage down the sideline and hauled in a 27-yard touchdown pass from Hinojosa.

Brownsville Veterans didn’t go down without a fight. Alvarado powered his way through the defense, using a 45-yard run to get the Chargers near the red zone. Guerrero and Romeo Lara led a solid Eagles defense that forced a turnover on downs.

Late in the fourth, Corpus Christi Veterans’ Joshua Frayre recovered Brownsville Veterans’ fourth turnover on a loose pitch. Lara also recovered a fumble, and Luke Johnson reeled in the interception. The duo was included among the Eagles’ defensive standouts.

Chavez, Alvarado, senior linebacker William Wassen and junior linebacker Gary Bardales led the Chargers defensively.

Many of Brownsville Veterans’ playmakers will be back to build on Lee’s successful first season in 2022. But the coach expressed his thanks to the handful of impact seniors who helped get the program back on the right track.

“They helped get the Chargers back into winning ways and changed the direction of our program back to where we want it to be,” Lee said. “They feel bad right now, but they’ll look back on it and realize all the things they accomplished and what a good season it was. They can be proud of that.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

CORPUS CHRISTI — There was no denying the heart and effort left on the turf by the La Feria Lions on Thursday at Cabaniss Stadium.

Led by a top-tier defensive performance, the Lions erased three-touchdown deficits and challenged the Beeville Jones Trojans to the final whistle. But their comeback attempt came up short during a 42-35 loss in the Class 4A Division I bi-district playoffs.

“We challenged them at halftime, told them we have a lot of pride in our program and we can come back. The kids responded,” Lions coach Oscar Salinas said. “These kids are fighters. Super, super proud of them. We just ran out of time, I feel.”

The Trojans got off to a fast start and held a 28-7 lead at halftime after controlling the first half. Senior quarterback Victor Gonzales connected with a handful of receivers as Beeville Jones targeted the overwhelmed Lions secondary to move efficiently downfield.

Junior halfback Isaiah Gonzales and senior tailback Cade Elder got the scoring started with 10- and 3-yard rushing touchdowns, respectively. During the second quarter, Victor Gonzales hit junior Colin Gomez for a 27-yard passing touchdown, then found senior Caleb Washington from 9 yards out.

Beeville Jones converted on fourth down three times during the first half, including on a fake punt following a bad snap. Defensively, the Trojans forced three turnovers-on-downs and notched an interception courtesy of junior linebacker Gavin Corpus to keep the typically high-powered and fast-tempo Lions offense contained.

Down by three touchdowns midway through the second quarter, Lions senior defensive lineman Eric Bernal came up with a huge play to set up a score. With the Trojans starting a drive deep in their own territory after a defensive stop, Bernal recovered a fumble, firing up the Lions as they took over on the 6-yard line.

Sophomore running back Zion Dickerson cashed in the turnover for a 6-yard rushing touchdown. Dickerson had the most offensive production for La Feria during the slow first half, using his speed to bust off some good gains.

La Feria dominated the third quarter to get back in the game. Dickerson scored on a 19-yard carry on the Lions’ opening drive, and a tough, tackle-eluding 12-yard rushing touchdown by senior quarterback Aaron Trevino made it 28-21.

“They came out in some different coverages (and) we did a better job of mixing it up, and I think that’s what helped us,” Salinas said. “Aaron was a great leader, the heart and soul of our team.”

The Lions’ defense flexed its muscles in the frame, too. A sack from senior David Garza and a clutch solo tackle by senior Elijah Vela forced a Trojans turnover-on-downs. Then, senior Leroy Benavidez, Vela and freshman Andruw Rivera came up big to stop Beeville Jones on fourth-and-goal from the 3.

“That unit hasn’t been as great as we’ve had in the past, but they fought so hard tonight and I’m so proud of them,” Salinas said. “We challenged them all week, and they came through for us. I told the coaches, we played championship football tonight. We had turnovers, stops, but that’s a great Beeville team and you’ve got to give them credit.”

La Feria turned to the passing game during the fourth quarter. The Trojans’ secondary, led by Washington and sophomore Edward Brako, who notched an interception, kept the Lions from being successful.

Beeville Jones scored twice in 2 1/2 minutes to again take a three-touchdown lead. Victor and Isaiah Gonzales linked up both times, with the latter hauling in 4- and 17-yard receiving touchdowns.

Again, the Lions fought back and showed how explosive their offense can be. Trevino delivered a perfectly placed ball to a double-covered Brandon Villanueva from 39 yards out. Following a fumble recovery by senior EJ Serna, Trevino heaved a 17-yard touchdown pass to junior Justin Rodriguez, making it 42-35 with 1:50 on the clock.

Trojans junior fullback Trey Barefield plowed through just enough yardage to allow the clock to run down.

The Lions finish the season 7-2 with an undefeated District 16-4A Division I championship. They’ll say goodbye to a talented senior class that brought a plethora of success to La Feria.

“It’s a young team, but those seniors led so well and did a great job tonight and all year long,” Salinas said. “They’ve done so much for the program. They brought us back through that COVID year. They established La Feria where we’re supposed to be. We’re going to be better because of those kids.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

PORT ISABEL — The Port Isabel Tarpons are back in the postseason after a one-year hiatus, and they’re chasing the program’s first playoff victory since 2013.

The Tarpons used their ground-and-pound offense to become the only Rio Grande Valley team to make the playoffs from a loaded District 16-4A Division II, going 7-3 and 4-3 to claim the fourth seed. They’ll take on Carrizo Springs (10-0) at 7:30 p.m. today at Corpus Christi Calallen.

Though it’ll be the first playoff game for most, if not all, Tarpons on the roster, they’re not intimidated by being considered underdogs against the undefeated Wildcats.

“We definitely like that,” senior safety Christian Aguilera said. “We’ve always been underdogs in everything we do. We were predicted to finish second to last in our district at the beginning of the season. These guys learned that they’re better than they think they are. They proved themselves a lot this year.”

One big way the Tarpons have proved their potential is by becoming one of the top rushing teams in the Valley. They’ve accumulated 2,844 rushing yards, led by their workhorse back in senior Gilbert Medina.

Medina boasts 1,268 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns with an average of 10 yards per carry. The humble star was quick to credit his offensive line and teammates for aiding and adding to his production as Port Isabel returned to its winning ways.

“It feels good knowing that it wasn’t just me. I did it with the team, did it with the line, and we were all successful and made it to the playoffs together,” Medina said. “Our blocking, for sure, has been a big part of our success these past games. Our receivers are blocking good, running backs blocking and going hard every play. We play fast. We’re a fast team, a good, strong, physical team.”

Port Isabel’s defense is particularly focused on using its physicality to contain Carrizo Springs. Senior outside linebacker Dante De La Garza, one of the team’s top tacklers, said the Tarpons are aiming to “keep a calm mind and focus on execution” as they battle in a playoff atmosphere for the first time.

“We’ve got really good tacklers and people know their assignment. They just do their job, and it all clicks,” De La Garza said. “(We want) to slow down their speed. We’re more physical and we’ve dealt with a lot of adversity, so I think it helped prepare us for this game. We’ve gotten knocked down a lot, but we don’t stay down. We get back up every time.”

Aguilera echoed that slowing the fast-paced Wildcats offense is a top priority for Port Isabel. Senior defensive ends Fernando Romero and Kaiden Martinez are two players Aguilera said are overlooked and will help Port Isabel’s mission.

Operating the Slot-T offense is junior quarterback Rodolfo “Rudy” Barrera. It’s a different style than anything he’s run before, but with constant practice and dependable coaches and teammates around him, Barrera has got things down pat.

“We have a smart set of backs, so it makes it easier for me. And our line makes it way easier, too,” Barrera said. “As soon as we break from the huddle, I’m already looking at the defense — seeing the safeties, the corners pushed in, and I have to decide what calls to make, what backs, which holes can they take. It was difficult at first, but as every day goes by it gets easier. It’s been great.”

Barrera feels Port Isabel’s offense can work against any defensive scheme, and with the studying the Tarpons have been doing, he feels they’re prepared to come out victorious as the underdogs.

Because they’re not just playing for a win, they’re playing to continue the legacy of Tarpons football and make their community proud.

“We play for each other and for our families, our town,” De La Garza said. “We want to show that we can do stuff, that we’re different Tarpons.

“It’s a tradition. We’re trying to bring it back and set the foundation for the younger guys so they can see what they need to do the next years that follow.”

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

Five East Valley football programs had a new man in charge this season. Four of those coaches advanced their new teams to the playoffs.

The Lyford Bulldogs (7-3, 4-2 in District 16-3A Division I) and first-time coach Jerry Jauregui are traveling to face Industrial at 7 p.m. today in Odem. Jauregui returned to the sidelines after spending three years as the high school assistant principal and credited the players and coaching staff for buying in and sparking Lyford’s continued success.

“It’s been a great ride this year,” Jauregui said. “It’s everything I expected and then some. All praise is to the coaches and to the players. They’ve done a great job practicing all year, executing and being locked in.

“We’re going to be facing a good team in Industrial. We’ve had a good week of practice. The boys have executed well, and they’re ready for the game.”

Jauregui’s Bulldogs have one of the top sub-5A offenses in the Rio Grande Valley, averaging 509.5 yards and 32.8 points per game. He said Lyford’s never-stay-down mentality helps the unit learn from losses and mistakes, and keeps it competitive.

“We get knocked down and they get right back up and they’re ready to keep fighting,” Jauregui said. “I attribute that to their mentality, the fight in them. Whatever mistakes we have, we learn from it. No challenge is too big for them.”

Jauregui replaced Israel Gonzalez, who set out to change the Harlingen South Hawks program.

The Hawks have enjoyed arguably the most impressive turnaround in the Valley. They hadn’t finished above .500 since 2013. This year, they’ve been perfect, going 10-0 overall and 7-0 to win the District 32-6A championship, with their sights set on more wins.

Gonzalez credited his assistant coaches and the players’ desire to change the program for the immediate success.

“I was allowed to bring in seven coaches. That combination of bringing in exactly who I wanted with some great coaches that I kept that were already on staff was a huge factor,” Gonzalez said. “The kids were willing and ready to change. They were really hungry when we got here. They were like sponges and absorbed all the information we were giving them, and put in the time and effort.”

Gonzalez said his time at Lyford made him a better coach in terms of making quick adjustments and handling two-way players. Jeremiah Rivera, Elias Ledesma, Levi Ince and Carlos Mossboss are a few South players reaping those benefits as two-way playmakers.

The Hawks will take on PSJA North at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Boggus Stadium. The growth they’ve made in the short time under a new staff has them feeling confident they’ll be adding another gold ball to the trophy case.

“(PSJA North is) going to be a ground-and-pound offense that’s explosive at times,” Gonzalez said. “We expect them to be physical offensively, and they boast the No. 1 defense in the Valley, I think. We know we have our work cut out for us. There’s no doubt we’re going to be in for a hard-fought game, and we’re preparing for that.”

Harlingen South and Los Fresnos (6-3, 5-2) both went from missing the playoffs in 2020 to being title contenders in 2021 under new direction. David Cantu returned to his alma mater to lead the Falcons and has enjoyed seeing his team improve consistently.

“This is my 26th year in coaching and it’s been my most challenging, by far,” Cantu said. “It was a struggle to figure out who we were, especially offensively. You want these kids to have fun, be confident in what they’re doing, enjoy what they’re doing, and little by little we got there. Not perfect, by any means. Long way to go still. We’re a team that improved every week, and that’s something I feel very proud about.”

Rejuvenating the love and dedication to Falcons football was a big key for Cantu’s turnaround and their first winning season since 2017. Edsson Picazo, Daniel Ramirez, Josh Munoz, Luis Lucio, Diego Cantu and Rex Halford are a few playmakers Cantu praised for being unselfish to help the team. Matthew Padilla and Hector Muniz took on new responsibilities and have shined.

Cantu and his strong group of seniors will lead Los Fresnos into battle with Mission High at 7 p.m. Friday in Hidalgo. The defense, thriving under defensive coordinator Brent Blackman, will aim to have another huge game to boost the Falcons.

“A team is only as good as its seniors. Our seniors were very hungry to have a solid season,” Cantu said. “Our defense has been the strength of our team, and anyone who has seen us play will vouch for that. … “(Mission High is) very balanced. We’re going to have to bring our ‘A’ game if we’re going to have any chance at being victorious, and that’s what our plan is.”

Former college coach Kelley Lee took the reins at Brownsville Veterans Memorial when Cantu departed. He changed the offensive scheme and got the Chargers (7-3, 7-2 in District 16-5A Division I) back in the playoffs for the first time since 2018.

The Chargers went on an impressive “redemption tour,” going 7-0 against teams they were 2-5 against last year, Lee said. Next up, they’ll aim to capture a playoff victory when they face Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Buccaneer Stadium.

By CLAIRE CRUZ, Staff Writer

BEEVILLE — The San Perlita Lady Trojans battled Utopia on Tuesday in their third consecutive trip to the Class 1A regional quarterfinal round, but that’s where the journey ended this season.

San Perlita was swept 28-26, 25-17, 25-15 by the Lady Buffs. Lady Trojans coach Criselda Rubalcaba liked the fight her team showed throughout the match, but an influx of errors proved to be costly.

“I told the girls we were going to play a really good team today, and the team with the least amount of mistakes was going to win,” Rubalcaba said. “We made a few mistakes here and there, our serving wasn’t as solid as it was (in the area round), our hitting wasn’t as accurate, and that cost us points.”

The playoff jitters were on full display during the first set as both teams sent several serves and hits long. But once they settled in, rallies were competitive and San Perlita made Utopia work for its “overtime” win.

San Perlita earned the first sizeable lead, going up 8-5 on a tip by junior middle blocker Daniella Ramos to force the Lady Buffs to call a timeout. Senior middle Aliyah Garcia was strong on offense and defense to create the cushion.

But Utopia came back to tie things at 12 as middle blocker Cherish Dunlap and setter Ansleigh Davis found their rhythm. The teams stayed within two points of each other and swapped points as defenses hustled for digs and stray passes, keeping rallies long despite solid hitting from both teams.

Senior outside hitter Jasmine Rodriguez put down powerful, slicing hits and collected digs in the back row to help San Perlita get to set point leading 24-22. Garcia also was dynamic playing all around, racking up digs and patrolling the net.

Utopia’s middles came up huge to clinch the opening set and control the next two. Dunlap and her opposite, Kylie Bomer, placed kills all across the court and challenged San Perlita’s hitters with their blocking. The Lady Trojans killed off two Utopia set points, but a Bomer kill sealed the deal.

“They kept battling the whole time. They never gave up. They kept pushing regardless of the score and never made it easy for them. The seniors held it together and kept telling them to push,” Rubalcaba said.

Garcia, Rodriguez and senior setter Elyssa Nieto led a respectable effort during the final two sets. Nieto hustled to try and get the offensive attack going, but San Perlita’s passing declined as the match went on and Utopia turned up the firepower.

Outside hitter Khloei Johnston contributed to the powerful Lady Buffs attack. When Dunlap was in the back row, she served as the second setter, giving Davis a chance to swing, too. Utopia didn’t suit up a libero, but defensive specialist Meagan Cole was the leader in the back row and covered the court well.

Utopia racked up aces during the third set and took advantage of the plethora of free balls San Perlita sent over as it was overpowered by the Lady Buffs down the stretch. Utopia will face Round Top Carmine in the regional semifinal round.

San Perlita says goodbye to an impactful senior class headlined by Garcia, Nieto and Rodriguez. But with key returners in Ramos, sophomore Summer Terry and junior outside hitter Arabella Rodriguez — who contributed hard kills and good digs in the match — leading the way like the departing seniors did, the Lady Trojans’ future looks bright.

“(The seniors) were my first group, three starting freshmen coming in. They’ve grown with me, and over the years they’ve really come together to lead the team,” Rubalcaba said. “They left a really heavy mark on the younger girls. They set this tradition for them, and I know the younger ones will keep it going. They have this experience, and they’ve seen how hard these seniors pushed and that the hard work pays off.”