Season Six Sees a Boost in Optimism for GCHS Football

Kaydence Johnson

Football has been more enjoyable and easier on the mental health for players in season six for GCHS.

Football season has arrived at the Birds Nest Stadium. The evening is filled with cheering from the Kettle and the laughter of fans.  Concession stand lines are filled with people waiting for popcorn and pizza.  The field lights beam over the field and those on it.  The atmosphere feels hopeful. 

When this year’s football season began in August, fans were full of excitement knowing that the season had much potential.  In the seasons prior, Great Crossing had endured losing streaks. Seasons one through three lacked what is looked for in a successful season: more wins than losses. Seasons four and five saw some improvement, but overall, the team and its players often struggled with maintaining a positive mindset. 

In its sixth season, the football program at GCHS and those involved with it are seeing the rewards of having a positive mindset with a season that resulted in many big wins, including the Battle of the Birds game against Scott County High School. 

Senior Logan Clayton has witnessed all the ups and downs of Warhawk football in his four years with the team.  While it can be difficult to look for the positives after a series of losing seasons, Clayton acknowledged that it has benefits.  He said, “If you don’t maintain that positive and healthy mindset you’re not only  going to affect your performance but also the team’s performance for the rest of the season, in a poor manner.  Working hard has a major impact on your performance. ”

Junior Luke Ballard also understands the importance of a positive mindset. He said, “I know deep down we can win. When we lose, we beat ourselves to the point we lack consistency. Maintaining a positive mindset is important, because we want the competition but we want it in a way we can come out as better players in the end.”

Coaches play a large role in establishing the mindset of a team. Coach Wyatt Jackson has been a part of the GCHS football staff for several years. He said “Winning is a much better feeling, mainly when you have close games. But winning isn’t easy at all; it takes lots of preparation.”

Jackson acknowledged that part of the preparation for a win comes from paying attention to one’s mood and attitude towards the sport.  “Staying mentally focused on and off the field is a much better feeling for the season and many upcoming big games. Losing is a lot easier, in a bad way, and it really takes a different toll on players. Knowing how to refocus yourself and let it all go while learning is one of the most important things to take away,” he explained. 

It’s natural to mourn for a bit after a loss. But in the end, losses become a learning experience for all coaches and players. Clayton stated, ¨Losses are hard, but you’re getting better off your loss and better from mistakes. Learning from your mistakes is Key¨ 

Ballard explains what goes through his mind when reflecting on a loss, and offered this advice to younger players.  “Don’t beat yourself up, stick together, play as a team.  Remember focusing on mental health during these moments is huge.”

Even coaches need some reminders about Jackson reminding himself what he can learn from each and every loss. Jackson stated “Going back and watching film is where we find most of our mistakes. As a coach I remain to find positives, focus on the good, turn negatives into a coachable moment. I always remember why I am coaching, reminding myself what a successful season truly looks like.” 

Jackson also goes above and beyond to remind his athletes that they played as well as they could. “I always remind them that they have worked tremendously hard

Our coaching staff has done a great job and helped with players that were struggling in the game and mentally. That loss put a pause on growth, but we truly are doing a lot better. Many will agree we really are building a good program in the very end.”