On Oct. 17, the football team achieved something they had not done in five years: they beat McPherson. Not only did the Orioles beat the Bullpups once, it happened twice this season. The first score was 50-29, and the score of the second game on Oct. 31 was 35-20.
A significant part of the team’s success stemmed from linebacker and kickoff return coach Brad Raine, whose leadership contributed to the defense and the team’s determination.
“I’ve been coaching football for almost 15 years, and I’ve never beaten Mac before,” Raine said.
The significance of the win hit Raine as soon as the final horn sounded, bringing a wave of pride and disbelief.
“I was just really proud of the boys and how well they executed,” Raine said.
On the defensive side, the win carried a different meaning. Defensive coordinator Jordan Abbott saw it as a breakthrough moment for a group of players eager to prove they belonged among the best.
“It was a big accomplishment for our kids,” Abbott said. “They understand they can compete with anybody.”
The coaching staff did not change their game plan or add anything flashy heading into the matchup. Instead, they trusted the preparation that guided them all season.
“We just focused on our basic techniques and our normal routine,” Abbott said.
Players felt the weight of the victory as well. Linebacker and tight end senior Cade Camac carried years of tough battles against McPherson into the game, which made the win especially rewarding.
“It feels really cool,” Camac said. “Years passed, they’ve been a hard team, and it was very cool because we beat them pretty badly.”
Momentum played a key role, and Raine pointed to the team’s quick start as a turning point. Early scores helped the team control the pace and stay focused throughout the game.
“We scored back-to-back touchdowns, and the momentum was really in our favor,” Raine said. “These kids don’t give up.”
Abbott hopes the victory changes how outsiders view Augusta football. In his eyes, the team has been improving steadily, and this win showcases that progress.
“We are a good, solid team, and we can compete with anybody,” Abbott said.
The Orioles finished the season with a win against Mulvane, 35-20, on Nov. 7 and a loss against Wamego, 14-21, on Nov. 14.
