Rockdale football is exciting

On Friday, I was introduced to what Rockdale football is all about. The crowd cheered loudly, and I could feel the excitement in the air for Rockdale’s home opener.

When I first arrived, I could tell it was going to be something different from anything I’d experienced at a high school game. I had not witnessed this many different news stations, cameras and scouts since I covered a basketball state championship back in Georgia.

As I walked into the gate, the host told me the press box was already full. I’d never had that issue before, so I knew this game was a big deal. However, it was OK because I prefer to be on the field taking pictures anyway.

You could tell that the Tigers meant business from the opening kickoff. After the 21-0 first quarter, I knew Taylor was in for a long night.

One thing that impressed me came via the play of Kobe Mitchell. In the week leading up to the game, Mitchell told me that he felt confident playing quarterback. Needless to say, his play matched his words. Whether it was throwing or running the ball, it seemed like Mitchell had been playing quarterback his entire life.

Even after a few turnovers, he never got down on himself or appeared rattled. He just regrouped and continued to play his game. Not many people can say they earned the “All-Brazos Player of the Week Award” in their first start, but that’s what Mitchell did. I believe the game increased his confidence and he will continue to improve during the season.

The play of the Tiger receivers proved impressive and the Ducks could find no answer for them. It seemed like Friday’s game was the breakout party for Anthony Dansby. After his first few catches revealed the exposed mismatch, he knew the shorter Duck defenders couldn’t guard him. I watched him use great route running and his size to get open. The lasting image I have of Dansby occurred when he flexed after his fourth quarter touchdown catch and yelled “I am built like that,” capping off the best game of his career. As his teammates came to congratulate him, I smiled. I was happy for him and the rest of the guys.

It was just another day at the office for Raven. His quickness and sure-handedness were too much for the Ducks to handle and he seemed to always be open.

The coaches showed great leadership in the game as well. During the small scuffles throughout the game, they prevented things from getting out of control. I watched Campsey tell his guys to leave it all on the field and to avoid hurting the team with penalties. They set great examples for the players as they kept their composure after some questionable calls from the referees. They showed themselves to be the great role models that today’s youth need.

All in all, my first experience at Tiger Stadium created a lasting memory. I got to watch great football and meet other media personnel such as KRTX radio personality A. J. Whiteside and KBTX Media News Reporter Fallon Appleton.

I also met Toya Williams, the mother of RHS running back Cam’ron Valdez after the game. She was shocked when I told her I was a 24-year-old sportswriter and not a Rockdale student. I’ll have to grow some facial hair soon since I get mistaken for a student way too often.

I look forward to watching more games and having a great time covering sports here in Rockdale. See you all on Friday in Lexington. Go Tigers!