The Republic Middle School football teams combined for an 11-1 record this fall, with the 8th grade team completing an undefeated season and the 7th grade squad winning five straight after an opening loss.
The 8th grade Tigers allowed just 52 points all season – about eight points per game – while averaging nearly 300 yards of total offense. Coach Blaine Cullen pointed to commitment as a defining trait of his squad.
“We had a big number this summer show up before the season started and get to work early,” Cullen said. “I think they are focused on their goals of being the best team they can be, and they work hard toward getting better every day.”
The season opened with a 24-14 win over Webb City, after a scoreless tie with the Cardinals during their 7th grade year. Another highlight came against Waynesville, when Republic rallied from a late deficit.
“Being down 6-0 to Waynesville with less than two minutes to go… they found a way to win by getting a defensive safety, then driving down and scoring the winning touchdown, and then getting a final defensive stop to secure a 10-6 win,” Cullen said.
The 8th grade defense held opponents to 68 rushing yards and 75 passing yards per game. The offense averaged 268 yards rushing and 25 yards passing.
The 7th grade Tigers bounced back after an opening loss to Webb City. Coach Beau Davis credited his players’ perseverance and said that was a defining trait of the team.
“We took it on the chin with a tough defeat in the first week against Webb City, and these kids rallied back and won five straight games to finish the season with a 5-1 record,” Davis said. “They worked hard all season and steadily improved each week.”
The 7th grade defense came up big in close games, making key stops when needed.
“We had three games that were very close. In all of those games, the opponent had a last offensive possession to possibly win the game. Each time, our defense was able to come up with a stop and ensure the victories,” Davis said.
A comeback win against Ozark stood out to Davis. “We were down by two scores at halftime. We came out after halftime and Bishop Place ran the kickoff back for a touchdown,” he said. “With that momentum, we dominated the second half and came away with the win.”
