The Bonnyville Renegades took second place in their league.
On Sunday, Nov. 4, the Renegades fell 50-0 to the hosting Lloydminster Colts.
Head coach Josh Jubinville said, “The kids came out, and performed really well. Once again, we played a very strong team that we just couldn’t matchup one for one with.”
Going into the game, many knew that it could be their last as a Renegade.
“All of our graduating players really stepped it up, they all played a hell of a game knowing it could have been their last. Sadly, we didn’t win, but those kids can definitely say they gave it their all, that’s for sure,” expressed Jubinville.
The defensive line stood out during the game for the head coach.
“The whole defence... They all had a hell of a game. The whole team played today, and they all played exceptionally well,” he exclaimed.
A play in the final quarter had everyone on their feet, when defensive linemen Dorian Nagtegaal got a 40-yard push.
“(Dorian) rushed for 40 yards today because we decided to have some fun in the fourth quarter. We ran some funky plays. This one play I called ‘Chicken Little.’ It should have never worked, but it managed to work and got us 40 yards,” emphasized Jubinville.
Once the game was over, the loss hit some players hard when they realized what it meant.
“There was some tears, like always, when kids realize it’s their last pee wee game... But, everybody held their head high and the bus ride home was actually really good. The kids were happy, and there was a good atmosphere the whole ride home,” Jubinville noted.
The Renegades second place finish was an improvement over the season, going from fourth overall to making it to the league finals.
“We improved from last year, which is obviously a huge bonus. Yes, we didn’t win the league and provincial finals but you don’t have to win every year to have a successful (season). There was lots of ups this season, and I was very proud to coach this group of kids,” stated Jubinville.
This was Jubinville’s last season as head coach for the Renegades.
He said, “I want to wish (the graduating kids) good luck in their travels, along with their football path in this town... I also wish the returning players all the best of luck in the coming years.”
