Football falls short in 75th Anniversary game

BLAZER STADIUM, Oct. 17 -

The varsity football team was unable to score in their 75th anniversary game against the BCC Barons on Saturday. The Blazers (1-6) dishearteningly fell to the Barons in a struggle over possession and missed scoring opportunities.

Despite the dreary weather, several Blair alumni showed up in support of the varsity football team during the weekend that marked the celebration of Blair's 75th anniversary. Before the game three Blair graduates, distinguished for their mark on Blair's athletic history, came onto the field for the opening coin toss. These alumni included NFL and MLB player Tom Brown (class of 1958), MLP shortstop and outfielder Roland Thomas "Sonny" Jackson (class of 1962) and former New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers tight-end Bob Windsor (class of 1961). Throughout the game, the announcer recognized Carl Bernstein, Connie Chung and Goldie Hawn as three renowned Blair graduates who were recently inducted into Blair's Hall of Fame.

The Blazers recognized the importance of winning the anniversary game, and senior captain Abe Jarr expressed his disappointment in the team's inability to succeed. The game served as a determinant for the rest of the season, he explained. "We had to step it up this game. It was going to decide if we were going to be 5-5 or 4-6," he said.

Missed scoring opportunities epitomized the Blazers's defeat. Just before halftime, Blair made its way into Baron territory for a first-and-goal call at the Barons's two-yard line. Trailing 14-0, the Blazers eagerly pushed their way into the Baron defense, but the Blazers barely maintained possession when an interception occurred just before the goal line. The team was ready to carry the ball into the end zone for their first score of the night, but the sound of the whistle signifying the end of the half closed Blair's window of opportunity. "We were on the goal line and we just couldn't get it done," he said.

Offensive coordinator Bryan Nance noted that the Blazers were not ready at the beginning of the game. The entire team had to come together and focus in order to achieve a victory. "We weren't all that prepared as a team," he said. "We need full participation from everybody." To bounce back from the first half, the coaches emphasized the need to play more aggressively. "They told us to get our assignments, step it up and play hard," Jarr recalled.

Since the Blazers and Barons both came into the match with 1-5 records, the game was more competitive, according to Nance. Although the Barons had a stronger drive, Nance believes the Blazers are a more talented squad. "We have a better team, but they came to play," he said.

Nance noted that the rain and cold weather were poor excuses for the Blazers's performance. "Blaming it on the weather is kind of a cop-out," he said. "Both teams play in the same weather, the same situation."

Blair's coaching staff expressed the need to see more dedication from the Blazers. Attendance at practice has decreased, and they want more physicality, aggression and determination. "We need to come back and put everything together," Nance said. Head coach Jeff Seals also emphasized the importance of strength and passion. "Stand up for yourselves, find your heart," he said.

Varsity football's next home game will be against Northwood on Friday, Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m.