Champion banquet honors 2008 Lion football teams

By Alonzo Garza
POST-REGISTER

The Lockhart Lions held their First Annual Football Banquet in honor of the 2008 Bi-District Champions and the Junior Varsity and Freshmen teams at the Lockhart Junior High School cafetorium on Thursday, Jan. 22.

“Becoming a champion is not easy,” keynote speaker and 1984 LHS graduate Mitchell Ward said to the football pl

ayers and their guests. “I want to tell all of you people in Lockhart how proud I am of you. What you have done together as a community is great. What you have done with your sons is wonderful. All of you had a part in this championship and you should be proud of your success.”

The evening started with a welcome from LISD Athletic Director Melinda Kirst followed by an invocation by Kyle Horton. A steak dinner was served as Head Football Coach Troy Moses introduced Ward, who both praised and encouraged the Lions to continue the winning tradition started by the 2008 Bi-District Champions.

After Ward’s speech, coaches introduced each player individually.

Freshmen Coach Gilbert Sandoval introduced his team first, followed by JV Coach Pat Bailey.

Head Trainer Jim De La Cruz introduced his trainers, who were awarded plaques and certificates for their efforts throughout the season.

Moses introduced the Varsity team as Defensive Coordinator Coach Ernie Bustamante handed out the plaques. Moses gave special awards as Bustamante introduced the student athletes. Kirst ended the program with closing remarks before the highlight video started an hour-long viewing session by parents and students who decided to stay.

Dominique Hardaway was named 2008 Offensive Player of the Year for his rushing record, performance on the field, pursuit of perfection in the weight room, discipline, dedication, leadership and, finally, the example of sportsmanship and humility he showed the rest of the team this season.

Kory Robbins was named Defensive Player of the Year for his strong defensive plays, his rushes, his enthusiasm and his leadership.

Adam Renteria earned the “Lion Heart Award” for his dedication, leadership, hard work and performance on the field throughout the season.

See you at next year’s banquet.

agarza@post-register.com