Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 2021
There is much to be thankful for on this day. Even more so in these times of turmoil and uncertainty.
It is a day when we should all recognize and cherish the positive things in our lives.
Family, friends, health and the many ways that we have all been blessed is certainly the primary reason for giving thanks, but for the moment the focus will be on football because today the PN-G Indians football team are practicing for their 3rd round playoff game against the Texarkana Texas High Tigers.
These are special times for players, coaches, cheerleaders, band, students and fans. Memories are being made that will last a lifetime.
As with life in general it’s easy to not fully comprehend just how special things are in the moment.
Some fans may not realize that they are witnessing one of the greatest offensive teams in PN-G history.
Only 4 other PN-G teams have scored more points in a season. This team may surpass them all before the season is over.
Quarterback Cole Crippen, running back Koby Trahan and receiver Chance Prosperie have had record setting seasons that have all three near the top historically for passing, rushing and receiving yardage.
And with a talented offensive line and several other excellent receivers, able to methodically move down the field or erupt for a long play at any moment, this offense may be one of the most exciting in the state.
While this years team has had a few struggles during the season, they have worked hard, improved and established themselves as a very good football team. One of only 16 remaining in the 5a Division 2 playoffs.
The defense has made key stops that turned the momentum in the Indians favor.
They have proved all the doubters wrong.
Much of that credit goes to the coaching staff beginning with head coach Brandon Faircloth.
Only 19 PN-G teams in the 97 year history of football have reached the 3rd round of the playoffs. 5 of those teams have played under Coach Faircloth. No other PN-G coach has achieved that.
A young coach, he is hitting his stride with 13 seasons and 102 wins to his credit. 102 wins, 12 playoff appearances, 5 district championships, 5 third round appearances and many local and statewide coaching awards.
PN-G fans are witnessing one of the greatest offensive teachers in high school football and one of the greatest head coaches in PN-G history. The winningest coach in PN-G history.
A coach that is recognized statewide and nationwide.
Under his guidance 39 PN-G players have also received all-state recognition.
Many of those players have set all-time PN-G football records and continued their football careers at the next level.
And as athletic director he has overseen some of the greatest years in the history of PN-G athletic teams including a 2017 state championship in baseball.
It’s easy to overlook great moments in time and the special people that make them happen. It is important to recognize them.
Time is fleeting, only present for a moment. But history lives on forever.
These 2021 Indians are making their own legacy that will be remembered for the rest of their lives and beyond.
And with most of the starters returning next season, the future remains bright and full of promise. Next season has the possibility of being even greater. Maybe even another state championship.
But this season is not yet over. There are more games to be won. Maybe this years group of seniors has something to say about that next state championship.
So on this day of Thanksgiving, in addition to the really important things in life like God, Country and Family, thanks and recognition is due to Coach Faircloth, his staff and the players who have worked hard to make their contribution to PN-G football history.
They make us proud.
They will not be forgotten.
May God continue to bless our families and neighbors, our nation and the PN-G Indians today and everyday.
Port Neches-Groves Football Playoff History
State Champions (3) – 1953, 1955, 1975 (#3 National Ranking)
State Finals (6) – 1953, 1954, 1955, 1975, 1977, 1999
Semi Finals (8) – 1953, 1954, 1955, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1999
Quarter Finals (10) – 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1989, 1999
Regional Finals (16) – 1934, 1946, 1947, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1989, 1996, 1999, 2007, 2010, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021
Area Finals (11) – 1989, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021
Bi-District (33) – 1933, 1934, 1938, 1941, 1946, 1947, 1961, 1968, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
District Champions (27) – 1933, 1934, 1938, 1941, 1946, 1947, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1961, 1968, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2009, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018
