A lengthy trek to Twin Falls, Idaho, concluded the Lakeland Hawks(5-5) football season. The playoff matchup required the entire team to endure a nine-hour bus ride. The Hawks departed from Rathdrum on Thursday, Oct. 26 but faced their opponent, the Twin Falls Bruins(9-1) on Friday, Oct. 27.
At the beginning of the game, the Hawks suffered an interception, affecting the momentum of the game. Later in the game, they suffered yet another turnover. A weak start by the Hawks allowed Twin Falls to score and gain a lead, as the score was 21-6 at halftime. Although the Hawks scored after the break, the final score was 28-12. The loss was heavy on the team as it terminated their playoff run and brought the 2023 season to an end.
Despite a disappointing loss, it was apparent that the Hawks entered the third quarter with more momentum, giving it their all before it was too late. They ended up with two touchdowns and great tackles that led to negative yardage for Twin Falls.
Senior Roan Reilly had a record-breaking final season. He was able to end his senior season with feats worth mentioning. Senior Owen Forsman also ended his last season on a high note and was able to contribute high-level skills to improve the team overall. Carder Scarcello also had a successful game that did not go unnoticed by his teammates.
“He was always there when we needed him,” Clive Hobbs said regarding Scarcello’s performance.
It was evident in Friday’s game that the team had greatly improved in various aspects.
“It went better than expected, we started hitting more, and our defense started doing a lot better,” Reilly said.
Reilly had a notorious game, as he had a pick-six that changed the game’s flow for the Hawks. With the lower hand at the start, Roan’s interception gave the Hawks a chance to come back against their opponent.
“That was pretty cool, last game getting a pick-six,” Reilly said.
Of course, leaving behind a season is hard, but leaving the team can be even more difficult. Making memories with the team by traveling with your teammates can be viewed as a positive way to end not only their season but also their high school football career. Traveling is fun in general but traveling with your entire team is a memorable experience that brings everyone closer. It was the perfect way to end the season for the Hawks, regardless of the loss.
“It was very fun and good team bonding,” Brayden Tirri said.
The season was extremely hit or miss for the Hawks. Certain times were exciting, while others were frustrating, but in the end that is all part of the game.
Lakeland is now out of the playoffs, but they will rebuild from now on in preparation for next season. While this season was very on and off for the boys, they came together and supported each other through the ups and downs and tough competition.
