By Todd Lewis
Bantam Broncs head coach
The Ponoka Bantam Broncs had their first competitive game of 2023 on Saturday, May 27, taking a 36-18 victory.
The Rocky Mountain House (RMH) Junior Rebels came into town for a full day of football with the Broncs. The aim of the day was not only to play football, but to develop community in Central Albertan football.
First, both teams mixed and had a joint-practice. Rebels and Broncs learned from drills ran by both teams’ coaching staffs. After the morning practice, both teams enjoyed a lunch prepared by parent volunteers. After lunch, the teams kicked off against one another.
Throughout the whole day, Rebels and Broncs were paired up so that they had the opportunity to get to know one another. By the end of the day, players from both squads were using one another’s names, high fiving, and enjoying football together.
While it’s essential to maintain a competitive edge as an athlete, it is important to keep in mind that other players are just kids who also love football. Opposing players aren’t the enemy — they’re football players, just like us.
In addition to strengthening the football community, the camaraderie the Rebels and Broncs built on Saturday will benefit them when they tryout for Team Alberta, Shock, and other next level teams.
The Bantam Broncs had a strong showing on the field. Offensively, they had a slow start. However, once they got rolling, the Rebels struggled to stop them. In the first half, the Broncs defense struggled to contain outside runs and the Rebels passing game.
With a few adjustments, the Broncs D became stingy and hard to play against.
No. 11 QB Carson Frank was very solid in the pocket, finding his receivers for numerous receptions. No. 6 SB Kaiden Jeffrey set key blocks and hauled in many passes, converting for two TDs.
No. 85 LB Tyler Hawkings was an absolute beast all over the field, leading the team in physicality. No. 4 SB Truce Beaverbones (2022 Team MVP) had a strong first half, including three long runs over 30 yards each.
No. 69 OC/DL Hudson Bruns was an anchor on the offensive and defensive lines, firing off each snap with ferocity. Rookie LB #57 Brodie Marsh had a shoe-string tackle that saved a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The Rebel he tackled was at least twice his size.
Overall, it was a fantastic showing by our Bantam Broncs. During an extremely hot afternoon, they played with ceaseless effort, improved after every play, and never stopped “Lifting their Brothers.”
The Bantam Broncs play their final games of the spring preseason on Saturday, June 3, at the Rocky Jamboree in RMH.
They will hold dryland practices once a week throughout summer until their fall camp in august. For info on the team and how to join, send an email to Todd.Lewis@wolfcreek.ab.ca.