Durant’s football team has begun their 2022 season by announcing their six team captains. Each one of these players will help the Cougars claw their way to victory.

Team captains are selected by their fellow teammates to be leaders both on and off the field. Captains must be present for the team at all times and are expected to keep the players focused and working together for the win.

This year’s senior captains are Elian Gonzalez (#4), Calub Connell (#12), Jacob Reed (#36), Gage Aroz (#52), Greg Smith (#55), and Ajai Brown (#57).

Being on Durant’s football team, especially as a team captain, requires a lot of dedication, hard work and practice. The whole team works out and practices everyday for about four months during their season. In the off-season, their work isn’t done though; they participate in workouts or “winter lifts” as well.

“It’s pretty much a year round dedication which is what I think I love the most about it,” said Senior Captain Gage Aroz.

Aroz is going into his fourth year playing football at Durant. “If I’m being honest, the main reason why I started playing football was to make my step dad proud,” he said. “Since then I’ve grown to love the sport, the team and the coaches all around.”

This season, Durant is set to face some stiff teams, but Aroz is ready for the challenge. “I’m looking forward to absolutely whooping Bloomingdale and Newsome this year,” said Aroz. “They’ve been really loud on social media, and I’m hoping to really upset those that underestimate us.”

Running Back Calub Connell is in his fourth year of Durant football but has played the sport since he was four years old. This season, he’s really looking forward to playing during Friday night lights. “It feels great knowing that Coach knows he can turn to me as well as the rest of the team.”

Middle Linebacker Jacob Reed has also been playing Durant football all four years, and he’s definitely looking forward to a strong season with the team. “I’m looking forward to going to the playoffs with my boys,” said Reed.

The support of fellow Durant Cougars helps the players do their very best and stay hyped for the games. Fans are encouraged to show up to both home and away games, cheer as loud as possible and fill the stands.

“To show support, be super loud at the games and always show up and make the student section huge!” said Connell.

“When the fans are loud under the lights we just play better as a team. They really help inspire and drive us,” said Aroz.

Durant’s next home game is Friday, Sept. 2 against Middleton High School. Kickoff is at 7:30pm. Come out and support your cougars in their game against the Tigers!