“Winners win”: Gonzales Junior High football proves it with a strong season and bright future

The Gonzales Junior High football program closed out a defining season that showcased both growth and grit across all four teams, led by the 8th Grade A team’s undefeated district championship and a level of energy that echoed the varsity Apaches on Friday nights.

Under the guidance of Coaches Jacob Cuellar and Deonte Washington, the 8th Grade A team finished 7–0 and claimed the district title with a statement win over La Vernia — completing an almost perfect two-year run in which their only loss came in last year’s championship game as seventh graders.

Coach Cuellar credited the group’s competitive edge to unfinished business. “Their drive to be great kept them competitive all year,” he said. “Everything was new — a new offense and a new defense — but they learned fast, executed well, and grew together as a team. As their confidence grew, so did their chemistry.”

Coach Washington said their maturity set them apart. “From the first game to the last, they carried themselves the right way,” he said. “They kept their composure, stayed humble, and played for each other. I’m proud of these boys and hope they carry that into high school and whatever sport comes next.”

The 8th Grade B team, also under Cuellar and Washington, finished 4–3 and third in district, highlighted by a comeback playoff victory over Miller after losing to them in the regular season — a win that reflected both their resilience and growth.

Middle School Athletic Coordinator Will Heyward said the eighth graders’ success was the result of heart, toughness, and unity — characteristics he sees spreading throughout the entire program.

“Winners win — and these boys are winners,” Heyward said. “They’re violent, they play tough, and they never back down. They’ve been winning since they got here. I’ve never coached a group quite like this overall. They’re amazing kids — a magical group that knows how to finish.”

Heyward said what stood out most wasn’t just the talent, but how each team showed growth and pride in representing Gonzales. “We’re working, and we’re excelling,” he said. “Every week, they did a little bit more, pushed a little harder, and it showed. The seventh graders especially — they’ve had a year of solid growth, and they’re going to be tough. These boys play football. They’re Gonzales boys through and through.”

The 7th Grade A and B teams, coached by Jacob Paez and Alex Metanic, finished 3–4 and 3–3–1, developing chemistry and confidence through hard-fought matchups. Their coaches praised their determination and steady improvement as they laid the groundwork for future success.

Head Athletic Coordinator and Varsity Head Coach Lyndon Hamilton said the program’s strength at the junior high level is building the base for the future of Apache football.

“The future’s bright,” Hamilton said. “These young men compete at a high level and play with energy. They love the game, and they love each other. They’re physical, resilient, and fun to watch — and that’s the kind of foundation we want feeding into our high school program.”

Each junior high roster carried roughly 25 players, backed by an equally passionate community. The stands were packed for the 8th Grade A team’s playoff game — so much so that several coaches compared the atmosphere to a varsity home game.

As Heyward put it, “We’re building something special here. From seventh to eighth grade, these kids are learning what it means to be an Apache. They play with heart, and they represent this town well. We’re not done — this is just the beginning.”