The Medicine Hat High Hawks at practice this week. (Photo Courtesy Aidan Boelsgaard)

By Aidan Boelsgaard

Hawks, Colts to battle in semi-final action at the Methanex Bowl

Oct 21, 2022 | 3:11 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The Medicine Hat High Hawks are ready for the Monsignor McCoy Colts with a spot in the championship game of the four-team Rangeland Football Conference on the line tonight.

Hawks head coach Quinn Skelton says his team has been working all season to get to this point, and the excitement can be felt throughout the locker room.

“Playoffs finally, you know? This year we have had five really tough exhibition games. We’re working all the time to get better, and now it’s time to play for real. That makes the boys really happy, and really excited for playoffs,” Skelton says.

Hawks’ Grade 12 defensive end Zach Angstadt says this game holds a special meaning for himself and his fellow senior players. They all want to put on a great performance for their team, and the community.

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“Reality is if we lose this game our season is done, and high school football for me would be done,” he says. “Have a dominant performance is all that we’re going out there and looking to do.”

Although a big moment for the team, it is a big game for the parents of the players as well. Trisha Sotropa, the mom of Grade 10 player William Kozakewich, says the team is very tight-knit. It’s made this season something special to watch her son take part in.

“Before games, they make supper together and eat together. They hang out after school until it’s time to get on the bus and go,” she said. “They have their chats on social media, and they’re getting along really well so it’s really nice to see. It’s good for my son and good for everyone’s kids to have such a close group.”

Skelton acknowledges the support the community has shown over his lengthy career, saying it has never wavered.

“The support here in town from our booster club to our player, and then within the school community has been fantastic. A lot of the alumni come out, hang around and come to the games. It’s great to see a lot of past players from literally 20 years ago show up. Some wearing their old jackets.”

Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. at the Methanex Bowl.