RIVERTON — Tristan Tolley and Andrew Watson envisioned their senior year differently.
The Riverton football team canceled the varsity season due to insufficient numbers over the summer. Tolley and Watson came out undeterred regardless. They were still just grateful to have a JV season, and it was more than just for the love of the game.
The senior linemen wanted to build a springboard for the future.
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Watson had played football since he was 4 years old. He emphasized giving not just his teammates but also his two younger brothers currently in the JFL the chance to play varsity even if that was not granted to him this year.
“I want to help this program to what it could possibly be to help them get the chance that they deserve,” Watson said.
Ditto Tolley.
“Everyone is out here performing,” Tolley said. “Everyone is doing the things they need to do. We’re all working together.”
They have helped foster pivotal success along the way. It’s a necessity if they want to generate enthusiasm around the program and bolster its numbers.
This budding JV team most recently scored a 46-13 win over Auburn’s JV to improve to 6-1 with only two games remaining.
“I’m more than proud of these guys,” Watson said. “They’ve put in so much work. I personally feel like this is the best offensive line we’ve had in years since I was at least a sophomore. With the people who are showing up here every day, I think this program will go far over the next couple of years.”
Tolley agreed.
“I feel like we’ve already achieved so much,” Tolley said. “What Andrew was saying how the program was a couple years ago, I honestly think this year we’ve stayed together so mentally well. These kids have done amazing this year.”
According to head coach Colton Piper, the experience has transformed Tolley and Watson into genuine leaders.
“The seniors have been awesome,” Piper said, “they’ve both matured a ton throughout the season and they’re playing really well. There’s just been a lot of positivity that we’ve never had before. The culture and people speaking up is nice to see, it’s trending in the right direction.”
During practices, Watson and Tolley will act as mentors while yielding reps to their younger teammates. Tolley described that teaching aspect as a learning experience.
“It’s been really helpful because you get to look back and think how you were back around that time and try to help them in the areas they need help,” Tolley said.
With 26 kids, Piper said the program still isn’t where it needs to be to compete on the varsity level, especially in positions that require more strength and size.
“But I think if we keep winning and it’s an atmosphere that people are looking forward to practice, it’s only going to get better,” Piper said.
