MEEKER | The Barone Middle School seventh- and eighth-grade football teams wrapped up their seasons this past weekend on the road in Rifle, capping a fall filled with growth, grit and plenty of highlights.
This year, 41 boys suited up for the Cowboys — 22 on the eighth-grade team and 19 on the seventh-grade squad. Both groups turned in strong performances, each finishing the season with a 5-1 record.
The seventh grade team remained undefeated until midseason when it fell to Steamboat. Before that, the Cowboys went unscored on for half the season, relying on a dominant defense to shut down their opponents.
The eighth grade, meanwhile, dropped its season opener in double overtime to Riverside but rebounded behind a powerhouse offense built on a big, strong line and a talented backfield. From there, the eighth graders rolled through the rest of their schedule with commanding wins.
Several Cowboys reached the end zone this fall as coaches shuffled positions to expand players’ football knowledge and keep everyone engaged. Teamwork was a consistent theme, and one memorable highlight came when the seventh grade converted an extra point in its final game.
Both teams showed improvement from week one to their season finale at Rifle. In that game, the seventh graders used a hurry-up offense to score just before halftime, shifting momentum before pulling away for a 29-14 win. The eighth grade dominated Rifle 42-0, executing efficiently on offense and hustling hard on defense.
“Both teams showed immense grit as they played this year,” head coach Nick Gianinetti said. “They dug deep when they needed to and challenged each other to be their best every day.”
Beyond the wins, the season reinforced lessons of camaraderie and sportsmanship. The Cowboys also gained experience running a flexbone offense, similar to the high school system, giving players a head start as they move up to the next level.
“Learning to play as a team is the most foundational aspect for success,” Gianinetti said. “I hope they learned that camaraderie and sportsmanship will take you far as a team.”
With both squads finishing 5-1, the Cowboys closed the book on a season defined by teamwork, resilience and steady improvement. For Barone Middle School, the fall was about more than just wins — it was about building a foundation for the future of Meeker football.
By JARED HENDERSON |
