Trojans drop home opener, prove tenacity

GREEN BAY - On Thursday, Aug. 28, Green Bay Southwest (0-2) dropped its home matchup against the Stoughton Vikings (1-1), falling 40-13.

While both teams started the game out cold, with the first quarter ending 0-0, Stoughton gained some serious momentum that the Trojans couldn’t stop.

While the final score leaned heavily in Stoughton’s favor, Southwest head coach BJ Hill and junior running back/linebacker Traevaughn Weaver both pointed to moments of progress and pride in a game that continues to shape the Trojans’ identity early in the season.

Hill, in his second game as head coach, said there were positives to take away despite the lopsided loss.  “We’ve shown the ability to fight… the kids don’t give up,” said Hill.

At the same time, Hill stressed that the team has plenty to clean up before heading into next week. “It’s about the details. We have to capitalize on plays that are there, we have to be ready to defend the pass,” said Hill.

Hill stressed that “It was disappointing tonight… not what we expected on a home opener.”

According to Hill, Thursday night marked another milestone in his new leadership role, with it being his first game coaching at home. “Being on the home field, it’s one of four games for the seniors. I remember what that was like, being a senior, and every game could be the last one, so making it special for them.”

Junior Traevaughn Weaver echoed that same sentiment. “I really like him being on the team honestly. He brings experience, he brings a positive attitude, but that coach side and the dad side even to be around for us. I’m appreciative of him for sure,” said Weaver. 

Weaver was a standout player for the Trojans, with one touchdown and two big catches that gave the team some much needed momentum.

Those catches provided one of the brightest sparks of the evening for the Trojans.

With time winding down in the first half, Weaver broke free for a long touchdown reception, cutting into Stoughton’s lead and energizing the Southwest sideline.

He later made another highlight play in the second half, giving the Trojans a shot at another touchdown. “(I) was just trying to get down and field and make a play.”

Despite the loss for Southwest tonight, the players seem to remain positive and energetic for what is to come this season.

Weaver said, “I was proud to see that people care and actually want to play… I am excited that we can come out and keep playing.”

Southwest faces off against West De Pere next week on September 5th.