FOOTBALL PREVIEW: Young Lions Amazed Many; Look to Repeat

Updated: August 17, 2018

from left to right : Senior wide receiver Darius Hernandez, Senior linebacker Victor Luna, and junior quarterback Dorian Hernandez.

by Billy Watson/LFN

LA FERIA – The La Feria Lions have gotten their hands on a district championship two of the last three years. In the last two seasons, however, their playoff runs were halted in the first round, both narrow losses to the Rockport-Fulton Pirates.

Despite what was thought to be a rebuilding year, the Lions impressed many last season and now have their eyes set on another district crown.

The Lions ended their first practice breaking their team huddle to the phrase, “One, two, three, district champs!”
Because the team graduated a handful of seniors including wide receiver and running back Julian Trevino, the Lions have some holes to fill. That’s where Head Coach Oscar Salinas coins the phrase “next-man up” as the key to filling in the gaps.

With two district championships in the past three years, La Feria Lions train in earnest to make magic again this season.

Many eyes have seen the growth of junior QB Dorian Hernandez, who took over the starting position when he was only a sophomore. Subsequently, Hernandez led the Lions to a co-district championship and spot in the playoffs.
During their opening practice, Hernandez displayed leadership pumping up his teammates throughout the humid morning. Senior linebacker Victor Luna also provided some energy to the Lions and noted how his leadership reflected on others.

Photo: La Feria ISD Facebook Community Page

“It’s very important for me to be a captain,” Luna begins, “I get to show the young guys what to do, and that’s what it’s all about: making good choices and showing the underclassmen what it’s all about.”

The Lions begin their season with their home opener against the Raymondville Bearkats on August 31st at 7:30pm.