Lions on the Hunt for District Title

Updated: November 7, 2024

By Mike Villarreal

The La Feria Lions kicked off the 2024 season with a challenging matchup against the Ingleside Mustangs. Unfortunately, the Lions struggled on offense and defense, allowing the Mustangs to secure a decisive 27-0 victory.

In their next game, La Feria faced their former rival Hidalgo, who remained in 4A Division I while the Lions were moved to Division II. The Lions managed to turn things around, scoring two touchdowns in the fourth quarter to earn a 27-14 win.

In Weeks 3 and 4, the Lions continued their strong momentum, facing off against the Raymondville Bearkats and the Valley View Tigers. Their offense clicked into high gear, resulting in a 27-13 victory over Raymondville and a shutout win of 34-0 against Valley View.

However, the next two weeks presented tougher challenges for La Feria. They battled former district foe Zapata but fell short in a close game, losing 35-28. The Lions then encountered the powerful Brownsville St. Joseph Academy, suffering a tough defeat with a score of 62-13.

Now competing in 4A Division II, the La Feria Lions found themselves in a four-team district, with all teams qualifying for the playoffs. Yet, the Lions need to win as many games as possible, as standings will determine playoff seedings.

Entering district action, La Feria commenced the first of three district games against the La Grulla Gators. Historically, the Lions had a 5-0 record against the Gators, with their last win in 2021, which ended 51-34. This time, La Feria dominated the matchup, winning decisively with a shutout of 50-0, bringing their district record to 1-0 and improving their overall record to 4-3.

Next, the Lions hosted the district powerhouse, Port Isabel Tarpons, at Lions Stadium. On Friday, October 25, the Port Isabel team arrived expecting a victory but left with their second loss of the season. The La Feria community turned out in full force to support the Mighty Lions under the Friday night lights. The team held strong in the final seconds to secure a hard-fought victory.

Fans were on their feet, with one longtime supporter noting the night’s electric atmosphere. This win showcased the tenacity of the Lions, with the Roar of their Pride echoing across the Valley. Following this win, La Feria improved to 2-0 in District 16-4A Division II. The Valley Central News Sports Team nominated the La Feria Lions, Los Fresnos Falcons, and Vela Sabercats for last week’s Team of the Week. Like their victory over Port Isabel, the La Feria Lions won the voting and were recognized as Team of the Week.
Now, La Feria has the opportunity to clinch the outright district title with a win against Kingsville King. The La Feria News spoke with Athletic Director and Head Coach Craig Foster, who has a coaching career spanning over 20 years. He has coached various sports, including track, basketball, pee-wee football, junior high football, high school football, and college ball.

Originally from Oklahoma, Coach Foster previously coached at Brownsville Hanna, Harlingen South, and Los Fresnos before arriving at La Feria. As a visitor, he attended a Lions game and was impressed by the turnout and atmosphere. Throughout his career, he has taken on roles as an Athletic Coordinator, Offensive Coordinator, 1st Assistant, and Head Coach.

To kick off this season, Coach Foster organized a Day with Dads, a Moms Clinic, and a team visit to local elementary schools to give students a chance to connect with their Lions. He believes it’s crucial for these young men, who are respected in the hallways, to reach out to younger kids and the community. This involvement helps build future pillars of the community.

Coach Foster has established a Lions team built on the principles of Discipline, Commitment, Toughness, and Integrity. The La Feria News would like to thank Coach Foster for his time and wish the Lions the best of luck as they prepare for the playoffs. Go Lions and Roll Pride!
Photos from Rey Garza