West and KIPP have desire to win

GASTON--- KIPP Pride High School have celebrated a lot of firsts this season in football and tonight will be no different, as the school celebrates another monumental occasion by having their very first homecoming game against NCHS-West.

It has been a season of new and firsts for the Panthers , their first year in the Tar-Roanoke conference, a first win on opening night and a brand new stadium. Coach John Thomas and staff have had their hands full with a squad relatively small in numbers compared to some schools. Which makes it a rough road when trying to build football program just two years in.

However, even with all that is being dealt with, it is only one thing that motivates staff and players and that is the uncanny desire to win. “We just don’t come out to get experience we show up to win, said Thomas. “I can’t say enough about the kids and their determination to play, they come out and practice hard everyday and play their hearts out every Friday night.”

The game against NCHS-West carries some significance for the Panthers, the atmosphere of the game can only be compared to that of a king of the county matchup.

“It is going to be tough  for us we are going to have to come out and play, because it is neighboring schools and most of these guys know each other,” said Thomas.“

Every one feels that we are the door mat and no one wants to lose to a first year in the conference team.”

The match-up for West (3-5) is just as big due to they are trying to get into the playoffs with a victory.  “Some of these guys that are going to play against each other live in the same house so it’s going to be tough, said Hasty.