March 28, 2024

D-R Falcons Prepare to Take on Rival Seekonk in Annual Thanksgiving Game

Posted

Both Dighton-Rehoboth and Seekonk got a rare glimpse of how the annual Thanksgiving football game might go after the Falcons and Warriors faced each other on October 19th. D-R was able to score early on in the game and, despite efforts by Seekonk, was able to win 52-6. Still, the game was an exciting one, creating even more anticipation and excitement for Thanksgiving.

According to Coach Moura, the Falcons are anticipating a hard fought game. “They’re always excited to play Seekonk,” said Moura, “I think this group of seniors know they could potentially graduate not beating Seekonk and lose the chance to bring home that coveted trophy.”

The Falcons have lost the past two Thanksgiving games, providing the team with an additional incentive if they do win. Speaking about the seniors, Moura explained “I think that was one of the goals they had at the beginning of the year...to win on Thanksgiving.”

Still, Moura warns that the team has more to focus on than the Thanksgiving game. The Falcons are currently in the playoffs, having just beaten Pembroke on October 26th.
“We’re in the playoffs right now, and that’s really been our focus. We haven’t been thinking about Thanksgiving too much this past week,” Moura remarked.

The stands were certainly exciting on the 19th, with D-R fans going crazy every time the team scored a touchdown. Not to be outdone, Seekonk fans also rallied for their team, adding to the competitive nature of the game. Even the schools’ marching bands went head to head, playing their songs back and forth.

It was also cold night for those attending, with temperatures falling as the night went on. As the crowd bundled up, the teams gave it their all, with Falcons fans eagerly anticipating a positive end to the game.

This year’s game will be played at D-R, an exciting opportunity for the home team’s seniors. The game also happens to serve as D-R’s senior day, a chance for the senior members of the football team, marching band, and cheerleading squad to be recognized. Seniors will take the field with friends and family as they prepare to participate in their final Thanksgiving game, a moment that will certainly be bittersweet for everyone involved.

When it comes time to play, Moura explained that the team is balanced with regards to each player’s skill. No particular player outshines the rest. “It’s really been interesting to watch. It’s collectively been a team effort each week,” expressed Moura.

However, he does feel the special teams could have an impact on Thanksgiving, explaining “The special teams have been quite a surprise for us this year. We’ve had some great kicking by Dylan Lodice...We’ve had some touchdowns scored on special teams with Brian Ripley and sophomore Jared Ramos, so I think special teams is a big component to our game plan.”

For those attending the game, special teams are just one of the many aspects of the game to watch for. Not only will the crowd get to play a part in the age old rivalry between D-R and Seekonk, but they will also get to watch an exciting halftime. D-R’s cheerleaders will be performing, as will the school’s marching band, whose show tunes from “The Greatest Showman” recently earned first place in its division at the annual Somerset-Berkeley Music Festival.

Overall, the game is sure to be a fun one. After Seekonk’s loss on the 19th, those attending can expect the Warriors to put it all out on the field. “Seekonk will certainly be ready to play,” said Moura, “They’ll be gunning for us.”

Per tradition, the annual game will conclude both Seekonk High School’s and D-R’s spirit weeks. For students from both schools, the game serves as a competitive end to an already highly competitive week.

Last year, D-R Principal Dr. Gould made a deal with then Seekonk Principal Dr. Jones, agreeing that the losing team’s principal would have to wear the other school’s jersey for an entire school day. While students have yet to hear about a similar bet this year, last year’s energy is certain to carry into this year’s events and festivities.

As both schools prepare for the big day, Moura encourages as many people as possible to come to the game. “Show up and hopefully we’ll watch our senior class bring home the trophy,” said Moura, “They’ll be working for it.”

If you’re thinking about attending this year’s game, the festivities will begin at 10am at D-R. Fans can expect an exciting game, one that will certainly make this Thanksgiving a memorable one.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here

Share!
Truly local news delivered to every home in town