Coach Zerul Kutina, comments: “It seems like this season gets shorter and shorter every year. I and the rest of the staff absolutely love these kids. They’re a fun and talented group that has a bright future in whatever it is that they decide to do. This group of kids are a unique and potent mix of talent, applied hard work, and perseverance that will make them especially dangerous as they mature as athletes.
We as a team dealt with a myriad of issues both on and off the field but never gave up once, and for that I cannot be more proud. I appreciate each of these young men’s willingness to compete more than words can say and I look forward to watching these young men grow both as people and as athletes. In a society where grit, toughness, and competitive nature are things that are impossibly hard to effectively teach, our players have increased their understanding and mastery over each of these concepts, all of which are necessary to both general life and athletic success. This class of eighth graders have made a lasting impression on me and all I can say is that I love them and wish them luck!
Now, looking to next year, we have a talented and intelligent crew of skill kids that work hard, do their jobs, and love to hit people, and that’s exciting for me as a coach. We are going to be able to have some fun and do some things a touch outside the norm for the way that we as a middle school run things that should create problems for the rest of the league. I will say this though, they aren’t very strong in number, so if there are any other 7th graders that want to come out next year, we will take any and all of you!
All-in-all, the Royal Valley Middle School football has an outstanding team that is fun to watch, fun to coach and I love each and every kid in a purple helmet! To any of you all that read this, make sure you get in the weight room, go participate in other sports, have fun. And don’t be strangers! Thank you for all of your work!"


Final Season Record: 3 wins, 4 losses.
Opponent | Score | W/L |
|---|---|---|
Atchison | 8-46 | Lost |
Holton | 14-34 | Lost |
Perry | 52-14 | Won |
Nemaha Central | 22-14 (OT) | Won |
Riley County | 0-30 | Lost |
Sabetha | 24-16 | Won |
St. Marys | 12-24 | Lost |
Photo Credit: Jayson Prentice





