Wolverine varsity football looks to prepare for a heavyweight battle against the Damascus Hornets on September 16 after a tough outing at Gaithersburg 28-14 on Friday.

This was the first away game of the season and the stadium was electric. Orange Nation was represented well as the students wore white to match the team’s away jerseys. Gaithersburg jumped out to an early 14-0 lead but the ‘Rines eventually got within seven points of the Trojans before they pulled away.

In the beginning of the game, the ‘Rines took a stand for what they believe in by taking a knee during the National Anthem. They are the first team at Watkins Mill to do this, and the action did not go unnoticed. Jordan Blackman, who had a big interception during the game, said, “It felt great as a team standing for something we believe in.”

Catherine Hodge

Senior wide receiver Daquan Wims had ten catches for 164 yards and one magnificent touchdown that he had to leap and reach over a Gaithersburg defender for. Wims is looking to have a great final season as a Wolverine. Wims said, “I feel like we can make it to states if our team keeps being humble and hungry.”

Junior quarterback Markel Grant had a big day despite the unfortunate outcome with two touchdown passes and no interceptions. Senior Brian McNeary also played a huge role in keeping the game close as he played hard on both sides of the ball.

Next up the ‘Rines will clash with the defending 3A state champs as they take on Damascus in a very important away game. Blackman added, “It’s just another reason to go harder every practice, every rep, every play to get better.”

Despite walking away from last week’s game with a loss, the team feels confident in their ability to perform well against the Hornets. They are ready to go into the Hornet’s Nest and play hard until the final whistle. All of Orange Nation, come out and support our boys next week at 7pm at Damascus High School.

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Catherine Hodge