Vandegrift Football: The Rise of a Texas Powerhouse

The Early Years

In 2009, Vandegrift High School opened its doors in Leander, Texas. The school was named after Lieutenant Colonel Karen J. Wagner Vandegrift, the first woman to command a Marine Corps base. The new school had no football team, but that would soon change. In 2010, Vandegrift hired Drew Sanders as its first head football coach.

From the start, Sanders knew he had his work cut out for him. The school was new and had no previous football tradition. Vandegrift’s first season was a rough one, with the team winning only one game. But Sanders did not let that discourage him. He saw potential in his players and worked tirelessly to build a strong program.

The Turning Point

In 2011, Vandegrift’s fortunes began to turn around. The team finished the season with a 6-4 record and made its first playoff appearance. This was a huge accomplishment for a team that had only been playing for two years.

The following year, Vandegrift had its breakout season. The team finished the regular season with a 9-1 record and made it to the second round of the playoffs. This was a remarkable achievement for a team that had gone 1-9 just two years prior.

The State Championship

In 2014, Vandegrift achieved its greatest success yet. The team finished the regular season with a perfect 10-0 record and entered the playoffs as one of the top teams in the state.

Vandegrift’s playoff run was nothing short of spectacular. The team dominated its opponents, winning by an average of 26 points per game. In the state championship game, Vandegrift faced off against Temple High School. The game was a hard-fought battle, but Vandegrift emerged victorious, winning 28-7.

The Legacy Continues

Since winning the state championship in 2014, Vandegrift has continued to be a dominant force in Texas high school football. The team has made the playoffs every year since, and in 2017, advanced to the state quarterfinals.

Much of Vandegrift’s success can be attributed to its coaching staff. Drew Sanders is no longer the head coach, but his successor, Travis Brannan, has continued to build on the foundation that Sanders laid. Brannan has a record of 59-24 in his seven years at Vandegrift, and his teams are consistently among the best in the state.

Why Vandegrift Football is a Powerhouse

There are several reasons why Vandegrift Football has become a powerhouse in Texas high school football.

First and foremost, the program has a strong tradition of excellence. Coach Sanders and Coach Brannan have built a culture of hard work, dedication, and accountability. Players are held to high standards both on and off the field, and are expected to give their all every time they step onto the gridiron.

Secondly, Vandegrift has a strong feeder program. The middle schools in the area have excellent football programs that prepare players for the rigors of high school football. Many of the players on Vandegrift’s roster have been playing together since they were in middle school, which has helped to build a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork.

Finally, Vandegrift has excellent facilities. The school’s football stadium is one of the best in the state, with a seating capacity of 8,000 and state-of-the-art amenities. The players also have access to a top-notch weight room and training facilities, which help them stay in top physical condition.

FAQs

What is the Vandegrift Football team’s record?

Vandegrift’s overall record is 116-44-0.

Who is the Vandegrift Football team’s current head coach?

Travis Brannan is the current head coach of the Vandegrift Football team.

What is the name of Vandegrift’s football stadium?

Vandegrift plays its home games at Monroe Stadium.

What is the capacity of Monroe Stadium?

The seating capacity of Monroe Stadium is 8,000.

What is the mascot of Vandegrift High School?

The mascot of Vandegrift High School is the Viper.

Conclusion

Vandegrift Football has come a long way since its inception in 2010. From humble beginnings to state champions, the program has established itself as one of the best in Texas high school football. The team’s success can be attributed to a strong coaching staff, excellent facilities, and a tradition of hard work and excellence. With Coach Brannan at the helm, the future looks bright for Vandegrift Football.

Sources:

– https://www.vandegriftfootball.com/
– https://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/vandegrift-vipers-(austin,tx)/football/home.htm