by | Published
SAN ANTONIO, TX - The Bandera Bulldogs’ remarkable 10-0 regular season came to a close last Friday night at Harlandale Memorial Stadium, where the Bulldogs fell 24-14 to the Gonzales Apaches in the Bi-District Championship.
The Bulldogs started the game with the same energy and precision that carried them through an undefeated regular season. Dalton Parks connected with Breydan Gherman on a 46-yard touchdown pass on just the fifth play of the game, giving Bandera an early lead. Their defense, dominant all season, held strong throughout the first half, and the Bulldogs added a second touchdown when quarterback Jake Cesta completed a 31-yard go-ball to Jeffry Thomas on a crucial fourth down play, extending the lead to 14-0.
But the second half saw a shift in momentum. The Apaches mounted a comeback, and Bandera struggled to respond. Despite the loss, Coach Fontenot-Amedee praised the effort and character of his team, saying, “Friday was a tale of two halves. In the first half, our team performed at their highest level of the season. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite enough to beat a very good football team. We were inches short in the second half. Hats off to Gonzales.”
The Bulldogs’ seniors leave a lasting legacy, having led the team to five straight playoff appearances and three consecutive district championships. Coach Fontenot-Amedee highlighted the impact of these players: “These seniors have set the bar extremely high for the groups to come. They played the game with integrity and class, and the expectations and standards will remain high because this group gave us the blueprint.”
While the season ended sooner than hoped, the Bulldogs leave the field with pride, gratitude, and a blueprint for future success. Coach Fontenot-Amedee expressed deep appreciation for the community’s support, noting, “A singular football win doesn’t happen without a community of support around it, much less 10-0. Thank you to everyone who packed the stadium last Friday for the game. It was a special season.”
The Bandera Bulldogs and their fans can reflect on a memorable season, celebrating the growth, integrity, and accomplishments of a team that left a lasting mark on the program and the community.
