A new Coach and a strong start, Black Knight Football has had a great beginning to the 2025 season and is looking promising for the playoffs this year. Coach Brent Eckley took the team by storm and has pushed a hard training schedule that has put the players in a great position to progress. Early morning practices, long hours after school, and team meals have helped to increase team morale and motivation.
“Leaving no stone unturned, Practicing on mondays which isn't normal, versatility is key for a great offense and defense.” said, Coach Brent Eckley.
“Waking up early becomes a routine,” said Junior, Coy Fripp. “4:45 is when I start my day, I shower, eat, and leave my house by 5:30 every day.”
The Knights had early success this season winning their first three games. All three of the wins ended with the knights being up 30 plus points, along with a great offensive the Knights have a much improved defense. They prevented the other team from scoring more than twice for two of those games. The North County Raiders were the season opening for Farmington and they won 49-16, the Knights main rival.
The 4th game into the season the Knights faced the Jackson Indians. The 5 time state appearing Indians former coach is now present for Farmington, Coach Brent Eckley. Jackson Football was guided to 5 State quarterfinals, and a State Championship in 2020. The familiarity in the offensive and defensive tendencies caused a similarity in plays. An understanding with both teams which caused a Jackson lead. The first loss which caused the Knights to fix their mistakes and push each other even more. After that game the Knights went on to win another three consecutive games, two of them by 35 plus points and the other by a 14 point differential.
“Devastating loss against Festus, the first round bye gives us a comfortable spot in the playoffs moving forward.” Senior Tatem Tinsley
With the success of the season there have been a few injuries. Most notably Junior Coy Fripp who had a pretty gruesome weightroom accident, although he is doing well and recovering. Others like Senior Mason Probst who had an injury the first game which resulted in a season ending occurrence. Things like this happen in football and often seem unfair, through injuries and mishaps the Knights plan to keep pushing training and practice and pursue their goals.
The Knights will face The Cape Central Tigers in the district Championship Friday night at 7pm. You can pay a $10 fee to watch the game through MSHSAA TV.
