The Southlake Carroll Dragons defeated the Keller Indians Friday night with a score of 63-28 in their fourth district game of the season. Though the win sustained their undefeated streak, the real excitement of the evening was a very significant uniform debut. For the first time in decades, the team took the field in sleek black jerseys, provided by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and Texas native, Patrick Mahomes’ Gladiator brand.
The custom Adidas x Mahomes brand jerseys were gifted to only 15 high schools in the country. Mahomes has been known to support the Carroll program, and was happy to endorse the team by including his branded “Gladiator” logo on the front of the jersey. Proceeds from Mahomes branded Dragon gear will also benefit Carroll athletics.
“What makes this special is the recognition of what this program has accomplished,” associate coach Jason Jaynes said. “To be seen by a player such as Patrick Mahomes, one of the best quarterbacks ever to play in the National Football League, is an honor. And it’s not just about the kids in this program. It’s all the kids that have played in the past that have built the tradition here. They deserve this reward as well.”
With a 55-game win streak at home and senior wide receiver Brock Boyd recently smashing the school record for career receiving yards, the team continues to gain recognition, something that does not go unnoticed by even the pros.
“This team is full of guys who want to play football more than anything,” junior linebacker Kyle Duross said. “The guys are so excited to play football whether it’s a close game or if we’re up by 50. It’s the love for the game that sets us apart.”
The players had to keep the news and their excitement about the jerseys under wraps leading up to the game, though rumors began in late September.
“When they announced the jerseys, we were all super hyped,” senior running back Davis Penn said. “Coach Dodge continues to bless us with cool things like this.”
Dodge deliberately saved the debut until Friday, as the team faced a rival from just down the road, and the stands were packed with alumni for the Homecoming game.
“To be able to present these to the community in this particular game is especially exciting,” Jaynes said. “With it being Homecoming, and the fact we’re ranked number one in the state.”
According to MaxPreps and Sports Illustrated, Southlake Carroll is ranked 13th in the nation, with Massey Rankings placing them at fourth.
“The work ethic within the team is unlike anything I have ever seen,” Duross said. “The effort these players give in the game doesn’t change when we’re practicing.”
The team’s dedication to training is highly praised, and reflects the symbolism of the Gladiator logo they now wear. Mahomes crafted the symbol to be a reminder of work ethic.
“The gladiator mask in my logo represents the mindset of making an impact every single day,” Mahomes said to Bleacher Report. “Whether it’s training in the gym, on-field practice or a game day- that’s always my mentality.”
The Dragons aim to continue their winning streak, in relentless pursuit of the state title this year.
“Our program’s hard work and dedication for decades has been recognized, and they aim to continue the legacy by putting our best product that we can on the field every week,” Jaynes said. “It’s all about preparation.”
