By: Savannah Stutevoss
Over 2,000 spectators attended the annual Hardin-Simmons University Cowboy Classic on Sept. 25 and 26.
Due to many regular fall sports events being canceled because of COVID-19, the Cowboy Classic was a chance for HSU sports teams to showcase their skills and play competitively.
The highlight of the weekend was the two football games played by the HSU football team at Shelton Stadium. With approximately 200 players, the Cowboys were divided into two teams. Friday’s game was played mostly by freshmen, while Saturday was the big game for the rest of the players. Purple defeated Gold 34 to 27 during overtime.
“Since COVID began, we’ve had fewer opportunities to give our guys a chance… the game was as close to normal as we can provide at present,” Coach Jesse Burleson said.
The football game not only allowed players to feel the normalcy of a game, but it also provided some 50 recruits the chance to experience an HSU football game. Most importantly, the sports functions gave HSU students and their families the opportunity to interact with their peers and attend traditional college events, while social distancing and wearing masks, of course. With tailgating, food and other events, the Cowboy Classic was a much needed time of fun and family at HSU.
“I thought the game was so much fun. Having people out there cheering provided some good medicine. The teams were even and extremely competitive,” quarterback Kyle Jones said. “It goes to show how much depth we can still produce even without all our starters on the field. Everyone played hard and showcased our talent and DNA with pride… the Cowboys won that day by taking a step closer to our team goals. All glory to God no matter what.”
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