Hillcrest and Bonneville Bees at Civil War 14-49

Maggie Arave
Staff Writer
  Hillcrest knights defeated the Bonneville Bees 49-14 in the annual Civil War game on September 5 at Thunder Stadium. The game started 7-0 and ended with a score of 49-14 with the Knights in the lead.
  During halftime, the score was 21-7, with the knights taking the lead. The Civil War has been played numerous different times with varying results. The game dates back to when Bonneville and Hillcrest split into two different schools in the 1980s to the early 1990s due to overcrowding at Bonneville. This led to the making of Hillcrest in 1992. Civil war holds major significance to both schools because of its rich history. Civil War requires extensive training and practice for both schools, so players can perform their best. Extensive training and dedication is essential for players during a sports season. Coach Stephenson, the football coach, states, “We have the talent to win the game for sure, but you never know. That's why we play the game.” Stephenson also states, “We lifted weights all summer, went to camps, and have been practicing.” During the game, the players sat in front of a TV that showed previous plays. Watching their playback film allows the players to see and improve their plays. Players watch their mistakes and successes allowing them to see themselves better. Players train and improve themselves since practice develops essential skills. Rivalries change school culture and the importance of games to players. Coach Stephenson reminisces, “when I was in high school, we had our rivalry game against Capital High (MT).” He declared “we wanted to change the culture of losing.” When asked, Coach Stephenson states that “I coached my cousin's 5th grade team, I loved it so much that I knew I wanted to coach in college or High school,” leading to his passion in football. Motivation is required when putting effort into something. Coach Stephenson states, “My high school, and college coaches. My drill sergeants and leadership I had while I was in the Army.” Role models motivate numerous people and players. Role models show people how to see or do a certain thing. Like football where a player or coach can learn to play better and teach players clearly. Coach Stephenson states, “I was proud of being a part of the culture change at my high school. That is what I want to build here at Bonneville.”

​