The San Marcos Academy Bears opened their season with a big win over UIL District 15-2A Division II Charlotte High School, shutting out the Trojans 28-0.
SMA junior running back Robby Newman (San Marcos) scored the first touchdown for the Bears and senior quarterback Bryce Patterson (New Braunfels) had a good night connecting with several receivers, including junior Gino Dipollino (New Braunfels), who took one in for a score.
The Bears defense stood tall, preserving the shutout over a strong Trojan offense. SMA senior defensive lineman Gordon Murphy (San Marcos) had a great game and contributed a safety to the Bears' final tally. Junior Alex Davis (Kingsbury) played well in the free safety spot throughout the game, and head coach Les Davis also cited sophomore Inaki Infante-Valenzuela (Jalisco, Mexico), who added several PATs in what was his first time playing American football.
"Overall, our defense played very well," Davis said. "Our offense and special teams were also on the mark, turning in some strong performances all around. We got to play a bunch of kids, including four freshmen, which made it fun. It was definitely a great way to start the season."
SMA returns home to host San Antonio TMI-Episcopal on Sept. 6 at 7:30 inside McCoy-Remme Athletic Complex. The game will serve as the Bears' Hometown Heroes observance and all veterans, active military personnel and first responders can attend the game free of charge.
