On August 10, 2021, the Football Coaches of the the two MISD high schools spoke to the membership of the Magnolia Rotary Club about about what is happening this year in MHS & MWHS. Pictured above from left to right are: JD Berna (MWHS Athletic Director), Chase Hargis (MHS Football Defensive Coordinator who works for Head Coach Craig Martin), Kelly McDonald (Magnolia Rotary Club President) and Ben Magehee (MWHS Head Football Coach).
MWHS Head Football Coach Ben Megehee spoke first and told the group that he showed up in Magnolia during last years week long ice storm but liked the area and the opportunity to lead the MWHS Mustang Football Team. Ben said that over 100 students showed up for summer training this year and that many of last year's defensive team is returning this year so their defensive team will be quite strong and their offensive quarter back will also be returning. Ben expects that this year will be a good year for the Mustangs. He also pointed out that football started yesterday and that their first game will be at home against Brenham on August 27, 2021 at 7:00PM. When asked about the safety of the players, Ben told everyone that they are doing everything possible to make sure that those playing are doing so in ways that are as safe as possible. This includes training on how to safely tackle someone without hurting them or the person doing the tackle as well as new helmets that are more cushioned then in previous years. Even the player's practice sessions allow for the players to keep hydrated in the Texas heat. Head coach Ben Megehee also pointed out that the coaching staff has some new hires so they will be some new faces in the coaching staff this year.
MHS Defensive Coordinator Chase Hargis spoke next (Head Football Coach Craig Martin was not able to make it). Chase told everyone that Head Coach Craig Martin runs a good program and that they make sure that everyone plays as safely as possible. In addition, Chase said that the MHS program helps the young players to become more mature and good citizens as well as teaching them many life skills. Chase pointed out that the Bulldogs were District Champs last year and they will be trying hard to keep that title. Their first game will be in Katy Texas against the Tompkins Falcons on 8/28/2021 at 6:00PM. Chase also pointed out that many of their players are coming back this year so they are looking forward to a good year.
Rotarians asked a number of questions which were answered by both coaches and Athletic Director JD Berna. Coach Berna also pointed out that many of their coaches are able to help players with their academic studies as well. However, MISD does have a "No Pass, No Play" rule. In addition, Coach Berna indicated that they try to keep as many students in athletics as possible. This is seen in that fact that there are at least 18 football teams at each school so that everyone gets a chance to play the game if they want to.
