This Friday night, the Beavercreek Beavers will face off against the Fairmont Firebirds in one of the biggest games of the season. The winner will move on to the playoffs, while the loser’s season comes to an end. For Beavercreek, it’s not just another game,it’s a chance to show how much they’ve grown this year under head coach Trace Smitherman. “This week is about staying in the moment,” Coach Smitherman said. “We continue to do a really good job focusing on one play at a time,letting go of the last one and putting all of our attention on the next. As we keep learning to stay in the present, we get better each week. I believe we’ll be ready to compete hard Friday night and execute every play. Then we’ll let the scoreboard take care of itself.”
The Beavers have faced tough opponents all season but have continued to improve with each game. Smitherman says his team’s main goal hasn’t changed. “Our goals haven’t changed: play as hard as we can on every snap,” he said. “We’re working to build a foundation that lasts, not just for this season but for the program moving forward. We talk a lot about attention to detail and seeing if, in the end, that effort adds up to something special.” Fairmont is known for its strong defense and physical style of play, which means Beavercreek will need to stay sharp and focused to come out on top. But Coach Smitherman believes his players are ready for the challenge. “When it comes to the playoff picture, we’re focused on controlling what we can control,” he said. “We’re excited for the opportunity, but first we have to handle Fairmont. What happens after that will take care of itself. I believe our players are willing to do whatever it takes to get the result we want. They know us, and we know them. The key is controlling what we do and playing with confidence,because we are good enough.” As game day gets closer, the Beavers are staying focused on playing their best football. Whether they make the playoffs or not, it’s clear that Beavercreek is building something special for the future.