The Melissa High School junior varsity football team is not only preparing for their games, but also for when they will become varsity. The JV team’s current record is 4-0 with wins over LoveJoy 46-7 Frisco High 28-0 Frisco Memorial 56-6 Frisco Liberty 55-6. Coaches and players argue that JV is where the players learn their craft, become disciplined, and gain valuable experience.
“Playing on JV lets you get a feel for the game without the stress,” said sophomore wide receiver Issac Garlin. “It’s where you can screw up and still learn.”
The stands might not be full like they are on Friday nights, but the JV players train just as diligently. They practice for hours running drills, pumping iron and analyzing plays.
“We work hard every day, just like the varsity team,” Garlin said. “Even if we don’t have a big crowd, we still leave everything out there.”
Coaches emphasize that the JV program is about development above all else. Winning games is a factor, but preparing players for future varsity positions is the main goal.
“JV is all about building first,” Head Coach Matt Nally said. “Our JV team is like building the skeleton of a house. The Varsity is like putting all of the finishing pieces on the house — but the JV is building the housem, and the freshman is setting the foundation down first. Earlier in my career as a coach, all I wanted to do was win — but now I want to be able to build these players into the person they want to be.”
Players also mention that the experience enables them to form stronger bonds to their teammates. Playing together during practice and on bus rides helps create friendships that carry over into the games.
“My favorite part of this season is the bus rides to and from the games,” said sophomore receiver Jouquin Reyes. “It makes us more connected and more like a family.”
That sense of belonging is one of the biggest reasons why players enjoy JV. It provides a setting where players can grow on and off the field.
“You learn responsibility and discipline,” sophomore receiver Joaquin Reyes said. “Being a student athlete is difficult because you gotta balance school and know all the plays.”
As the season continues, the JV squad knows that every snap, every drill and every game matters. Their effort today is setting the foundation for their future under the varsity lights.
“It feels good knowing we’re part of the team’s future,” Reyes said. “Someday it will be our turn to take the field on Friday nights.”
