NEWS
RICK
Thoughts of a Tunnel Dad | 10/29/2025
Thoughts of a Tunnel Dad | 10/29/2025
Photo Credit: Lee Carnes
THE RED STORM BEFORE THE MONSOON
When it comes to Cliff Watkins and his Tigers, you won’t often see 70 points lighting up the scoreboard. Watkins has never been one to believe in running up the score, and honestly, I’m convinced last Friday’s tally was a happy accident. The boys in red weren’t exactly trying to make history; they just happened to be that efficient. By the end of the second quarter, Venus probably would’ve agreed to anything, including running the clock, just to beat the incoming Texas monsoon that loomed over the horizon.
But let’s be honest, if there’s a silver lining to a scoreboard that looks like a basketball score, it’s this: Tackle Hunger!
Leave it to the legendary Terry Starnes, whose mind always seems to think two steps ahead (and about five hearts wider than most), to turn touchdowns into canned goods. Years ago, he kicked off a campaign where local businesses and donors pledged a food item for every point the Tigers scored. Fast forward to now, in true cowboy fashion, Terry's idea is bucking wildly, feeding hungry families across the county one point at a time. I seriously doubt the players are thinking, “We’re up 63–0, but let’s make it 70 to feed another family,” but hey, fellas, intentional or not, you’re doing your part.
While we waited for the storm clouds to roll in, the Red Storm made its appearance early, crashing through the gates for Homecoming. It wasn’t just a football game; it was a celebration, a reunion, and a reminder that the Glen Rose Tigers know how to put on a show. The alumni in the stands got their entertainment early, and the boys on the field did their part to make sure no one went home disappointed.
And speaking of quick, that had to be the fastest halftime Homecoming in Texas history. Blink and you missed it. The Tigers got about twelve minutes of rest before heading right back out to wrap things up, squeezing in nearly another quarter before Mother Nature decided she’d seen enough Texas Football for one night.
Now let’s talk about that Homecoming week. The parade? A roaring success. Bringing it back to the district turned out to be a nostalgic masterstroke, a perfect blend of old-school charm and new-school excitement. Sure, some had their criticism about “breaking tradition,” but what most people don’t realize is that we were actually revisiting a tradition. This same route has been used before. So, to the critics, where were you then?
The atmosphere was electric. The turnout? Bigger than ever. The parking? Plentiful. The pep rally? Full of energy and Tiger spirit from start to finish. As simplistic as it was, yes, there were still parents darting around like headless chickens trying to drop off their kids, candy, and sanity, but what’s a parade without a little chaos? That’s how you know it’s good.
As the rain came and the lights dimmed, one thing was clear, Tiger Nation is alive and well. The pride, the tradition, the sense of family, it’s all still there, roaring louder than ever.
Now, two games remain before the real race begins. It’s time to tighten those laces, pull up those britches, and lock in. The boys have work to do, and so do we; cheering, supporting, and believing every step of the way.
Because if last Friday proved anything, it’s this: when the Red Storm rolls in… you better hang on.
Rick
Thoughts of a Tunnel Dad | 10/29/2025
Thoughts of a Tunnel Dad | 10/29/2025
