SaberCat Football

SaberCats Punish Lambkins

2011-10-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

It was a Friday night to remember. You came out physical from the opening kickoff and left NO DOUBT who was the better team. You OUT HIT the Lambkins at every turn. When you play physical, hustle and execute, GREAT THINGS will happen. You have proved, by your play on the field that you can play with ANY TEAM IN THIS CITY. Congratulations! There are few things more AWESOME than a WIN over your biggest RIVAL!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

The O Line was PUSHING Lambkins all over the field

#20's catch over the top of the defender was BIG TIME

FC's #10 is SMOOTH and FAST,

TOUGH TURF WAR

2011-10-25T20:41:00.000-07:00

The battle with the Poudre Impalas was won by the team that was the most physical. The Impalas stuck to their game plan, played physical football and came away with the victory. Poudre has always been known for its running game and Friday night was no different. Any time two of the city's teams get together for a game it is special. Winning them always feels great, and losing them always hurts a little more. It is time to learn and grow. Have a great week of practice.

Coach Lefort

Poudre - THE REMATCH

2011-10-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

Last years game was an overtime THRILLER that left everyone ready for this years battle. Poudre is a well coached football program that has always prided itself on running the football and playing hard nosed defense. This year is no different. It will take a commitment this week in practice and on the field on Friday night to out physical them at their own game. A cross town rivalry game is one that the result will live on years down the road. Make sure you prepare for results that you will carry with you long after you leave Fossil Ridge.

Coach Lefort

Hard Fought Battle

2011-10-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

Friday nights game with the Horizon Hawks was a physical battle that left both teams battered and bruised. The Hawks made the plays and came away with the victory, but believe me they knew that the SABERCATS were there. The homecoming crowd that filled North Stadium knew that the SABERCATS were there. If Friday night was any indication of future battles between the two schools I think there is a rivalry brewing down I-25.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

James Fanning was TRUCKIN Hawks

The FAKE PUNT was there

North Stadium is one amazing facility

Having ELVIS as a homecoming theme was different but I liked it

The North Stadium warm up mix is the best we have heard so far this year

Hawks on the horizon

2011-10-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

The Horizon Hawks come into Friday Nights game with a Front Range League leading 5 and 1 record. They are a powerful, physical team that is not afraid to run the football. It will take a STRONG commitment to out hitting the Hawks hit for hit. You do that by preparing in practice this week to be PHYSICAL and TOUGH on Friday Night. You have proven over the past two weeks that you can play with anybody in the conference. Now it is time to prove that you can BEAT ANYBODY in the conference. Have a great week of practice.

Coach Lefort

Homecoming Heartache

2011-10-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

It was another tough loss on Friday night at French Field. The Mustangs made the key plays when their backs were against the wall and rode out of town with the victory. The last two games have come down to who would execute when the game was on the line. The moments arise and you must respond. That is why it is so important that you are prepared to play the whole 48 minutes. When you are in competitive games the plays that can win the game are all around you, it just takes that little extra that puts you over the top.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

#20 Rumbling through the secondary is SCARY SIGHT for any defense

Mountain Range has some NASTY backers

It was ANOTHER great homecoming crowd on a rather BLUSTERY night

Nothing STINGS like losing on your homecoming

Mountain Range Homecoming

2011-10-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

Homecoming weeks are full of pitfalls for the people who are responsible for the most important piece of the Homecoming festivities, the football team. If you are not victorious in the game all else is for not. There are distractions all week that could impede your preparation. DO NOT FALL into their trap. Focus on the task at hand, BEATING MOUNTAIN RANGE, and everything else will FALL INTO PLACE. Everything becomes better with a victory. Make sure to DIAL yourselves into your work this week, both in the classroom and on the practice field. The results will show on the French Field scoreboard. FOCUS AND TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS.

Coach Lefort

Rivalry Renewed

2011-10-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

-- Friday Night at French Field saw the second in what has become an OUTSTANDING inner city BATTLE with each game coming down to a climatic game winning play. The Lobos now know that when they see the SaberCats on their schedule they will be in a battle with a team that will not quit. Execution is a must in football. At times it was outstanding and the results followed, others it was not and the mistakes were costly. Football is about taking advantage of the oppositions mistakes and converting those into points. Rocky was able to make the key plays and storm the field this year. It hurts to lose a game like this. But you pick yourself up, get back to work and get ready for Mountain Range.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- The defense was swarming and came up with some BIG STOPS

- There is no better way to start a game than to take it HOUSE on the opening kickoff

- The SaberCat marching band is the BEST I have seen, the Rocky Mountain band gave the SaberCat Band a STANDING OVATION following the Halftime Show

- 5,000 fans always makes for an electric atmosphere

- The GOAL LINE STAND was BIG BOY STUFF

- For a while I though I was watching the Jace Horak bowl, he was all over the field

- You have to take care of the PIGSKIN it is PRECIOUS

Rocky II

2011-09-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

This is a rematch that needs NO HYPE! Last years inaugural game was an INSTANT CLASSIC! The ball flying through the air and over the cross bar and the SaberCats storming on to the field looking for someone to hug. I guarantee that the Rocky Mountain Lobos have NOT forgotten. The Lobos have a proud football tradition and I am sure were shocked to walk off the field with a loss. They will be READY. This is where it all starts, the city rivalry games, the conference schedule. Everything you have worked for this football season is ahead of you. Prepare yourself for victory! Be determined that you will leave with NOTHING LESS!!

Coach Lefort

Triumph at Thompson Valley

2011-09-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

There is no better feeling than celebrating a HARD FOUGHT VICTORY with your fellow teammates. That was evident on the sidelines as the fourth quarter was winding down and the you knew that the victory was yours! You came out and dominated Thompson Valley in all three phases of the game. The Eagles would have to wait for until next year to try and celebrate a happy homecoming. It was the first of a very important stretch of games that will determine the outcome of your season. Congratulations on an AWESOME WIN!!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

There was an AWE INSPIRING SUNSET laid down on top to the Mummy Range in the late first quarter

Jace Horak's KOR for A TD was EXPLOSIVE

TWO defensive Touchdowns for TWO RUSSELS in TWO days, Tyler on Thursday and Cody on Friday!

The QB from TV was a SCRAPPER, he kept coming until the final whistle

Collin Beard has become THUNDER TOE sailing the KO's into the endzone

The Eagles knew they had been in a PHYSICAL BATTLE

SaberCats look to play Homecoming Spoiler at Thompson Valley

2011-09-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

There is a reason that a team schedules you for their homecoming game, because they THINK THAT THEY CAN BEAT YOU! Thompson Valley has designated you as their homecoming game. That fact should not sit well with you. The Eagles feel that you are their best shot. Your focus should be on doing everything you can this week in practice to make sure that you leave Loveland with a victory. It is time to go out and dominate the opposition. LEAVE NO DOUBT.

Coach Lefort

Tough Warriors

2011-09-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

The Arapahoe Warriors proved to be all they were advertised on Friday night. They executed well, played hard and came away with the victory. There are reasons that the Warrior defense has not been scored on this season, they play tough,fast and fundamentally sound football. They are going to be a long night for anyone their schedule. The season is a series of tests, with each game giving you new results. You need to learn from these test and apply the lessons learned. The beauty of football is that you get a new test the next week.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

French Field is a great place for a high school football game

The Arapahoe defense was a FAST unit

The Giant SaberCat Helmet tunnel was AWESOME

The Fossil Ridge Marching Band is THE BEST

Cory Peter had an OUTSTANDING night punting

Friday Night at French Field

2011-09-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

There is no place on earth I would rather be on a gorgeous September Colorado Friday night than at French Field with the SaberCats. The chance to suit up with your brothers on the team and battle with all your heart for VICTORY does not come along everyday. Take advantage of it!! Explode on to the field. Be brave, strong and confident! The visitors are a strong football team, BUT SO ARE YOU! The team that is more focused, disciplined and productive on the field Friday night will come away with the win. Make Friday a day you will remember for the rest of your lives.

Coach Lefort

Rough Night at Shea Stadium

2011-09-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

The Falcons of Highlands Ranch came out ready to play, took advantage of SaberCat mistakes and executed their game plan to earn the victory Friday night. The Falcons have been a solid team that has made Shea Stadium a hard place for the visiting teams to earn a victory. You must learn from every game and become stronger because of it. There is an opportunity to make improvements and take that attitude to the practice fields this week. Your season will be defined by what you do from here on out. KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE! SaberCat football has always prided itself on the ability to battle through tough circumstances, and I know that is what it WILL DO AGAIN!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Congratulations to the JV team for a thrilling goal line stand and victory over the Falcons in Fort Collins. Also kudos to the Freshmen team for the first of what promises to be many VICTORIES, over the Falcons in Denver.

Highlands Ranch Falcons Await Visit From SaberCats

2011-09-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

The Highlands Ranch Falcons football program will provide an outstanding test for the SaberCats this weekend. They have been ranked in and around the Top Ten for the past couple of years. There is no better way to get on the winning track then against an outstanding team. You have have paid the price in practice and in the weight room to prepare yourselves for VICTORY. Now is the time to transfer that sweat equity on to the field and leave Denver with a win. BELIEVE IN YOURSELVES AND YOUR TEAMMATES.
Leave it all on the field, and rest will come.

Coach Lefort

Tough Loss in Season Opener

2011-09-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect late Summer afternoon for a Season Opener, but the Trojans from Fountain Fort Carson had just enough to hold off the hard charging SaberCats at the horn. The Trojans commitment to the run proved to be the difference in the second half. The game was hard hitting and filled with big plays from both teams. You had a chance to let the Trojans pull away in the fourth quarter but you dug in your heels and let them know what the heart of a SaberCat is all about. If you learned anything from the game on Saturday, it is that you can compete with anybody on your schedule. The Trojans may have left French Field with the victory, but they also left with a lot of respect for Fossil Ridge Football.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

The catch that Jace Horak made on fourth down was CRAZY

You have to stop the run

Mike Harrison is a BEAST on either side of the ball

Fountain is the fastest TEAM I have ever seen. Freshmen through Varsity.

Dalton DeGroot blew up a Trojan on special teams

Number 9 from Fort Carson looks like he is going to be a heck of a player at the next level

2011 Season Opener

2011-08-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

After months of dedication, sweat and hard work the time has come to kick off the 2011 season. Football WILL challenge you at the very core of your being physically, emotionally and mentally. It will test you for all that you are worth. But that is exactly why you train so hard in the weight room, on the practice field and in the classroom so that there is NO DOUBT you will be ready to meet the challenge when you line up across from a Trojan from Fountain -Fort Carson and look him in the eyes. The Trojans are a very athletic, disciplined and well coached team that will be the favorite to win another Colorado Springs Metro Conference title. It will take a tremendous focused team effort to come away with a victory this weekend. Prepare to win this week in practice. Come Saturday you will be able to run on to the field knowing that you have been prepared and are ready to battle for a VICTORY!!

Coach Lefort

Finished Strong

2010-11-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

There are many peaks and valleys that find their way into a football season. But as in life the joy and the value of the season IS IN THE JOURNEY. Congratulations on a tremendous victory over TJ to finish the season. It is always tough to end something that everyone has poured so much of themselves into. Almost everyday over the last seven months you have put your heart and soul in to SaberCat Football. Long Summer hours spent in the weight room and on the field turf, learning and growing. Everyone of you from Freshmen to Seniors were tested for the qualities that it takes to play this game. It is NOT an easy game to play. You HAVE to be TOUGH, INTELLIGENT, DISCIPLINED and HARD WORKING. Those are traits that this game DEMANDS. That is why it is an HONOR to be able to go out and represent your school and your family by WEARING THAT GREEN, SILVER AND BLACK UNIFORM. That is why there are a lot more people who start off the season than who are left when it is time to check in the gear. That fellas IS SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF! There were TREMENDOUS VICTORIES this year and there are TREMENDOUS VICTORIES to come in the future, BECAUSE of the sweat and blood you left on the field this fall. So the journey goes on.
If you are a Senior, THANK YOU. Know that you have built a solid foundation on which SaberCat Football will grow and thrive. Take the lessons that you have learned from here and use them as you navigate through life. Congratulations on a historic year. Remember, ONCE A SABERCAT ALWAYS A SABERCAT!
If you are an underclassman, know that the BALL has now been PASSED on to you. You are part of a tradition of SaberCat Football. There have been many outstanding players and coaches who have paved the way to give you the OPPORTUNITY that you now have. The future is LITERALLY in YOUR HANDS. Capture the MOMENTUM and TAKE SABERCAT FOOTBALL TO NEW HEIGHTS IN THE FUTURE!

It is my honor and I am blessed to be able to work with you,

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

THANK YOU!! TO ALL THE PARENTS WHO HAVE TAKEN PICTURES, HELPED WITH MEALS AND BEEN A TREMENDOUS SUPPORT TO THESE YOUNG MEN

Finish Strong

2010-11-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

This weeks contest will go a long ways in determining how this season will be remembered. Either it will be remembered as an enthusiastic celebration of the hard work that was put in this season, by giving it your greatest effort or WILL it be remembered with a lackluster pack it up game. I know that you WILL GIVE IT YOUR ALL. I KNOW that you will want to play your last game, some of you for nine months and some of you for the rest of your lives, with an unbridled passion and love for the game. Football is the most intense and consuming sport you can play, so CELEBRATE IT! Give EVERYTHING YOU HAVE on the field.
The game of football has a distinct sound, smell and visual effects that you can only experience when you are lined up in competition. It cannot be explained, but only experienced between the whistles. You are lucky, most people will NEVER KNOW THAT FEELING. You have had a chance to FEEL THAT this season. Finish this season strong by HONORING your brothers on the team with your greatest performance ever this weekend.

HAVE A TREMENDOUS GAME!

Coach Lefort

Strides taken

2010-10-31T17:27:00.001-07:00

Thursday nights game versus Fort Collins made it apparent to everyone in attendance that Fossil Ridge Football was here to stay in 5A. You battled the Lambkins on every front. Throughout the first half you were able to over come the mistakes and match Fort Collins play for play, but in the second half Fort Collins was able to take advantage of our mistakes and take home the victory. But know this, Fort Collins knows they were in a game. They are a good team and will do well in the playoffs, but you can play with them, and did. The exciting play in the intercity games has been a great testimony to the hard work put in by both the coaches and players this season. You stepped in to rivalries where everyone wanted to say you didn't belong and proved them wrong.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Congratulations Seniors

Ravin DeFonseka

CJ Leonard

Alex Leonard

Hayden Etter

Tony DeMario

DeVonte Anderson

Brian Heckman

Cody Dinkel

Caleb Kroening

Luke Biedscheid

Jake Schneeberger

Barney Schmidtke

Sean Maley

David Hough

Alex Marshall

Austin Roe

Travon Askew

LAMBKINS AWAIT

2010-10-26T18:47:00.000-07:00

This is the game I know that many of you have been waiting for. Fort Collins is an excellent team, ranked in the top 5 in the state. They are undefeated in the conference. They are preparing to make a run deep into the state playoffs. You must be ready to give everything you have on the gridiron to walk off the field with the victory. You know the joy of winning an intercity game and the pain of losing one. It is your chance to once again prove you belong. The Lambkins have no respect for you, UNTIL YOU EARN IT! Remember RESPECT IS ONLY EARNED BETWEEN THE WHISTLE. GO OUT AND EARN IT!!

Coach Lefort

Playing to Win

2010-10-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

Friday nights battle with Poudre had all the makings of a classic football high school football game. Two intercity rivals, a steady autumn rain and a rugged running game versus a high octane passing attack. It was only fitting that it would end up in overtime with one play to decide the outcome.
It was not a perfectly played game by any means. Defensively we were handled at the point of attack and Poudre could run the football at will. Offensively we didn't execute well and sputtered through the majority of the first three quarters. But NEVER underestimate the HEART OF THE SABERCATS!
You have had plenty of opportunities to stay down and quit this year. But you have battled back and the Poudre game was no exception. Regardless of the outcome Poudre now knows who the SABERCATS are. They know that whenever they see Fossil Ridge on their schedule they are going to be in for a fight, for 48 minutes (or more). In NO OTHER SPORT do you have to PICK YOURSELF UP AND WALK IT OFF, like you have to in FOOTBALL! You need to know that not everyone has that in them in to do that, BUT YOU DO!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- # 8 from Poudre is a workhorse

- Defensive players must know their assignments on every down, every block

- Every point during a game is HUGE

- CJ's TRUCKSTICK on the goal line was AWESOME

- Once again the RIDGE NATION was there, rain or shine

- The SaberCats play to WIN

City Championship, Conference Championship and another 20 Minutue Halftime

2010-10-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

DO NOT underestimate the IMPORTANCE of THIS game! It has everything you could ever want riding on it. You are in the hunt for a city championship, a conference championship and the State Playoffs. There are big games and then there are BIG GAMES. It is time to DIAL IN. From here on out your focus should be on one thing: BEATING Poudre! The Impalas are a well coached football team that are historically rugged and fundamentally sound. It will take a tremendous effort from all three phases of the game to win ANOTHER homecoming game. It is the time to play your best, nothing else will do! A game of this magnitude requires it.

Prepare to Win!

Coach Lefort

MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

2010-10-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

In the sport of football there are a handful of critical plays that will determine the outcome of a particular game. On Saturday the Horizon Hawks made more of those critical plays to escape with a victory. To the casual fan it may have appeared that Horizon was just "getting all the breaks." Funky bounces on balls that ended up as completions or interceptions, onsides kicks that rolled just perfectly 10 yards or fumbles that kicked between two of our players and ended up in their hands. But in reality those "FREAK PLAYS" were a result of bad SaberCat execution. Sure sometimes the ball takes a funny bounce, but some of those bounces were results of not doing your jobs. Easy interceptions and receptions that bounce from your hands to a Hawk's, not covering the ball on kickoffs, missed and broken tackles and not scrambling to get to EVERY FREE BALL that was left on the turf. Horizon made their own breaks and because of that they took a victory away from French Field. Remember EXECUTION AND HUSTLE are the biggest friends of the LUCKY BOUNCE.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- #5 is A PLAYMAKER SUPREME

- The more games I coach the more I value what goes on with the SPECIAL TEAMS

- You must GANG TACKLE to be a good defense

- There are game winning plays all over - you just have to hustle to find them

Hawks on the Horizon

2010-10-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

I have said this before but WHEN YOU WIN, THE NEXT GAME always becomes the most important game. This week it is the Horizon Hawks. They come in to the game with a lot of motivation to get back in the win column and make a push for the playoffs. This is CRUNCH TIME! Every game from here on out is huge. All the lifting, running and head banging is ALL DONE just to have a chance to play in the kind of game you will play in on Saturday morning. DO NOT sell yourselves short by not giving your best this week on the practice field and in the classroom.

Have a great week of practice,

Coach Lefort

MUSTANG ROUNDUP

2010-10-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

The game of football is AWESOME, because it provides so many life lessons that will help you long after you have played in your last game. Friday night's game was a classic in the "OVERCOMING ADVERSITY" lesson plan. In almost every game you are guaranteed that there will be some form of unexpected obstacles that will arise. That is where this game mirrors life SO WELL. Friday night's game saw the first half filled with fumbles, interceptions, missed assignments, bad snaps and questionable official's calls. All of which lead to a 12-0 Mustang lead at halftime. This is where it gets interesting! That is life fellas. So many times you will be cruising along feeling pretty good about yourselves and then life throws out an obstacle in your way. It may be death, divorce, a bad decision, an accident, an addiction. Those things happen and you have to respond. You can either let it beat you down and quit or YOU CAN PICK YOURSELF UP AND WALK IT OFF! That is the BEAUTY OF THIS GAME! Friday night you came out in the second half and took care of business. You decided that this game and your teammates were more important to you than it was to Mountain Range. Congratulations on the victory!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- Must eliminate the mistakes of the first half

- You must start FASTER

- Ball security is paramount

- That is one AWESOME stadium

- The RIDGE NATION WAS THERE and made their presence felt

- That was the BEST HALFTIME FIREWORKS SHOW I have ever seen

- The defense played GREAT in sudden change situations

- THE TEAM THAT WANTS IT THE MOST USUALLY WINS

Another 20 minute halftime

2010-10-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

It will take a tremendous week of preparation to be able to go in and beat a talented Mustang team on their homecoming night. The Mustangs have the exact same record as you do. The winner of this game will go along way in achieving their seasons goals. When you win games the NEXT one always becomes the most IMPORTANT. This is that game.
We cannot afford to come out flat and spot the Mustangs a couple of touchdowns. We have to play LIGHTS OUT from the opening whistle. ONE PLAY AT A TIME. Win each play and good things will happen. Practice must be CRISP and your attention must be DIALED in. ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE GREAT BY GIVING IT EVERYTHING YOU HAVE!!

Have a great week of practice,

Coach Lefort

R E S P E C T IN FRONT OF 5000

2010-10-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Throughout the whole week of practice one word was emphasized: RESPECT. You knew going into the game Friday Night that NO ONE from Rocky Mountain was going to give Fossil Ridge Football any respect just because we were going head to head for the first time. The ONLY way was to EARN it by your play on the field. It took ALL 48 minutes and every ounce of heart, sweat and talent that you could produce, but when that ball sailed over the crossbar as the clock expired, a new chapter in the history of high school football in the city of Fort Collins was written. The Fossil Ridge SaberCats have ARRIVED! From that point on there is NO turning back! You NOW know that your best effort must be demanded on EVERY PLAY. You know NOW that you CAN COMPETE AND WIN against the other schools in this city. It is up to YOU, from here on out. Everything you want from this season is AHEAD of you. But it MUST be proven ON THE FIELD each and every game!! CELEBRATE your accomplishment because Friday Night's win was HISTORIC!

CONGRATULATIONS!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- The passing game was EXPLOSIVE, from PASS PRO to CJ to all the receivers

- The RIDGE NATION was once again the X-FACTOR in the game

- Rocky Mountain's # 5 and # 9 are a couple of outstanding players

- There is NO greater sight than a SEA OF SABERCATS storming the field

- Kick Coverage HAS to TACKLE better

- THE FIELD GOAL TEAM was HUGE ( Tony's dance was especially nice!)

- Cody to CJ to Tony was MONEY

- We are blessed to call French Field our home

- Big Schnee was a Wrecking Machine

- YOU ARE CAPABLE OF GREAT THINGS WITH HARD WORK

- The team that WANTS it the most USUALLY WINS

- Welcome to a CROSS TOWN RIVALRY

A long time coming

2010-09-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

For those of us who have been around the SaberCat football program for awhile, (this is my sixth year) Friday night's game is an opportunity that has been a long time in coming. This will be the first time a varsity SaberCat football team has ever lined up against a city opponent. Many former players who have laid the foundations for SaberCat football NEVER had the opportunity that you WILL have when you walk on to that field. Do not underestimate the significance of this. It is a personal battle no doubt, but you will also be representing all of the Fossil Ridge family. Band, cheer leaders, parents and future varsity players who will all be looking to the gridiron, doing all that they can do to support you. But only YOU will be able to determine the outcome. That is the great thing about being in the position that you are. The team who runs out on to French Field with the most determination to win will come away with the victory.
Like it or not, you will be judged by your peers in the city by the RESULTS of these games. They don't respect you just because you have moved to 5A. Respect in football, IS EARNED ON THE FIELD. EARN their respect. Lets have a tremendous week of preparation.

Coach Lefort

Congratulations Coach Vecchio

2010-09-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

Friday Night was special also because it was the FIRST (with many more to come) VICTORY for Coach Vecchio as a Varsity Head Coach. Thanks Coach for pouring your HEART AND SOUL into the the BLACK AND GREEN. I don't think anyone enjoyed the VICTORY more than Coach.

Congratulations Coach!

Coach Lefort

A Homecoming to Remember

2010-09-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

Friday was blessed with all the perfect ingredients for a Homecoming Football game: a picture postcard Autumn evening, a HUGE CROWD, the BEST band in the State, and most importantly a convincing VICTORY on the gridiron. You transferred the work from the practice field to the game and the results were obvious to everyone in attendance. The offense was executing from the opening PLAY, and the defense was SWARMING to the ball. You took the field with a sense of urgency and took the Eagles out of the game quickly. That is the way to TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS.
Although it was a great win, there is PLENTY of room for improvement. On defense you must take care of your responsibilities, BE ONE OF ELEVEN. No gaps in the wall. There were missed assignments on both sides of the ball that must be eliminated if we are to have success in the future.
Congratulations on a memorable Homecoming Victory.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- How TREMENDOUS was THE RIDGE NATION

- the ALL-BLACKS were AWESOME

- Micheal " the Milkman" Harrison is becoming a BEAST

- The specials were SOLID ( kicker, snapper, punter and coverage)

- Nothing beats a RUNNING CLOCK

- Congratulations to THE KING #13

Homecoming 2010

2010-09-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

The Thompson Valley Eagles will be the opponent when you take the field on Friday night. Thompson Valley will be playing their hardest and looking for a victory. It will take your BEST EFFORT to come home victorious. You have put in the work this week on the practice field. Be ready to focus your attention to the on one thing: WINNING!!

Coach Lefort

Arapahoe Ambush

2010-09-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

Every time you take the field against an opponent you must come with your very best effort. Each team that you will face this year has the talent to make it a very long night for you if you don't. The Arapahoe Warriors brought their best, played with emotion and desire, and sent their fans home with a homecoming victory.
Football is a game loaded with life lessons and Friday night's game was no different. You WILL face adversity, your confidence WILL be tested, and you WILL have the opportunity to quit. But you must dig down and pick yourself up and get back in the fight. There are HUGE games awaiting you in the coming weeks. Everything you could want from this season is still ahead of you. It is your choice; let your work on the practice field and your play on Friday night answer that question.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

-Whatever team BLOCKS and TACKLES better almost always WINS the game

- Ravin and Cody Dinkle have done a nice job kicking the football

- Alex Leonard's catch and run for a touchdown was tremendous

- The Warriors kicker was as good as I have seen

Arapahoe Awaits

2010-09-15T20:11:00.000-07:00

A homecoming crowd will be waiting for you when you get off the bus to face the Arapahoe Warriors on Friday night. The Warriors are coming off a 30-8 victory and will have tremendous momentum heading into the game. They are going to hit the field and punch you in the mouth, with the hope you will decide to pack it up and go home. That is when you must FIGHT YOUR HARDEST!! FLYING to the football on defense, EXECUTING on offense and being EXPLOSIVE on the special teams. Four quarters of that kind of football, play after play is what it is going to take to steal a homecoming night victory from the Warriors. Use every available minute (on the practice field, on the bus, in film study) to prepare yourself to do one thing. WIN!!

Coach Lefort

Physical Falcons

2010-09-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

The Highlands Ranch Falcons were not afraid to be physical and in turn came away with the victory on Saturday morning. Special Teams were improved, but must continue to get stronger and stronger with each game you play. The offense is seeing glimpse of the kind of production that it is going to take to win ball games. The defense must BE STRONGER. There is no replacing the PHYSICALNESS of football. It is a COLLISION sport, not a contact sport. The team that wins that aspect of the game is HARD to beat. The Falcons are a solid, tough hard running football team that will win a lot of ball games this year. The mistakes from this game are fixable, if you are willing to do what it takes to get them fixed. Here's to a GREAT WEEK of PRACTICE!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

-It could not have been any more beautiful morning for a football game

- Alex Leonard's touchdown grab was one of the best I have seen

- Big Jake rumbling down the sidelines with the football quite a sight

- You MUST stop the run

- It was good to see my old car pool buddy, Blake Olsen (host of Football Colorado and the Denver Nuggets wrap up show) at our game to film it for Football Colorado

- Hearing the National Anthem played by the band on 9/11 is HONOR

- We have to play SMART, AGGRESSIVE, TOUGH FOOTBALL

SaberCats to host The Ranch in home opener

2010-09-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning will provide another quality opponent when the Highlands Ranch Falcons fly into French Field. The Falcons victorious in their season opener, possess a strong running game and a stingy defense. They are a member of the Continental Conference, which includes some of the Colorado's best high school football programs.
Many things were learned from last Friday night. The effort and attention to the special teams MUST be translated to the field on game day. The defense MUST complete their assignments and keep the Falcons out of the end zone. Offensively, EXECUTION is the key to any successful game plan. Come READY TO WORK everyday this week in practice. Make sure that come Saturday morning you WILL PLAY YOUR BEST!!
It is here, the time is now!

Coach Lefort

Top Ten Trojans Tough

2010-09-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

Friday night the Fountain Fort Carson Trojans proved to be worthy of their pre-season ranking. The margin of error at the varsity level against an opponent of this caliber is slim, and we made too many mistakes to bring back a victory.
There were bright spots on both sides of the football, and the effort was evident. The defense played well in the second half, but allowed FFC too many big plays in the first. Offensively we were close to putting together a series or two, but couldn't find the solid consistancy needed to complete a drive with a touchdown.
It is very hard to duplicate the speed of game situations in practice; that's why it is so important to take every practice rep with an attitude of improvement. Every game is important, but once they are done they are gone. Use the lessons learned from your time under the Friday night lights to prepare you for the most important game on our schedule, THE NEXT ONE.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

-Playing in the shadow of Fort Carson and the reverence they showed in displaying the flag made me proud to be an American, and VERY GRATEFUL for the men and women who serve our country in the Armed Forces

-Those new uniforms were TIGHT; I overheard a couple of Trojans give their approval when you walked by

-FFC has as nice as an on campus facility as I have ever seen

- Special Teams are HUGE - you have to be a play maker every time you take the field on a Special Team

- Execution is VITAL

- The goal line stand on the last play was about one thing : HEART

- The injury to the Trojan quarterback in the forth quarter was scary. I know he felt your prayers and wish him a speedy recovery

- The game day Dress Blacks looked sharp all the way from the freshmen getting on the bus to leave for the game to the varsity loading back up for the ride home

-Thank You to the worlds greatest Boosters who were there all day taking care of any need

SaberCats travel to #10 Fountain Fort Carson for Season Opener

2010-08-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

It doesn't get any more exciting than this!! Opening up the season against the a ranked opponent on the road. The Trojans will provide an explosive team with speed to burn. It will take a tremendous effort in the classroom and on the field to bring back the victory. But you are CAPABLE, more than capable of doing just that. Mistakes that were made in the scrimmage must be corrected this week in practice. Every assignment needs to be completed. It will take a total team commitment to detail, play your responsibility, be one of eleven. But the prize is out there. Who wants to claim it? The TEAM that commits to victory and has the determination to carry out that commitment (on the practice field and Friday night) will reap the reward.
There is no doubt that 2010 is a HISTORICAL season, new Head Coach, 5A competition and the opportunity to play our inner city rivals. But there is HISTORY to make in Week 1. No Fossil Ridge team has ever WON a season opener. That needs to end THIS YEAR!
MAKE HISTORY!

Have a great week of practice,
Coach Lefort

Another Step in the Right Direction

2010-08-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

Friday the Greeley West Spartans brought the 2nd ranked 4A team in the state to SaberCat Field for what was a very encouraging scrimmage. The Spartans provided a strong field test for the hard work that has been put in over the Summer. On all levels the play on the field was toe to toe and a battle on every front. Make no mistake West is an well coached team and usually finds it self in the mix for a State Championship come November. It was a good chance to hit someone else and put your efforts on film. The opportunity to compete in game conditions always brings new players to the forefront who PROVE their metal against an opponent. The films from the scrimmages is one of the HUGE evaluation tools that the coaching staff has to use. There were OUTSTANDING moments for sure, but many corrections MUST be made this week before the season opener. We must OUTWORK our opponents this week on the practice field.

Coach Lefort

SaberCats help with Kids Carnival

2010-08-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

I arrived at City Park just in time to see the SaberCats in action helping out the volunteers from The Learning House with their Annual Kids Carnival. The Learning House is a not for profit early childhood school for children of all abilities. The volunteer coordinator (Mori Macklin) was very thankful for the work the young men did with the Carnival. She said they saved them hours with the cleanup alone, and were perfect gentlemen the whole afternoon. I think it is safe to say SaberCat Football has some new friends.
It is very important that you represent SaberCat Football with the upmost respect, because it is not only a reflection of you, but of everyone one involed with the program. (your school, your teammates and your parents.) Nice job fellas!!

Coach Lefort

Big Saturday for SaberCat Football

2010-08-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning provided both coaches and players the chance to put all the hard work that has been done on both the field and the weight room this Summer to the test with the Green and Silver scrimmage. There were flashes of the kind of team that we need to be when we take the field at Fountain -Fort Carson, but the the scrimmage also revealed that there is PLENTY of room for improvement. Thankfully, we have two weeks of practice and a big scrimmage with the Spartans before the season opener. Every practice between now and then is VITAL for our success. When you are on the field be attentive and ready to give it your all. In meetings pay attention to the game plans and your assignments. Improve everyday, every rep.

Coach Lefort

SaberCats set for historic 2010 season

2010-08-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

The 2010 football season promises to be one of monumental moments for the Fossil Ridge SaberCats. Led by "The Original SaberCat" new Head Coach Steve Vecchio the SaberCats will make the jump into Colorado's largest classification, 5A. A new conference the "Front Range" will provide the opportunity to compete against the some outstanding competition, namely the three other high schools in Fort Collins. The commitment to becoming better everyday was evident by the hard work put in during the Summer months. Now it is time to increase the intensity, effort and attitudes. Every moment of practice must be put to good use to be ready for the season opener in a little over two weeks. Let's focus on WINNING this week of practice.

Coach Lefort

THANK YOU COACH FICK

2009-11-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

SaberCat Football will always be grateful for all that Clint Fick brought to the program. He inherited a program that had NEVER won a game and sent them to the second round of the playoffs in only his second year as the head coach. The players who played for him and the coaches who coached with him will always be appreciative of the positive atmosphere that Coach created around SaberCat Football. Coach left SaberCat Football in a much better place than where he found it and that we will always be thankful for. Best Wishes to Coach and his family as they enter into another chapter in their lives.

FINISH STONG

2009-11-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Most everything in life is about finishing strong. FINISHING STRONG displays a number of quality personality traits that will help you as you transition from your time on the gridiron into the classroom, the hardwood or the weight room. First you will show the COMMITMENT to finish what you have started. In our culture today many people find it very easy to walk away from situations when they get tough. By FINISHING STRONG you demonstrate that you have meant the challenges, reaped the rewards,( the amazing and painful) and saw your challenge though to the end. When FINISHING STRONG you must focus on detail. It is easy when your season is nearing an end to tail off and coast through the final practices. But a commitment to FINISHING STRONG will demand that you run every rep of the last practice week with the intent of having a tremendous game against Greeley Central. The Wildcats are a much improved team and will be hungry for a win. But if you approach this week with the sole focus of playing an outstanding game on Friday, I know you WILL.

Senior Night was Something Special

2009-10-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

As I walked through the players locker room last night following the tremendous battle with the Loveland Indians I figured I would check on a few of my players who were banged up after the physical contest. The fellas I was looking for were a little battered and bruised but would be fine by tomorrow morning. I happened to stumble across a row of Seniors who had just played their final home game. What I saw gave me hope as a coach that this group of Seniors will leave a legacy of leadership and selflessness that will be passed down to SaberCats who follow in their footsteps. One Senior, a true WARRIOR was sobbing while another had his arm around his shoulder giving him a hug that only guys who have been though the battles together can give. Down the row there were three or four fellas still sitting in front of lockers silently putting their gear away while another was walking behind them giving them a tap on the shoulder and thanking them for being his teammate. Football seasons and high school careers are here and gone in the blink of an eye but the METAL that is forged in and between these young men will last a lifetime. Remember fellas, IRON SHARPENS IRON!

THANK YOU SENIORS FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP THIS YEAR!

BRANDON BAINER

DAMON BOWERS

KIRK EASTON

BEN KRAPES

KEEGAN LASLEY

JOHN MOORE

JOHNNY NGUYEN

LANDON OCHWAT

BEN PETERSEN

HAYDEN ROWLEY

BRENNEN SALZ

MIKE SCHUTTE

ADAM TARVER

ANTHONY TAYLOR

ANDREW VICTORA

TAYLOR WEST

Loveland Indians opponet for Blizzard Bowl II

2009-10-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

The Loveland Indians will bring a tough, talented and well coached football team to Fort Collins Thursday night. The Indians have a long standing tradition of outstanding football teams. This is the kind of opponent that should bring out the BEST IN YOU. This is the kind of game that makes all the work you put in during the off season WORTH IT. No matter if we play on Thursday, Friday or Saturday or in a foot of snow, you have to come out and out hit them HIT FOR HIT. You must prepare yourself to play with great effort for all 48 minutes and more if need be. Decide in your heart that you will do WHATEVER IT TAKES to come off the field with a victory. Raise the level of your teammates play by being the BEST TEAMMATE you can be. Play FAST, TOUGH and SMART and good things will happen.

Huge SaberCat Thank You

2009-10-25T18:11:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the boosters who provided the players and coaches with everything on the trip. Everything from the breakfast burritos on our send off to the pizzas on the ride home was TREMENDOUS. There is a reason why we have such outstanding young men, they have outstanding parents. Thank you for always providing ABOVE AND BEYOND.

What it is all about

2009-10-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

As a coach I could not have been prouder you than I was on Saturday afternoon. In the face of ALL TYPES of adversity you BATTLED, FOUGHT and NEVER GAVE UP. That was a game that I felt WITHOUT A DOUBT that you just ran out of time. The beauty of this game is that it mirrors life in so many ways. When things start to pile up on you, you return to the fundamentals: hard work, attention to detail and enthusiastic pursuit of the goal. That is what was taking place out there on the gridiron Saturday. Whatever piece of this season you take and carry with you on down the road KNOW THIS: When you had a chance to stay down, you brushed yourself off, picked yourself back up and NEVER EVER GAVE UP. That fellas IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT!!

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Durango has made TREMENDOUS improvement in one year

Three blocked kicks in one game was outstanding: Big Schnee, Big Play Ben

Lando's catch on fourth down of the deflected pass was UNBELIEVABLE

I have NEVER SEEN a more beautiful setting for a football game: nestled in the canyon with the San Juan river running just beyond the bleachers

The hospitality from the Durango Crew (boosters, players, coaches) was first class

Jon "Big Game" Moore is finding the endzone to his liking

2 more minutes

It was AMAZING to see how many of the worlds greatest fans made the 400 mile drive

We are blessed to be a part of this

Undefeated Durango Demons Await

2009-10-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend holds the opportunity to be one of the most memorable of your high school football careers. You get the chance to travel with your teammates through some of the most beautiful country on Earth, use this time to prepare yourself mentally and physically without the normal distractions, play an undefeated team and put yourself right back in the fight for a playoff spot. A victory over Durango would pay huge dividends in the CHSAA power poll rankings. The Demons are currently ranked 4th in Colorado. They have had the biggest turnaround in the state so far this season. But YOU ARE CAPABLE of coming out of Saturdays battle with a win. There is no bigger game this season than the one you are about to play. FOCUS ON THE MOMENT!! BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE, RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW!!

Broomfield Battle

2009-10-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

You must be ready to seize the opportunity when it presents itself. Thursday night Broomfield recognized the importance of the game and responded with tough, disciplined and well executed game plan. Football seasons are short and BIG GAME opportunities are FEW. You played hard but Broomfield was intent on DOING WHATEVER it took to get the victory. Their line play was outstanding and their backs and receivers made the plays when they were called upon. We must learn take the lessons learned from this game and use them to become STRONGER and more DETERMINED. You have three games in front of you to determine the direction of this team. GIVE IT EVERYTHING THAT YOU HAVE and SEIZE the MOMENT, because IT IS UPON YOU.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Broomfield's offensive line was an outstanding well coached unit

A cover three corner CANNOT get beat deep

We must RUN TO THE BALL, EVERY SNAP

Big Broomfield Battle

2009-10-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

Every time you win a game the next one gets BIGGER and MORE IMPORTANT, and this weeks game is a perfect example. You have played yourselves into a position to make this a KEY GAME in the Northern Conference standings. Broomfield is an outstanding program with a tradition of excellence in the state playoffs. The winner of this game will have a leg up in the race for a playoff spot. Thursday nights game presents a short week of practice, thus we must be FOCUSED and DISCIPLINED on the practice field and in the classroom. The Eagles will have no doubt have revenge on their minds after last years thriller in Broomfield. You must have confidence in your abilities and then be TOUGH enough to follow through. Use this week to prepare to GIVE IT YOUR ALL on Thursday night.

A SaberCat Thank You

2009-10-10T14:39:00.001-07:00

We would like to thank all the parents and boosters for the tremendous pre game meals so far this season. From burritos to chicken fettucini alfredo they all have been AWESOME, and are greatly APPRECIATED! Your love and care you show for the Football program is the BEST!

Thank You!!

The Inaugural Fossil Ridge Blizzard Bowl

2009-10-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

The inaugural Fossil Ridge Blizzard Bowl was a night to remember. During Pre Game warm ups the crisp fall evening was greeted with a blizzard that was last seen leaving Christmas Town in The Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer Christmas special. The offensive line was like a HUGE SNOW PLOW paving the way for our DETERMINED runners, all the while eating up yards, clock and Thompson Valley's will to play. Defensively you played with PASSION AND HEART. You RAN to the football and greeted the ball carriers the way you should. I think there was an outbreak of the GANG GREEN infection in Loveland last night. Congratulations Fellas on a TREMENDOUS TEAM VICTORY!!

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Coach Van's Boys were AWESOME: Marshall, Lasley, Tarver, Victora, Hougard, Hough and Ochwat were SNOW PLOWING

Hayden"the Playmaker" Rowley is a playing like a WARRIOR

#6 from TV is the most physically gifted High School football player I have ever seen

The Thompson Valley Homecoming theme last night was "The Arctic" : PRICELESS

say hello to GANG GREEN

John "the Hunter" Moore's one handed catch on fourth down was AWESOME

Michael" the Natural" Harrison, Caleb "Crash" Kroening, Damon"the Rock" Bowers and TyJen were TCB ( Taking Care of Business)

I could not help but to think that TV looked like HUGE Bumble Bees in those unis

It is all ways WARMER when you are up by thirty points

and a MASSIVE SABERCAT THANK YOU for ALL THE SABERCAT FANS THAT MADE TO THE END!!

Talented Thompson Valley

2009-10-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

Do NOT be fooled by Thompson Valley's record, they are team that possesses some serious talent. We know all too well the kind of player they have in their backfield. They have been in most of their games and have just been on the wrong side of some tough breaks. The Eagles are hungry for a win and will be looking to get on the right track at our expense. You have played yourselves into a position to make the second half of the season exciting. But it will only be if you continue to win. You win by how you prepare yourselves this week in practice. Improving YOURSELF is the best way to help YOUR TEAM. Don't show up Friday Night in Loveland expecting to walk out on the field and dominate without putting in a GREAT WEEK OF PRACTICE. Continue to raise your intensity and commitment with each practice. See you on the practice field.

BLACK IS BACK

2009-10-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

Some nights are made for football and last night was one of them. I don't know if it was the combination of a solid week of practice, the huge homecoming crowd or the black jerseys but you guys played one the best games by ANY SaberCat team EVER. The offense controlled the LOS and made big plays when they needed to. Defensively you came out and OUT HIT Niwot all night long. That will make for a long night for any team that you play. Congratulations on a great victory!!

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Jon "Big Game " Moore's TD run was POWERFUL

RIDGENATION WAS OUT IN FORCE

Micheal "The Natural" Harrison's scoop and score was a back breaker

Caleb "Crash" Kroening had the TRUCKSTICK activated

The SaberCat Marching Band is AWESOME

BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL ( there is something about those BLACK JERSEYS)

LANDO had a great all around game TD's and Tackles

Congratulations to T. West (Homecoming King), you cant find a NICER young man for the honor

5 for 5 on PATs has to be a SaberCat Record

It was great to see some familiar faces: Salsbury, Adam, Sean and the rest of the Alumni

BLACKOUT AWAITS NIWOT

2009-09-27T16:35:00.000-07:00

There is a game in every season where each team has the chance to determine the direction that they will head for the rest of the year. I believe that this is THAT GAME for the 2009 Fossil Ridge SaberCats. You have the opportunity to even up your record in the Northern Conference and enter the second half of the season with momentum. You were challenged this week to raise your level of INTENSITY in practice. Many times you ment the challange, others times not so much. Make no mistake, it will take a GREAT TEAM EFFORT to beat Niwot. But you ARE CAPABLE. One of the reasons I LOVE FOOTBALL, is because it is wonderful teacher of life lessons for those who play it and coach it. Great Character is the cumulative result when great pain and great disappointment intersect in a man with a teachable spirit. Use the lessons of the last two weeks to make you STRONGER on Friday Night.

Longmont Lessons Learned

2009-09-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Longmont came out of the gate ready to play and took the fight straight to you, and looked everything like the undefeated team that they are. We did not respond well in any facet of the game, offense, defense or specials. In the past two weeks you have played the top two teams in the Northern Conference. Both are physical, well coached teams that play the game the way it is meant to be played, fast, tough and smart. We need to learn from and build on these games to take us though the rest of the season. Everything you want to accomplish from this season is still ahead of you. But DO NOT miss the lessons learned from the past two weeks. Washington, Churchill, Truman,Van Gogh and even Elvis all failed and were told to give up their dreams. But they turned failures into lessons learned and went forward with intensified FOCUS on the goal. There is no shame in getting knocked down, (because in life WE ALL DO, AND WILL) but it is a disgrace to lie there. The beauty of football is that it gives you a chance to decide for yourself if you're going to "SHAKE IT OUT, WALK IT OFF AND GET BACK UP!"

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

The QB from Longmont is a HOSS

We must ATTACK DOWNHILL, NO RETREAT

Execute one play at time

TyJen is was all over the field

When you have the opportunity for THE BIG PLAY, it must be made

Fourth Downs are huge

Undefeated Trojans provide Thursday Nights opponent

2009-09-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

Longmont is a traditional power in the Northern Conference and held the the Colorado State High School record of 45 straight wins during the 90's. ( just ask Coach Van) The team we will see Thursday night is a rugged bunch in the Trojan tradition. They look a lot like us ( Double Wing) and have started the season strong. They are led by returning Northern Conference player of the year in Jake Johnson. A hoss of a quarterback that reminds me a lot of Hollywood. They provide us with a chance to take a big step in the conference race with a win this week. It is a short week, thus every minute on the practice field will be important. You will need to bring your best this week to the classroom and on the gridiron. This is a BIG GAME, make no mistake this game there for the team that wants it the most. See you on the field.

Hard fought game Friday Night with #1 Spartans

2009-09-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

It was a tough, hard fought game and the Spartans showed why they are the top team in Colorado. You played well enough in to take a lead into the second quarter, but made too many mistakes to beat an excellent team like West. The game did provide a solid measuring stick on the improvements that have been made in the weight room during the off season. You were able to bang with the Spartans. There were plenty of good things to take out of the game. Defense played well in the first half, and the offense put a few nice drives together against a rugged GW defense. You are a work in progress, and we must take advantage of every chance to grow and get better. This week will be no different. Here's to an awesome week of practice.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

"Touchdown" Taylor did it again with a BIG TIME pick six

Jon "The Hunter" Moore was money on the trap and has softer hands than I ever thought

It was cool to have CSU Head Coach Steve Fairchild on our sidelines

We have to ELIMINATE the penalties

Caleb Kroening GUTTED it out Friday on one leg and keeps getting better

NOBODY has blocked Beishied this year

The Greeley West program is a FIRST CLASS OUTFIT

You can play with ANYBODY

#1 Greeley West presents an AWESOME OPPROTUNITY

2009-09-15T19:09:00.000-07:00

What more can you ask for then to have Colorado's #1 team team come for a visit this Friday night. The Spartans are loaded with All-Staters and are coming off an appearance in last years State Championship game. The Spartans program is a testament to hard work by both their coaches and players. This presents an AWESOME OPPROTUNITY to play your best,leave it ALL on the field and may the best team win. In sports that is what every competitor wants, the opportunity to measure yourself against the best. Lets have a GREAT week of practice and look forward to welcoming in the Spartans on Friday night.

SaberCats win Northern Confrence Opener

2009-09-13T13:45:00.000-07:00

You came to play Saturday and made a strong statement about the kind of season you want to have. Offensively you moved the ball on the ground and through the air. The defense didn't allow a single point against them. The special teams showed great improvement from week one. Skyline has outstanding athletes but you came out early and executed the way you are capable of. Congratulations on a nice win.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Brennan is LEADING the O

THE D LINE was dominating people

Hayden "The Playmaker" Rowley continues to make big play after big play

Alex Marshall's catch on fourth down was AWESOME

Anthony "Touchdown" Taylor's scoop and score was BIG

The defense was ROCK SOLID

Physcial Falcons to visit the Fort

2009-09-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Saturdays match up will bring traditionally one of the most physical teams in the Northern Conference to French Field, The Skyline Falcons. You must be prepared to play 48 minutes of tough and aggressive football. The Falcons have a strong running attack and a big physical defense. It will take an outstanding effort to come out of Saturdays game with a victory. But I know you are up to the challenge. It has been a long and rough week of practice. Now you have a chance on Saturday to open up the Northern Conference with a victory. In a ten game season every game that you play is huge this one will be no different. See you on the field.

Tough Night in Windsor

2009-09-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

Friday night's game is tough to write about even three days later, but it is over and new opponent awaits this Saturday. Windsor did what they needed to in the closing minutes to secure the victory. The Offense moved the ball all over the field and was only slowed by penalties. Defensively there were too many mistakes to overcome in the end. Strength does not come easy. When you go through hardship and decide to press on toward the goal, that is where real strength comes from.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Hayden "The Playmaker" Rowley was a workhorse

The defense has to play their assignments

Brennen Salz looked like a veteran

The Fossil Ridge Fans are AMAZING

#30 from Windsor ran the ball hard

It was great to Greg Rushing (All-State Safety 2007) at the game. Good Luck to Greg this season at UMASS where he will be a sophomore on the lacrosse team.

Windsor Wizard Week

2009-08-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

The 2009 season starts off with a bang when we travel to Windsor to take on the Wizards Friday night. The 2009 Wizards are coming off their best season in years, and are expecting a huge Harvest Festival crowd. They are well coached and feature an explosive offense. It will take a commitment to detail this week during practice in preparation for the Wizards option offense. This is a huge opportunity to start the season off the way we want to. Come to the practice field and the classroom ready to work this week. Remember "KEEP PAYING THE PRICE, BECAUSE CHAMPIONS ALWAYS PAY THE PRICE."

International SaberCat

2009-08-30T10:17:00.000-07:00

We were pleasantly surprised on the practice field last week by an unexpected visit from a SaberCat football Alumni. Fabian "Germany" Halbich dropped by practice while in town to visit his host family. Fabian was an exchange student at Fossil Ridge during the 2006 season. "Germany" was a place kicker for the 2006 SaberCats. A natural kicker because of his background in soccer, he could bury the ball for a touchback almost every time he kicked off. He was on the field for some of the most memorable games in Fossil Ridge history, including the programs first victory. Fabian loved his time on the SaberCat Football team and continues to follow the team via the Internet in Europe. He is living in Munich and will be attending the University of Munich later this fall. His positive personality had an impact on those who were fortunate enough to have played with him. It was awesome to visit with Fabian and we wish the best to our #1 German SaberCat.

SaberCats tangle with Coyotes in final tune up

2009-08-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Friday nights scrimmage with Monarch was a chance to get on the gridiron and compete with one of Colorado's best high school programs (currently ranked #2 in the state). The Monarch Coyotes and head coach Phil Bravo have won multiple state championships in the past decade. You were able to go out and play snap for snap with them. The defense stiffened up and played chin to chin with the physical bunch from the Boulder Valley. Offensively there were glimpses of the explosiveness that you possess. Game speed is something that is almost impossible to duplicate, and Friday night you had a taste of what is waiting for you in Windsor. It was a clean, hard fought scrimmage. Best of luck to the Coyotes in the coming season.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Luke Beishied is a force on the nose

We have to SQUEEZE the gaps on defense

Monarch TE's block well

Landon Ochwat activated the TRUCK STICK

We MUST run to the football, EVERY SNAP

Saturday Scrimmage puts wraps on Two A Days

2009-08-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

The efforts you put in to your Summer workouts payed dividends when you hit the practice field this week. We are bigger, stronger and faster than any SaberCat team ever. Practices were crisp. This mornings scrimmage showed signs that you could have a good season.
That being said we are a LONG way from where we need to be for the season opener at Windsor. We must approach each drill with a determination to improve. Champions are made when NO one is watching. They put in the extra work so that when their opportunity arrives they can RESPOND. 13 Days until Windsor, lets not waste a single one.
Coach Lefort

SaberCat Celebrity Sightings

2009-08-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

A couple of SaberCat Celebrities were spotted at the Annual Kickoff Dinner Friday evening. Ryan Beard and Brian Leistikow were spotted munching down some Bar B Que sandwiches and mingling with the crowd. Beard, a two time All-Conference linebacker is headed off to Colorado State. Leistikow (a.k.a. Hollywood), an All-State Quarterback, and Fossil Ridge's first player ever to play in the Colorado All-State Game, is headed to Western New England, where he will compete on the lacrosse team. We are very grateful for their LEADERSHIP both on and off the field over the past four years. They have left their fingerprints all over this program and they will ALWAYS be a big part of the SaberCat Football Family. Good Luck Guys!!

KICKOFF DINNER HUGE SUCCESS

2009-08-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

The SaberCat Boosters out did themselves again this year at the Annual Kickoff dinner. A gorgeous Colorado sunset provided the backdrop for a couple of hundred guests, SaberCat football players and their parents to enjoy some Bar B Que (compliments of Texas Roadhouse) celebrate the end of two a days and look forward to the coming season. Thank you to all who made this a special evening. Huge thanks to the Beard family for once again opening up the ranch. We are BLESSED to be a part of this Football Family. THANK YOU!!

FOSSIL RIDGE IS A SPECIAL PLACE

2008-11-06T16:03:00.000-08:00

As I was walking off the field wrapping up the postgame rituals with the handshakes and high fives following the season finale against Greeley Central something caught my eye, stopped me in my tracks and put a lump in my throat. The stands were now all but empty. The perfect fall night had now started to turn chilly. The headsets, white board, Cat Juice buckets and Ryan's trunk had all been loaded up and were headed for the truck. Yet there in the midst of an empty sidelines sat a BEAUTIFUL site. A group of young men who had just played their last game as SaberCats sitting on the benches soaking up what would be their last time in a SaberCat football uniform. Sweat drenched, eye black running down their faces yet none of them were ready to take off that uniform. They had the look of "weren't we just FRESHMAN yesterday." There was a bond there. One that is only EARNED.
Football is special game for many reasons. It is tough, physical,emotional and mentally challenging like no other sport I know. But it's also is the GREATEST team sport EVER. In no other sport is the TEAM reliant so much on every individual doing HIS job to create the TEAM'S success. As a result the RELATIONSHIPS that are forged on the football field are SPECIAL. Those fellas who did not want to leave the bench that night know that BOND. That BOND has brought Fossil Ridge Football to where it is today. SENIORS, THANK YOU!

Always remember Fellas, IRON SHARPENS IRON.

Coach Lefort

FINISHED STRONG

2008-11-05T18:28:00.000-08:00

Halloween night left little doubt who was doing the tricks and who was doing the treating. The Wildcats potent passing offense was held in check while the SaberCat offense erupted in the second half like it has all year long. That is the WAY TO FINISH. Not just with this game but with the season. You finished 4-1 over the final half of the season and ended up literally a couple yards short from making an appearance in the State playoffs. Not bad for a team picked to finish 8th out of 9 teams in our conference. Lesser men would have chose to take the easier route and maybe stumbled into a losing season. But you fellas laced up your football cleats determined to give the kind of effort that SaberCat Football has been built on. CONGRATULATIONS on a great win!!

UPON FURTHER REVIEW
-There something about those BLACK JERSEYS (especially on Halloween)

- The D was BALL HAWKIN all night

- It was Vintage Hollywood during his TD scramble in the 3rd

- No that wasn't 3 straight fake extra point attempts

- Nothing better than a seeing the smiles on the proud parents and Seniors during the pregame ceremonies -BEAUTIFUL

- The Mystery PA announcer was AWESOME

- What an absolutely GORGEOUS night for a football game

- Fossil Ridge is blessed with THE BEST, STUDENTS, PARENTS and ADMINISTRATION!! It makes our jobs easy..

Coach Lefort

BIG SABERCAT THANK YOUS

2008-10-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to the boosters, and the following restaurants for the AWESOME meals they provided to the Sabercat football team: Old Chicago, Wendy's, Chipotle, and PhoDoy. Thanks also to the boosters for the amazing Bar B Que they provided for the players and their families after a great win against the Durango Demons. We have had tremendous support from the parents this entire season, and it is GREATLY appreciated. We hope that as the years go by your commitment to the Sabercats will remain strong. Thanks Again!

Coach Lefort

Tough Thursday

2008-10-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

It was a tough night Thursday in Loveland. You gave tremendous effort and gave the Indians all they wanted and then some. Loveland is a talented team that finally played their best game of the season when the SaberCats came to town. It is tough to lose a game that seemed to be heading our way, but it takes all four quarters and sometimes even more to finish off a team that is playing inspired ball. There will always be victories and defeats in life but, the REAL WINNERS can PICK THEMSELVES UP and move forward.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

- The SaberCats always play with HEART

- It was an HONOR to coach against my former High School Coach ( John Poovey)

- The offense can score on anybody, anywhere, anytime

- Big Luke was blowing people up

- I never saw so many onsides kicks in one game EVER

- It was good to see my roommate from college: Dennis Kling and his son CJ ( Loveland OT 6'4" 315)

- We have to make stops (WHATEVER IT TAKES)

- The sunset over the Mummy Range was a blessing that we get this time of year in the Rockies

THIS IS WHAT YOU PLAY THE GAME FOR

2008-10-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

This week is why you go to lifting in the Summer time while the rest of your friends are hanging out at the pool. This week is why you strap up those shoulder pads when you can barely lift your arms. This week is why you run those sprints until your legs feel like they are going to collapse underneath you. This week is why you pay extra close attention in the classroom to make sure your grades are on track. This week is why YOU PLAY THIS GAME!!

Everything you have worked for and everything that you want is within your grasp. How we approach this week will determine how things turn out on Thursday night. We MUST have a GREAT WEEK of PRACTICE.

Every minute that we are on that practice field must be met with focus and effort.

Our opponent is one of the most talented teams that we have ever faced.

With the short week ahead we MUST WIN on MONDAY, TUESDAY and WEDNESDAY to be able to walk out of Loveland with a WIN on THURSDAY. But I am more than confident that YOU have IT IN YOU.

Here's to AN AWESOME WEEK OF PRACTICE!!

Coach Lefort

Sensational SaberCat Saturday

2008-10-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

What an absolutely gorgeous Indian Summer Saturday for a football game. The Durango Demons were looking to spoil your season and you came out and played like a TEAM that is starting to realize how GOOD you can be. Defensively you were able to slow down the high octane option attack and give the offense a chance to go to work. Offensively you executed the game plan to perfection. When we are able to put a total team effort on the field like that the SaberCats are a tough group for any team to deal with. You are just starting to scratch the surface of your potential. CONGRATULATIONS FELLAS, ON TO LOVELAND!!!

UPON FURTHER REVIEW
- Hayden (the Playmaker) Rowley catch of the deflected ball was AMAZING

- The offensive line OWNED the LOS

- Ben (Big Play) Petersen has a GIFT for blocking kicks

- The defense scrapped, clawed,battled and is getting BETTER with every play

- The offense is TAKING CARE OF THE FOOTBALL

- Big Luke is becoming a monster on at the nose

- En Soo HAMMER and STEALTH stepped up when called on

- Congratulations to Sean (the Kickout) Romero for breaking into the endzone

- It was great to meet Caleb's sweet little Grandma from Texas (wearing Calebs 22 jersey) It seemed like everywhere I looked someone was wearing a Kroening jersey

Coach Lefort

Dangerous Durango Demons on their way

2008-10-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

The Demons will bring a high flying option attack offense to French Field on Saturday. They have played a one of the toughest schedules in the state, and still managed to score big points. We will no doubt face a focused and rested team that will be hungry to get a win. Attention to YOUR assignment is CRITICAL. If you are to have the Quarterback, Dive or the Pitch, then you must do so. It has been a good week of practice but everyday you must come to the field ready to get better, and YOU WILL. Saturday holds the promise of being a tremendous day, but there is much work to be done between now and kickoff. Our time is precious so MAKE THIS WEEK COUNT!!

Coach Lefort

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP

2008-10-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Friday nights game once again proved the old adage "NEVER GIVE UP!". The longer I coach the more this is proven to me. Time and time again I see victories EARNED by teams that live by this mantra. As long as there is a second left on the clock the Fossil Ridge SaberCats are going to come out swarming. Broomfield has an excellent football tradition with outstanding players and coaches, but Friday night it was you guys who did not want to come off the field with any less than a victory. SaberCats were making plays all over the field in those last defining moments. That was one crisp fall evening that anyone who witnessed the game will not soon forget. CONGRATULATIONS FELLAS!!!

Coach Lefort
UPON FURTHER REVIEW
- Ben (Big Play) Petersen is a COMPETITOR

- It was great to see Coach Parker and his family at the game, they will always be a part of the SaberCat Football Family

- Landon Ochwat is MONEY in the CLUTCH

- I think that game became an INSTANT CLASSIC on Broomfield TV

- We have to TACKLE better

- Jon (One Time) Moore had a nice first start at safety, and knocked down the game winner in the endzone

- Best sign spotted in the stands : LEISTIKOW FOR HEISMAN

Eagles Squared Friday Night

2008-10-08T19:46:00.000-07:00

Friday you make the trek down I-25 to battle with the traditional power the Broomfield Eagles. The Eagles have a proud tradition in football with many State Championships to their credit. They finished in the Final Four last season and return another powerful team this year. This is the kind of game that should get you excited to play, because this is the kind of team brings out the best in the SaberCats. You have always risen to each challenge no matter who you were playing. We are at a crossroads in this season. What you do on the field Friday night will go a long way in determining how the story of the 08 SaberCats is written. Football seasons are a precious blink of an eye and they are gone before you know it. Be prepared to give all you have to your teammates to help lift them to make Friday a night that will be hard to forget.

Coach Lefort

Fantastic Finish

2008-10-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

Thursday nights game had more twist and turns in one game than most teams see in an entire season. Football is a game of momentum ( a very powerful thing). Almost every game the momentum will swing a time or two, and you have to fight your tails off to get it back. Thursday it was all over the field. A team in football (JUST AS IN LIFE) must be able to withstand adversity and respond to it. There will come a pivotal moment where the difference in victory and defeat may be determined by one play. This week you responded when faced with a game determining moment. The victory was hard fought and well deserved. Congratulations!!!

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

The offensive was a thing of beauty ALL NIGHT LONG

We have to tackle better

Number 6 from TV in a TREMENDOUS player

Mike Lamb is running the ball better than any SaberCat back EVER

Hollywood had a complete game (passing and running the ball)

We have to know our assignments on defense

Hayden THE PLAYMAKER Rowley was uncoverable

Brother Craig is a master of the onsides

There is nothing better than seeing the team celebrate with your fellow students

BIG SABERCAT THANK YOUS

2008-10-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

The BEST booster in the world were at again with a couple of tremendous pregame meals in the Fossil Ridge Commons. The team was treated to tasty Bar B Que from the kind folks at Texas Roadhouse on the 24th and Papa Johns Pizza tonight. Thanks to all the parents and for all your hard work and LOVE toward the SaberCats. The LOVE you show to these young men is making a difference in their lives. THANK YOU!

Coach Lefort

HUNGRY EAGLES FLY TO FRENCH FIELD

2008-09-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Thompson Valley is a team that has faced a tough early season schedule and not found many breaks along the way. They are a tough, hungry and talented team that would love nothing better than to break into the win column on Thursday afternoon. It will take your best efforts to walk off the field with a win. Assignments must be executed, tremendous effort must be given, but most of all you must play with the kind of PASSION and HEART that are the trademarks of SaberCat Football. You are a TALENTED, STRONG,SMART and WELL COACHED football team, but you have to bring your heart and soul to the field to play this game properly. And I KNOW YOU WILL.

Have a great game.

Coach Lefort

NOW YOU KNOW

2008-09-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

Thursday night was a classic high school football game in which both teams battled to the last tick of the clock. You should be proud of the way you played. Niwot is 4-1 because they are solid Northern Conference team. You played them to the last play because YOU are a solid Northern Conference team. Regardless of wins or losses that was our best game this year. Guys were stepping up all night long, scrapping, battling and playing SaberCat Football the way it is meant to be played. ( HARD, TOUGH and CLEAN) That has been the trademark of our program, and will continue to be.

As the season began we knew that we were entering the traditionally tough Northern Conference. The past three weeks we have played the best the NC has to offer, and WE have continued to get BETTER each week. If I was doing a little self scouting on the SabeCats, I would say watch out for that bunch in the second half of the season, because they are just starting to play their best ball. Now we know where we belong, right where we are at. And believe me fellas , that's a GOOD thing. It may have hurt walking off that field in Longmont, but as you walked off you could do so with the confidence of knowing you can line up with any team in this conference.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Chris (The Pancake Man) Russel was serving up the Niwot defenders

Georgetown now has a new weapon in his arsenal (running the ball)

Salz was a triple threat playmaker at corner, (picks, tackles,and coverage)

Niwots Coach Ron Tesone is good coach and a friend of mine (ex Ram DB)

I have never seen a field goal hit multiple posts and go through

Our fans travel AWESOME, We have the BEST fans in the STATE

Big Red is becoming a beast

Beard is one tough hombre and makes a HUGE difference when he is on the field

Nick Jensen played his best game this year

Beishied makes plays ALL OVER THE FIELD

Mike Lamb has always been fast, now he is running HARD

IT'S NOT HOW YOU START, BUT HOW YOU FINISH

2008-09-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

This Thursday night we will take the field with a chance to even up our conference record with a win. The Niwot Cougars come into the game riding a three game winning streak following their win on the road against Broomfield. We came to work last week on the practice field and progress was made on the field during the game. This week if we come out to work during practice, more progress will show up against the Cougars. Football seasons are not made from one game or four, but ten and maybe more.

I am not one who is big on the "Back In the Day" stories, but here I go. I played on a team that started off the season at 1-3. (sound familiar)This was a team that had a successful season previously, advancing to the State Championship Game and losing. It was a team that started the season slow, but didn't give in to self doubt. Instead they kept the faith, and came out with an all or nothing TEAM attitude. Whatever it took they were not going to come off the field with a loss. One by one they started picking off opponents until they clawed their way into the playoffs. Nine weeks later on a frozen field in Colorado Springs they were celebrating the schools first football championship in 43 years.

There it is, my first and hopefully my last "Back in the Day" story. But it is relevant, because it happens. Remember in FOOTBALL as in LIFE "IT IS NOT HOW YOU START, BUT HOW YOU FINISH!!" FINISH STRONG!!

Coach Lefort

A WORK IN PROGRESS

2008-09-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

In life there are many times that your efforts are not rewarded as soon as you would like. But you have to keep working, keep building and keep the faith. There was much improvement during the Longmont game, a testament to a solid week of practice. The Trojans are a strong team and will have a successful season. But building blocks were formed out of your sweat and determination last night that will impact the way we play for the rest the season. SaberCat football teams have always improved and have played their best ball as the season goes on, and you will be no different.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

WHAT AN AWESOME CROWD --THANK YOU

We have to eliminate mistakes

Longmont's QB runs hard, but I would take Hollywood any day

Brother Craig was swinging his right leg Friday night

The O line was moving people around

We can not give up the BIG PLAY, especially on third and FOURTH down

The Black Shirts were running around hitting people all night long

Frodo was a maniac

We have to have the BEST BAND IN COLORADO, it is a treat when they are there

It was good to see some of THE RENAISSANCE MEN in attendance last night

SABERCAT THANK YOU

2008-09-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

A big SaberCat thank you goes out to the good folks at Old Chicago's for donating the pregame meal Thursday night at Fossil Ridge. The team dined on a variety of tasty pizzas, salad and cookies. Thanks to Old Chicago's for putting their support behind SaberCat Football.

Coach Lefort

BIG WEEK AHEAD

2008-09-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

This week presents a great opportunity to make a statement about SaberCat football. The Longmont Trojans will bring an undefeated team into Fort Collins on Friday night. They are a physical team, that likes to control the game with a strong running attack. It will take a great week of practice to prepare for victory. But you are MORE than capable of it.

Attention to every detail of the game plan. Be accountable to your teammates by lifting them up by raising the level of your play and your expectations for the team. Football is an amazing game that we are blessed to be a part of. Celebrate this week by having your best week of practice ever, and follow up by leaving it all out on the field Friday night. If everyone commits to that this week Friday will be a special night.

Coach Lefort

SPARTANS SOAK SABERCATS

2008-09-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

Greeley West is an outstanding football program and they proved that on the field Thursday night. The Spartans played a hard, clean football game that they could be proud of. Best of luck to Coach Roggy and thier team.

We have lots to learn from our performance. There are plenty of areas to improve upon (tackling, assignments, blocking and special teams). But that is why we head out onto the practice field everyday. Lets bring our best to the practice field this week.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Greeley West football is a classy outfit

We must TACKLE better

Rain,rain and more rain from the national anthem to the bus ride home

Mike Lamb ran hard

Beishied showed a lot of heart blocking that punt

Ensu laid the wood to a Spartan

PREPARE TO WIN

2008-09-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

The task ahead this week will be a large one: the states #5 team the Greeley West Spartans. The Spartans led by Head Coach Mark Roggy have found themselves annually in the hunt for the state championship and this year is no different. The fifth ranked Spartans are a well coached and disciplined team. It will take a great week of practice and a commitment to victory to be able walk out of Greeley with a win over this crew. But you have proved to yourselves, and others, that you can accomplish great things when you have confidence and put your heart into it. Take care of your business at home, on the field and in the classroom this week. See you on the practice field.

Coach Lefort

SABERCATS WIN CONFRENCE OPENER

2008-09-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

You took the field Thursday night with the attitude that you were not coming off with anything less than a victory. Offensively we continued to move people all over the field, take care of the football and score touchdowns. Defensively you are playing more like the "Gang Green" that has become the trademark of Fossil Ridge football. That is the kind of effort we will need every time you take the field from here on out. Nice Victory fellas!!

But what as a coach I was most proud of was the way you reacted to the ugly incident that occurred in the second quarter. That has NO business on a football field. You handled yourselves like the young men that Fossil Ridge football has built it's reputation on. Win or lose, we WILL always represent our team, school and families one way, FIRST CLASS.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Beard formed up and popped the top on a Falcon

Lamb's run was a thing of beauty, in and out and then gone

We have to keep working HARD to become better tacklers

Hayden and Alex made some big time catches in crucial situations

Brian reminds me of another #11 who wore green in this town

Jax is punting as well as anyone we have ever had

The O-line is doing the WORK

Bowers weak side blitz was a picture perfect way to seal the deal

SABERCAT THANK YOU /TEAM DINNER AT THE LEISTIKOW FARM

2008-09-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

The team enjoyed a Mexican themed buffet hosted by Jan Leistikow and Susan Ballinger at the Leistikow's Farm. The players feasted on burritos and brownies, and (the Leistikow tradition) of fresh ice cold chocolate milk. I think Hollywood drank a whole gallon himself. It was a beautiful setting and provided the team a chance to relax and focus before the big conference opener the next day. Thank you ladies for your continued hospitality.

Coach Lefort

HUGE SABERCAT THANK YOU

2008-08-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you once again to the SaberCat boosters for providing a much appreciated pre game dinner. Special Thanks to the Beard family for opening up "The Beard Ranch" for a great time. Fossil Ridge is blessed with outstanding support from you all. Thank You!

Coach Lefort

Tough Night

2008-08-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Last night was a tough go for all of us, but we MUST move forward. The great thing about sports is that YOU have the opportunity to go back to work right away and go out and compete again. One regular season opening game does not determine a season, either way. But your ATTITUDES will!! Believe in yourselves and your teammates and prepare yourselves to get better this week.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW
- We have to tackle better
- EXECUTION is vital in all areas
- Thank you to our fans, you were AWESOME as usual
-It was great to see so many SaberCat Football Alumni at last night game.
(Levi Kovari, Justin Pellman, University of Wyoming
Greg Rushing UMASS, Bart Panella School of Mines, Shawn Salisbury CSU and Zach Carrol USMC)
- Windsor played with a lot of heart last night

Windsor Wizard Week

2008-08-24T09:50:00.000-07:00

Camp is now over. We are now in season. It is imperative to make each day count in preparation for Friday nights battle. Each practice has to be crisp with attention to detail. There is much work to do this week. At home, in the classroom and on the practice field. Everyday preparing yourself mentally and physically, building up to a crescendo that will be ready to explode at 7pm on Friday night.

Make no mistake, Windsor wants to win the game badly. Last year they upset a 4A team in the season opener and would love to do it again. ( They sent 4 coaches to Loveland to scout your scrimmage.)

FACT: No Fossil Ridge football team has ever won their season opener.

BE THE FIRST!!!!

Coach Lefort

SABERCATS READ TO KIDS AT READERS COVE

2008-08-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the SaberCats who took time out of their Saturday to read to kids at Reader's Cove bookstore. You once again put your best foot forward as representatives of the Fossil Ridge Football program. Thanks Guys, and a special thanks to all the boosters and parents who supported the event.

Coach Lefort

IT'S ALWAYS FUN TO HIT SOMEONE ELSE

2008-08-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

Friday night it appeared that everyone was ready to start hitting someone other than thier teammates . You came ready to play and showed the promise of what kind of team you CAN and WILL be. Improvement throughout the week was evident by your play. Thanks to Mountain View, Wheat Ridge and Stadley Lake for some great competition on the field.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Hollywood is a HORSE

We have to RUN TO THE FOOTBALL

Know YOUR assignments, DO YOUR assignments

The Loveland Sports Park is an awesome place to watch a sunset

Wheat Ridge has some SERIOUS speed

Fossil Ridge brings the fans (even to a pre season scrimmage)

We have to TACKLE better

Coach Fick LOVES you guys

Coach Lefort

A New Era in SaberCat Football has begun

2008-08-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

The effort shown on the practice field this two-a-days was outstanding. You continued to work hard and improve with each practice. The scrimmage on Saturday (through the pouring rain) showed us highlights of the team we can be. Yet it also provided plenty of opportunities for us to get better. Pursuit and tackling are major areas of improvement that needs to be addressed before we take on Windsor. The Wizards are an improving program and would like nothing better than to come in to our house and leave with a victory.
As you prepare to begin classes this week make sure to organize and prepare yourself for both the work in the classroom and on the field. We have a huge week of work ahead of us. The scrimmages on Friday should be an outstanding chance to learn by competing against some solid football teams. (Wheat Ridge, 2006 AAAA State Champions) Here's to a great week of work.

Coach Lefort

SABERCATS TEAM CAMP AT CSU STARTS 2008 SEASON

2008-06-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

The 2008 team camp at CSU this week was a great opportunity for us to grow as individuals and as a team. We lined up against some outstanding high school football programs (Grandview #16 in the nation according to Sports Illustrated), and saw as good as football played as we will see all year. It gave the coaches a chance to see who was hungry and wanted to work to become a great player, and who are not ready to make that commitment. Lots of you stepped up to the challenge and showed us the heart that has become the trademark of SaberCat Football. It will take that kind of dedication and work ethic all Summer long to prepare us for TWO A DAYS and the SEASON OPENING KICKOFF. As your coach I am proud of the way you conducted yourselves on the field and around campus. Fossil Ridge football must always be known as a first CLASS program. That is a reflection of you.

Coach Lefort

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

There are some outstanding football programs in Colorado

Thanks to Marc Lubick and the CSU staff for running a great camp

Nick Pegg came to play BIG TIME

Ryan Beard is now on some college scouts radar

Kirk Easton and big SHACK showed up in the trenches

Sean Romero trucked that fella from Grandview

The O-Line moved the ball on everyone

We have to become better tacklers

There is no way we can let someone behind us if we are a "Cover 3 corner or a Cover 2 safety"

Make a commitment to yourself and the team to be in the weight room this Summer

I don't think I have ever seen it rain as hard as it did on Wednesday

Friday was "A Beautiful Day for Football"

LOVE WINS: IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR FOOTBALL

2007-11-18T06:57:00.000-08:00

While standing on the sidelines replacing the defensive starters in closing seconds of yesterdays game an overwhelming thought was put on my heart: LOVE WINS!!
As each one of you came off the field and your eyes opened up and tears came streaming down your faces: LOVE WINS!!
As you hugged each other in sweat soaked, blood stained uniforms: LOVE WINS!!
As your family and friends came out of the stands and on to the field to congratulate and console you: LOVE WINS!!
The 2007 Fossil Ridge SaberCat Football team was HISTORICAL:
First winning season in school history
First ranked team in school history ( #6 in Colorado)
First playoff team in school history
First team to advance to the State Quarterfinals
All of these are outstanding achievements and reflection of hard work, talent and skill.
But NONE of these accomplishments would have been reached if you had not poured so much of your heart and souls into SaberCat Football.
Today it hurts, and it will for a while. But sometime down the road you will look back on the 2007 SaberCats with a huge smile. For you fellas ( especially the Senior Class) have laid the cornerstones for SaberCat Football to be built upon. Cornerstones of HARD WORK, DEDICATION, SACRIFICE, and most importantly LOVE.
Anyone who stood on the middle of that field as the sun disappeared behind the Rockies knows the story of the 2007 SaberCat Football Team: LOVE WON!!
Thanks fellas it was a honor to Coach you this season.

Coach Lefort

THE LAW OF VICTORY

2007-11-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

There are three components to the "Law of Victory" :

1. UNITY OF VISION: We all must have one common goal. VICTORY!! A team does not win championships if its players have different agendas.

2. DIVERSITY OF SKILLS: You all bring something special to the dynamic of the team. Don't sell your teammates short by not giving all you have.

3. DEDICATED TO VICTORY AND RAISING THE OTHER PLAYERS TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL: It is your responsibility to bring out the best in your teammates.

( JUST AS IRON SHARPENS IRON, SO DOES ONE MAN SHARPEN ANOTHER)

These are the components that we must bring everyday to the field, locker room and classroom.

KEEP PAYING THE PRICE BECAUSE CHAMPIONS ALWAYS PAY THE PRICE!!

Coach Lefort

HUGE SABERCAT THANK YOU

2007-11-13T19:58:00.000-08:00

Thank you to the Hitchcocks who so graciously opened up their home for another of their famous pre game meals. Along with the Hitchcocks, the Salisburys and the Krapes families were also represented with pitching in to make a great pre game dinner. The fellas munched on some cooked out burgers and dogs, along with some of those famous homemade chocolate covered peanut butter rice crispy treats that the OLine just LOVES. Thanks so much for making Fossil Ridge Football the Family that it is.

Thanks so much!!

Coach Lefort