Sikeston shows potential and unity under fresh leadership

Sikeston's Luke Gadberry (44) scores a touchdown during a four-team jamboree at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium on Friday, August 23, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

SIKESTON — Under a nearly all-new coaching staff, Sikeston looked sharper, more organized and more confident than in recent years at their four-team jamboree on Friday, August 23 at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium.

While the road ahead is long, the Bulldogs' early performances suggest they're on the right track to a more competitive season.

“It’s hard to go into a lot of details because the film will tell the real truth, but I was pleased with several different position groups,” said Sikeston coach Jim May. “The guys did what they were asked. Sometimes we made mistakes and we talked about it, but for the most part, they were doing what they were coached to do and that’s all we can ask at this point. They’re learning and getting comfortable.”

Sikeston kept things simple, running a limited playbook on both sides of the ball and rotating in a platoon style every four or five plays. They stuck to a single defensive formation and a handful of offensive plays. While this conservative approach might not have wowed the crowd, it allowed the Bulldogs to focus on executing fundamentals and building a solid foundation for the season.

“We were pretty vanilla,” May said. “But winning a jamboree is not high on my priority list.”

Sikeston showcased a balanced offensive approach, a priority for May. 

Several standout performances highlighted the team's potential. Senior Luke Gadberry hauled in a 20-yard touchdown pass from junior Pierce Baker, showcasing their connection. 

[Gadberry] is doing very well and is very valuable for us,” May said. “[Baker] did a great job staying under control. When good things happened he didn’t get too high and when bad things happened he didn’t get too low. He has to be a calming voice and he did a good job of that.”

Sophomore Kenneth Holcomb impressed with a powerful touchdown run against Fredericktown, showcasing his physicality.

“All of our running backs did a good job,” May said. “Each guy had limited touches so it was hard for them to get into a rhythm when they played four plays and came out, but they all made the most of their opportunities.”

Senior lineman Demarious Brown was another standout performer, consistently disrupting plays in the backfield despite being held on nearly every snap.

“Our line played with some fire,” May said. “I got to see some fire out of those guys and if we can get that, then we have a chance.”

May was pleased with his team’s overall performance. While he acknowledged areas for improvement, he praised the players’ effort and attitude. 

“We saw a lot of good things and a lot of bad things, but our kids played hard,” May said. “Most importantly, everyone is walking back to the locker room and no one is limping. That was the No. 1 goal.

“I’m happy with the overall effort and attitude,” he concluded. “Our kids were in it for each other. They were all rooting for each other. It was a good start on building something here that will last.”