The Palisade Bulldogs football team is gearing up for a promising season, determined to bounce back from last year’s disappointing 3-7 record. With a core group of experienced players returning, the team is focused on leveraging their collective experience to secure victories. Head coach Joe Ramunno and his players are optimistic about their chances, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and resilience as they prepare to face tough opponents early in the season.

Building on Experience

The Bulldogs are entering the new season with a sense of optimism, largely due to the wealth of experience within the team. Unlike many other teams in the region, Palisade has retained a significant portion of its roster from last year. Senior wide receiver and safety Easton Embrey highlighted the strong sense of brotherhood among the players, noting that many have been playing together for four years. This continuity is expected to be a key factor in the team’s performance.

Senior offensive lineman Vinny Johnston echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of focusing on each game as it comes. With offers from Colorado Mesa and Western Colorado, Johnston is a crucial player for the Bulldogs. He believes that the team’s experience will be instrumental in navigating the challenging early-season schedule, which includes games against the defending 2A state champion Delta Panthers and the 4A state final four-finisher Montrose Red Hawks.

Head coach Joe Ramunno is also confident in his team’s abilities. He pointed out that the young players gained valuable experience last season, which will be beneficial as they face tough competition. Ramunno is particularly excited about the leadership from the senior class, which he believes will set the tone for the rest of the team.

Overcoming Challenges

The Bulldogs are well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Last season’s 3-7 record was a tough pill to swallow, but it has also served as a source of motivation for the team. Senior wide receiver Easton Embrey admitted that the disappointing season still stings, but it has also fueled the team’s determination to improve. The players are committed to avoiding a repeat of last year’s performance and are ready to put in the hard work necessary to achieve their goals.

The early-season schedule is particularly daunting, with games against top-tier opponents. However, the Bulldogs are approaching these challenges with a positive mindset. Senior offensive lineman Vinny Johnston emphasized the importance of taking one game at a time and building momentum with each victory. The team is focused on executing their game plan and playing their style of football, which they believe will lead to success.

Head coach Joe Ramunno is confident that the team’s experience and resilience will help them overcome these challenges. He highlighted the importance of leadership from the senior class and the valuable experience gained by the younger players last season. Ramunno believes that the Bulldogs have the potential to surprise their opponents and achieve a successful season.

Looking Ahead

As the Bulldogs prepare for their first game against the Delta Panthers, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation. The team is eager to prove themselves and demonstrate the progress they have made since last season. Senior wide receiver Easton Embrey expressed confidence in the team’s abilities, emphasizing the strong sense of brotherhood and leadership within the group.

Senior offensive lineman Vinny Johnston is also optimistic about the team’s prospects. He believes that the Bulldogs have the talent and experience to compete with the best teams in the region. Johnston is particularly focused on the importance of starting the season strong and building momentum with each game.

Head coach Joe Ramunno shares this optimism, highlighting the team’s hard work and dedication during the offseason. He is confident that the Bulldogs are well-prepared for the challenges ahead and believes that they have the potential to achieve great things this season. With a strong core of experienced players and a positive mindset, the Palisade Bulldogs are ready to make their mark and bounce back from last year’s disappointing season.