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A 14-game losing streak dating back to 2013 will eventually be broken by the Bonanza High football team.
The Bengals, like most teams who struggle for wins in Southern Nevada, have been hindered by a lack of participation numbers. They are playing against the likes of Centennial and Arbor View, schools with 200 or more players in the program, and unable to match the depth.
While Bonanza won’t have a junior varsity team this season, the varsity is packed with 39 players and the freshmen team enjoyed solid turnout with 35 players.
“With that many freshmen, the future is hopefully looking bright,” Bonanza coach Kevin Volcic said.
The schedule has a handful of games Bonanza could break its streak against, including Sept. 11 at Valley. Valley last season also didn’t win a game.
The highlight of the schedule is a trip to San Bernardino County in California to face Yucca Valley High, Volcic’s alma mater.
“I haven’t been on that field since 1996. It will be weird being on the visitor sideline,” he said.
Bonanza’s offense will be led by Deshawn Williams (5 foot 7, 162 pounds), who rushed for more than 100 yards last week in a scrimmage with Durango. At wide receiver, junior RJ McCarter (6 foot, 160 pounds) has all the tools to be an impact player, Volcic said.
“The kid is special. He has a lot of talent,” the coach said. “If he does the right things, he could play at the next level.”
Elias Aguilar and Taalolo Tufele (6 foot, 240 pounds) led the offensive line. Tufele, a four-year varsity player, leads the defense at linebacker.
Ray Brewer can be reached at 702-990-2662 or [email protected]. Follow Ray on Twitter at twitter.com/raybrewer21