WACO, Texas — Not all successes are measured in wins and losses. After a disappointing 0-10 campaign in 2021, the Waco High Lions believe they have the pieces to turn things around in Head Coach Linden Heldt's second season.
The Lions managed to keep only two games within ten points all season. One of those came against cross-town rival Midway. But, after going against the best teams in the state during their last two seasons in District 11-6A (Duncanville, Desoto, Cedar Hill), Heldt says they are not scared of playing anyone this fall.
"We've just worked hard," he said. "I think working hard in the offseason breeds confidence, because you've believed and you've invested, and you have something to hang your hat on come the season. So, we're pretty excited, and our players are pretty excited."
The Lions will lean on their defense to start the 2022 season. Waco brings back eight of 11 starters on that side of the ball.
"You know, obviously, we're climbing a tall mountain," Heldt said. "And we are climbing it, but we have not arrived. We've still got work to do. We understand that. But we're very happy about where we're starting and the potential we have coming up."
Waco drops from 6A to 5A-I this year, meaning they will no longer be matched up with those titans of 6A. The Lions will be paired with old district rivals Shoemaker, Ellison and Killeen High as well as Central Texas newcomer Lake Belton.
Waco is picked to finish ninth in District 4-5A I.
2022 SCHEDULE:
8/26 at Fort Worth Southwest 7:00
9/2 vs Dallas White 7:00
9/8 vs Granbury* 7:00
9/15 at Midlothian* 7:00
9/23 vs Lake Belton* 7:00
9/30 at Killeen Ellison* 7:00
10/7 vs Red Oak* 7:00
10/14 at Killeen Shoemaker* 7:00
10/21 Open
10/28 vs Cleburne* 7:00
11/4 at Killeen* 7:00
*District Game
Click here for more 2022 season previews.
