Halloween 2024

It was a cold Thursday Halloween morning in Hesperia, and the Oak Hills Bulldogs gathered on their home field, ready for their last practice before the big game. With a 9-0 record, they were on the verge of an undefeated season, and the Halloween morning had a spooky feel that only added to the excitement. Frosty air and thick fog covered the field, giving it an eerie, ghostly vibe that fit the day perfectly.

Coach Metzger stood near the 50-yard line with a grin under his cap, holding a bag of Halloween treats in one hand. "Alright, Bulldogs!" he called out, his voice echoing through the fog. "Today’s not just any practice. We’re having some Halloween fun out here, but I want you focused—we’re going for 10-0!" The players, huddled up in hoodies and gloves, exchanged eager glances, ready for whatever Coach Metzger had in store.

The warm-up started with the usual jog, but this time the field speakers blasted spooky sounds—howling wolves, cackling witches, and the creak of doors—setting a Halloween mood that had even the toughest players glancing over their shoulders. Some of the younger players laughed, pretending to be frightened, while the seniors just shook their heads with amused smiles. But all eyes were on Coach Metzger, ready for his next move.

For their first drill, Coach Metzger announced a twist: they would play “Ghosts vs. Ghouls.” He divided the team, turning the offense into “Ghosts” and the defense into “Ghouls,” each side with a stash of Halloween masks. Soon, the field was filled with players sprinting in skeleton, zombie, and monster masks, scrambling down the field in eerie costumes. The scrimmage was a mix of laughter and intensity as everyone played with the same energy and drive they’d bring to the game, making Halloween practice as spirited as ever.

The assistant coaches got into the spirit too, tossing mini candy bars and treats to the players after each good play. The team caught chocolate bars mid-sprint, laughing and cheering as they celebrated every little victory with candy. For that brief Halloween morning, the field felt less like practice and more like a celebration of the team’s hard work, their unity, and the fun of the season.

As practice came to an end, Coach Metzger gathered the players in a huddle. "We’ve come a long way this season, and tomorrow night, it’s time to finish the job and go 10-0," he said, his voice steady and encouraging. "Remember today—this spirit, this energy. Let’s bring it all tomorrow night." The team erupted in cheers, their breath fogging the air as they raised their hands in a final shout.

Jogging off the field, the Bulldogs laughed and chatted, munching on their Halloween treats. They felt ready—bonded as teammates and friends, and confident as they looked toward the game that would bring Oak Hills in Hesperia a perfect season.