Kennedy Wins Homecoming Game Against Dougherty

On Sept. 19, John F. Kennedy High School faced Dougherty Valley in a special matchup, the annual homecoming game. The night stood out not only for the action on the field but also for the halftime show announcing this year’s homecoming royalty.

One student, Haven Wilson (12), shared his thoughts on the season ahead. “I’m really excited about football starting, it’s my last season, and I just want to do the best I can,” Wilson said.

When asked about any concerns, he joked, “We might score too much. They said too many picks can lead us to chaos.” As a senior, Wilson added that he’s approaching this season differently. “I’ll definitely play it a bit slower, live in the moment, and take it all in while balling out,” he said. Another player, Gabe Arcos (10), expressed excitement for the season. “It’s going to be a good one. I met a lot of new people, and all of this makes me really excited,” Arcos said. After an intense game, the JFK Titans pulled off a 42–29 win, fueled by a remarkable comeback. A In the first quarter, Josiah Sweat (12) made a phenomenal catch to put the Titans in scoring position.

That play set up quarterback Derrick Diaz (12) for the game’s first touchdown. By the end of the quarter, JFK led 6–0. In the second quarter, Dougherty Valley gained momentum with two quick touchdowns. Despite impressive catches by Jaden Roman (12), the Titans couldn’t convert, ending the half down 14–6.  The third quarter saw both teams battle hard. Roman made two key catches to fire up the Titans, and Sweat scored his first touchdown of the night, followed by a two-point conversion. After a Dougherty Valley fumble and a brief interception setback, the Titans rallied again, capped by Roman’s touchdown catch while lying on the ground. The score was tied 22–22 heading into the final quarter.

In the fourth, Aaron Lucero (12) opened with a touchdown and successful two-point conversion. Sweat then scored his second touchdown of the game. A Dougherty Valley fumble led to another Titan touchdown, sealing the win. Although  Dougherty Valley managed a late touchdown, time ran out, and the  Titans claimed victory, improving to 3–1 with a 75% win rate.

The stars of the game were Diaz, Sweat, and Roman. Diaz excelled in the passing game, completing 8 of 14 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Sweat led the rushing game with 179 yards, two touchdowns, and 20 carries. Roman stood out in receiving, with 107 yards, one touchdown, and five receptions.

Photo by Deagan Neesham | Kennedy's football team lining up for sportsmanship routine.