Ty Rollin didn’t like the way the season ended for Beal City. But the bright side for Rollin and other underclassmen is that they’ll have another chance next season to see if they can return to Ford Field and go after another state title.
The Aggies had won 13 straight and were hoping for another Division 8 state title before they lost 35-10 to Harbor Beach at Ford Field on November 23.
Rollin, Beal City’s talented junior running back and defensive back, didn’t have a bad day, considering he ran 17 times for 76 yards, including a touchdown. He also caught a pass for 25 yards, had one kickoff return for 25 yards, and one interception return for seven yards.
“We had a great season,” he said. “We made some good teams look really bad. Everybody had great seasons.
“We came out a little flat [against Harbor Beach] and maybe didn’t think they would hit as hard as they did.”
Rollin was in his third varsity season with the Aggies.
“I try to keep getting stronger and the line has gotten better every year,” he said.
Wins over Sacred Heart Academy to open the season, 38-19, and to win the district title, 28-21, were sweet moments.
“I honestly had no idea what this season would be,” Rollins said. “It could have gone either way. We didn’t know. The way we came out week one, I knew we had a chance to have a great season.”
Rollin, along with quarterback Sam Schafer, were the two players to appear in the post-game press conference with coach Lou Rau after the game.
“I think I played pretty well,” Rollin said. “I can always get better and come out next year and get better. We have just as good a chance to get back next year.”
Beal City’s football tradition has been strong, and Rollin hopes to keep it going for at least another year.
“The community also shows up for the game and supports us a lot. They were at every game no matter where we went including to Traverse City. Even down here in Detroit, a lot of people showed up,” Rollin said. “It’s definitely an empty feeling. It will allow us to work even harder for next year.
“I’ll focus on finishing and winning the state championship next year. That’s my goal.”