SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Head football coach at Bush Middle School, James Street, has enjoyed some incredible football seasons, as well as some “learning” seasons in his 11 years as head coach at the school.  This season, however, the 8th grade team performed in such an outstanding way, it took the form of a dream all coaches have … a near-perfect one.

The 8th grade boys team performed almost flawlessly in their 8-0 undefeated record.  They broke several school records, including lowest number of points scored by their opponents at 12 in all eight games, and they only allowed nine first downs total for the season.  

“This year, we knew we had a good team and felt like we were outworking the competition,” head coach Street said. “It was just as gratifying to see additional kids come out for 8th grade football this year.  I am very proud that the discipline and work ethic that are the foundation of our program appeal to the kids and parents in our community.  At Bush, every kid matters.  We are not just looking for great athletes.  We are seeking all of the great middle school kids in our community that want to learn how to compete.”

The team’s success this season was a collaborative effort between the defense and the offense, among all the players who helped contribute to their stellar season.  Communication was the key, and after each consecutive win, all the players had the same goal in mind … an undefeated record. 

“Everyone played a big role this season and put in a lot of effort to go undefeated,” player Brady Ginnely said.

Allowing only nine first downs in a game is decent, but “three and out” was their mantra, and they made it happen, nine first downs allowed in the entire season.  With only 12 total points scored by the other teams in all the games, along with six shutouts, together broke another school record in Coach Street’s coaching career at Bush.  The Bulldog defense also scored 30 points this season.  Special teams play was highlighted by a 44-yard field goal. The kicking game also contributed four returns for touchdowns in 2021.

Multi-faceted offensive and defensive player, Ryan Cabrera, said, “Working every day with my friends and my coaches was the most fun I’ve had playing a sport, and just knowing that all the extra practices and workouts paid off, and that made the season turn out much better.”

What made this year’s 8th grade team so special?  Considering that Covid shortened their season in 2020, these young athletes were ready to play in 2021.  Coach Street said, “2020 made me appreciate how much I enjoy being the Head Coach at Bush Middle School, and it made my love of coaching kids that much stronger.  Last year was a challenge because of Covid.  We preach that when faced with adversity, the team that handles it best has an advantage.  The cooperation between students, families and the faculty at Bush MS was extraordinary.  Our athletes led the way returning to school.  By the end of the year, Bush MS had the highest percentage of students doing in person learning of any secondary school in NEISD.”

The talent on this team is incredible.  Their strength, their power, the teamwork, the excellent communication and the play-calling of the coaches all made their excellence even more compelling.  These boys practiced in 100+ degree heat through the month of September, battling heat and fatigue.  But they practiced as hard as if they were playing a game; they wanted to be the best this year, and they succeeded.

One of the team’s quarterbacks, Cash Edwards, said, “There were a few players on defense that were like rock stars,” referring to the defense allowing only 12 points in eight games.

Coach Street is a fair coach, he knows that their success wasn’t because of a handful of talented players, and therefore he believes that their outstanding season was a collaborative team effort.  “We had several really good players, and I would not want to hold any above the other as far as what the team accomplished.  We do not keep individual stats other than expecting each player to give their best effort with a great attitude,” said Street. 

Bush parent, Sally Cabrera, believes that the coach’s enthusiasm and confidence in his team had a lot to do with their exceptional season.  “Coach Street is a wonderful coach and person.  He gives his all and really cares about his players.”

Considering that the 7th grade football team tied for first place this season, Coach Street … as well as the offensive, defensive and special teams coaches … seems to know exactly what he is doing.  He has next year to look forward to, with the possibility of another excellent, perhaps undefeated, record-breaking season.  A coach is the glue that holds a team together, and Coach James Street is one of the best. 

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