TICKET PUNCHED: Anna Coyotes set for program's first state title appearance
Following an impressive victory over Decatur on Friday night, the Anna Coyotes have punched their ticket to the biggest stage in Texas high school football-- marking the program's first appearance on the big stage. With great effort all season long, the Coyotes have earned their place as they prepare to take on Tyler Chapel Hill in the UIL Class 4A Division 1 State Title match. How did Anna grind their way to the top this season?
With a 14-1 overall record and an undefeated, first-place finish in their district (5-0), the Coyotes knew they had something special from the get-go this season. Their only loss a hard-fought 42-40 non-district showdown against Celina in overtime proved to light a fire that powered Anna to create a legacy all their own.
Defeating plenty of talented teams like Mabank, Paris, All Saints Episcopal School, Aubrey, Sulphur Springs, and more, the team made their way into the playoffs without hesitation or doubt on the field. Through the playoffs, the Coyotes have defeated Dallas Wilmer-Hutchins, China Spring, Panther Creek, Stephenville, and last week Decatur in a 38-27 state semifinal showdown.
During the program's first-ever state semifinal appearance, Ziondre Williams recorded 194 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 66 rushing yards, and one rushing touchdown while Edward Chumley recorded two rushing touchdowns and 130 rushing yards on 24 carries to help lead the team to a 38-27 victory over Decatur. Other athletes like Jacob Emmers, who has scored 11 times since returning from an injury this season, Sean Steens, Jabari Finnie, and more helped power Anna's offense to pull away from Decatur in the second half while the defense, led by Abram Greer, CJ Williams, Cash Miller, Jamison Adams, Grayson Stewart, and more helped ensure the job was finished.
The team is geared up to face off against Chapel Hil on Friday, December 15th where they look to continue making history for themselves this season.
Kick-off is set for 11 a.m. at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.