Fairmont Senior Players Reflect on 2023 State Championship Game Ahead of New Season

A Look Back on the Season

Counting Down the Days

The Fairmont Senior Polar Bears are just over a month away from their season opener against the Buckhannon-Upshur Buccaneers. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the players are reflecting on their 2023 state championship victory and setting their sights on another successful campaign.

Reflecting on Success

"Last season was a dream come true," said senior quarterback Gavin Wright. "We worked so hard all year, and it all paid off in the end."

The Polar Bears finished the 2023 regular season with a perfect 10-0 record, and they carried that momentum into the playoffs. They defeated George Washington, Cabell Midland, and Musselman to reach the state championship game, where they faced the Parkersburg South Patriots.

A Hard-Fought Victory

The state championship game was a back-and-forth affair, but the Polar Bears ultimately prevailed, winning 28-21. Wright passed for 250 yards and two touchdowns, and running back Daylin Nottingham rushed for 120 yards and a touchdown.

Looking Ahead to the New Season

The Polar Bears are excited for the upcoming season, but they know that it will be a challenge to repeat as state champions. They lost several key players to graduation, including Wright and Nottingham.

New Faces, New Roles

"We have a lot of young guys who are going to have to step up this year," said head coach Nick Bartic. "But I have a lot of confidence in them."

Some of the players who are expected to make an impact this season include junior quarterback Gage Michael, senior running back Darius Stills, and senior wide receiver Isaiah Smith.