HUTTO — The Hutto Hippos will be trading their signature orange for red, white and blue under the Friday night lights for the annual Freedom Game. This deeply rooted community tradition started Aug.
28, 2015. Eleven years later to the exact date, veterans will be honored and celebrated for their dedication, blood, sweat and tears while serving and protecting our country. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at Hutto Memorial Stadium.
According to district officials, the Freedom Game started when the Hutto Independent School District board of trustees realized the strong presence of veterans within the schools and community. The district wanted to honor and recognize veterans for their service and the sacrifices they made while serving.
“It’s important because for them to be recognized and honored for their service and the things they’ve done for our country means a lot,” Hutto High School Principal Ryan Burns said.
Athletic Director William Compton and Stadium Director Chris Elquist work to coordinate the event. The school choir sings the Star Spangled Banner prior to kickoff.
“To be a part of this is an honor and a humbling experience,” said veteran Aaron Gorbet Sr.
Players on the field express their gratitude while participating in the game.
“My grandpa served, so the freedom game has always been sort of special to me,” said senior offensive lineman Jayden Mack.
Starting the season against former district opponent Harker Heights, Mack said standards are high for the Hippos.
“I think [Coach Casey] Walraven has set the expectations at perfection … all throughout practice and spring ball. We really started to be perfect with timing, execution and just being physical,” Mack said.
After a 9-3 season and a second-round exit in the playoffs, the Hippos are looking to bounce back this season under new Head Coach Casey Walraven and Offensive Coordinator Daniel Spencer.
Walraven brings a legacy of high-scoring offenses, including an average of 62 points per game last season at Alvarado High School.
He has over 20 years of experience on the sideline and multiple playoff appearances.
Key returners include Mack, linebacker Hunter Frenette and Oklahomabound two-way threat Jaiden Fields.
“I’m really excited for this year. Harker Heights is a good team, but they’re not like us,” Mack said.
After the Freedom game, the Hippos hit the road to face Judson, Sept. 4.
