By Sarah K. Simon
Fans filled the stands in Silver Bay on October 15 for the Mariners’ final home football game of the season, many wearing pink for the evening’s Pink Out theme and all ready to celebrate the team’s seniors.
Though the Mariners had only two on the roster this year, both seniors have left an unmistakable mark on the team and the emerging program.
Randy Ernest was praised as a “corner stone” and a “team leader since day one,” known for his consistency and example to younger players.
According to Head Coach Ward Kaiser, “Randy has sacrificed his body game in and game out and pound for pound is the hardest hitter on the team. Randy has been an example that it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the fight in that doggie, as he’s led the team in tackles!”
Fellow senior Kale Hackensmith unfortunately suffered an injury in the fourth game of the season, which sidelined his playing, but not without leaving a positive mark.
“Kale’s positive attitude and hustle in practice were key in helping the young Mariners team continue to improve and mature and lead them into the future,” Kaiser reported.
During the recognition, the announcer read a heartfelt message from the coaches and team, “Coach Kaiser, Carpenter, Cook, and all the Mariner players thank both our seniors for being a huge part of bringing back Mariner foot ball and hope they both always see themselves as a big part of that and also of the success to come in the future with this team! May the les sons learned as a Mariner football player help serve them both well in the future in character, reputation, and leadership!”
It was a fitting tribute to two players who helped shape a new era of Mariners football and a reminder of how much heart can live in a small but determined team. Best of luck in your future endeavors, Randy and Kale, and congratulations on being part of bringing Mariner football back!
