By Thomas Garcia

Quay County Sun

With the 2010 season behind them, members of the Tucumcari Rattlers football team shared their retrospect of the season.

“I think we could have done better,” said senior Cameron Montano. “The talent is there. We just needed to put it together.”

Rattlers head coach Daniel Hutchins said it was a lack of urgency from the beginning of the season which hurt the team.

“Several games we did not show up till the second half,” Hutchins said. “You need to play with energy and intensity from the very start of the game.”

Montano said in the past the Rattlers have made it into the playoffs but have had an early exit.

“In the past, leadership from the seniors was an issue,” Montano said. “Next year the leadership foundation set by the younger players will pay off.”

However, freshman Steven McClure said the leadership from the seniors was excellent.

“They were strong examples for us to follow,” McClure said. “They helped us to keep our heads straight and do what was needed.”

McClure said the strong leadership helped on and off the field.

“This year we did not lose any players due to eligibility,” McClure said.

Hutchins said several younger players made a huge commitment and effort during two-a-days.

“Those players which made the extra effort will return next year,” Hutchins said. “We will have much of our offensive line returning along with several of our defensive players.”

Hutchins said next year’s leadership should be a large factor in the team’s success.

Tulurosa and Santa Rosa will play Saturday for the 2A state championship. Montano and McClure shared their predictions for that game.

“If Santa Rosa can control the clock and come up with defensive stops, they may have a chance,” Montano said.

“Tularosa has so much skill on the field. They have several weapons which they can use to get ahead of Santa Rosa,” McClure said.