a Chiefpigskin original
  Nov 16, 2011


Out in the corn fields of east central Iowa, the Albernett Pirates 2011 dream season came to an end in the quarterfinals. Their football field was certainly a field of dreams as they wrapped up an outstanding 11-1 season. The Pirates lost Monday night 21-13 to rival West Branch, a team they had beaten 42-35 in week two of the regular season. We all know how tough it is to beat a good team twice in the same season. Alburnett, ranked #41 in the state of Iowa and 4,439th nationally by Maxpreps, may not be a high powered name but they have a remarkable story none the less. This is small school football where you won't find college recruiters or big time names. It's Americana in the heartlands of the country where young men play just because they love the game.

Alburnett is a small town of about 600 just north of Cedar Rapids and is a wonderful story of small school football. The school has 159 students (10th-12th grades) and plays in the 2nd smallest class of 11 man football in Iowa. Yes, there is a class of 8 man football in Iowa for the REALLY small schools! As a smaller school, the teachers at Alburnett not only get to know each student, but become acquainted with their families as well. Over 70 percent of the students at Alburnett are involved in extracurricular activities, and many are involved in more than one activity. It's not unusual for a small school to "share" their students/athletes. Guys don't get to train for football year round.

Chiefpigskin got a chance to talk to head coach Chris Evers on the day of the big game with West Branch. Evers, in his third year as the Pirates head man, has orchestrated an incredible turn around. Two years ago in his first season the Pirates went 0-9 and were outscored 330-29 by their opponents. Not a pretty picture. "We got on the bus for one game that first year with 13 healthy players suited up for the game and got back on the bus after the game with 11 healthy players. We had a guy that needed a break during the game and I told him there was no one to take his place," chuckled the coach. The following year saw a 5-5 season followed by this year's 11-1. The roster now numbers 49 players. How did they get it turned around? The humble coach gave all the credit to the kids. "You get better in the off season," explained Evers. "We opened the weight room up and told the kids it was available to those who wanted to do the extra work. The kids decided they wanted it and came in. I think coaches get too much credit for winning, our kids get the credit." Asked what have been the keys to victory this season Evers was quick to point out the "toughness up front" of his team as well as the ability to make key defensive plays when needed. "Of course, we also have a few guys that make big offensive plays, which you need to make a deep playoff run," added Coach.

We here at Chiefpigskin would like to congratulate the Alburnett Pirates on their 2011 dream season and wish them continued success in the future. In closing, Coach Evers wanted to emphasize the importance of high school athletics and football in particular. "Athletics are so important in learning to overcome adversity. You don't get that in Math class, as important as that is, you get it in athletics. Our kids have learned a lot about overcoming adversity." Well said Coach, we couldn't agree more.