Denair Falls Behind Early in 26-20 Loss to Mariposa

DHS Coyotes Football

Submitted by Denair Unified School District

Through five games, a few things are clear about the Denair football team: They’re small in numbers, but won’t be intimidated. They’re more competitive than they’ve been in years. And they have a habit of getting off to slow starts.

All three characteristics were on display Friday night in Denair’s 26-20 loss to Southern League powerhouse Mariposa.

  • Slow starts. Just as it did against Summerville in the season opener, Denair gave up a touchdown on its first defensive play of the game. This time, it was a short pass that Mariposa’s receiver turned into a long score by eluding a couple of would-be tacklers. The defensive problems lasted the rest of the first half, when the Grizzlies scored all their points.
  • The Coyotes began the game with 26 players, had two injured during the game and another who exhibited concussion symptoms afterward and spent a night in the hospital. Still, Denair’s coaching staff and players showed flexibility with on-the-fly position switches and many guys playing offense and defense. The Coyotes have grit.
  • Despite falling behind early, Denair’s defense buckled down to keep the team in the game. Justin Steeley’s 85-yard TD run late in the second quarter cut Mariposa’s lead to 26-14 at halftime. Juan Barrera cut the lead to 26-20 with his own TD run in the third period. The Coyotes had a final chance with the ball at midfield with about 5 minutes left in the game, but were forced to punt and never regained possession.

Barrera was the game’s offensive start, running for more than 220 yards and the touchdown.

First-year coach Anthony Armas said there were a number of takeaways in the loss, which dropped Denair to 1-1 in league play and 2-3 overall. Continue reading “Denair Falls Behind Early in 26-20 Loss to Mariposa” »

Denair Middle School Hosts Book Fair

Scholastic Book Fair

Submitted by Denair Unified School District

Denair Middle School Library will host a Scholastic Book Fair on October 12-16, 2015 from 7:35 am to 3:30 pm. to help raise funds to purchase new books for the library and classrooms.

The Book Fair will be open each day from 7:35 am to 3:30 pm and feature a wide range of books for middle school, young teens and adults, including mystery and adventure novels, fantasy series, sports guides, graphic novels, and the latest best sellers from more than 100 publishers. Parents, children, teachers, and the community are invited to attend.

On October 14th from 4:30 to 7:30, the Book Fair will feature an evening event for parents, community members, and other staff members that aren’t able to come during the day.

Student volunteers, dubbed the Crew, helped to plan the Fair and will also help run it. From creating special promotions and merchandising displays to managing inventory and assisting shoppers with their selections, Crew members learn real-life skills while helping to encourage reading at their school.

“Our Student Crew is working very hard to put on a great Book Fair event – one that promotes literacy and reading, while at the same time raising money for much-needed school resources,” said Gayle Schell, Librarian, at Denair Middle School.

Fair attendees can also help build classroom libraries by purchasing books for teachers through the Classroom Wish List program. If you have questions, please contact Ms. Schell at (209) 632-2510, ext. 3210, or (209) 632-9911, ext. 4259.

Save the Date for the Denair Lions Pancake Breakfast

Denair Lions Club

Submitted by Denair Lions Club

This year’s Denair Lions Community Pancake Breakfast is being held on Sunday, November 1, 2015, 7:00 am – 1:00 pm, at the Denair Community Center3850 N. Gratton Road, Denair. They will be offering delicious pancakes, eggs and ham, with a choice of coffee, juice or milk.  Donations are gladly accepted at the door.

This year’s proceeds will benefit Bob and Dorothy Steeley. A flyer for the event can be downloaded here.