Six Ottumwa High School co-captains will walk out onto their home field holding hands for the last time Friday night. It is not only the last home football game of the season but also Senior Night
Being a captain of a team with no wins is not an easy thing but Ottumwa’s six co-captains have maintained a positive attitude as they finish their final season as Bulldogs. The six co-captains are Henry Altfillisch, Jajuan Bridges, Kane Brumbaugh, Alec Hensley, Dennis Kurtz, and Colton Myers.
Having six co-captains is unique, according to Coach Mayson. The team votes for 3-4 captains each year. The voting was so close, Mayson selected six to lead his Bulldogs this year. Attributes he looks for include: players who are among the most dedicated; get along well with their peers; and good students academically. “This is a group you can trust,” Mayson said.
Altfillisch, a defensive back, follows in the footsteps of two older brothers who played football. They all have worn the number 8. He plans to go to college and is undecided on a career. He feels his role as captain is to set the tone. Lesson learned: “No matter what you do, give 100%.”
Bridges, who also has a brother on the team, missed his entire 2014 season due to an accident. He plans to attend college and hopes to continue his football career. As a captain, he pushes his team to work hard. Lesson learned: “No matter what adversity you face, you should still be able to play on Friday night unless you have a broken leg.”
Brumbaugh has a 4.0 GPA and is the starting kicker for the team. This year he has also transitioned from defense to offense as a wide receiver. He plans to attend college after graduation. As a captain, he feels he should lead by example and “do the most you can do at every single practice.” Lesson learned: “You get something out of everything you do.”
Hensley and his twin brother are two of the toughest kids on the team, according to Coach Mason. He plays strong safety and while unsure of his career goals, he knows it will involve math. Hensley feels he must lead by example as a captain and speak up when it is needed. Lesson learned: “Learning to trust.”
Kurtz, a linebacker, leads his team in tackles. He plans to attend the University of Iowa and major in biology/pre-med. He feels it is important to have fun with the game. “Positivity comes with it.” Lesson learned: “Dedication-not giving up. If you can do this you can do anything.”
Myers has played both offense and defense for the Bulldogs this year. He plans to attend Indian Hills after graduation. As a captain, he hopes to motivate his team, “keeping the guys in the right mindset.” Lesson learned: “Perseverance and optimism. We have nothing to lose.”
“I hope the guys can take away something positive from their experience,” Mayson said. “It’s really hard when you put in the time and dedication and success doesn’t come on the scoreboard.”
