Preseason Review - Waco La Vega Pirates

Waco La Vega enters 2025 after a strong 12-4 campaign, including a perfect 5-0 district record. The Pirates were riding a hot streak before falling to Carthage in the state semifinals. Led by veteran head coach Don Hyde, this is a program built on toughness and talent and they're looking to reload and make another deep run. The pirates wont be taking their foot off the gas in 2025. As the season gets closer here are some keys players who will make an impact in 2025.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/07/image_392ab9.png?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-1734690" style="width:288px;height:auto" /></figure>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2025 Football Schedule</h3>   Dates and Opponents   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Aug 29 – @ Kennedale</li>   <li>Sep 5 – @ Celina</li>   <li>Sep 12 – @ West Orange-Stark</li>   <li>Sep 19 – vs Brownwood</li>   <li>Sep 26 – @ Stephenville</li>   <li>Oct 10 – vs Gatesville*</li>   <li>Oct 17 – @ China Spring*</li>   <li>Oct 24 – vs Robinson*</li>   <li>Oct 31 – @ Connally*</li>   <li>Nov 7 – vs Lorena*</li> </ul>    Kourtney had a standout season, throwing for over 2,000 yards with 18 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions. He consistently showed the ability to stretch the field and make the right decisions under pressure. His arm strength allows him to hit deep shots, while his accuracy on intermediate routes keeps the chains moving. Kourtney's poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays when needed makes him a dual threat to defenses. He reads coverages well and rarely forces throws, which is reflected in his low interception total. As he continues to develop, Kourtney has the tools and production to draw serious attention from college programs.      Jabarie had a dominant season, hauling in 76 receptions for 1,367 yards and 13 touchdowns. His route running is crisp, and he consistently creates separation with his quick releases and ability to change pace mid route. What stands out most is his ability to make plays after the catch he's a threat in space and knows how to turn a short gain into a big play. Jabarie also shows strong hands in traffic and isn't afraid to go up and win contested balls. As an Oklahoma State commit, he's bringing a complete skill set to the next level, and his production speaks volumes about his consistency and game changing potential.      Elbert is a wide receiver with a lot of upside and is looking to take a big step forward this season. He's shown flashes of playmaking ability with solid hands, sharp footwork, and a competitive edge in one-on-one matchups. This offseason, he's been locked in on refining his route running and becoming more consistent in his releases. With his work ethic and growing confidence, Elbert is poised to become a more reliable target and elevate his role within the offense. Keep an eye on him to emerge as a key contributor this year.        Jame is a smooth and athletic wide receiver who brings great energy and focus to every rep. He shows natural hands, tracks the ball well downfield, and runs with purpose after the catch. Jame does a good job creating separation with clean footwork and quick cuts, making him a tough cover in space. He's also shown a willingness to block and contribute in all phases of the game. As he continues to polish his route running and build chemistry with his quarterback, Jame has the potential to become a reliable go-to target in the offense.      Marcus Jackson is a physical and versatile tight end who can impact the game in multiple ways. He's a strong blocker at the point of attack, helping set the edge in the run game, but also brings value as a pass catcher. Marcus has soft hands, runs solid routes, and isn't afraid to make tough catches in traffic. He uses his size well in red zone situations and shows the ability to box out defenders and win contested throws. With his combination of toughness, athleticism, and work ethic, Marcus is the kind of tight end who can be a reliable asset in both run heavy and spread offenses.      Caden brings a relentless motor and physical presence to the linebacker position. He plays fast and aggressive, showing a strong ability to shed blocks and make plays at the line of scrimmage. What stands out is his pursuit Caden flies to the football and rarely misses an opportunity to finish a tackle.      Jayce is a relentless edge rusher who combines explosiveness with savvy technique. He consistently beats blockers off the snap with a sharp first step and uses a variety of moves to keep offensive linemen off balance. Jayce's motor never quits he pursues plays sideline to sideline and shows impressive stamina throughout the game.      Jha'quavion is a powerful and technically sound offensive lineman who brings physicality and consistency to the offensive front. With a solid frame and strong hands, he excels at controlling defenders at the point of attack and creating running lanes. His footwork is steady, allowing him to maintain balance and leverage against various pass rush moves. Earning an offer from Tulsa speaks to his ability to perform at a high level, and with continued development.      Zaith is a technically sound offensive lineman with a strong base and good hand placement. He shows a natural ability to anchor in pass protection and consistently wins his battles in the trenches. Zaith's footwork and balance allow him to adjust to quick defenders, and he moves well for his size when pulling or reaching at the second level. His Tulsa offer reflects his hard work and potential, and with continued strength and technique refinement, Zaith is positioned to make an immediate impact at the next level.      Ge'unte is a smart and instinctive linebacker who plays with great anticipation and toughness. He has the ability to read plays quickly and react decisively, whether it's filling gaps against the run or dropping into coverage. Ge'unte shows solid tackling technique and isn't afraid to mix it up in the trenches. His versatility allows him to adapt to various defensive schemes, and his leadership on and off the field makes him a key communicator for the defense.      Giovanni is a consistent and reliable kicker with a smooth, repeatable kicking motion. He shows good range on his field goals and excels in pressure situations, delivering clutch kicks when the game is on the line. Giovanni's kickoff game is strong, often forcing opponents to start deep in their own territory thanks to his leg strength and placement.      Qwae is a versatile and athletic defensive back who excels in both man and zone coverage. He displays excellent ball skills, often coming away with key pass breakups and interceptions. Qwae's speed and agility allow him to stay tight on receivers and quickly recover if beaten initially. He's also a physical tackler who isn't afraid to support the run and make plays near the line of scrimmage.    Waco La Vega heads into the 2025 season with high expectations after a strong 2024 campaign that included a deep playoff run. Led by returning quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1734650' first='Kourtney' last='Parr'] Jr. and a talented group of playmakers, the Pirates have the leadership and experience to make another serious push. With a tough non-district slate to sharpen them and a competitive district ahead, La Vega is built to contend once again. If they stay focused and build off last year's momentum, don't be surprised to see the Pirates making noise deep into November.

Waco La Vega enters 2025 after a strong 12-4 campaign, including a perfect 5-0 district record. The Pirates were riding a hot streak before falling to Carthage in the state semifinals. Led by veteran head coach Don Hyde, this is a program built on toughness and talent and they're looking to reload and make another deep run. The pirates wont be taking their foot off the gas in 2025. As the season gets closer here are some keys players who will make an impact in 2025.