Written by Amanda Coers – Randal Covey and Glen Covey are looking to usher in a “new era” of Football here in Central Texas. The two have purchased the semi pro football team, the Texas Pride, now renamed as Central Texas Yellow Jackets. With over 30 players, ranging in age from 17 to 44 years old, the Jackets are giving men the chance to play competitive football and hope to give back to the community as well.
On a chilly Saturday afternoon, the new team met for practice on the Early High School Football Field, a venue they’re hoping to call home for their upcoming games. The Early ISD school board will meet January 16th to decide if the Central Texas Yellow Jackets will be able to host their home games on the Early High School football field.
“Our team plans to give 25% of concession stand sales to the Early High School to use for Project Graduation and other programs as needed. We’re really wanting to give back and that’s just one way,” said Randal Covey. “As we get the season going, we’d like to have a mini camp for kids, and do some other things for the community.”
The Central Texas Yellow Jackets have purchased past season uniforms from Howard Payne, for 80 players, for both home and away games. Currently the team has enough gear for 20 players, but are looking to add more to accommodate a larger roster.
Local businesses will be able to choose from several Corporate Sponsorship Packages offered by the Jackets, ranging in price from $10,000 to $100. Interested sponsors can contact the team’s Fundraising Coordinator, Tammy Duncan, at 325-200-9532.
The team has been holding tryouts since November. After potential players practice with the team for two months, coaching staff will meet to make their final picks. In February there will be a signing party for players who receive contracts with the team.
The Central Texas Yellow Jackets are signed with the SFL, a new semi-pro football league, which includes the Burnett County Cowboys, Granger Lions, San Antonio Hogs, Abilene Scorpions, Austin Extreme, El Campo and New Braunfels.
The SFL 10-game season starts April 15th, with matches held on Saturdays. Tickets are $8 for adults, and $4 for children.
The SFL Championship Game will be held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
New this year as well, the Jackets will be holding cheerleader tryouts, for individuals ages 18 and up. Cheerleading practice for the tryouts will be held on January 12th and 19th from 7 to 8 p.m. Tryouts will be held on January 21st from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Practice and tryouts will be held at SEAL Gymnastics. For more information, contact 325-642-4111.
