(McAllen, Texas)-If the McAllen Nikki Rowe Warriors expects to make the playoffs in 2023, they will need to be better on defense after giving up 35.0 points per game last season, finishing 6-5 overall. The Warriors tied for third place with La Joya Palmview and McAllen. A win over Palmview in the regular season gave them a berth in the 5A Division I playoffs.
Head coach Robert Flores loves what he does on the football field and he is always optimistic about his chances on game nights. That’s the way he was raised by his family. The Warriors opened its season in 2022 with a loss to Sharyland Pioneer 24-21 in non-conference play. That loss triggered a five-win streak for the Warriors, including district wins over Palmview (28-14), LJ Juarez-Lincoln (35-3), and McAllen Memorial (41-37) to stand at 5-1 overall. The Warriors then spiraled down with a 1-4 finish and ended their playoff run in the 5A DI Bi-District Championships with a loss to 16-5A Division I Brownsville Veterans Memorial HS Chargers 45-3.
Flores will lead his team in 2023 against Sharyland Pioneer on August 25th at McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium in non-conference. They will open district play against La Joya Palmview on September 14th on a Thursday night at home.
Players to watch are returning quarterback, Lance Salinas (5’10 180lbs), who passed for almost 1,000 yards 11 scores. He also rushed for another 397 yards and five touchdowns. Salinas will be the key if the Warriors are to make the playoffs. His leadership will be depended on Friday nights.
Other players to watch are RB Isaiah Mata, WR Andres Espinoza, QB Samuel Liguez, OL twin brothers Michael and Gabriel Banda (6’1 305lbs), and WR Mateo Castillo. On defense, the Warriors will see five returning starters DB Alex Partida, DB Nomar Aguirre, LB Kristian Gutierrez, DL Miguel Vega, and DB Christian Villarreal.
The Warriors need to finish strong in 2023. (HSSMImages/Ruiz)