Social media can be a toxic and difficult environment for high school kids, even for a team of prep football players coming off a 103-0 playoff victory.
That’s why head coach of T.F Riggs High School in Pierre, S.D., asked his players to stay off social media following the win against Spearfish.
“It was one of the most polarizing mixture of emotions we’ve ever had at the conclusion of any game,” T.F. Riggs coach Steve Steele told the Pierre Capitol Journal. “Being so proud of every kid that stepped onto the field for us for giving every play their very best and earning the success that they experienced throughout the game, while also feeling sick for how the other sideline had to be feeling. Knowing what it feels like to be on that sideline really makes your heart hurt for their players, coaches, and community. But at the same time again, you are so proud of each and every Gov that represented our community in a great way as well.”
The Class 11AAA in South Dakota currently has no mercy rule, so a running clock was implemented in the fourth quarter. There is a provision in the NFHS rule book that allows for games to have shortened quarters or be ended early, but coaches and officials have to agree to it.
After the game, Steele told his players to stay off social media because there were a lot people saying negative things about T.F Riggs and he wanted them to avoid being pulled into the negativity. Steel also said he was thankful for the support he and the team have received.
“It’s been impossible to completely shelter ourselves from all of it, but we owe a gigantic thank you to everyone (players, coaches, school and community) for playing their part in making this program what it is, a family,” Steele said.
