On Friday August 26th, the varsity football team opened their season against the Argyle Eagles. While team ended up losing the game 42-17, that was not the only loss they suffered that night. Senior captain Trey Carson left the game in the fourth quarter with a season ending shoulder injury.

“I have a grade three AC separation which resulted in the tearing of two ligaments connecting my scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle. Surgery was needed to reset the bones and repair the ligaments,” Carson said.

When Carson initially went down, the seriousness of the injury was unknown.

“No one knew how badly Trey was hurt until much later in the game,” varsity coach Billy Thompson said.

Carson himself did not realize the severity of the injury. Coaches and players both agreed that the fall did not look unusual.

“The play began with a roll out from Argyle’s quarterback to the opposite side of the field,” Carson said. “The outside receiver ran a deep post across the field, catching me out of position and forcing me to dive in attempt to break up the pass and or tackle the receiver. After diving, my arm was jerked backward. I realized when I got up that something was very wrong.”

Carson was a running back, defensive back, and strong safety. His physical ability will be missed but it is his leadership abilities that cannot be replaced.

“Losing anyone is a big challenge for a team, but when we lost Trey it put a big responsibility on the rest of the team to step up. I have played with Trey for six years and what he brings to the team is very valuable,” senior Gage Downing said. “Trey is always working hard and pushing himself and others around him to get better. He always gave his all and had the admirable ability to stay positive when things got tough.”

With the varsity squad this year being very young, losing Carson’s experience was a big blow. However, players and coaches are taking this as a challenge to improve.

“Trey told us at halftime in Paris to play for the team, not just for him. He wants to succeed like nothing every happened,” junior Zach Wilkins said. “He’s a playmaker, no doubt. He’s missed very dearly on the field but Coach Puckett is helping the team trust each other since we’re a young, inexperienced team.”

Carson is expected to be released in mid December. Until then, he is very proud to remain with his fellow teammates and participate in what he can to help the team.

“Nothing in my relationship with my Leopard brothers has changed except I have a different role that involves helping coach technique and encouraging them with words and dedication,” Carson said. “I have no doubt that in my absence others will step up and take on leadership responsibilities.”

Though losing Carson was a major setback, senior Cameron Seay has been successful in taking his place. On Friday September 9th against Frisco, Seay had a 98 yard kick-off return for a touchdown.

“Cameron Seay has done a great job. He has really stepped up,” Thompson said.

The team has accepted the challenge to grow form this experience and they wish Carson the best.

“We all love Trey, and he’s always in our thoughts and prayers,” Wilkins said. “As a player he has left a legacy for his work ethic, and leadership. On and off the field since I’ve known him, Trey is a great guy. As a football family we wish him a quick recovery.”