SINTON, Texas — You'd never guess the Sinton Pirates were in line for their best season since 2015 back in August and early December.
Sinton lost two of its first three games to Beeville Jones and Port Lavaca Calhoun, the latter of which is still alive in the 4A-I playoffs. But the Pirates have since won nine straight games including a dominating 50-14 regional round performance over longtime playoff foe Geronimo Navarro.
Pirates junior receiver and cornerback Jacoby James says the team started developing a great off-the-field bond and that helped lead to some key wins, including a big win over La Vernia after the early losing skid.
"We got to know each other," James said. "I feel like Fortnite brought us together. Definitely weight room was a big factor."
Sinton Head Coach Mike Troutman agreed with James's take on the team.
"You know it was a rough start at first," Troutman said at practice Tuesday. "We had a bunch of individuals that had a bunch of selfishness, but they've come together as a team."
The Pirates might have had their battles in the Fortnite realm, but now they'll face their toughest test of the season Friday in #5 Wimberley (13-0). The Texans have scored 40 or more points in 11 of their 13 games and have won every game except for one by double digits.
Still, it's a challenge that the Pirates say they're ready for after overcoming their early season struggles.
"You know I have great respect for them," Troutman said. "They're a darn good football team. But so are we. And these boys have worked hard for it and they know they're up against and they know what they have to do to be successful."
Sinton and #5 Wimberley face off in the 4A-II State Quarterfinal Friday at 7:30 PM at Southwest Legacy Stadium in Von Ormy. 3News will be on hand for coverage.