Southlake Carroll did as expected, cruising past Mansfield Legacy 69-7 in a home, bi-district playoff opener.
But, it wasn’t the only happy story for the Dragons program this week.
A Southlake Carroll athlete was recently reunited with his 2002 state championship ring, thanks to the help of a social media stranger.
In a ceremony after former Dragons graduate Blake Pool hoisted the state trophy, he was presented with the ceremonial championship ring. However, the following year, a home invasion resulted in the ring being stolen, as well as numerous family heirlooms.
Over two decades later, Dusty Steele discovered the missing ring on Facebook Marketplace listed for $50. Steele purchased the ring, engraved with Pool’s last name, with the intention of finding its rightful owner. Steele reposted on social media, encouraging the community to find Pool.
Within 30 minutes, Pool’s wife came across the post.
After being reunited with his prized possession, Pool spent the week reminiscing on his Texas high school football past, showing off the ring and old photos to his son.
The current iteration of the Southlake Carroll team continues to aspire to their own championship ring… and they’re off to one helluva start.
Southlake Carroll Dominates Mansfield Legacy in Playoff Opener
Southlake Carroll began their playoff campaign in commanding fashion, dismantling Mansfield Legacy 69-7 in their 6A Division II bi-district matchup at Dragon Stadium. The Dragons wasted no time asserting their dominance, with quarterback Angelo Renda orchestrating a flawless opening drive capped by a touchdown pass to running back Davis Penn. From there, the Dragons unleashed a relentless offensive assault, scoring 35 points in the second quarter alone and cruising to a decisive victory.
Renda was the star of the night, throwing for 346 yards and four touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Receiver Blake Gunter delivered a breakout performance, hauling in five passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns. Penn, who sat out the second half, contributed 86 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while TCU commit Brock Boyd recorded 13 receptions for 156 yards and a score. The Dragons amassed 599 total yards of offense while limiting Mansfield Legacy to 249.
Southlake’s defense also shined, forcing two turnovers, including a red zone interception by Gavin Strange that set up one of Penn’s scores. The Dragons scored touchdowns on 10 of their 11 possessions, emphasizing their balanced attack with 377 passing yards and 222 on the ground.
Now 11-0, Southlake Carroll advances to face Wolfforth Frenship (10-1) in the area round next Friday in Abilene. Frenship brings a high-powered offense led by standout quarterback Holden Phillips, setting the stage for an exciting rematch of last year’s playoff clash. Southlake looks to continue their dominant postseason run in pursuit of a state championship.