Some programs wish they could produce a 7-4 season and others may consider that a job well done. For Euless Trinity, it is less than ideal for a program that produced three state titles in the previous decade.
Euless Trinity was on the verge of being shut out of the playoffs for the first time in 18 years after dropping three of its first four district games. It seemed as though the once-almighty Trinity Trojans were beginning to crumble in front of our eyes. With their backs against the wall and after a few personnel changes, Trinity was able to win its last game of the season against Flower Mound Marcus to get back to the postseason. Their reward: A first-round matchup against the highly-touted Allen Eagles.
Some were dismissing this game as a blowou but Trinity pinned back their ears and provided a first round classic which resulted in a 34-25 Allen win. Despite their second consecutive first round exit in the playoffs, Trinity showed that it is still capable of producing a team that can go neck-and-neck with the best teams in the state. Trinity used its familiar ground attack to put them back in familiar territory and will have some key players returning to once again place Trinity in the playoffs.
Key Losses
RB Greg Garner, DL Samuelu Leota, QB/LB Malini Maile
Greg Garner was one of two 1,000 yard rushers Trinity had this past season. He had an impressive 1,324 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. His numbers are that of a feature back and even though Courage Keihn produced similar numbers, production like that will always be missed.
Defensive lineman Samuelu Leota was a quick and strong presence on the interior line for Trinity. His ability to penetrate the line and cut off gaps and running lines allowed the Trinity defense to contain most run games they faced. At 6-foot-1, 258-pounds Leota was credited with 20 solo tackles, a sack and an interception on his way to All-District honors.
Malini Maile was crucial due to his athletic ability. He started the season off at quarterback but after a few personnel changes, moved to linebacker and was just as effective in that position. The senior was a valuable player with his ability to play both sides of the ball at a high level.
Key Returners
DL Travis Chatman, RB Courage Keihn, DB Cameron Jones
Travis Chatman garnered All-District honors lining up on the outside edge of the d-line. His ability to engage defenders and shed their blocks gave quarterbacks and running backs less time to make a decision and his pursuit to the ball was impressive. The 6-foot-3, 209-pound defensive end will be returning and looks to be the playmaker for the defensive line come next season.
Running back Courage Keihn was just as remarkable of a back as his running mate Greg Garner. The junior rushed 202 times for 1,557 yards and 15 touchdowns. His ability to carry the majority of the load was proven and he is sure to only get better come his senior season.
The athletic Texas Tech commit Cameron Jones will be going into his senior year as manning the secondary unit for the Trinity defense. The four-star recruit and his ability to run sideline to sideline will be a major safety net for the front seven knowing they have a defensive back that can contain major threats to the defense.
Verdict
While it may not be the dominant Euless Trinity team of the mid-to-late 2000s, Trinity will continue to find ways to win. Coach Chris Jensen has been there since 2000 and been the head coach since 2015 so he understands what it takes to win.
With their ground-and-pound style, Trinity showed that despite a few hiccups last season, there should be no concern for this program as it will be there to take on any and all competitors.
The Trojans will be relentless and physically imposing and definitely looking to make a statement to show everyone that they’re still one of the top-caliber programs in Texas. The team will have some size and athletic ability returning and after some first round exits, Trinity looks poised to make that a thing of the past and be back to playing football well into December.
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