“It’s obviously an honor when you are chosen to do something like this,” Belton Athletic Director and Head football Coach Rodney Southern modestly commented about his selection as head coach for the Red team in the second annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes Super Centex Victory Bowl to be played June 12 at Baylor’s Floyd Casey Stadium.

Southern, now in his fourth year as the Head Tiger, coached his football team to a 10-2 record that included district and  bi-district championships.

“I’m excited for a couple of reasons,” Southern added. “When you look at what the FCA stands for and the purpose behind the game, for them to give me the opportunity to do this (coach) is in itself exciting. Also, in all my years of coaching, I’ve never been involved in any type of all-star game.”

This FCA bowl game was created with the intent of providing the resources required to fund the ministry of the Heart of Texas FCA reaching nearly 200 campuses in 12 counties. The area stretches from Goldthwaite to Fairfield to Jarrell to north of Hillsboro. The organization supports a number of activities including one-on-one discipleship with area coaches and college athletes, Team Chapel Ministry, Christian presence on school campuses and camp participation and scholarships.

Over 100 players and cheerleaders from over 60 high schools will take part in the Victory Bowl events.

“All of the coaches from six-man to 5A schools nominated players for the game and followed certain criteria in selecting 46 from all the schools,” explained Southern. “It took us longer than I thought it would. It was difficult but I think we chose the right type of kids .”

Belton selections for the Victory Bowl are Tim Bower, Jeff LePak, Zac Sakaria and Cooper Smith. Besides the opportunity to compete in this game that will be broadcast live on the radio and aired later on TV, the players will get to keep their game jersey as a memento and four bowl gifts, plus housing, meals and entertainment during Victory Bowl week.

Assisting Southern in coaching the Red team will be Moody’s Sam Gillispie, West’s Rick Wolf, Dawson’s Scott Hawkins and Penelope’s Corey McAdams.

“We’ll have three days to put six-man to 5A players together to play the game. I’m not quite sure yet how you do that,” Southern added with a smile.