GUYTON, Ga. – The Mustang Mamas had their run of the Corral on Monday night.
With a chance to combine football, family, food and fun, about 25 mothers of South Effingham High School football players braved the 95-degree heat to experience similar drills and coaching as their sons — albeit with a few more smiles and giggles.
Learning the Game, Mama-Style
“They get to know the coaching staff on a more personal level, but also it’s a chance to teach them some football,” SEHS head coach Loren Purvis said.
The sweaty portion of the night wrapped up with a game.
Mustangs defensive coordinator Carson McClellan — who was probably hoping the Aug. 15 season opener against New Hampstead wasn’t being scouted — unleashed a version of his man-to-man “Cat” defense: “I got that cat, you take that cat.”
While some mamas showed off their athleticism, no one likely walked away earning the admiration of being “one bad mother …”
Personalities on Display
“It’s always fun to watch and see the ladies’ personalities,” Purvis said. “Some are aggressive and really get into it. Some of their sons mimic those personalities; some are completely opposite.”
It was the second straight year for the preseason event, coincidentally held on the Georgia High School Association’s first day of the heat acclimatization period.
Purvis said the idea came from his days as an assistant at Dacula High School, where introducing moms to the day-to-day practice grind in a fun setting helped build community.
Respect Earned in the Heat
“I’m definitely not in shape. It’s a lot harder than it looks to be out here,” said Jasmine Lane, mother of running back/defensive back Darius Lane, as she paused to catch her breath on the sideline.
“Now I understand why they come home and take a nap. That’s what I’m going to do — shower and take a nap,” said Dawn Deriso, whose son Steven is hoping to earn playing time at tight end this season.
“I’m glad they practice in the morning,” said Stacey Womack, expressing newfound appreciation for her son, Cade, a fullback/linebacker.
From Tackles to Charades
The evening ended with a catered dinner in the school cafeteria and a more relaxing game of football charades.
Deriso already has ideas for next year.
“We’re seeing what the boys go through, but maybe next year, they’ll let us play with the boys,” she said. “I think most mothers would like that — a chance to tackle their son. Yeah.”
Bulletin board material? Naw. Just a mama talking a little smack.
