Fayette KRES All-Stars Reflect on Season of Challenges and Success

The Fayette football team had a strong 2021 season. The Falcons compiled a record of 11-2, won their second district title in four years, and had two players named to the 2021 KRES All-Star team. Senior running back Garren Vroman and senior center Chris Brown were voted to this year’s team. However, Vroman, Brown, and the entire team had to overcome significant adversity over the course of the season. Vroman ran for over 2,900 yards on the season while playing through a torn PCL. He discusses what it was like to play injured the entire season.

Meanwhile, Brown moved to a new position on the offensive line this season. He says his transition to center was a learning experience.

While Vroman and Brown dealt with injuries and new positions, the Falcons were dealing with several issues away from the playing field. They included the death of teammate Cash Valencia this past winter and the death of the father of teammates D.J. and Brandon Moore during the season. Brown says these tragedies around the team helped galvanize them.

With the exception of a week four loss to Marceline, the Falcons won every other regular season game and cruised to a district title with a 46-6 win over Sweet Springs. Vroman says this district championship was an emotional one for everyone.

Fayette went on to lose a narrow 21-20 game to Marceline in the quarterfinal round as the Tigers ended up finishing second in Class 1. While the Falcons fell short of the top prize, a season of overcoming adversity brought the Fayette community closer together.