Panthers Get Buried in "Snow" Bluffs

The Saratoga Panthers lost their path to the 1A-nine man championship football game in War Memorial Stadium on November 8 in Pine Bluffs.

After putting up their best season in 17 years, the Panthers succumbed to the Hornet’s nest in a 12-42 defeat.

The Saratoga team was shutout the first half of the game with two interceptions thrown by Jace Westring and caught by Pine Bluff’s Carsten Freeburg.

‘We fell behind early and struggled to stop their running game,” said Head Coach Jared Mason. “However, at halftime, our mood changed to “Let’s just go have fun” and “Play the game that we love out in the snow”.

The Panthers went into the second half behind 0-34 and made the first touchdown of the half with 4:42 remaining on the clock in the  3rd quarter.

Westring had a 1 yard rush for the touchdown and then a failed passing conversion.

Pine Bluffs answered immediately with a 59 yard rushing touchdown and 2-point conversion.

Not to be deterred, the Panthers kept up defensive pressure and made the game’s final offensive touchdown with less than 3 minutes remaining in the 4th. Westring threw to Griffin Bartlett for a 10-yard gain to score followed by a failed conversion.

“They played with enthusiasm, a relaxed confidence, and a sense of fun,” said Mason. “I informed them that we won the second half 12-8, and even though it’s just a small victory, we can be proud of it and celebrate the amazing season we had.”

The final game had a standout in Griffin Bartlett with 68 yards receiving, 63 yards in kickoff returns, 7.5 tackles and 1 touchdown.

“When the game ended, our guys could be seen making snow angels and having diving contests to see who could go the furthest in the snow,” said Mason. “I was extremely proud of the team and their positive finish to the season.”

The Panthers finished their 2024 year 5-4 with a winning season.