Stamford community rallies behind Bulldogs ahead of state championship game

STAMFORD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The Stamford Bulldogs have secured their spot in the state championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington this Thursday. As the team prepares for the game, the community has been showing support in various ways.

At Pink Ladies Thrift Store in Stamford, you will find the window decorated in blue and white and with Bulldog merchandise. One of the employees is Laura Vega. When she isn’t busy working, she’s at the football field supporting her two grandsons, Kaston and Carlos Vega. The family is making the trip to Arlington for the big game.

“Oh, I enjoyed every minute of it. I just love sports. This town, the kids, they’ve grown up together. We all plan on going to watch them. We’re excited. I’m already packed and ready to go. Good luck. Y’all play hard and give it your best, Kaston and Carlos, y’all play hard,” shared Vega.

Jay Jensen, the Vice President at First State Bank in Stamford, knows the team’s feelings firsthand since he competed at state with the Bulldogs in 2012 and 2013. He shared some advice for the team.

“You got to play all four quarters; jobs not finished until the fourth quarter hits zero. So, it’s just keeping that mentality and knowing it’s not over until there’s no time left in the fourth quarter. So just keep the hammer down,” added Jensen.

He is proud to see the team advancing and creating a shift in the community.

“The support has been phenomenal, and it’s just life back into the town. I think that’s something that Stamford missed maybe in the past couple of years, and it seemed like since coach came back, you can just see some life and some spirit in the town immediately,” explained Jensen.

Trey Nauert, a resident and owner of Four Star Agricenter, played for the Bulldogs alongside Jensen, encouraging players to rest before the big game.

“I would say just get sleep tonight and just pray that God would give you the strength to get through it, and he’s always going to be there for you no matter what,” Nauert said.

Owner of The Flower Shop, Tammy Marugg, is showing off her Stamford Bulldog pride through flower arrangements. She is happy to support a group of young men she believes are respectful and kind, thanks to good sportsmanship.

“I found Bulldog blue roses. They are the most stunning blue roses, and the other day, I figured out I could glitter roses. So that’s what I’ve done. I’ve glittered our roses for state just to be a little extra,” shared Marugg.

From flags to signs, Tammy is happy to see the town decorated in blue and white and ready to cheer on at state.

“Stamford Bulldogs bring home that state title. You earned it, boys. Woohoo!” proclaimed Marugg.