Fair Grove football's team culture thriving under Josh Evans: 'ship, shipmate, self'

After the Eagles' victory over Clever, Fair Grove head coach Josh Evans expressed his pride in his team. He then shifted the focus to his players, encouraging them to recognize and commend each other for their efforts. This practice, known as "giving out oars," emphasizes the importance of teamwork and selflessness in the program.

Evans stressed that the team should put the "ship" first, meaning placing the team's success above individual accomplishments. After every significant play, such as Jacob Ahnen's pick-six, the entire roster celebrated the player, underscoring the value placed on individual contributions. However, Evans also highlighted the importance of acknowledging less noticeable efforts, like water carriers, who may not make the highlight reel but are crucial to the team's functioning.

Giving compliments is appreciated, but the act of giving them is even more rewarding, as demonstrated by running back Wyatt Hallam. Hallam enjoys giving out oars and finds it fulfilling to see the reactions of younger players when they receive a compliment. Coaches Evans' mantra of "ship, shipmate, self" has evidently boosted the team's confidence.

With a perfect 4-0 record, the Eagles face another challenge against Springfield Catholic on September 25. Quarterback Gavin Thomason acknowledged that the recognition they receive extends beyond teammates, as even non-players, like the News-Leader, can be praised for their predictions. In response to the newspaper's pick against them in a recent story, Thomason humorously gave his oar to the News-Leader as recognition.

Liam Keating, covering high school sports and Missouri State athletics for The Springfield News-Leader, contributed to this report.