Strong returns from Basic Training to help Cass football team

The Lewis Cass football team experienced a boost in performance following the return of James Strong from U.S. Army Basic Combat Training. Strong spent from mid-June to early September participating in the intensive training program located in South Carolina. Upon his return to the team, Strong compared the demanding nature of the gridiron to the grueling Basic Training experience, stating, "It's a different type of pain, but I feel like my drill sergeants helped prepare me for everything that I could face out in the normal world grit-wise."

In addition to his football prowess, Strong was also involved in the Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP), an orientation and training program for new Army National Guard enlistees. This program equips trainees mentally, physically, and administratively prior to their deployment to Basic Combat Training. The 17-year-old senior from Lewis Cass shared his motivation behind joining the program, saying, "I just wanted to help my community and my country since I was a little kid."

Ever since Strong's return on September 3, he has been filling in for both the offensive and defensive lines, adding necessary depth to the Kings' roster. Thanks to Strong's contributions, the Kings have won their last two matches, defeating Manchester and Rochester with scores of 28-8 and 28-0 respectively.

The emotional return of Strong was evident in his performance during the 28-8 victory over Rochester at Owens Memorial Field. Reflecting on the game, Strong said, "This is our first time beating Rochester since I've started playing. I feel like we're all gonna be a little emotional. It was a tough one. I'm proud of all of my teammates. It was neck and neck there for a minute. I could not be prouder of my teammates."

Lewis Cass coach Clay Mannering expressed his gratitude for Strong's return, praising him as a "huge pickup" and a "great leader." He further noted that Strong has matured significantly over the summer, having undergone the trials of Basic Training. Mannering further explained, "He did Basic Training with I believe the Army Guard. He's come back a more mature person. He's had some experience now of going through hard things and that certainly helped us tonight."