For sports fans looking to enjoy a special experience, Dove Creek is the place to be this weekend.
Not only is the small farm town, with by far the most competitive sports teams in the area, hosting not only the 1A Region E volleyball tournament, but an 8-man football playoff contest as well, both on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Rest assured that crowds will be loud, games will be competitive and one of the best community atmospheres in the state will be on full display.
Below is a brief preview of this weekend’s contests and profiles of the Dove Creek High School teams involved.
BULLDOGS VOLLEYBALL
Currently the number one ranked 1A team in the state, Dove Creek’s volleyball team enters the 1A Region E tournament as District Champions, sporting an impressive 22-0 record.
Among their wins this season are victories over class 4A Montezuma-Cortez High School, class 4A Delta High School and class 1A and class 2A teams from Colorado and Utah.
Key to the Bulldogs’ success this season has been a diversified attack, featuring middle hitters and outside hitters and a setter capable of striking from anywhere on the court.
Statistical leaders for the Bulldogs include seniors Shelbie Knuckles (335 kills, 248 digs), Corissa Guynes (50 aces) Kristin Knuckles (247 digs) and Madison Young (473 assists).
Kicking off the Region E tournament, the Bulldogs will match up against the Norwood Mavericks (13-9) at 10:00 a.m.
Next on the Bulldogs schedule is a matchup against Centennial High School (15-5), which will take place at 1:00 p.m.
If the Bulldogs come out on top of the Region E tournament, the team will travel to Denver to play in the state tournament on Nov. 8-9.
BULLDOGS FOOTBALL
Currently the eighth ranked 8-man football team in the state of Colorado, the Dove Creek Bulldogs football team will host a first round playoff game against Sanford High School.
Owners of a 7-2 record, the Bulldogs are coming off a big win last week against Sangre de Cristo.
Key to the Bulldogs’ success this season has been the play of junior Chance Randolph, who has accumulated 1207 yards rushing and 21 rushing touchdowns on the season.
Also keying the Bulldogs attack is sophomore quarterback Jordan Ernst, who has thrown for 1002 yards and 14 touchdowns on the year.
Never an easy opponent, Sanford High School, fresh off a 40-6 victory over Mancos brings a 7-2 record to Dove Creek.
Scheduled to take place at 2 p.m. the matchup looks to be fairly exciting and will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Without a doubt, it will be an exciting day for the Bulldogs.
For casual sports fans and die-hard Bulldogs’ supporters alike, Dove Creek is certainly the place to be this Saturday.