Coach Hayden Fry hypes up his players for another hard-fought game. Photo courtesy of Hayden Fry

DIXON, CA (MPG) - The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines mighty to mean powerful, accomplished or great in extent or size. Each of these terms perfectly describes the whirlwind football season Coach Hayden Fry and his undefeated Mighty Mites have experienced.

Dixon Youth Football’s Mighty Mites played a stellar 2024 season, going 8-0 into their game at 10 a.m. Nov. 2 against the Woodland Christian School Jr. Cardinals, who were also undefeated leading into Saturday’s game; the winner of this game would go on to enter the playoffs as the first seed, or the top-ranked team in the bracket.

After a grueling back and forth that pushed both teams to their limit, the final score was 18 to 6, with the Mighty Mites losing.  

However, Coach Fry and his team refuse to lose faith as they go into the playoffs as the second seed, as the team has come quite far. Fry is in his second year as a Dixon Youth Football head coach and is quite adept, having also coached youth baseball and wrestling.

Mighty Mites Quarterback Chase Scott leads his team to the field. Photo courtesy of Hayden Fry

“I have always loved coaching,” Fry said. “I started coaching Dixon Youth Football once my son, Ryder, started to play. Ryder is 7 years old and he plays for the Mighty Mites. I have enjoyed coaching because it’s the only thing that makes me feel like I am competing again.”

Fry described his leadership style as vocal and high energy, openly wearing his heart on his sleeve and letting his passion show.

“I often times can be heard yelling ‘it’s a great day to be alive’ before practice or games,” Fry said. “I try and set the tone for every practice and every game. I have learned children can be easily influenced and they are like mirrors of their coaches. Knowing this, I try to carry myself in a way that will positively affect them on and off the field.”

Fry’s inspirational demeanor does not go unnoticed, especially by his players.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself and make sure you are having fun,” said Chase Scott, number 15, the Mighty Mites’ quarterback. “I like playing football because it is a challenge. I also enjoy battling through difficult games because I feel accomplished and proud of myself after the game is over.”

The Mighty Mites Team Captain, number 24, running back Carter Norfolk also said he was inspired by Coach Fry’s passion.

The Mighty Mites make their debut onto the field out of a giant inflatable helmet. Photo courtesy of Hayden Fry

“As team captain, I had to learn how to be a leader and how to guide my teammates,” Norfolk said. “I like it when my team gets together before we run out for a game and we get each other hyped up.”

With playoffs close at hand, the Mighty Mites remain focused and hopeful. As the only team to score a single point on Woodland Christian all season, they intend on getting their win back during the Super Bowl.

“I did not know how I was going to feel about coaching football prior to starting two years ago but I quickly learned that it is one of my favorite parts of my life. The kids and supporting parents have provided me with memories that will last me a lifetime,” Fry said in closing.

The Mighty Mites will play the East Nicolas Spartans at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. The semi-final will be at Pierce High School, 960 Wildwood Road, Arbuckle.