FORNEY, Texas — As cross-town rivals North Forney High School and Forney High School prepare to take the field Friday night during the 6th annual Unity Bowl, long-time Forney Messenger sports reporter Michael Morrill recounts the history of the bowl series.
FORNEY, Texas — As cross-town rivals North Forney High School and Forney High School prepare to take the field Friday night during the 6th annual Unity Bowl, long-time Forney Messenger sports reporter Michael Morrill recounts the history of the bowl series.
The Unity Bowl began in 2012 after North Forney High School and Forney High School, for the first time, were aligned in the same district.
Over the next five years, Forney High School would remain undefeated in the rivalry matchup.
Unity Bowl scoring history:
2012: Forney — 24, North Forney — 14, Forney was a playoff qualifier.
2013: Forney — 27, North Forney — 17
2014: Forney — 48, North Forney — 0
2015: Forney — 59, North Forney — 28, Forney was a playoff qualifier.
2016: Forney — 37, North Forney — 19
2017: TBD, North Forney is a playoff qualifier.
Coaching History of the Unity Bowl
The Forney Jackrabbits head coach position, held by Kevin Rush, has remained unchanged through the history of the Unity Bowl.
For the first season since the creation of the Unity Bowl, North Forney will be under the direction of a new head coach with the selection of new Head Coach Randy Jackson.
2012–17 — Forney, Head Coach Kevin Rush
2012-16 — North Forney, Head Coach Lance Gary
2017 — North Forney, Head Coach Randy Jackson
Pre-Game Stats
Both teams are competing in UIL District 15-5A which includes defending state champions, Highland Park, among other proven powerhouses.
Coming into the Unity Bowl this year, the Falcons overall record stands at 7-2 overall and 4-2 in District 15-5A play. After last week’s huge victory over West Mesquite, the Falcons clinched a playoff berth and are headed to the playoffs for the first time since the 2011 season.
Meanwhile, the Jackrabbits have struggled a bit and stand at 2-7 overall and 1-5 in District 15-5A play.
“But, I have a feeling that the 2017 edition of the Unity Bowl will be an interesting and very competitive game,” stated Morrill. “Good luck to both teams.”