WICHITA, Kansas, September 23, 2008 -- In some ways, it felt like just another fall Monday at Bluestem High School as football players met in Coach George Stewart’s classroom after school to watch Friday’s game film.

As usual, Stewart pointed out problem areas, but the criticism seemed more constructive and the issues not as overwhelming. For the first time, the Lions were watching a win. Their last came on September 29, 2000…69 games ago.

Senior receiver Darius Semish admitted that the seniors cried. Senior lineman Alex Cooper called it “one of the greatest things that's happened to me up to date."

The Lions lost the lead to Belle Plaine in the fourth quarter, but then regained the lead on Wade McHone’s second touchdown run. The Dragons had two more chances to tie, but an interception in the final minutes led to Bluestem using the Victory formation for the first time in seven years.

The game was in Belle Plaine. Upon returning to Leon, the Lions received a police escort and a caravan formed that “was about a mile long,” according to Stewart.

On Monday, the school held an assembly. Each player signed the game ball.

The Lions don’t want this to be the highlight of their season. But, for now, regaining respect and restoring pride have been accomplished.