The Pahrump Valley High School Trojans wrapped up their 2024 football season with a hard-fought playoff game against the SLAM Bulls on Friday, November 8th, marking the end of a season defined by growth, resilience, and the promise of an exciting future. Despite a final score of 56-33, the Trojans’ spirit and determination shone through as they battled one of the top teams in the league.
The game opened with SLAM taking a strong lead, with two touchdowns, putting the Bulls up 14-0 by the end of the first quarter. The Trojans answered back early in the second quarter, capitalizing on field position granted by an unnecessary roughness penalty against the Bulls. Pahrump’s offensive drive culminated in a pass from quarterback Kayne Horibe to Ethen Hutchison in the end zone, with Aaron Rily’s extra point narrowing the score to 14-7.
The Bulls continued to press forward, adding two more touchdowns before halftime and expanding their lead to 28-7. In the third quarter, SLAM’s running game proved challenging to stop, with another touchdown widening the gap to 35-7. Yet the Trojans refused to back down; Horibe connected with Austin Alvarez for a touchdown, though the extra point attempt was blocked, bringing the score to 35-13.
In the fourth quarter, the Trojans kept pushing to the end. Horibe’s lateral to Alvarez, who launched a pass to Lucas Gavenda for a thrilling touchdown, brought a surge of excitement to the team and fans alike. Despite a missed two-point conversion, the Trojans showed their creativity and resolve, with the scoreboard now at 42-19. They closed out with two additional touchdowns — including another long pass to Gavenda in the game’s final minutes — showing off their offensive capabilities and finishing the game with a final score of 56-33.
Defensive Coach Mike Colucci praised the team’s season-long commitment. “We didn’t play our best game on defense. But nonetheless, I’m very proud of our team for the effort and commitment they put forth this season. They made our school and our town very proud, and I really feel like we are just getting started. The future is bright for Trojan Football at Pahrump Valley High School!”
Offensive Coach Toby Henry echoed the positive outlook, emphasizing the strides the Trojans made this year. “Offensively the boys played well on Friday. We proved we can compete with anyone. This season was a huge stepping stone for years to come. We are a young team and it was great for our guys to get a postseason win and see the best in the 3A. Our guys know what to expect now and know a state title is not out of our reach.”
The Trojans’ playoff game against SLAM was also a bittersweet moment for the team’s seniors, who have been instrumental in shaping the team’s character and work ethic. This year’s senior class brought leadership, dedication, and invaluable experience to the field, inspiring younger players and setting a strong foundation for the program’s future.
“They leave big shoes to fill,” said Coach Colucci. “Their commitment to this team and community has made a lasting impact, and while we’re excited about the young talent on our roster, there’s no doubt we’ll miss our seniors next year.”
As these seniors move on, they leave behind a legacy of resilience and camaraderie, qualities that will continue to guide the Trojans in the seasons to come. Their influence ensures that the team, even in their absence, will carry forward the lessons they imparted and aim for new heights.
While this game concluded the Trojans’ playoff run, the coaches and players leave the field with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. With a season of growth and learning behind them, the Trojans are well-positioned to return next year with even greater strength and determination, looking to turn the promise of this season into an achievement-filled future.
