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Since Troy Gleave took over as head football coach four years ago, he has consistently worked to reinvent expectations at Payette High.
Labeled as the perennial underdog by competitors and the community, Gleave says players have come to expect mediocrity.
"It's been ingrained in their brain, in their soul and the parents' soul and the town's soul that we don't win football games," Gleave said. "That's all they hear."
Gleave's mission - one he shares with players on the practice field every day - is to change that perception.
He doesn't want his players to be satisfied with just working hard or simply scoring a touchdown. He wants to win.
"Getting to the expectation that we're supposed to win, that we can play with the other teams is extremely tough to get through," Gleave said.
The Pirates started off strong last season, winning two of their first three games against 2A schools, and they are hoping to do the same again this season.
Payette has filled its nonconference schedule with four 2A teams - Cole Valley Christian, Melba, Marsing and New Plymouth. It could potentially serve as a confidence booster before Payette kicks off conference play - and its bid to earn its first football postseason berth in school history - Sept. 26 at Weiser.
"Never give up any play, just keep on going hard," said junior offensive and defensive lineman Tyler Kuder of his expectations for his team.
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