For the past several seasons, Houston Christian has experienced its fair share of struggles on the gridiron. However, it appears that the momentum has finally turned in their favor.
Over the course of the offseason, the Mustangs made a series of key additions to the roster that have compelled the team to flip the script in dramatic fashion.
While he remains modest to his contribution, the most evident difference-maker has been none other than the newest Houston Christian signal-caller, senior Bret Kilchrist.
“I wouldn’t really say that I’m the big piece that’s made the team successful,” said Kilchrist. “This whole team, I saw potential in them when I was thinking about transferring here. They really took me in and built me up.”
“I feel like the difference from last year is that they were missing some key components that were added to the team this season. What’s helped me to excel has been my work ethic and the help from my coaches who gave me the opportunity. It’s just been so glorifying.”
The left-handed QB transferred to HCHS after spending the majority of his high school career at Klein High.
“I’ve played private school football my whole life since about fourth grade, so I had previously thought that I could use a change of pace, which is why I moved into public school,” he said. “After a while, I missed the atmosphere of a Christian-centered community.”
“We really didn’t have as much of a brotherhood there, so coach (AJ) Eisenman brought me in and talked to me about that particular aspect that Houston Christian consists of. That’s what I needed, because when you’re out there fighting with your brothers it makes all the difference.”
It would seem that decision has paid dividends, for both Kilchrist and his team.
Kilchrist has already thrown for nearly 1,500 passing yards with 13 scores through the air, while adding 6 more scores on the ground and averaging over 70 rushing yards per game.
It’s clear that his dual-threat performance has elevated the prowess of his entire team, to the point where the Mustangs currently maintain a record of 5-1 (3-0 in district) – the best start for the team in nearly a decade.
So, what will be the point of emphasis to keep this hot-streak going as the remainder of the district schedule plays out, and with the postseason looming?
“We’ll need to be disciplined,” Kilchrist said. “That’s going to be the No. 1 thing we need to focus on as the season progresses. You know, getting to practice, putting in the work. People have their eyes on us, but we need to keep our heads down and have the mindset that we’re 0-0 and maintain that grit as we move forward in the SPC.”
Stay tuned, as Kilchrist and co. are on the path towards claiming the first SPC Football championship in Houston Christian history.