At every Star Valley Braves football game—home or away—you’ll spot a dedicated crew on the sidelines, hustling just as hard as the players on the field. These unsung heroes aren’t wearing pads or helmets, but they’re essential to every snap, play, and practice. Meet the football managers: sophomores Lila Kinder and Bella Beck, and senior managers Janey Young, Clancy Osmond, Harper Sessions, and Clara Pieper.
During the 2025 football season, these students have been at every practice and game, putting in the same hours as the team—often before the first whistle blows and long after the final one. Whether it’s a chilly home game at Braves Stadium or a late-night bus ride after an away game, the managers are always there, keeping things running smoothly for Star Valley Football.
Football Coach Tyson Balls sees them. “The managers have gained buckets of trust as we rely on them daily to get practice equipment ready, sessions filmed, water ready, and everything in between. They demonstrate their love for the program by the way they do their job without complaint, even when the weather is bad or they have other things they’d like to be doing.”
Their responsibilities go far beyond filling water bottles. The managers film practices and games, prepare equipment, set up drills, and make sure the players have what they need—helmets, gear, and hydration—ready to go. They’re behind the scenes of every play, ensuring the team can focus on the game itself. From early mornings to late nights, their work keeps the program strong and organized.
So, why do they do it? For these managers, it’s all about team spirit and dedication. They support the Braves by showing up, working hard, and giving their time to make sure everything runs flawlessly. They fill and refill water bottles before and during practices, get equipment and helmets out, and film every play to help the team improve. It’s not glamorous work, but their effort reflects the same level of commitment expected from any player on the field.
Sophomore manager Bella Beck explained her motivation:“I chose to manage football because this program means a lot to me and my family. The team has a strong tradition of excellence and an incredible coaching staff that I’ve always respected. I really admire the culture they’ve built here, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help support it.”
Senior manager Clancy Osmond shared how meaningful the experience has been for her:“A friend encouraged me to start managing football after she did it last year, and I’m so grateful I did! The environment the coaches work so hard to build has made for one of the most influential experiences in my life. The other managers keep me laughing the whole time and from setup, practice, and game nights, I wouldn’t trade it for anything!”
Fellow senior manager Clara Pieper added her perspective:“I chose to manage this year to be able to try something new. In the previous years, I had always watched the managers while in the student section and wanted to try, but cross country was always at the same time. So this year I decided to try something new and manage. My favorite part about it is talking to new people and hanging out with the coach’s kids.”
Coach Mr. Balls continued, “The football managers are living examples of the three core values of Star Valley Football: trust, love, and commitment. They are here during the summer at camps, all fall during practices, early mornings and late nights for games, and into spring as we get the next season ready. They are totally committed to the team, and we couldn’t do what we do without them!”
Their hard work might not make the highlight reel, but their impact is felt across every yard of the field. The Star Valley Braves football managers prove that being part of a team isn’t just about playing—it’s about showing up, supporting, and committing to something bigger than yourself.
