Gordon, Texas, December 18, 2025
The Gordon Longhorns have achieved a remarkable success in Texas six-man football, clinching the State-level championship following a challenging season marked by natural disasters. Despite their high school facilities being devastated by tornadoes, the team showcased extraordinary resilience and teamwork, culminating in a resounding victory against the Rankin Red Devils. This victory not only secured their third consecutive State title but also highlighted the indomitable spirit of a small community rallying together to overcome significant challenges, reaffirming their legacy in high school sports.
Gordon, Texas – The spirit of competition, teamwork, and unwavering discipline recently culminated in an extraordinary triumph for a small Texas community, proving that character forged in adversity can lead to unparalleled success. The Gordon Longhorns, a powerhouse in Texas six-man football, clinched another State-level championship, but this victory carried a profound significance far beyond the scoreboard, embodying the values of resilience that resonate across all Texas prep sports, including the vibrant high school football scene in Houston.
Their journey through the 2025 season became a compelling narrative of overcoming immense challenges. Just months earlier, their home, their school, and their beloved football field lay in ruins. Yet, through collective hard work and an unyielding commitment to personal responsibility, the Longhorns not only rebuilt their season but soared to the pinnacle of State-level high school football.
A Devastating Blow in May
In May, a series of seven tornadoes, including at least one EF-1 with winds up to 107 mph, tore through Gordon, Texas. The powerful storms inflicted widespread devastation, leveling the high school’s football and baseball fields, shredding the gym roof, and destroying the weight room and equipment storage areas. The disaster also impacted over 30 homes within the tight-knit community. The Gordon Independent School District campus was forced to close for the remainder of that school year. This left the Longhorns, a program deeply rooted in discipline and commitment, without a home field for their highly anticipated 2025 season, presenting an immediate and daunting challenge.
The Road Warriors’ Season of Resolve
Undeterred by the destruction of their athletic facilities, the Gordon Longhorns embraced their role as road warriors for the 2025 season. The team navigated nearly the entire season playing away from their campus, with their only home game occurring in the final week of the regular season. This single home game provided a poignant opportunity for a homecoming and senior night in late November, a moment of unity for the community. The challenging schedule, instead of fracturing the team, strengthened their bond and resolve. The Longhorns showcased exceptional grit and a disciplined approach, winning every game by mercy rule, with the sole exception of an 11-man game they participated in against Thorndale. This remarkable run underscored their unwavering focus and competitive spirit.
A Dynasty Forged in Adversity
The Gordon Longhorns culminated their unforgettable 2025 campaign with a dominant performance in the Class 1A Division I State-level championship. The championship game was held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, where the Longhorns faced off against the Rankin Red Devils. Gordon secured the State-level title with a final score of 69-22. The game concluded midway through the third quarter, triggered by the 45-point mercy rule. This victory marked Gordon’s third consecutive State-level title and their fifth overall State-level championship, firmly establishing their legacy as one of the most enduring six-man dynasties in Texas high school football history. The Longhorns extended their impressive winning streak to 44 games. They joined Richland Springs (2010-12) and Fort Hancock (1988-91) as the only six-man teams in Texas high school football history to win three straight State-level titles.
Standout Performances Under Pressure
The State-level championship game highlighted several exceptional individual performances, demonstrating the talent and hard work instilled in the Gordon Longhorns program. Senior Stryker Reed was honored as the Offensive MVP of the game, delivering a stellar performance with 160 rushing yards and four touchdowns on just seven carries. His 44-yard touchdown run in the third quarter ultimately brought the game to its early conclusion under the mercy rule. Reed is notably committed to the Air Force. Defensive MVP honors were awarded to Brayden Walters, who played a crucial role on defense with 11 tackles, a tackle for loss, and an interception, showcasing the strength of the Longhorns’ defensive unit. Quarterback Noah Kostiha wasted no time, connecting with Asher Salinas for a 25-yard touchdown on the team’s very first offensive snap. Additionally, Ry Reed, an Army commit, contributed two scores in the first quarter, including a 42-yard touchdown pass from Kostiha. The team is led by Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Mike Reed.
Community Unity: The Real Victory
The victory for the Gordon Longhorns transcends football; it represents the powerful bond and collective spirit of a community that refused to be defeated by adversity. Gordon, a town with a population of approximately 500 residents, rallied together in the wake of the tornadoes, showcasing remarkable unity. Community members organized extensive cleanup efforts, including a symbolic bonfire in November where debris from the storm was burned, signifying a collective move towards renewal. The Tarleton State football team also provided significant assistance with the cleanup, illustrating the widespread support for Gordon. The Gordon Independent School District Superintendent emphasized the importance of the community uniting, while Head Coach Mike Reed highlighted how the State-level championship served as tangible proof of their collective resilience and dedication. This powerful narrative of shared responsibility and mutual support stands as a testament to how high school sports can act as a catalyst for community identity and upliftment.
The Gordon Longhorns’ 2025 State-level championship is far more than just a trophy; it is a profound testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, meticulously forged through teamwork, discipline, and unwavering perseverance. Their inspiring journey from devastation to triumph offers a powerful narrative for all Texas high school sports enthusiasts, including those in Houston, reminding everyone of the profound character and abundant opportunities that dedicated athletic programs cultivate. We encourage our readers to support local high school athletic programs, attend games, and follow HEREHouston.com for more uplifting stories of achievement and community spirit in Texas prep sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened to the Gordon Longhorns’ football field?
In May, a series of seven tornadoes, including at least one EF-1 with winds up to 107 mph, tore through Gordon, Texas, destroying the high school’s football and baseball fields, shredding the gym roof, and damaging other athletic facilities.
- When did the Gordon Longhorns win their most recent State-level championship?
The Gordon Longhorns won their most recent State-level championship on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
- Who did the Gordon Longhorns play in the 2025 State-level championship game?
The Gordon Longhorns played the Rankin Red Devils in the 2025 Class 1A Division I State-level championship game.
- What was the score of the 2025 State-level championship game?
The Gordon Longhorns defeated the Rankin Red Devils 69-22 in the 2025 Class 1A Division I State-level championship game.
- How many State-level titles do the Gordon Longhorns have?
The Gordon Longhorns have won five overall State-level titles, with the 2025 victory being their third consecutive State-level championship.
- Who were the MVPs of the 2025 State-level championship game?
Stryker Reed was named Offensive MVP and Brayden Walters was named Defensive MVP of the 2025 Class 1A Division I State-level championship game.
- What is the population of Gordon, Texas?
Gordon, Texas, has a population of approximately 500 residents.
Key Features of the Gordon Longhorns’ 2025 State-level Championship Season
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado Event | Series of seven tornadoes, including at least one EF-1 (winds up to 107 mph), in May. | Gordon, Texas |
| Impact on Facilities | Destroyed football and baseball fields, gym roof shredded, weight room destroyed. | Gordon High School |
| Season’s Challenge | Played nearly entire 2025 season on the road, with only one home game. | Texas |
| Championship Outcome | Defeated Rankin Red Devils 69-22, ended by mercy rule in third quarter. | State-level |
| Championship Location | AT&T Stadium, Arlington. | State-level |
| Total State Titles | Five overall State-level titles. | State-level |
| Consecutive State Titles | Third consecutive State-level championship. | State-level |
| Offensive MVP | Stryker Reed (160 rushing yards, 4 TDs, Air Force commit). | Specific to game |
| Defensive MVP | Brayden Walters (11 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT). | Specific to game |
| Team Winning Streak | 44 consecutive wins. | State-level |
| Community Size | Approximately 500 residents. | Gordon, Texas |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
