Before to every Dolores High School football game, KC Davis applies eye black, laces his cleats and fastens his chinstrap.
Then, like a man possessed, the senior lineman hurtles his body around the field, opening holes for teammates and harassing the opposition.
"(Football) has been really fun," said Davis. "Our guys have had more discipline (this year) on and off the field."
Playing on Bears offensive and defensive lines, Davis has enjoyed his finest season to date. In addition to opening holes for Bears running backs, Davis ranks second on the team in tackles with 71 and first on the team in sacks with six.
Such statistics are even more impressive given the fact that Davis weighs just 155 pounds and consistently battles far larger opponents.
"I'm more of a speed guy on defense," said Davis. "I know that I don't have size or power against a lot of (offensive) tackles, so I use my speed to get around them."
Just how lethal Davis' speed can be became apparent on Oct. 3 when Davis made 16 tackles to help lead his team to a 28-19 homecoming victory over John Mall.
Off the field, Davis consistently mentors younger teammates, while setting a example of what it means to be a Dolores Bear.
"(Davis) never misses a single day," said Dolores head coach Chris Trusler. "He's dedicated, and we always know he's going to be there. When he does talks, the kids look up to him. He's exactly the kind of kid you want to have on a football team.
Davis plans to play basketball this winter and suit up for the Bears baseball team in the spring. He hopes to attend college and pursue a degree in business management.
In the meantime, Davis said he wants close out his high school career with a win over Ignacio on Oct. 24.
"You get a lot of confidence after a big win," said Davis. "Winning adds more to the game."
