Bobby Gray's stat line in the annals of Newman varsity football history will show that he rushed once for 3 yards.

But there is no tangible measure for the impact the program has had on Gray, and vice versa.

Before Newman began its trek up the Class 3A playoff ladder, the Comets honored one of the program's many traditions. Each player gives a speech about what he's willing to dedicate, to commit, to the team while adding a link to a chain. He with the most inspirational speech is named Tender of the Chain by the coaching staff.