On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Union Grove Lions head football coach Kyle Adams joins the show as the Lions enter district play with a perfect 4-0 record.

Coach Adams reflects on Union Grove’s strong start, crediting the team’s preparation, focus, and ability to handle difficult situations. He discusses the Lions’ back-and-forth win over Hallsville, the value of a timely bye week, and how the team has used its break to reset and prepare for a major district matchup against Paul Pewitt.

The conversation also highlights Union Grove’s defense, which has held opponents to six points in games against Queen City and Elkhart. Adams explains that great defense takes a special mentality and praises defensive coordinator Coach Gibson for his preparation and game plans. With physical, tough-minded players at key positions, the Lions have built their early-season success around flying to the football and dominating the line of scrimmage.

Adams also discusses his journey with the Union Grove program. After spending nine years as an assistant under his father, he has now led the Lions through steady improvement as head coach, including six wins in his first season and a seven-win, playoff-bound campaign last year. He credits his coaching staff, the character of the players, and the close-knit Union Grove community for helping the program continue to grow.

Looking ahead, the Lions face a major test against the Paul Pewitt Brahmas, a physical, run-heavy team with a dangerous running back, explosive return threats, and a strong defensive front. Adams says Union Grove will need to be sharp in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams—to earn the district-opening win.

Also in this episode, the show recaps East Texas Week Five football action, including Jefferson’s win over Pittsburg, Whitehouse’s dominant victory over Nacogdoches, Carthage’s road win at West Orange-Stark, Gilmer’s win over Sunnyvale, Tatum’s victory over Daingerfield, and Hawkins’ defensive battle against Cayuga.