BUTTE — The 36th annual Bob Cleverley 8-Man all-star football game is Saturday on Bob Green Field at Montana Tech. The yearly Montana tradition has brought in a new class of some of the most talented athletes in 8-Man football, and Ennis’ Clay Coffman can attest that getting the pads back on took him by surprise.
“It’s pretty crazy, I’m definitely a little out of shape,” said Coffman. “I had to get mentally prepared for it, but it’s fun. It’s a good time getting back at it, getting one last game.”
This last game of Coffman’s high school career will surely be one he won’t forget. His grandfather is Bob Cleverley. When Coffman steps on the field Saturday, he’ll be Cleverley’s first grandkid to play in the game.
“It’s really kind of emotional. It’s really powerful, just crazy,” Coffman said. “You know, I was his only grandson that played Class C and played in this game. It’s a big deal for me and my whole family. I’ve been looking forward to it all throughout high school, and it’s really awesome.”
“It’s really awesome,” Coffman added. “I have my whole family here coming, and hopefully I got my dad on the sideline for the last game. It’s just going to be really awesome and emotional. What a way to go out of high school football, I guess.”
Of course, there’s no better way to end his high school career than with a win, but Coffman said taking in this experience is what matters the most.
“Obviously win. I mean, I’m definitely here to win, but just make some new friends and have a good time and soak it all in and get a W,” he said.
Kickoff for Saturday’s Bob Cleverley 8-Man all-star game is set for 7 p.m.
