Experienced new head coach looking to lead Gans Grizzles to new heights as he takes over program

By R.L. Harvey - Courtesy of Arklahoma Sports

Nestled in the heart of Sequoyah County, Gans, Oklahoma, is a small town with a population of about 300. Despite its size, Gans has a rich history and a vibrant community spirit that keeps it thriving.

The town is part of the Fort Smith, Arkansas-Oklahoma metropolitan area and is surrounded by larger schools in Sallisaw and Muldrow. The Gans Public School District serves around 350 students, with the Grizzlies as their mascot.

Gans is perhaps best known for being the hometown of Bryant “Big Country” Reeves, a towering figure in the world of basketball. Reeves, who grew up in this small community, went on to play college basketball at Oklahoma State University and later spent his professional career with the Vancouver Grizzlies in the NBA.

His journey from Gans to the NBA is proof of the potential that lies within this small town.

The town’s amenities include a convenience store/gas station and a school that serves as the hub of the community and a place where the kids can hang out if they want to remain close to home.

Nearby, the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir offers recreational opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities, making it a popular spot for local kids.

This year, Gans welcomes a new football coach, Gary Hixon, who brings 26 years of coaching experience to the team. Hixon, who previously served as Co-Defensive Coordinator at Muldrow, is focused on building a strong foundation for the Grizzlies. Before that he spent two years at Cave Springs High School, as well as Roland and Gore, in Oklahoma. He also spent time at Mulberry and Lincoln High Schools, in Arkansas, and additionally, Houston, Texas.

“The main goals for the team this preseason are to install the offense, defense, and the terminology that goes with them,” Hixon explained. “Another goal is to instill confidence in the players that they can be successful and win now.”

Hixon acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly the team’s lack of experience.

“A weakness on our team will be inexperience. We will lack experience at quarterback, whoever that might be. There might be freshmen starting at key spots on both the offense and defense,” he noted.

However, he remains optimistic about the team’s potential.

“A strength of this team is that all the offensive linemen are back and have game experience. They will be asked to do a lot to keep our young quarterback upright when we need to pass the ball or make a hole for the running backs in short yardage situations.”

The new coach is also focused on changing the team’s culture.

“We are trying to get our players to develop a culture that was at Gans in the past but has somehow gotten lost. We have athletes buying into the weight room, and we have some that expect to just be able to go when practice starts on August 12. Changing the culture to being not only physically tough but mentally tough as well is of utmost importance,” Hixon emphasized.

Despite Gans’ historical success in various sports, the football team has struggled in the post- COVID era, averaging just two wins since the 2020 shortened season. In fact, it has been more than a decade since the team has had a winning record, and over two decades since the team finished as runner-up in state in their class in 2003.

Facing the powerhouse team from Shattuck, the Grizzlies came just one win short of the championship, finishing at 13-1 for the season.

Coach Hixon is determined to turn things around, focusing on improving one game at a time.

Along with his wealth of experience and deep commitment to the team, Hixon is supported by his loving family.

“My wife, Belinda, and I have five kids together and four grandbabies,” he shared with a smile.

This strong family foundation mirrors the close-knit community of Gans, where everyone rallies behind the Grizzlies, just like a family.

Hixon’s focus is centered on continuous improvement.

“The philosophy that I am taking into the season is to get better with every rep during practice as well as games. I was unable to have spring football here, so there will be some growing pains initially, but we want to be improved by the time we get to our district games,” he said. “Patience will be a necessity on my part. I don’t believe in rebuilding because that isn’t fair to the seniors who have been here for the duration of their high school career.

Playoffs are the goal for these kids.”

As the new season approaches, the morale of the team is upbeat.

“Everybody is 0-0 and has achance to have a great season. They are also eager to see what the coaching staff can bring to them to be successful. They want a chance to be good and be successful,” Hixon shared.

As the sun sets over the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, the Gans Grizzlies, led by their new coach Gary Hixon, are preparing for a new season. With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned determination, this team is ready to face the challenges ahead, one game at a time. The community, with its hopes pinned on these young athletes, eagerly anticipates gathering under the Friday night lights, united in their support.

In Gans, it’s not just about the wins and losses – it’s about the journey and the unyielding spirit that binds this town together.

With Coach Hixon at the helm, there’s a renewed sense of optimism and

anticipation.

The Grizzlies are poised to make their mark, and the entire town is behind them, cheering

every step of the way. Here’s to new beginnings and the timeless spirit of small-town football.

Go Grizzlies!