Home Care In Valley Spring, TX

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Valley Spring in Valley Spring, TX gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Valley Spring, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

Home Care Services

Home Care in Valley Spring, TX
The Always Best Care Difference
Types of In-home Care in Valley Spring, TX
Benefits of Home Care in Valley Spring, TX
Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors
Affordable Care Plans
Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers
Assisted Living Referral Services
Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

Service Areas

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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Elderly Care for Lesley N.

“Everyone is so caring and the office staff jumps in to help anytime there is”

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In-home Care for Edward C.

“My experience with these amazing home care professionals is as close to perfect as it”

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Home Care Services for Tsholofelo M.

“I invested $500 with Mrs Sandra and made $6500 within 6 days, Investment pay faster.”

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Non-medical Home Care for Antoinette G.

“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support”

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Personal Senior Care for Mark A.

“I am a past client of this provider Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with.”

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Home Care for Mark A.

“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff”

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Home Care for Melissa C.

“For those who are searching for qualified caregivers for their loved ones, contact Ken Thomas”

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Senior Care Services for Kelly B.

“Ken leads his Always Best Care Senior Services Agency with compassion for his clients and”

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Personal Senior Care for Chae S.

“Kenneth is kind, patient, experienced and knowledgeable. We are thankful to him for all his”

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In-home Care for Laurie K.

“Very professional and welcoming people so I would definitely recommend my friends and family to”

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Home Care Services for Kristen B.

“The owner is so understanding and supportive of how I want my loved ones cared”

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Personal Care Services for Chae S.

“Kenneth is knowledgeable and trustworthy. I can’t recommend him enough. You’re in good hands with”

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Non-medical Home Care for Shirley S.

“ALWAYS BEST CARE is certainly a warm & caring business owned & operated by”

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Senior Caregiver for Jill &.

“I will be forever grateful for the love you showered upon us and my grandmother”

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Lesley N.

Edward C.

Tsholofelo M.

Antoinette G.

Mark A.

Melissa C.

Kelly B.

Chae S.

Laurie K.

Kristen B.

Chae S.

Shirley S.

Jill &.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Valley Spring, TX?

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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Types of Elderly Care in Valley Spring, TX

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

Eating
Mobility Issues
Incontinence

Bathing
Dressing
Grooming

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Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

Medication Reminders
Meal Preparation
Pet Care
Prescription Refills

Morning Wake-Up
Walking
Reading

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Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Big Spring State Park in Valley Spring, TX with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

Grocery Shopping
Transportation to Appointments
Nutritional Assistance
Conversation

Planning Outings
Completing Errands
Transportation to Community
Events and Social Outings

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Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave or visit Fort Stanton Historic Site, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

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Benefits of Home Care in Valley Spring, TX

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Age in Place

According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.

Peace of Mind

If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.

Socialization

Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.

Personalized Care Plan

No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Valley Spring, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your TX's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.

Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.

Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.

Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Valley Spring, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

Housekeeping
Laundry
Recreational Activities
Social Outings
Emergency Medical Response
Medication Monitoring
Family Visitation
Personal Care

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

Valley View Independent Living
Valley View Senior Living
A Place For Mom - Senior Living Advisor Truda Swanson
A Place For Mom - Senior Living Advisor Kristin Faulhaber
Golden Age Senior Placement
Living Springs Village

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Valley Spring, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

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Football playoff preview: District 13-5A-I guarantees San Antonio at least one state semifinalist

District 13-5A-I continues to prove itself as one of the toughest leagues in the Greater San Antonio area.All four of its playoff teams — Smithson Valley, Pieper, New Braunfels and Boerne Champion — will be playing in the regional semifinals. One of them will represent Region IV in the Class 5A Division I state semifinals.6A-IIAustin Vandegrift (10-2) vs. San Marcos (8-4), 7:30 p.m. Friday, AlamodomeDripping Springs (11-1) vs. Medina Valley (10-2), 2 p.m. Friday, Farris Stadium5A-I...

District 13-5A-I continues to prove itself as one of the toughest leagues in the Greater San Antonio area.

All four of its playoff teams — Smithson Valley, Pieper, New Braunfels and Boerne Champion — will be playing in the regional semifinals. One of them will represent Region IV in the Class 5A Division I state semifinals.

6A-IIAustin Vandegrift (10-2) vs. San Marcos (8-4), 7:30 p.m. Friday, AlamodomeDripping Springs (11-1) vs. Medina Valley (10-2), 2 p.m. Friday, Farris Stadium

5A-ISmithson Valley (11-1) vs. Pieper (8-4), 1 p.m. Friday, Heroes StadiumBoerne Champion (9-3) vs. New Braunfels (10-2), 7 p.m. Friday, Alamo Stadium

5A-IIBoerne (11-1) vs. Gregory-Portland (11-1), 1 p.m. Friday, Comalander StadiumVictoria West (10-2) vs. Alamo Heights (11-1), 1 p.m. Friday, Memorial Stadium, Bastrop

4A-IBay City (8-3) vs. Davenport (12-0), 2 p.m. Friday, Pridgeon Stadium, CypressLa Vernia (11-1) vs. Corpus Christi Calallen (10-2), 7 p.m. Friday, Farris Stadium

4A-IIRockport-Fulton (8-4) vs. Cuero (11-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday, Buccaneer Stadium, Corpus ChristiSinton (11-1) vs. Wimberley (8-4), 7 p.m. Friday, Comalander Stadium

3A-ILlano (11-1) vs. Goliad (10-2), 7 p.m. Friday, Memorial Stadium, BastropEdna (8-3) vs. Ingram Moore (8-4), 7 p.m. Friday, Cougar Stadium, New Braunfels

3A-IIBlanco (10-2) vs. Tidehaven (12-0), 1 p.m. Friday, Matador Stadium, SeguinEast Bernard (8-4) vs. Lexington (10-1), 2 p.m. Friday, Daiken Stadium, Waller

2A-IKenedy (10-2) vs. Mason (9-3), 7 p.m. Friday, Memorial Stadium, HuttoGanado (11-1) vs. Refugio (11-0), 7 p.m. Friday, Sandcrab Stadium, Port Lavaca

2A-IIGranger (12-0) vs. Junction (12-0), 7 p.m. Friday, Eagle Field, Johnson CityShiner (12-0) vs. Iola (9-3), 2 p.m. Friday, Buffalo Stadium, Giddings

Smithson Valley (11-1) takes on Pieper (8-4) on Friday. On Sept. 26., Smithson Valley defeated Pieper 27-17. The Rangers have not lost a game since Brennan beat them in an non-district game in the second week of the season. Smithson Valley’s defense has yet to allow a single point in the playoffs this year, posting shutouts of Southside and Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial as the Rangers are looking strong in their bid to defend last year’s state championship.

Pieper has statement wins over New Braunfels and Boerne, but the Warriors have also taken losses to Express-News ranked teams in Johnson, Davenport and Smithson Valley. Pieper showed out last week in a 42-35 road win over Corpus Christi Flour Bluff, which ended its season last year. Warriors quarterback Isaiah Gaitan threw for 405 yards and five touchdowns with one interception to keep Pieper’s season alive.

New Braunfels (10-2) and Boerne Champion (9-3) also played to a 27-17 score in district play as the Unicorns defeated the Chargers on Oct. 10 at Boerne ISD Stadium.

“It’s almost like you’re in the playoffs already,” New Braunfels coach Brad Molder said after that game.

New Braunfels’ two losses came against district opponents Pieper and Smithson Valley. New Braunfels has cruised to comfortable playoff wins over Laredo Nixon and McAllen Memorial, defeating each by at least 30 points.

Meanwhile, Boerne Champion has not dropped a game since that New Braunfels loss. The Chargers have won six games in a row and ended the regular season with a big 51-44 win over Pieper.

Other games to watch

Johnson (12-0) vs. Steele (11-1): Johnson is back in the third round for the first time since 2013 under then-head coach Ron Rittimann. That year, Johnson went to the Class 5A state semifinals, where it fell to Katy. This Johnson team is anchored by junior quarterback Elvis Estrada, who has quickly risen as one of the area’s most prolific passers. Johnson also has an all-purpose offensive player in senior Rayshun Hurt and a rising star in freshman Braelyn Allen, who has already reported offers from Texas Tech, SMU and UTSA. Wide receiver Bryson Thompson and cornerback Mikhail McCreary also hold Power Four offers.

Meanwhile, Steele is trying to make it past the third round after falling to eventual state champion Austin Vandegrift in last year’s regional semifinals. Steele is home to running back Jonathan Hatton, who re-committed to Oklahoma last week. Hatton is currently listed as ESPN’s No. 8 running back in the class of 2026. While Hatton is the focal point of Steele’s offense, the Knights’ defense has a star in junior safety Eli Johnson. He committed to Ohio State earlier this month and is a four-star prospect, per 247Sports. Friday’s matchup will be a battle between two of San Antonio’s top Class 6A programs, both loaded with Power Four talent.

Medina Valley (10-2) vs. Dripping Springs (11-1): Medina Valley is in the midst of its deepest playoff run since 2009, which is also the year of the Panthers’ last appearance in the regional semifinals. To continue this historic season, Medina Valley will have to get past Dripping Springs, which dominated Express-News No. 2 ranked Harlan in the second round last week. Dripping Springs’ only loss this season was to powerhouse Austin Lake Travis.

Alamo Heights (11-1) vs. Victoria West (10-2): This will be a District 13-5A-II rematch for a spot in the regional finals. Alamo Heights bested Victoria West 52-42 on the road on Oct. 10. In that game, Alamo Heights running back DK Garza rushed for a whopping 512 yards and five touchdowns on 37 carries. The Mules might need another big game from Garza to keep its season alive. Victoria West quarterback Nolan Bryce threw for 311 yards and two touchdowns against Alamo Heights, while running back Andrew Henley ran for 159 yards and three scores.

La Vernia (11-1) vs. Corpus Christi Calallen (10-2): La Vernia is one step closer to returning to the state semifinals after getting there for the first time last season. The Bears defeated the Somerset Bulldogs 51-33 last week behind five total touchdowns from Ty Carter. Corpus Christi Calallen is coming off a 42-14 win over Canyon Lake and is looking to make it past the third round of playoffs, which is where its season ended last year.

Chase Ames fires 6 TD passes as Dripping Springs crushes Medina Valley 45-14 in Class 6A DII playoffs

SAN ANTONIO — Add Dripping Springs' Chase Ames to the short list of the best high school football quarterbacks in Central Texas.The Tigers junior was nothing short of sensational — some might say perfect — in a 45-14 victory over Medina Valley in a Class 6A DII regional semifinal playoff game Friday at the Farris Athletic Complex. He completed all 18 of his pass attempts for 318 yards and six touchdowns, easily his best performance of the season.MORE: What are we thankful for? Austin-area athl...

SAN ANTONIO — Add Dripping Springs' Chase Ames to the short list of the best high school football quarterbacks in Central Texas.

The Tigers junior was nothing short of sensational — some might say perfect — in a 45-14 victory over Medina Valley in a Class 6A DII regional semifinal playoff game Friday at the Farris Athletic Complex. He completed all 18 of his pass attempts for 318 yards and six touchdowns, easily his best performance of the season.

MORE: What are we thankful for? Austin-area athletes give their love, thanks

Dripping Springs (12-1) will face Vandegrift (11-2) at 3 p.m. next Saturday at the Alamodome in the regional finals.

Here are some observations from Friday's game:

Spreading the ball around to his playmakers

Considering it was an overcast and windy day in San Antonio, Ames' masterpiece was brilliant. Not only did he hit short and medium-range passes, he also found time to connect on a few deep routes to a pack of talented Tiger receivers who made tough catches all afternoon. Arizona State-bound Cooper Reid hauled in six grabs for 84 yards and two touchdowns, Merrik Bloomgren had four catches for 105 yards and two touchdowns and James Montgomery had five catches for 115 yards and one score. All three are seniors.

Dripping Springs scored on its first seven offensive possessions and finished with 483 yards, 356 through the air.

"I'm grateful to be here and I'm grateful for my teammates and how good they are as playmakers," Ames said. "I try to spread the ball to all of them."

Friday's maestro, though, was Ames.

"I think he's a dog, man," said Reid, who has come on strong from an early-season shoulder injury. "Coming in or coming out, he's working as hard as he can each and every day."

Dripping Springs coach Galen Zimmerman showed mercy by taking his quarterback out with 11 minutes, 46 seconds remaining in the game. Ames' final pass was a 42-yard touchdown strike to Reid.

"I'm looking forward to the next game," Ames said. "December football is really fun."

Zimmerman was impressed by Ames' perfect passing game.

"That's hard to do against air sometimes," he said. "We push it down the field too with some post routes and some go-routes. He was throwing against the wind and with the wind."

Coach predicted Dripping Springs would excel in 2025

Back in August, about an hour before Dripping Springs opened the season with a 41-14 win over defending Class 6A DII state champion Vandegrift, Zimmerman told the American-Statesman that "a lot of people are underestimating us this year."

Obviously, he knew this team was special. Its only loss was a 14-7 decision in mid-October to Lake Travis.

What makes this team special?

"We have a coaching staff and kids who like spending time together," Zimmerman said before walking out of the stadium Friday. "We've got a really good senior class. We've got athletic kids, but the team chemistry between all the players and the coaches is something neat to watch from a head coaching perspective."

Smithson Valley's defense paves the way for repeat Texas High School football title with win over Frisco Lone Star

Smithson Valley forces 4 fumbles, records 6 sacks, adds Pick-6 in dominating showing during a 28-6 win in front of 21,943 fansSmithson Valley looks to repeat as state champion, but for the second straight year, it will be the road team in terms of fans.Last year, the Rangers secured state title No. 1 with a win against Dallas Highland Park.This year, Frisco Lone Star is the foe, another nearby town, when the two clash in the Class 5A Division 1 finals at 7 p.m. in Arlington.Both teams are nicknamed the Rangers, so...

Smithson Valley forces 4 fumbles, records 6 sacks, adds Pick-6 in dominating showing during a 28-6 win in front of 21,943 fans

Smithson Valley looks to repeat as state champion, but for the second straight year, it will be the road team in terms of fans.

Last year, the Rangers secured state title No. 1 with a win against Dallas Highland Park.

This year, Frisco Lone Star is the foe, another nearby town, when the two clash in the Class 5A Division 1 finals at 7 p.m. in Arlington.

Both teams are nicknamed the Rangers, so we will avoid using that moniker in the updates.

What to know

Frisco Lone Star enters with a 15-0 record and will look to keep the trend going of undefeated teams here at Jerry’s World. After Carthage’s win in the Class 4A Division 1 finals, teams that are unbeaten heading into the finals improved to 4-1 this week.

Lone Star knocked off state powerhouse Aledo last week, 56-52, an improbable comeback to reach the state finals for the second time in school history.

Lone Star was down 17 points late, 52-35, but Wright threw a touchdown to Davian Groce, who had 15 catches for 310 yards and 4 TDs.

Wright threw for 366 yards and 5 TDs and ran for 177 yards and 3 more TDs in the game.

The Lone Star Rangers have beaten North Mesquite (49-6), Georgetown (42-21), West Mesquite (47-20), Highland Park (58-38) and Aledo to make the finals.

Now, they have a chance to win the first state title in Frisco ISD history. Lone Star was in the finals in 2015, losing 22-6 to Cedar Park. That team featured current Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton.

Smithson Valley, part of Comal ISD and located in Spring Branch, beat Highland Park 32-20 last year after losing the four previous trips to the finals.

This is the third trip in a row for Smithson Valley, who lost to Aledo in 2023, 51-8.

Smithson Valley lost in Week 2 this year, 30-21 to San Antonio Brennan, but has won 13 in a row since. Last week, they beat previously undefeated Port Arthur Memorial, 31-28, to punch a ticket back to AT&T Stadium.

When the year started, the offense had only two starters back.

Who to watch

K/PTrent Amaya, sr. — 2nd team all-state pick tied an UIL record in last year’s state title game.

QB Tyler Knutson, jr. — Threw two TDs in the semifinals

RB Caleb Peagler, jr. — Ran for a TD in the semifinals

RB Gunnar Soquist, so. — Two sport athlete who also plays baseball

WR/DB Hunter Haug, jr. — Holds an offer from UTEP

DL Hudson Woods, sr. — SMU signee; 2024 San Antonio Express-News Defensive Player of the Year

DL Justin Roberts, sr. — UTEP pledge, but hasn’t signed yet

TE/OL Ayden Verette, sr. — Wears 76 and 87, depending on where he lines up; Amarillo College baseball signee

LB Colton Hornsby, sr. — Holds an offer from Incarnate Word, Valpo, handful of Division II schools; selected to play in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl in January.

ATH Karece Hoyt, sr. -- 840 yards rushing, 22 TDs; 5 INTs; Baylor commit

ATH Davian Groce, sr. -- Florida signee; has 64 catches for 1,552 yards and 18 TDs; also has 247 yards rushing and 2 TDs

WR Zach Forbish, jr. – Has 12 TDs, on 40 catches and 812 yards

TE Ryder Mix, sr. — 6-foot-4 target signed with Okahoma

QB Trey Wright, jr. — Has threw for 3,927 yards and 37 TDs; on the ground, he's ran for 1,734 yards and 16 TDs

DB Bryant Robinson, jr. -- Has 43 tackles; picked up an offer recently from Iowa, now has 14; District 5-5A D-I Defensive Newcomer of the Year as a sophomore

S Jordan Deck, sr. — Michigan signee; 117 tackles, 12 TFL, 2 forced fumbles

DE Marcel Dominguez, sr. — Has 20 1/2 sacks and 12 QB hurries

LB Nico Viveros, sr. — Leads the team with 137 tackles; has 23 TFL, 2 INTs

Pick 'Em Challenge

Tell us who you think will win the game with High School On SI's Pick 'Em Challenge

Where To Watch

You can watch it for free online through the Victory+ app.

LIVE UPDATES

Lone Star wins the toss and defers; Smithson Valley to get the ball first

Smithson Valley marching down the field with ease. Knutson to Haug for a 20-yard gain

Peagler follows with a 7-yard run

Knutson to Luke Peace for a 19-yard gain. Ball at the Lone Star 12

TURNOVER! 4th and 1 and Robinson stops Peagler. 8:07 left. Lone Star ball at the 4 after a TV timeout

Lone Star punts. SV takes over at the 47-yard line with 6:47 left

Smithson Valley going deep again to Haug. Ball a the 24-yard line after 17-yard gain

FIELD GOAL! Amaya good from 35 yards away. Smithson Valley 3, Frisco Lone Star 0, 3:49 left

Wright with a 22-yard run; ball pops loose but he is called down by contact

Ball don't lie. Next play, Wright is hit and fumbles. Smithson Valley gets to keep it this time. 1:57 left in 1st. Ball at the Lone Star 44

Devin Detoto with recovery for Smithson Valley; Woods with the FF

Big play! Peagler with 25-yard run and ball is at the 19-yard line now.

End of 1st: Smithson Valley 3, Lone Star 0

2nd quarter

Lone Star defense gets pressure on Knutson and forced INC pass to force 4th down

FIELD GOAL BLOCK! Christopher Knauls with the block for Lone Star. Turnover on downs with 11:35 left

Pass interference on Smithson Valley; ball at midfield for Lone Star

TURNOVER! Lone Star rolls dice and goes for it on 4th down at midfield and throws an incomplete pass. Smithson Valley ball at 45-yard line with 8:20 left

Bad snap on punt, but Amaya recovers and gets the kick off. Ball is down at the 2. 6:48 left in 2nd

Lone Star punts this time but is a 16-yard return by Noah Johnson gives SV the ball at the 38-yard line.

2 minute timeout

4th down coming up for Smithson Valley with 1:54 left

Lone Star ball at the 14-yard line. 1:41 left in 1st

John Madden in at QB and there is a fumble. He recovers at the 11. Lone Star punting from own end zone

Johnson with another nice return for SV. Ball at the 24-yard line. 43 seconds left

Knutson to Haug for a 14-yard gain. Ball at the 10-yard line. 26 seconds left. SV calls a timeout

3rd and 10 coming up for SV. Lone Star calls a timeout with 15 seconds left

FIELD GOAL! Amaya with a 27-yard FG with 6 seconds left in the 1st half. Smithson Valley 6, Lone Star 0

HALFTIME: Smithson Valley 6, Lone Star 0

3rd quarter

Lone Star punts; bad snap but the ball gets away. Smithson Valley ball at the 46-yard line; Lone Star played without Wright on that drive. He's jogging back and forth behind the team bench

TOUCHDOWN! Knutson to Haug for 39-yard score. 8:26 left. PAT is good. Smithson Valley 13-0

Wright back in the game for Lone Star; but the offense can't move the ball again and punts again

Smithson Valley ball with 6:17 left in the 3rd

Soquist with 14-yard run to the LS 40-yard line. Smithson Valley is driving yet again

Turnover on down at the 17-yard line. Lone Star defense responds again; the offense has been the issue

Smithson Valley's Liam Magee (bottom) takes Davian Groce, while two teammates converge on a tackle in the Class 5A Division I finals held Friday in Arlington. / Cody Thorn

And time for another Lone Star punt; less than 2 minutes left in the third

TURNOVER! Another fumble by Lone Star. Haug forces it and Jake Stover picks it up at the 45. 6:48 left

TOUCHDOWN! Peagler with a 1-yard run at 4:10. Smithson Valley 19, Lone Star 0

SV going for 2

Knutson runs it in for a conversion. Smithson Valley 21, Lone Star 0

PICK 6 TOUCHDOWN! Wright is hit when he throws; the ball flutters and Hornsby picks it off and runs it back. 3:34 left. Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 0

2 minute warning

TOUCHDOWN! Wright to Logan Brown for a 31-yard TD. PAT fails. Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 6

FINAL: Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 6

The Smithson Valley Rangers are getting a hang of this winning state titles.

After going 0-4 the first four trips, the Rangers have now won back-to-back titles after a 28-6 win over Frisco Lone Star Friday night.

The defense kept Trey Wright in check running and pass, while the Rangers' defense sacked him six times, forced four fumbles, recovering two of them.

The dagger was a pick six when Wright was hit throwing and defensive MVP Colton Hornsby picked it up and ran it back for a score.

He had 11 tackles, 1 sack, one TFL and the interception return.

The offensive MVP award went to Hunter Haug, who had 5 catches for 91 yards and a touchdown. His score in the third quarter gave Smithson Valley (15-1) a two-score lead at 13-0.

Before that, the only points in the first half was a pair of Trent Amaya field goals that gave Smithson Valley a 6-0 lead.

Smithson Valley quarterback Ty Knutson passes the ball during the fourth quarter of the Class 5A Division 1 championship game held Friday in Arlington. / Cody Thorn

Smithson Valley defeats Lone Star, 28-6: updates, highlights from Texas UIL Class 5A Division I state championship game

ARLINGTON, Texas, Dec. 19 — The Smithson Valley [Spring Branch, TX] Rangers are once again the Texas UIL Class 5A Division I state champions.The Rangers beat another group of Rangers from Lone Star [Frisco, TX], 28-6, in the state title game Friday evening to claim their second consecutive state championship in their third straight title game appearance.With the win Smithson Valley finished 15-1 for the third straight season, and they'll carry a 14-game...

ARLINGTON, Texas, Dec. 19 — The Smithson Valley [Spring Branch, TX] Rangers are once again the Texas UIL Class 5A Division I state champions.

The Rangers beat another group of Rangers from Lone Star [Frisco, TX], 28-6, in the state title game Friday evening to claim their second consecutive state championship in their third straight title game appearance.

With the win Smithson Valley finished 15-1 for the third straight season, and they'll carry a 14-game win streak into the 2026 season.

Lone Star was seeking its first state championship, and the Rangers also finished 15-1 as the loss to Smithson Valley was their first of the season.

WATCH FOR FREE VICTORY+: Lone Star [Frisco, TX] Rangers vs. Smithson Valley [Spring Branch, TX] Rangers

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Refresh for updates

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End of the fourth quarter: Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 6

It's done. Smithson Valley is your back-to-back Class 5A Division I champions.

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SMITHSON VALLEY 28, LONE STAR 6

Frisco is finally on the board with less than a minute to play. It won't change the outcome but they kept playing and managed to avoid the shutout.

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SMITHSON VALLEY 28, LONE STAR 0

And a pick six definitely puts this in the win column for Smithson Valley with just 3:34 to play.

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SMITHSON VALLEY 21, LONE STAR 0

Smithson Valley adds what feels like the clincher with just over four minutes to play.

The Rangers of Smithson Valley finishing off Lone Star with this blast from @calebpeagler22 ???? ???? @LSHS_FBRecruits 0??@SV_RangerFB 2??1?? 4 Q 3:53@SV_Rangers @SV_Hoops @SV_LadyRangers @valleyventana @SVRANGERSB @SV_Baseball @KennyMatthews @Marchen44 pic.twitter.com/D6X3BEnabW
— Friday Night Glory (@FridayNghtGlory) December 20, 2025

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End of the third quarter: Smithson Valley 13, Lone Star 0

Lone Star just hasn't been able to crack this Smithson Valley defense, and the defending champs are 12 minutes away from a second straight title.

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SMITHSON VALLEY 13, LONE STAR 0

Smithson Valley stretches their lead. We're approaching the end of the third quarter.

Touchdown @SV_RangerFB @Tyknutson03TK hits @HunterHaug05 for the TD and Smithson Valley extends the lead to 13-0 over Lone Star with just over 8 min in the 3rd Q@TA_Recruiting #UILState #txhsfb pic.twitter.com/kbAKUgU58D
— Jason Howell (@Jason_Howell) December 20, 2025

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End of the second quarter: Smithson Valley 6, Lone Star 0

John Madden is in at quarterback for Lone Star after Trey Wright was lost to injury. We'll see if Wright returns in the second half, but it hasn't mattered who's at quarterback so far. The defending champs take the lead to the lockers.

It’s a defensive showcase through one half. Frisco Lone Star has work to do in the final 24 minutes, trailing Smithson Valley 6-0. pic.twitter.com/DfFbLMdOxk
— DFW Inside High School Sports (@ihss_dfw) December 20, 2025

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SMITHSON VALLEY 6, LONE STAR 0

Smithson Valley adds a field goal. The defenses are hanging tough so far.

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End of the first quarter: Smithson Valley 3, Lone Star 0

It's been a defensive battle so far.

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SMITHSON VALLEY 3, LONE STAR 0

Under four to play in the first quarter, and Smithson Valley is on the board first.

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They're finally under way in Arlington!

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Kick is now set for 7:38 p.m. CST local (8:38 p.m. EST), roughly an hour from now.

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They're still wrapping up the Class 4A Division II game so it's going to be a little while. When we get an estimated start time, we'll share that.

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Coming soon!

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Lone Star vs. Smithson Valley start time

The game between Lone Star and Smithson Valley is being played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

How can I watch Lone Star vs. Smithson Valley today?

MORE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYOFF HEADLINES

Dripping SpringsMedina Valley

The Medina Valley (Castroville, TX) varsity football team lost Friday's home playoff game against Dripping Springs (TX) by a score of 45-14.Game StatsDripping Springs #Athlete NameCarYdsAvgLng100+TD Team Totals201397.0350 ...

The Medina Valley (Castroville, TX) varsity football team lost Friday's home playoff game against Dripping Springs (TX) by a score of 45-14.

Game Stats

Dripping Springs

#	Athlete Name	Car	Yds	Avg	Lng
	Team Totals	20	139	7.0	35
4	Lawson Attaway (Sr)	3	7	2.3	4
5	Frank Accetta (So)	2	15	7.5	11
15	Logan Keim (Sr)	1	0	0.0	0
16	Pete Fredenburg (Jr)	4	33	8.3	15
26	Ryder Frost (Jr)	1	0	0.0	0
27	Jaceton Gotta (Sr)	9	84	9.3	35

Medina Valley

#	Athlete Name	Car	Yds	Avg	Lng	100+	TD
	Team Totals	52	313	6.0	71	2	2
1	Connor Crisp (Sr)	6	118	19.7	71	1	1
15	Jason Zendejas (Sr)	15	53	3.5	16	0
17	Xavier Gonzalez (Sr)	23	102	4.4	17	1	1
43	Dezerin Wright (Sr)	8	40	5.0	12	0

Dripping Springs

#	Athlete Name	Rec	Yds	Avg	Lng	TD
	Team Totals	24	352	14.7	65	6
2	Cooper Reid (Sr)	7	95	13.6	40	2
3	J. Montgomery (Sr)	5	112	22.4	65	1
7	M. Bloomgren (Sr)	4	105	26.3	64	2
18	Dodge Reid (So)	2	24	12.0	15
24	Will Foreman (Sr)	3	11	3.7	11
26	Ryder Frost (Jr)	1	3	3.0	3
27	Jaceton Gotta (Sr)	2	2	1.0	2	1

Medina Valley

#	Athlete Name	Rec	Yds	Avg	Lng	TD
	Team Totals	2	40	20.0	41
14	R. Rodriguez (Jr)	2	40	20.0	41

Dripping Springs

#	Athlete Name	Rush	Rec	Total
	Team Totals	139	352	491
2	Cooper Reid (Sr)		95	95
3	J. Montgomery (Sr)		112	112
4	Lawson Attaway (Sr)	7		7
5	Frank Accetta (So)	15		15
7	M. Bloomgren (Sr)		105	105
16	Pete Fredenburg (Jr)	33		33
18	Dodge Reid (So)		24	24
24	Will Foreman (Sr)		11	11
26	Ryder Frost (Jr)	0	3	3
27	Jaceton Gotta (Sr)	84	2	86

Medina Valley

#	Athlete Name	Rush	Rec	Total
	Team Totals	313	40	353
1	Connor Crisp (Sr)	118		118
14	R. Rodriguez (Jr)		40	40
15	Jason Zendejas (Sr)	53		53
17	Xavier Gonzalez (Sr)	102		102
43	Dezerin Wright (Sr)	40		40

Dripping Springs

#	Athlete Name	Rush	Pass	Rec	Total
	Team Totals	139	350	352	489
1	Chase Ames (Jr)		312		312
2	Cooper Reid (Sr)			95	95
3	J. Montgomery (Sr)			112	112
4	Lawson Attaway (Sr)	7			7
5	Frank Accetta (So)	15			15
7	M. Bloomgren (Sr)			105	105
15	Logan Keim (Sr)	0	14		14
16	Pete Fredenburg (Jr)	33	24		57
18	Dodge Reid (So)			24	24
24	Will Foreman (Sr)			11	11
26	Ryder Frost (Jr)	0		3	3
27	Jaceton Gotta (Sr)	84		2	86

Medina Valley

#	Athlete Name	Rush	Pass	Rec	Total
	Team Totals	313	40	40	353
1	Connor Crisp (Sr)	118			118
14	R. Rodriguez (Jr)			40	40
15	Jason Zendejas (Sr)	53			53
17	Xavier Gonzalez (Sr)	102	40		142
43	Dezerin Wright (Sr)	40			40

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This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.

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Latest News in Valley Spring, TX

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What to know

Who to watch

Pick 'Em Challenge

Where To Watch

LIVE UPDATES

End of 1st: Smithson Valley 3, Lone Star 0

2nd quarter

HALFTIME: Smithson Valley 6, Lone Star 0

3rd quarter

FINAL: Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 6

Smithson Valley defeats Lone Star, 28-6: updates, highlights from Texas UIL Class 5A Division I state championship game

Kendall Webbhttps://www.sportingnews.com/us/high-school/news/lone-star-smithson-valley-score-highlights-texas-class-5a-d1-championship/d78346166ef90b41c0a9223b

End of the fourth quarter: Smithson Valley 28, Lone Star 6

SMITHSON VALLEY 28, LONE STAR 6

SMITHSON VALLEY 28, LONE STAR 0

SMITHSON VALLEY 21, LONE STAR 0

End of the third quarter: Smithson Valley 13, Lone Star 0

SMITHSON VALLEY 13, LONE STAR 0

End of the second quarter: Smithson Valley 6, Lone Star 0

SMITHSON VALLEY 6, LONE STAR 0

End of the first quarter: Smithson Valley 3, Lone Star 0

SMITHSON VALLEY 3, LONE STAR 0

Lone Star vs. Smithson Valley start time

How can I watch Lone Star vs. Smithson Valley today?

Dripping SpringsMedina Valley

maxpreps.comhttps://www.maxpreps.com/games/11-28-2025/football-25/dripping-springs-vs-medina-valley.htm?c=srW37kjpv0GhHMHoaEF5hg

Game Stats

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