Durango High School senior Jacob Bourdon made one of the biggest plays of the football season for the Demons in the fall. The play is his single favorite moment in his entire life playing sports.
Bourdon’s game-winning touchdown catch broke a 6-6 tie in overtime in Durango’s first varsity high school football game against Bayfield in 80 years. He followed with another grab for the two-point conversion, and the Demons pulled out a 14-6 victory against their county rival.
“It was such a special moment to be a part of and definitely my proudest moment on the field,” he said. “That game went back-and-forth, and it was so hyped up. It was tough to get across the goal line for either team. The way it ended was like a dream come true.”
Now, Bourdon is trying to lead the Demons baseball team to a strong finish after a slow start. Six of Durango’s first seven losses came by one run, and Bourdon’s senior leadership will be key if the team hopes to turn things around.
The big righty has been hitting the ball all over the place in recent games. He has two doubles and a home run this season. On Saturday, the outfielder went 2-for-3 with three runs batted in and a run scored as the Demons beat league rival Montrose 6-3.
Saturday’s win was a good one against a winning team, and Bourdon thinks it could be the spark the team needs to make a late-season run.
“We had some tough times early in the year, but I think it’s helped build some chemistry,” he said. “We know we’re not as bad as our record reflects. If we can string some wins together, you never know.”
Earlier this school year, Bourdon was a Colorado High School Activities Association Class 3A First Team All-South Central selection in football after his senior season. As a tight end, he was second on the team with 31 catches, just one behind the team-leading 32 by Gavin Mestas. He was also second to Mestas in receiving touchdowns.
On the other side of the ball, Bourdon was merciless on opposing quarterbacks from the defensive end position. He racked up a team-leading eight sacks and was third on the Demons defense with 88 tackles.
“I played three years of varsity and I think I definitely kept improving as the years went on,” Bourdon said. “I give Coach (David) Vogt a lot credit for helping me. His weight training program is great. If you buy in to Coach Vogt’s philosophy, it’ll definitely pay off in the long run.”
Bourdon’s constant improvement and strong senior season led to an offer to play football in his backyard at Fort Lewis College next season, and he happily accepted.
“I’m so excited to just get there and get started,” Bourdon said. “I miss football. That’s my true love. I can’t wait to meet the new guys and experience the challenge of playing at the collegiate level.”
jfries@durangoherald.com
Behind the scenes
What is your favorite local restaurant?: Macho’s
What is your walk-up music?: Crank That by Soulja Boy
Where is the coolest place you’ve ever been?: Rome, Italy
What is your favorite outoors activity?: Hunting
Who is your favorite athlete?: Demaryius Thomas
Who is your celebrity crush?: Mila Kunis
What is your dream car?: 1969 Lincoln Continental Convertible
Which teachers have had a great impact on your life?: Mrs. Gozigan, Mr. Holand and Mr. Rappaport from Miller.
Where would you like to visit one day?: Hawaii
What is your dream job?: Fish and game warden
