Faulkner County Judge’s Cup is more than just a game to Buckner

VILONIA -— For Vilonia’s defensive coordinator Bill Buckner, Thursday night’s bout is more than just a game.

Buckner has ties to both Vilonia and Greenbrier school districts, having served two coaching stints at both places. Buckner has family and friends in rival territory, but it’s no question where his loyalty lies.

“It’s a special game and Vilonia is a special place. We’re looking forward to playing,” Buckner said. “Something is wrong with them if they can’t get emotional about this one. As long as we don’t get too emotional to where we can’t do our job, then we’ll be fine.”

Vilonia’s defense has seen a vast improvement from a year ago. In fact, the Eagles held Greenwood to its lowest point total of the season (24) two weeks ago.

“We got kids doing things they can do. We’re not asking them anything that they can’t do,” Buckner said. “They’ve done a good job of learning our coverages and getting where they’re supposed to be.” 

Vilonia’s Kyle Robbins, Taylor Sweetin and Shawn Lewis are the senior linebackers who have flourished in Buckner’s defensive scheme this season. In the spring, Buckner replaced Mark Pinkerton, who is now an assistant in Beebe.

“We stress team defense,” Buckner said. “Brent Hughes has just had a tremendous year at defensive end. Dakota Coker and Jordan Ruple have had a phenomenal year on the line as well.”

Vilonia coach Jim Stanley had nothing but good things to say about Buckner since returning back to head the defense.

“What coach Buckner is great about doing is taking what the kids can do and be successful with and that’s what he exploits,” Stanley said. “He don’t try to make them do too much. And I tell you what, the kids have really responded to him. He makes them work hard but they have a lot of fun.”

Buckner, who has worked under Stanley in his first coaching stint at Vilonia, returned the praise to Buckner.

“Coach Stanley is the best,” Buckner said. “He treats the coaches and the kids right. He works hard and he’s a great leader of our football team and I’m delighted tha I have an opportunity to work for him. Our kids have really done good. They work hard and listen. They’re very coachable and they’re fun to be around. I’m proud of what they’ve accomplished so far this season.”