The Artesia Bulldogs entered the 2026 season still wearing the crown of Class 5A state champions, but the road ahead will be anything but easy. With only four home games scattered across the campaign, the team will spend the majority of the year on the road, facing a gauntlet of formidable opponents.
A Grueling Road Ahead
The schedule pairs the Bulldogs with traditional rivals such as Hobbs, Centennial and Alamogordo, each known for competitive programs and passionate fan bases. In addition, the team will endure three separate stretches of consecutive away games, a test of endurance that could shape their playoff readiness.
A rare open date on October 9 offers a brief respite, but the regular season will still close with road trips to Goddard and Mayfield, ensuring the Bulldogs finish as they began — on the move.
Coach Jeremy Maupin has highlighted the impact of recent realignment, noting that the northern district has become markedly more competitive. The new landscape brings stronger teams into the mix, raising the stakes for every matchup.
Despite the daunting slate, the Bulldogs are focused on proving their resilience. The coaching staff and players alike stress the importance of handling the pressure of defending a title while embracing the challenges that come with a demanding schedule.