After starting the season with a 0-2 record, the Tigers football team is determined to turn things around. The players and coaches say the setbacks and losses have been difficult, but they believe that experiencing the losses is helping the team grow stronger.
Head Coach Dustin Carpresso admitted that the early weeks have been frustrating, but he remains optimistic and believes that this year’s program is much better. “No one likes to lose, but every game teaches us something,” Carpresso said. “Our guys are showing up to practice with energy, and that’s what matters. We’re focused on improvement, not excuses.”
Determined to spin things around from the previous year Coach Carlos Rodriguez set some ground rules and goals. “We make weight room mandatory, more team effort, constant film and more confidence,” he said.
He added, “I can be as confident as I want but it’s the players that need that confidence.”
Several players from last year’s season have stepped up as leaders on and off the field. Senior starting quarterback for the Tigers, Gavin Estrada, said the team is learning how to keep their heads up despite the losses. “We can’t hang our heads,” Estrada said.
He also said, “We’re working harder, watching films, going to the weight room and holding each other accountable.”
The Tigers have also learned from the support of their fans that have been there through the losses. Last week’s games on September 5th against Lodi, students and parents showed up with chants of encouragement. With all the encouragement, the Tigers came up with a win! The players went crazy as they came up with the win after the losses. The score was 31-10 with the Tigers winning.
How come the players can’t discipline themselves to be better?
“The weight room has not been efficient because coaches have not been disciplinary towards the players,” said Angel Valerio (12).
With a full season still ahead, the Tigers are confident their persistence will pay off. They face Liberty September 12th, and the team is much more confident in themselves after the win from Lodi. With the support of students, parents and coaches, the Tigers have a solid win in this week’s game.
With all this being said, is coaching, players, or both the problem for their mixed season so far? Will the team gather themselves for the upcoming season? Will it be another upsetting season as last year, or will they prevail into new heights? Can they pull it together and become a team or be separate from each other?
With a full season still ahead, the Tigers are confident their persistence will pay off. They face Liberty at an away game September 12, and the team is much more confident in themselves after the win from Lodi. With the support of students, parents and coaches, the Tigers have a solid win in this week’s game.
