UPDATE: Senior night was a success despite the tough loss by one point against Atwater with the final score of 34-35. The stands were filled with costumes bringing the halloween spirit to the game. Family and friends came to show their support by bringing posters and baskets to the seniors. The football team is 11th in the league so they unfortunately did not make the playoffs. However since they placed between 9th and 16th they are qualified to play in the Bowl game against Patterson.
As the football season comes to an end, the Tigers are preparing for one of the most anticipated games of the year against Atwater, Senior Night on Halloween. With excitement, emotion, and pride in the air, the team reflects on their journey, growth, and the bonds they’ve built along the way.
Cornerback and wide receiver #9 Carmello Smith (12) shared how proud he is to represent his school. “The football team is doing great, and I’m proud to be a Tiger,” he said. The team currently holds a 5-4 overall record and 2-1 in league play, showing steady progress throughout the season.
Smith said the team is ready to give it their all under the Friday night lights. “The football team is ready to show the world what we can do,” he added.
For Senior Night, he’s looking forward to celebrating with loved ones. “I’m excited for my family and friends to come watch and support me with all the posters, making many memories on senior night.”
Smith also reflected on what it means to play his final game as a Tiger. “Having my last football game is shocking, I should’ve listened to my coach when he told me, ‘The game goes fast, so make every snap your last,’” Smith said. Despite the bittersweet ending, he’s thankful for his time on the team and plans to continue playing football in college.
Smith describes their opponent Atwater as more of an offensive team that likes to pass and run a lot back to back. “I feel like passing the ball a lot will help our team win against Atwater on Friday,” Smith answered when asked about their strategies.
Co-captain #78 Alexander Van Der Veen (12), who plays center, expressed similar pride and reflection. “We’re doing good,” Van Der Veen said. “We had some mistakes at the beginning of the season, but we’ve got them all figured out now.”
The team has been working hard in preparation for Senior Night, with renewed focus and determination. “We’ve been taking practice more seriously,” Van Der Veen explained. “A lot of us have been in the weight room more, really just taking everything more seriously.”
“We are a very family strong team where we will always have one another’s back no matter what,” #24 Aj Valencia (12) described his team. Safety player Valencia is hopeful that the team can end the season 6-4 with their wins.
Even though Valencia has enjoyed playing football in high school, he does not plan on playing in college instead he wants to fully focus on his education. He is looking forward to playing with the team for one last time and being able to walk the field with his parents.
Valencia explained how bittersweet it is to see his unforgettable four year high school football journey come down to the last game. “It’s sad to see our season come to an end but that’s just how life goes but I’m trying to enjoy whatever I can that I have left with my team,” he stated.
JV plays at 5 p.m and Varsity starts at 7 p.m Oct. 31 at Loftin Stadium. The student section dress up theme is “Friday Night Frights”. Dress up in your costume to get free candy!
