With an overall record of 0-2, the Varsity Football team did not have the strong start they had planned for.
The Rams began their season successfully in their annual “Green and Gold” scrimmage on Aug. 23 with an unofficial victory over the Mark Keppel Aztecs. Each team ran 30 plays, alternating every 10. The Rams scored four touchdowns and were able to prevent the Aztecs from reaching the end zone.
Since then, things have begun to go downhill. On Aug. 30, the team suffered a tough loss against Simi Valley High School. The Pioneers overwhelmed the Rams, putting up 55 points compared to the Rams’ 2 points. The Rams were unsuccessful at moving the ball down the field and could not keep the Pioneers out of the end zone.
On Sep. 6, Varsity Football suffered yet another loss against Arroyo. They showed some signs of improvement, but turnovers and mistakes cost them the game. Although the scoreboard read 44-6, the Rams put up a fight and did not give up, driving the ball into the red zone throughout the final seconds of the game.
“We need to make plays,” Senior Jake Ferntheil said. “We need to come together as a team. It is a team effort. We are hungry for a win.”
After finishing last season with an overall record of 5-7, the team has put in countless hours of hard work to win more games. The Rams want to see their hard work translate into success. Going with a traditional style offense and defense, they are looking to put points up on the board while keeping the opposing teams from scoring.
“I think we will be very good at passing and running the ball this year,” Senior Dadrian Tran said. “We have a very smart QB, a great group of skill players, and a strong front line.”
During the off season, the Rams had to make a few changes to the team, some expected and some unexpected. They purchased new uniforms made by Under Armour. The home jersey is dark green with yellow numbers, and the away jersey are white with green numbers. The team also bought new helmets that feature safer and more comfortable padding that will help prevent concussions and other head and neck injuries.
One change that the Rams did not see coming was the resignation of the Athletic Trainer, Nick Draenovic. Draenovic, who graduated from TCHS in 2002, was more than just a team doctor. He served as the team’s strength and conditioning coach, working with players on their footwork and agility. Draenovic is now a trainer supervisor at another high school but will still be providing physical therapy for injured players on Saturday mornings.
Although the season did not start out as planned, the Rams still have high expectations. The team is working hard to improve as a whole while correcting individual mistakes.
“As a team we are working on all areas, redefining our technique and trying to reach perfection,” Junior Eric Garcia said. “Practice makes perfect, and it’s a process that takes time.”
The Rams are set to square off against the Alhambra Moors at home on Sept. 13 at 7 p.m.