Although the football team only played a couple games in 2020, those games were highlighted with question marks and confusion. Coming into 2021, expecting a full season, the team’s energy is through the roof, and they eye an Inter-Ac Title.
Sixth Form linebacker Ian Rush reflected on the difference between 2020 and 2021.
“Due to the fact that we’ve only been able to practice against each other for 95% of the summer, we’re all amped to hit someone who isn’t wearing maroon and gold.”
Ian Rush ’22
“The energy at practice is definitely there, but it’s a different type of energy than last year. Last year’s season was very hectic with everyone wondering if they were going to shut us down. This year, there’s more focused energy,” Rush said. “COVID has gotten better since last year and now it’s not as big of a worry as it was. Due to the fact that we’ve only been able to practice against each other for 95% of the summer, we’re all amped to hit someone who isn’t wearing maroon and gold.”
In fact, the team uses last year’s season to fuel 2021. Sixth Form receiver and cornerback Sam Gerber understands the source of the team’s energy.
“With the shortened season last fall, it definitely felt like we had something taken from us. We had strong leadership from our seniors and high expectations for the team,” Gerber said. “Because of that, we have a sense of appreciation for the time we get to spend with each other, making practices and lifts that much more energetic.”
Just like a typical high school football team, the Sixth Formers will lead the team. Younger players will also play a key role in the team’s success. Gerber knows how crucial underclassmen are this year.
“Our [offensive] line is the core of our offense, and for all but one player, they are underclassmen. We definitely have seniors playing big roles on this team, but our young guys are stepping up as well, which is awesome to see,” Gerber said.
Due to the obvious goal of winning the Inter-Ac, the coaches and players are doing everything possible to put themselves in the best position to succeed. In addition to hard work during practice, the team’s schedule looks a little different than previous years.
“Coach Martin scheduled tough non-league games to prepare us for our Inter-Ac schedule, which starts Week 6,” Gerber said.
Last year, although there were no declared places, there was a tie between everyone. All Inter-Ac teams had the same exact record. With each team losing seniors each year, fans can expect a season similar to last: every team battling each week to stay in the running for the title. The players are confident in their ability to lead the team to add 2021 onto the football banner hanging in the gym.
“With a really solid group of seniors and a coaching staff with high expectations, we are more than capable of taking home the Inter-Ac title this year.”
Sam Gerber ’22
Gerber said, “With a really solid group of seniors and a coaching staff with high expectations, we are more than capable of taking home the Inter-Ac title this year.”
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