By Kayla Gochez

Staff Writer

   The varsity football team has been dominating Mission Valley League, reigning with a current record of 6-2. Last season, the Eagles held a 5-5 record which put them out of reach from their goal of making it to playoffs which is now within their grasp.

   The Eagles lost 15 seniors last season who comprised a majority of their offensive line and who were the key leaders on their team. Losing these seniors forced them into a period of rebuilding to make up for their losses. 

   “It definitely was harder in the off season”, revealed junior Tyler Serrano. “We had to work a lot harder and push ourselves more but I think we replaced it pretty good.” 

   Accountability is something that the Eagles have stressed upon this year and holding one another responsible for their lack of effort has aided in their success. 

   “I’d say all the guys collectively are pushing each other. We aren’t letting one another just slack off”, stated senior captain Donovan Sanin. “We have to win as a team so we have to practice as one.” 

   The team dynamic has changed significantly and the Eagles have developed a strong bond amongst each other. There was a divide within the team last year and they were not tight knit but this year the Eagles have a connection that has aided them in achieving their wins. 

    “I think we have a better chemistry this year.” stated Serrano. “Last year there was a divide between the seniors and the younger guys I feel like this year we are more together as a team, it’s more of a family.”

   Although they have conquered majority of the teams they have faced, the Eagles still recognize that basking to long in their glory will only distract them. They hold aspirations of making it to playoffs which the varsity football team has not done since 2013. 

   “I think they have been working really hard and we’ve had the ball bounce our way a couple of times”, stated Coach Harold Sanin, “There have been a lot of close games that we could have easily lost but I think it’s their hard work that has put them over the top.” 

  The victory’s the Eagles have achieved thus far is propelling them towards their goal of reaching playoffs. By continuing to work hard and diligently they will be able to conquer the challenges in their path and maintain a bond that sets them apart from their competitors.