The Carlmont JV football team defeated the Hillsdale Knights 20-13 while battling through tough circumstances.
The Scots’ season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. With a new coach stepping up and many star players moving up to varsity this year, the team has faced much adversity.
“It’s all mindset, and we came out with the mindset that we can play with [the Knights]. It’s all heart because we knew we could take [the Knights] on,” said Sefo Ahofono, a sophomore running back and linebacker.
Throughout the first half, the Scots’ grit was apparent. Two touchdowns and stellar defense from Ahofono in the first quarter put the Scots ahead. This hard-nosed play propelled the team to victory, even after Hillsdale’s comeback effort in the fourth quarter.
“We trusted our second-team defense, and they made big plays when we needed it. Casey Oliveira made a huge play for us towards the end of the game,” said Dylan Brandenburg, a freshman wide receiver and safety.
The trust the team plays with has been built by the team chemistry and the leaders who have stepped up throughout the season.
Despite the roar of the crowd, Kevin Jimenez, a sophomore linebacker, is always heard. His continuous motivation towards his teammates has gotten the team through hardship on and off the field.
“He inspires the team to be better and keeps the team together. Especially this game, he pushed us to be better than Hillsdale physically and morally. With his leadership, we took care of business on the field and respected Hillsdale for playing a great game,” said J.T. Yglesias, a sophomore defensive back and wide receiver.
The Scots’ victory Friday night is also credited to the coaches that have stepped up to lead this team.
“We are so thankful for our [head] coach, Bruce Douglas, and our other coaches. Without them pushing us and inspiring us every day, we wouldn’t be here,” Ahofono said.
After starting the season 0-2, many people did not think that the Scots could turn their season around. And even though they will not be able to repeat last season’s near-flawless record, the team hopes to end the season on a strong note.
The Scots will seek to ride their momentum through Nov. 1, when they will take on Half Moon Bay at 4:00 p.m. Fans looking to support the Scots will find them at the Half Moon Bay High School football field.
