Being the starting quarterback on the football team comes with a lot of pressure and responsibilities, especially this season as a senior captain. Playing Quarterback the last four years has been a major part of forming the person I am today. 

Having many underclassmen look up to me has been a blessing in disguise, as I have truly learned how to be a leader on and off of the field.With only having one team for the whole school, combining both upper and underclassmen, I have assumed a large leadership role, especially the past two years. Setting a good example for the underclassmen to follow not only helps my current football family, but also sets the program up for success in the years to come. 

My passion for leadership, originally rooted on the field, has transferred to every aspect of my life. Football has also helped grow my loyalty and open-mindedness, two values that I believe are very important when it comes to who I am. This sport has given me a diverse brotherhood that I will forever cherish and be loyal to, as we have always had each other’s backs, and I never see that changing. Football at Sage Hill has especially gifted me with the opportunity to play with people who are very different from me. I have met people through the sport that have completely different backgrounds and cultures, opening my eyes to how important it is to have a diverse community around me that constantly makes me apply an open mind and showcase empathy towards my peers. 

The team, coaching staff, and I have a major goal we are working towards this season: winning CIF. This year’s journey started last spring when we joined a 7 on 7 league and dominated. We posted victories against 11-man programs: Huntington Beach High School, University High School, Portola High School, Buena Park High School and more. The team kept the momentum rolling as we grinded throughout the summer and participated in special workouts led by our new assistant coach, Coach Rulk. 

“It was a grueling two months that bonded us together and will propel us to great success this year,” said Junior Wide Receiver Danyel Khan when asked about the summer workouts. I couldn’t agree more. Coach Rulk’s workouts were arguably the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, and I believe it has fully prepared me and the rest of the team for the long season ahead of us. Senior Lineman Ty Mazakas also added, “Football camp really pushed the team beyond what we thought was capable.”

We also have the largest roster size, 45, since Sage Hill became an 8-man football program. With only 2 graduating seniors and 13 new freshmen, our numbers quickly grew. The freshmen have done an amazing job this year and have been an integral part of the team’s success. 

“I love football because my teammates are like a second family to me, I’ve gotten to make new friends and I have grown as a person,” said freshman Bear Balossi on what football means to him. I have played many sports in my lifetime, but nothing compares to football. The camaraderie between teammates is unmatched, and I look forward to going to battle with my brothers every Friday night.