Season Preview–Spartan Football ’22

Season+Preview--Spartan+Football+22

Diego Angulo, Sports Editor

Second year Head Football Coach, Troy McConico, has high hopes for this year’s football season. During our interview I asked him for his thoughts on what the upcoming season will be looking like and he had this to say: “We have a solid team this season. We are low on numbers but we have a good number of seniors who have played a lot of football… The guys are anxious to get out there and represent, especially in our new field. This year’s squad has the potential to be a tough opponent for anyone and that’s the expectation.” 

On Tuesday I was able to speak with Nate Chau and Josiah Hermosillo who have hopes for a 9-1 season and seem to really be looking forward to showing out on their home field. According to Coach McConico they aren’t the only ones, “…our first home game should be magical. These guys have been through a lot these last few years and so finally getting to play on a brand new home field, will be special.” Along with that Coach would appreciate it if as many people showed up to the games as possible, putting emphasis on the local rivalry games with teams such as Salesian, De Anza, and Hercules, stating that, “All games against our neighbors are always a must see. We’ll be the underdogs, and that’s what we like.”

As for players that fans should look forward to seeing ball out this season are James Gordon who was a first team all league player last year as a junior, Gage Eda who according to Coach McConico was their most outstanding linemen last season, and Ellis Shamid Deen and Larry McDonald who both earned all league honorable mentions last season. Along with those four Coach McConico is excited about some more great returning players such as Tony Thompson, Donovan Robinson, Leo Cruzado, Josiah Hermosillo, Kenny Valdepena, and Nate Chau who should play crucial roles on the team this year. 

After my amazing interview with the inspiring and hopeful Coach McConico I think it is safe to say that his goal “to restore the pride in our school and football program,” has a promising road ahead. He tries his hardest to inspire his players to be the best versions of themselves on and off the field, teaching them to strive for success in their daily lives by developing their talents as students, athletes, and young men. “We chase excellence at PV and that’s our goal now and for years to come.” – Troy McConico