Hughes Stadium at Sacramento City College was alive with school spirit as the two rival schools went at it once again at the Big Cat Classic.
Kennedy came in with energy, but mistakes and missed chances ended up costing them the game.
“Turnovers and penalties killed us,” varsity player Jaylen Pabelonia said. He also admits the team didn’t stick to their running game like they planned.
Ricardo Brau agreed, saying , “we had the plays, we didn’t finish.”
McClatchy’s speed and quarterback were too tough to stop. “Their QB kept making plays when they needed it,” said Matthew Gonzalez.
Even though Kennedy lost 34-19, players saw positives. They said tackling was better, the sideline energy stayed up, and the team felt more united.
When asked to sum up the game in one word, the players said “tough,” “frustrating,” and “learning”.
CKM may have gotten the win, but Kennedy’s varsity team left knowing they’re improving and ready to keep fighting this season.
Additional reporting by Sabrina Campos and Miguel Gamino.
