By Malik Shim, Clarion Staff reporter
The Kennedy football team has had an infamous record the past 6 years, for both junior varsity and varsity teams.
Many people seem hyped for the games to represent their Kennedy spirit, but some don’t feel confident. But, compared to Kennedy’s season opener for the 2023-2024 season, in which they lost to Bear River High School 52-0, this year's team seems to be getting better. Players, coaches, staff, and students do see some improvement on the varsity team so far this season, especially with their win over El Camino in the second game.
This raises the question: Will this be Kennedy’s year?
Xavier Williams-Adeye is a running back with high hopes. While wearing the #4 jersey in the season opener, he ran a 70-yard touchdown for Kennedy
“I was happy we finally scored.” he said. “We actually scored a touchdown. I was so happy.”
Despite optimism from the players, some spectators were dubious about it being Kennedy’s year based on the season opener.
Kennedy freshman Payton Pearson said, “I think we could make a comeback. Our varsity team however is kinda going downhill.”
Another freshman, Floyd Bennamon, flat out said just said no: “They haven’t been good in like what, 3 years? There’s no point in trying.”
Another student shared his take on new season based on the first game saying, “We already lost one, but who knows?”
During the next game against El Camino on August 30, members of Kennedy’s staff shared their takes, and whether the team would improve.
Kennedy Social Science teacher Tony Pererira said, “I hope they will! I wouldn’t bet money on it though as they could do bad at the same time. I hope I’m wrong though.”
Brett Williams, who teaches AP Government & Economics, AP Seminar, and AP Research, stated, “I don’t know if they’re gonna be any good, but I think they’ll do better than last year. I’ll bet money on it.”
That night brought good news from the junior varsity team as they were able to pull off a 28-14 win against El Camino -- a great comeback after being blown out by Galt High School a week earlier, 45-8. The Kennedy varsity squad also gained ground as they blew out El Camino 34-8. Kennedy pulled off a huge win despite doubt from some students.
At the game against Highlands High School on September 6, some recruiters from Yuba College watched the Cougars play from the sidelines.
Visiting coach CJ said, “It’s looking good for you guys. You seem like you guys could be good.”
Another, Coach Scott, said, “We’ll have to see. You guys have some great talent out there. High paced guys and fast runners. We’ll see.”
Even though the Highlands game ended in a 35-14 loss for varsity, some players still have hope.
Kennedy football player Deontay Hill commented on having a good season this year: “Yessir. I have faith in my team.”
Kennedy basketball player, 'Crispy', agreed.
“Yes. I believe in my team. Even though [as a basketball player] this isn’t my team. Very inspirational.”
After suffering defeat in the third game against Highlands, the coaching staff shared their thoughts.
“The turn around is really on them,” said Coach Q Hall. “If they practice tough fast discipline with character our team would not be looking like this. As of right now as a losing coacher, we have to change that for them to be able to believe and win games. It will take a lot of work.”
Coach Joshua Cook took a different approach.
“I think the steps that we’re taking this year are good steps from the last two years where Kennedy has been at to where it is right now,” he said. “You could see the growth everyday. Everyday in practice the team grows. Not just individually, but together. I don’t think success here is based on playoff success or even wins. It’s just getting the team together and united as one. I think we’ll be fine with that.”
Finally, Head Coach Dante Bush said, “Yes. Although we did not win against Highlands, there are a lot of things the kids did well. We continue to show improvement from week to week and that is the most important thing. We’ll practice hard for two weeks so we can defeat C.K. McClatchy at the Big Cat Classic.”
The Big Cat Classic takes place at 5:30PM (JV) and 7:00PM (V), at Hughes Stadium, Sacramento City College. Both the Kennedy Cougars and McClatchy Lions seem evenly matched. Whether the Cougars defeat the rival Lions -- and have a good season this year overall -- will be closely watched by Kennedy's many fans.
This is great! You talked to so many different people, and they all add so much to the story. You also clearly did not back down from the harder questions; the coaches' responses show your persistence and strength as a growing reporter.
Those first three photos are top-notch as well! The one with Casey adds so much personality!
Way to step up The Clarion's sports reporting! I'll be reading more!