“That’s what football is about,”

Homecoming game recognizes and celebrates seniors

Staff Writer

“Everyone comes together, [to have] a really nice Friday night after a long week of school. It’s what the Homecoming Court is, just celebrating students,” said Assistant Principal Mr. Peterson. “The band has been preparing for weeks. The cheerleaders are great. And the football players. I’m excited for all of them.”

During the November 4 homecoming game versus Alameda, the 2023 Eagles cemented themselves as American’s 2nd 0–10 football team since 2004. While many team members were disappointed by the end result, most agreed that this was an occasion primarily meant to celebrate the senior class.

Julian Serrano (11) explained the importance of the homecoming game. “Last game of the season, I’m pretty psyched to be able to play this game. It’s instrumental because not only is it our HoCo game, it is also our senior night so it’s big for us as a team.” Serrano added, “I know, we’re 0 and 9 but you never know, miracles can happen.”

American started the game with a 20-yard reception from quarterback Danino Corsis (12) to receiver Cruz Madrigal (12), but struggled to gain yardage following this play. Alameda’s size was made apparent as several American players suffered injuries during the course of a 42 to 7 loss where they struggled to run the ball or stop the opposing players.

A sophomore varsity player, Jordan Garcia, spoke on how the team’s lack of size might be an issue. “Our linemen-they’re not the biggest people. So we’ve been trying to get bigger people on the line, because [Alameda’s] a much bigger team than us.”

Madrigal also spoke on the team’s adjustments. “We watch film, we adjust our offense and defense according to what we see. It’s what we do for everyone.”

The trio of Madrigal, Henry Supnet (12), and Garcia was a bright spot on defense, having 10, 8, and 7 tackles respectively.

Moving to offense, Jayden Martinez (10) led the team in both rushing and receiving yards and received the pass resulting in American’s only touchdown of the game.

These performances could be a direct result of frustration from past games. “I know some people are demotivated because we haven’t won a game yet. And, you know, that gets to people, it’s gotten to me a little bit too,” said Madrigal before the game. “I’ve been here all four years. I think it is one of my jobs to try to keep everyone engaged.”

Constantino Lopez (c.o. 2023) voiced his frustrations after watching the game on American’s sideline. “Honestly, it was kind of disappointing to see our seniors go out like that,” said the former football player. “As a community and a coaching staff, we need to do better with our players.”

Despite his criticism of the team, Lopez said, “I love being out here supporting the football players and the coach and the team. That’s what football is about, especially in high school. It’s just kids having fun.”

Coach Blackmon said, “My team always plays hard. They know the Eagle Way can do great things.”

Devin Kotov (12) elaborated on the feelings that seniors feel during the homecoming game. “I’m a first year player, but it means a lot to me to have this moment. I love all my fellow seniors. I love all my teammates and you know, it was a great season with them.”

Jordan Loftin (12), a player who was also nominated for homecoming court, said, “My final stretch for everything. I enjoyed every second of it, enjoyed every play. I fought and I love it. Being a HoCo nominee was a lot more stress than I expected. Especially just trying to get everything situated with practice and also with senior night. It was a bit of a struggle, but I made it work.”

Roman Young (12) was one of the winners of HoCo court. “I knew Kiwi was going to win, I really didn’t think I was going to win,” said Young. “It made me feel like people actually enjoyed being around me. I want to thank and to wish everyone a good senior year.”

Another Homecoming nominee, Luke Vinas (12) said, “I wouldn’t say I’m popular but my friends know friends and somehow I got here.”

A section leader in marching band, Vinas said, “Band is my passion. I love each and every performance. We’re gonna do our show called Julius Caesar, by Steve Martin and Zeke David.”

Aaroh Dixit Hardikar, also a band member and HoCo nominee, said, “We’re gonna be performing a field show. It’s basically all we have, 150 person band, and we play a nine minute song. And yeah, it’s a lot of hard work coming from the band to create this product.”

Hardikar continued, “This is one time that everyone gathers together and we really rally around our football team.

Caption: At the Homecoming game, the American defensive squad charges against a much heavier Alameda team. Head Coach Byran-Andre Blackmon said, “It’s a special group because this was the COVID group. I wish they could have done a little better because they just deserve that much, but I’m proud of them for sticking it through and not quitting.” (PC: Cynthia Yeung (11))