FREDDY GONZALEZ | Staff Writer
SANTA ROSA — With a new season arrives a new challenge for the Santa Rosa Warriors. This year’s challenge comes in the shape of a new district schedule as the Warriors moved from District 16-3A DI to 16-3A DII. The change has some wondering if the move will lead to more victories, but as head coach Hector Ayala mentioned, just because they moved down in district does not make the schedule any easier, it only evens the playing field.
“I told the team that we are evenly matched,” said Ayala. “Hebbronville has a senior ball club, Odem used to be a district foe, Taft is moving down just like us, and CC London is a very athletic team. Monte Alto and Banquete are both young teams.
“I told them that we have six critical games and each one we will treat as the most important game.”
Santa Rosa’s new district opponents are Odem (10/5), Hebbronville (10/12), Corpus Christi London (11/2), Taft (10/26), Banquette (10/19) and Monte Alto (10/12).
Last season a series of unfortunate injuries led the Warriors to a 5-6 record, nevertheless the team was able to make the playoffs. With the return of some key starters this season, the Warriors are focused on more than just merely making the postseason.
“Last year injuries hurt us and it’s tough when any starter goes down,” said Ayala. “This year, we have guys willing to learn more than one spot, on offense and defense. Plus, they are continuing to motivate each other and reminding themselves that we are always one play away from someone needing to step up.
“So there are no backups, everyone must be ready to be a starter.”
For the Warriors Ryan Mesa will be an integral part of the offense. Last season Mesa rushed for 1,558 yards and 16 touchdowns.
Defensively, the return of defensive back Robert Bentley and linebacker Eduardo Hernandez will be crucial for Santa Rosa. Last season Hernandez had 63 tackles at the linebacker position.
Other players to look out for are Alex Perez, Adrian Moreno, Ryan Garza, Joshua Trevino and Jose Diaz-Mendez.
The Warriors start their season with a scrimmage against Santa Maria today. Coach Ayala outlined a few areas where he is hoping to see some improvement
“I would like to see our defensive line dominate,” said Ayala. “If they can, we have great linebackers that can fly to the ball. Also, our offensive line, because our running back has great explosiveness and can really run. That will help our quarterback and receivers develop and not have to put a lot of pressure on them.”