Madera, CA — The Gustine Reds football team kicked off their preseason with a spirited scrimmage against Matilda Torres High School on Aug. 16. The game, held at the Torres field, showcased the Reds’ determination and competitive spirit.
The team came out strong and was able to show that they knew how to compete and what they had to work on.
Coach Collin Lane expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance: “Our players played hard, and we were able to compete. We still have room for improvement, but I’m pleased that we matched their intensity.” Despite Torres High School’s enrollment of over 2000 students, the Reds held their ground, limiting their opponents to just one touchdown while scoring one of their own.
The Reds faced another formidable opponent in their second scrimmage against Chowchilla High School. Chowchilla, boasting a roster of 37 players, provided a tough challenge for the smaller Gustine team.
Coach Lane emphasized the benefits of playing back-to-back games: “It got our kids used to playing tired, and we were able to rotate and give other players valuable reps against strong competition. Chowchilla is also over double our size. So, I was happy that our kids were able to get to play them.”
Both teams were highly competitive in the 2023 season with Chowchilla going 8-2 and Matilda Torres ending the season as section champions.
Looking ahead to the regular season opener against Orestimba, Coach Lane emphasized the importance of pushing themselves during scrimmages: "With our opener against Orestimba, who is also double our enrollment, this will prepare our kids for the remainder of the season. So, I am glad that we are pushing ourselves in the scrimmage and week one"
The Red's mindset as the season begins, is to keep competing and holding each other accountable at practice. "If we can keep competing and practicing at the level we are, we will have a great chance to make a run at our league this year" states Coach Lane.
The Gustine Reds take on the Orestimba Warriors on Aug. 23 at Gustine High School. Junior Varsity kicks off at 5 p.m., followed by the Varsity game at 7:15 p.m.
