The varsity Maroons started out their season with two victories against the McNeil Mavericks and Dripping Springs Tigers. The defense was the key factor in both season opening wins. Head Coach Michael Rosenthal prepared his team with a plan that is expected at each and every game.

“We have been extremely consistent in our preparation regardless of wins and losses. We have a plan that the staff has developed and we try to stick as close to that plan as possible,” Rosenthal said. “Consistency in the plan allows the kids to understand what is expected of them and how we operate.”

The McNeil game started out differently than was expected, but the Maroons were ready to execute the plan that they had prepared.

“We had a few mistakes, but we kept up there. [With] me as the kicker, it was hard to keep up with those points whenever I had the chance to make a field goal,” senior kicker Eli Lopez said.

Even though the Dripping Springs game wasn’t a particularly high scoring game, the varsity’s driven defense continued to be consistent throughout.

“It was a defensive game, their [Dripping Springs] defense made pretty good stops and our defense made pretty good stops too,” Lopez said. “It was a low scoring game, so both defenses played a good part at that game.”

Senior Quarterback Beau Kalbacher helped maintain the level of play in both victories.

“What I’ve learned from the first two games in terms of strategy is patience,” Kalbacher said. “Let things develop.”

This year, the Maroons are working at developing both on and off of the field. Players believe that the trust developed between members of the team has contributed to the potential that was showcased in both victories.

“The difference in this year’s team chemistry is the bond we all share, and how close we all are,” sophomore defensive lineman Dillon Mata said. “We all believe in each other and we all rely on each other.”

In order to stay maintained and well prepared this season, the Maroons will continue to pursue consistent improvement.

“I think it will be extremely important for us to be able to handle our success and stay focused on improving,” Rosenthal said. “We must remain focused on each opponent and work to improve each week.”

Be sure to come out to see the Maroons in action at Westlake on September 18 at 7:30pm.