Football kicks off to a strong start
Newbury Park High School’s Varsity Football Team recently kicked off their first league game of the season on Sept. 14 against Royal High School in Simi Valley with a 53-7 victory. However, this win is just the beginning of what will be an exciting season for this team.
Joel Gonzalez, junior, and center of the team, emphasizes the tight-knit nature of the team. “This is a close team. These are my brothers,” Gonzalez said. His journey into football began at a young age due to his supportive family and coach.
Son of the coach and twin to the quarterback, Beau Smigiel, sophomore, and wide receiver for the team, comments on maintaining a focused mindset. “I kind of just stay in my zone. I don’t let distractions come to me. If someone wants to talk to me, I’ll tell them I just want to stay focused,” Smigiel said.
Gonzalez describes his approach to leadership as a balance of encouragement and constructive criticism. “I try to give criticism and try not to go too hard on them, to push them and support them. Not really get on them too bad, and just encourage them to do better,” Gonzalez said, “I’m doing my job for my brothers. I trust them to get their job done, and I gotta do mine.”
Maintaining an intense concentration is crucial to Smigiel’s performance, but it is not just self-discipline that keeps him going, it is the inspiration he finds in teammate Gonzalez. “Gonzalez [inspires me] because he always keeps everyone focused. He really cares about this team, he cares about every single one of us. He cares about us and he shows it,” Smigiel said.
Lucas Rugee, senior, the seasons’ right tackle for the team, shares the impact football has had on his life. “It pushes you out of the house, to meet new people and get better at doing whatever you’re doing,” Rugee said. His dedication to giving his all on the field is clear, as seen through his friendly rivalry with Gonzales. “Gonzales pushes me every day at practice, we compete with each other. He’s pushed me to my limit every day, so I give it all I can on the field,” Rugee said.
The Newbury Park Football Team’s next challenge awaits them on Oct. 6 when they face off against Agoura High School at the Panther’s Homecoming game. With the unwavering commitment of the team, there is no doubt they are ready to seize the opportunity. “We’re just gonna try hard and work to the best of our abilities,” Gonzales said.
