By Benjamin Kokayko (283)

 Central´s football team has proven to be a group of hardworking and resilient athletes who have persisted through the many trials and tribulations over the years. Though it is hard to compete with the more sport-centric schools in the city, if you look past their losses, you will see a driven, competitive team that truly cares about the game of football. 

One thing that was consistent was both current and former members’ appreciation of the coaching. Etienne Lanzetta (279) said that “All the coaches were cool. They supported us and helped us in our positions.” He also described the practice as being “very fun” and “good exercise.” This was also echoed by Tanbir Onik (284), who noted that their coaches “taught us the fundamentals of our positions, both offensively and defensively.”

However, the team is constantly looking for ways to improve. One thing that Etienne mentions is that “The team should have recruited way harder.” He pointed out that “the wrestling team is way bigger”, and that if the football team could have recruited like that they would have many more people playing on the team. This is a noticeable weak spot in the team, because fewer people joining the team means fewer opportunities for great players and a lower chance of performing well. Another issue said Tanbir was finishing out the games,as the team “would have great first halves, but could not finish out and execute in the second half.”

Although this season had many ups and downs for the  Lancers, with a love of the game and great coaches behind them, they have a chance to redeem themselves next season. Even in the face of adversity, they are still a team dedicated to giving each game their all.  If they manage to fix their problems, they stand a great chance at doing even better next year.