By Amanda Thomas
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The 2011 JV football season has begun with a new head coach, Al Alulusa, who has been welcomed and embraced by the team. With help from Varsity Head Coach Roderick York, Alulusa is hoping to build up the JV football program by implementing philosophies shared by York and himself.
“(My) team philosophy is that we’re one team, we play as a team, we do everything as a team,” said Alulusa. Resembling York’s philosophy, Alulusa has instilled this in his team to help bring them together to play as one. “He and I talk a lot so the number one thing was keeping the programs the same; the same philosophy, same scheme,” explained York.
Another similar philosophy between York and Alulusa that has made a positive impact in ensuring tremendous work ethic, as well as an optimistic mindset throughout the team is the emphasis of always giving their best. “One of (Alulusa’s) main philosophies that he always tells us is (how) you practice is how you’re going to play in the game,” explained Sophomore linebacker Blaze Cosner.
One of Alulusa’s goals is to prepare his players for their step up to the varsity team. “(I believe) that you can’t count a successful season based on wins and losses but more on the growth of the team and as a JV we’re just building the kids to be varsity players. We’re trying to mold them and get them used to what the coaches on the Varsity are going to expect from them,” said Alulusa. He and his new coaching staff continuously make sure that they remain on the same page.
Along with his experience in coaching at the youth level in many sports Alulusa also brings a positive atmosphere and attitude to the team. “He never puts us down, he always keeps everything positive and really keeps us going and no matter what he never gives up on us,” said Cosner.
Alulusa looks forward in continuing to work with the players, helping them build a good character individually and bringing them together as one team.
