Players of the South Hills varsity football team gave some insight into what they do to physically and mentally prepare for a game.
“The preparation during the week is sometimes more important than game days because if we feel prepared, we play faster on game night,” varsity coach Jacob Calderon said.
Calderon shared how his team observes the opposing team to focus on their weaknesses to be ready to attack at the game.
“So we have something called huddle, which allows us to watch the film on the opponent that we’re playing during the week. At that time, we start to break down what they do offensively and defensively, and then we start to implement as best against that,” Calderon said.
Jayden Arnold (12), varsity football captain, shared how he prepares for a game.
“I just try to clear my mind. Music helps a lot. Just trying to get me to focus on what I’m trying to accomplish in the game,” Arnold said.
Arnold also discussed what he does outside of practice to benefit his team.
“Outside of practice, I’m making sure that I’m getting on, everybody on the team academically to keep their grades up and stuff, because school is very important because we’re student-athletes,” Arnold said.
Calderon shared that time efficiency is crucial to him when he is instructing training sessions and does his best to never waste any time.
“We move fast through drills, water breaks are quick. Lifting is fast, we want to move the heavy weight at a certain tempo. We want the practice to be at a certain tempo when we’re on the field so that we can gain that conditioning throughout practice without having to do cardio-type exercises,” Calderon said.
Tyler Tuntland (12), varsity football captain, shared what he does to prepare.
“Work out with a personal trainer who trains NFL players, and get together sometimes to watch films,” Tuntland said.
