As both football teams surpass the five-game mark of the season, the varsity team seems to be lacking routine and stability, but are still over .500 and rolling.
Over the first four games, the Patriots’ offense has seen three quarterbacks, one of which is star senior running back Josh Reid. Varsity team is coming off a hard loss to Walter Johnson, a 27-20 finish, and a three-touchdown game for Reid. Reid has no choice but to use his talent and versatility to help the team. “Honestly, I don’t agree with it as it’s limiting my talent on both sides of the ball. But I will do anything to give my team the best chance possible,” Reid said.
With Reid being one of four captains, he has to figure out ways to lead and help battle through adversity. “You have to tell them that you have confidence in them. As well as show them that you are not afraid through your actions. Attitudes are contagious,” Reid said.
Reid has been on varsity football for three years and continues to be a big piece. Contributing to the other side of the ball is captain junior Jude Ampofo. This is Ampofo’s second year on the varsity team, spending most of his time as a defensive end. As someone who can not control the offense, Ampofo looks for ways to push the offense and improve the whole team. “We have to trust in each other and trust in the coaches,” Ampofo said.
Ampofo aims to enter each game with his head up and to stay responsive to his team. “We fought hard but came up short. We have to lock in, clean up mistakes, and keep working,” Ampofo said.
The varsity team has struggled with injuries. Star wide receiver and senior Ashton Ingram was banged up late in the game against Walter Johnson. Another injury lies at the defensive line position, where senior Yifan Chen has been on crutches for a couple of weeks and will be out the rest of the season.
The JV team, as well, had a tough loss to the Wildcats 21-7. The team is also battling injuries, as freshman quarterback Ari Reid and sophomore defensive tackle Zuri Ampofo are injured. “Being injured sucks; however, I can still help my team with carrying equipment or giving advice, which could help the team thrive more,” Ari Reid said.
As carrying gear may be demoralizing, Reid takes pride in it and takes any opportunity to help his team. With Ari Reid having Josh Reid as his brother, Ari Reid has been surrounded by varsity-level players and understands the different intensity between the varsity and JV teams. “JV can improve by paying attention to the varsity players and what they do in practice and games,” Reid said.
The team followed up the Walter Johnson game with a 14-13 win over the Magruder Colonels, bringing their record to 3-2. The team aims to win their next game over the Richard Montgomery Rockets, the school’s homecoming game.
