The Webb Football team is having an impressive and successful season. They are currently 7-1, clinching a spot in the playoffs. Led by a strong senior class, the football team was confident enough to continue their winning tradition at the annual home game under the lights.
This game was not an easy task, however. Their opponent and the reigning champion, Temecula Prep, is notably known as a fierce opponent in the Manzanita league. Emotions were high heading into the game, coming off a tough close loss to Silver Valley.
The football team knew they had to bounce back and continue to establish themselves as major players in the league.
“I thought that we had a good week of practice leading up to that game, and we were looking for a little payback from the year before because Temecula Prep beat us in a close game,” said Amahl Thomas, head coach.
Tensions were high before the game between the two teams, as Webb felt a level of disrespect radiating from the Temecula players towards themselves and the school.
“Temecula Prep got off the bus and talked a little bit of mess,” Coach Thomas said. “So our players were eager to get out and defend our home field.”
The game was very exciting for the team as it was the first under the lights game since pre-covid. In this tradition, when playing in these primetime games the team has never lost.
“I always enjoy the under the lights game,” Coach Thomas said. “Not only because we’ve never lost under the lights, but it’s a great way to build community at Webb and give our players a special game to always remember.”
On top of being confident to keep the streak alive, the players had a boost of motivation coming from the stands as they were filled with friends, family, and classmates all cheering them on in hopes of a good game, and a win.
“Playing in front of fans is always a motivating factor for players,” Coach Thomas said. “But it is particularly special at Webb because of the unique situation of being a boarding school.”
After a hard-fought game by both sides, the Gauls emerged victorious in a 21-10 win over the Patriots to improve to 5-1 in the Manzanita League.
Webb’s successful regular season has landed them a playoff spot in the 2023 CIF Division 14 playoffs, with their opponent still to be determined; hopefully the Gauls can bring in a state championship for the first time ever in Webb football history. Go Gauls!
