Moorpark High's Football Team Goes Full Speed to Prepare for Season

This is a key summer stretch for Moorpark High’s football team. The team has begun hitting with full-contact practices. And with several starting spots up for grabs, the players are working hard to prove themselves and to help the team, as the Musketeers (6-6 in 2010) look to keep pace with Marmonte League powers St. Bonaventure, Oaks Christian and Westlake.

“We’re looking good. We’re coming together as a team,” quarterback Grant Rohach said, taking break between two-a-day practices. "Now, it’s about repetition and focusing on what we need to accomplish.”

After a summer filled with endless conditioning drills, weight-lifting sessions and seven-on-seven tournaments, it’s time to get a feel for some real football in preparation for the season opener Sept. 2 against visiting Palos Verdes.

“We just got in pads, and that's when you see everyone’s true colors,” Rohach said. “It’s crunch time for the guys fighting for positions.”

Among the young up-and-comers are receivers Chad Hansen, a junior, and Tyler Collet, a sophomore.

“They’ve really stepped up and they’re doing well,” Rohach said. “They’re stepping up, big-time.”

Among the goals over the next couple of weeks is to find a kicker to replace Alex Nelson, an All-Southern Section honoree now at Moorpark College. Jordan Guerrero, also a top baseball player, is in the mix, along with Brendan Hodgson, a junior.

Last year, five Moorpark games came down to the final moments, so kicking and special teams are especially important for programs with championship aspirations.

“It’s crucial,” Rohach said. “All those little points on PATs and field goals, they make a big difference.”

Meanwhile, the weather has been hot but not unbearable, Rohach said.

“It’s not too bad,” Rohach said. “I think it was only in the 90s in the morning. We all live out here, so we know what to expect. Once you put on the pads, it just takes some getting used to.”