Photo source: New York Times

By Jaiden Ali

Co-Sports Editor

When asked what the biggest change from last season to this season was Coach Bannister replied with “Belief” He attributes this belief to the work that was put in over the offseason in addition to the increase in numbers of the team.

“The expectations going into this season was to change the culture around Hammond football which is something we have done well.” Football Captain Marshieh Johnson stated. In agreement with his coach, Marshieh credits the change in culture to the added numbers to the football team. Last year, the football team had just 24 people on the roster compared to now where they are over 40. With the addition of this many people comes players who surpass the expectations that were set for them going into the season.

Some of the biggest standouts include sophomore transfer Laz Ribalta, who is the starting quarterback. Coming off a short summer 7 on 7 season, Laz has started off the season with a touchdown in every game so far. Another standout transfer is Kyon Hairston who in his first year playing football at Hammond has helped “solidify the offensive and defensive line”. Senior Tavion Griffin has also stood out “He’s been able to play both sides of the ball and this is his first year ever playing… and he also is like a leader and a role model for everyone on the team” Captain Marshieh Johnsin stated.  In addition to those 3 another standout is Jayden Monroe. “He’s been putting up a lot of stats on the board,he’s been running the ball, and even though he’s been a quiet person on the team he’s still a role model for people to follow.” Marshieh answered. This helped the entire offense realize their potential.

When asked what the mindset of the team is, Coach Bannister replied with, ” [We are] continuing to make progress…we had a lot of inexperienced guys and low numbers which is a bad combination, but this year we’ve kind of solved two or three of those problems we had”. Coach Bannister’s current goal is finishing games. “We’ve had plenty of first halves even in the third quarter of the games. Now we just gotta put it together for a full four quarters and see where things can take us. But the outlook is very good for the rest of the season.” Hammond football team is more motivated than ever and are ready to end the season off strong.