Football team ready for Richfield

Team focuses on film study to prepare

Senior+varsity+quarterback+Jonny+Sorenson+attempts+to+break+a+tackle+by+Holy+Angels+defense%2C+Sept.+15.

Grace Farley

Senior varsity quarterback Jonny Sorenson attempts to break a tackle by Holy Angels’ defense, Sept. 15.

Adam Johnson, Sam Birnberg, and William Phelan

When senior captain Ryan Klaers watched the film of last week’s Homecoming game he immediately noticed an area the team needed to improve on.

Klaers said the Orioles’ offense placed a greater emphasis on their run game in practice this week.

“We are trying to focus on getting better blocks than last week and opening up lanes,” Klaers said.

Varsity head coach Ben Wolfe said the team feels confident heading into tonight’s game against Richfield.

“We are just marching on, it’s been a good week so far at practice. I think overall we are feeling comfortable with the game plan and kids are in good spirits, so we are looking forward to (the Richfield game),” Wolfe said.

Despite their loss against Holy Angels last week, Wolfe said he felt the defense played well. He said the team has been focusing on improving other areas of the game to become more competitive.

“If we can keep ourselves in the game offensively and at least move the ball and set ourselves up for field goals, this should work itself into more wins,” Wolfe said.

According to Wolfe, the defense plays well as a unit, with speed and smart play amongst their strengths. He said he feels the defense has multiple qualities that make them great.

“(The defense) likes to play for each other and those things really make for what good defenses are known for. We are lucky to have them for sure,” Wolfe said.

Wolfe said the team has been using a variety of techniques to prepare for the upcoming matchup. He said the process the team uses creates a rhythm for players.

“We have a pretty good weekly routine, we lift weights during the week, we watch film, we do walk-throughs, we do a lot of rehearsed stuff during practice to simulate the other team’s plays with guys on our team,” Wolfe said.

Klaers said film plays an important role in preparation for facing opponents.

“It is good to get a look at what you are going to see in the game. (Film helps) mentally prepare for who you are going to be up against or what formation they are going to use,” Klaers said.

Wolfe said technology plays an essential role in the modern day game.

“There is some really awesome technology and software out there right now that makes sharing and viewing film for coaches really easy,” Wolfe said.

According to Wolfe, the areas the team needed to improve on were simple and straightforward.

“(We improved on) offense, defense and special teams,” Wolfe said.

Park plays at 7 p.m. tonight at Richfield High School.