Hillcrest football struggles in region play
Hillcrest football has seen a lot of changes this season -- new region, new classification and a new coach. While many had high hopes for the change to Region 7, Hillcrest continues to struggle and has yet to earn a region victory. The 0-2 record in region has eliminated Hillcrest from the playoffs but with two games left, the players aren’t giving up yet.
“We’ve had some hardships this season but I’m proud that we have worked together to get through it,” said senior captain Kalin Olsen. “We’re not giving up yet.”
Injuries and sickness have plagued Hillcrest. Coach Casey Miller said in September he had 26 kids out due to sickness. In the game against Copper Hills on Sept. 2, injuries forced younger players to step up to the line and take over for their seasoned counterparts. This has given younger players the chance to get much needed experience.
Kyle Gastler injured his shoulder during that game and has been out since. He is expected to return to the field in October, although no date is set yet. McKay Johnson and Cameron Jensen have been getting a lot of playing time so far this season and have been filling in for injured players. Miller said the younger players who have had to fill in have performed well so far, but still have a ways to go.
Cade Roemmich is one of the younger players to start on varsity. In the left tackle position, Roemmich earned his position on varsity because of his talent and consistency. Miller said it’s unusual to see such a young player start varsity but he’s been pleased with Roemmich’s performance so far.
“We have had great plays this season and some not so well,” Miller said. “I’m proud of the effort the whole team is making.”
One problem Hillcrest has struggled with all season is adopting the mentality that the team can beat its opponents, even if they are tough. Miller said he’s been trying to help the players realize that even if the team is tough, they can still win if they play smart.
“The guys go into this mode of playing not to lose, not playing to win,” he said. “It’s not the way you play if you want to win games. If you play to win, you have more confidence.”
Hillcrest football hasn’t had a run at a state title for a while and although this year will be the same, Olsen said he is confident Hillcrest football will get better with each passing season.
“I think we made strides to overcome the mental block this year,” he said. “You have to have a different attitude and show up to play every game. Next year our team will be better.”
