Quince Orchard, Conquering the Cost of Success
By: Gillian Erdrich
GAITHERSBURG, MD - Success always comes at a price; the Quince Orchard High School varsity football team's success is no exception. With an undefeated regular season last year, current seniors, as well as all other varsity players, now have big cleats to fill. Preparation and hard work are both familiar concepts to this team. It is evident that their dedication paid off in the past, however now the team is working towards an even more victorious season than the last.
Current players are working hard to overcome the loss of last year's seniors and carry on the success of this program). "The team learned last year that no matter how well prepared you can be it's the little things that will win or lose a game" said rising senior, Drew Murphy. Aware of the importance of learning from the past, rising senior, Jonathan Stoeser aims to "try to do what made us successful."
For the past seven years, except for this season, Coach Dave Mencarini has made staff changes every year. Despite this constant, players will change as always. "Every year you have seniors graduate," said Mencarini; "that leaves shoes and holes that somebody has to step up and fill." He makes certain all of his players know that "when somebody leaves, it's somebody else's turn."
The team's never-quit attitude is an essential asset which contributes to its success on and off the field. This attitude is apparent with each player's determination during workouts. "Quince Orchard is preparing for this upcoming season with the toughest workouts we have ever had" said Murphy. During workouts, the team is challenged through the completion of high intensity exercises such as bag drills, ladders, and sprints; all come together to strengthen both the speed and agility of players. All coaches are always encouraging the team to work hard in the weight room with the intention of strengthening the team as a whole. Rising junior, Mark Green, keeps it in his mind to "play hard, work hard." To keep the team in healthy condition, coaches are constantly educating the players about proper hydration and nutrition. Rising senior, Nick Thomson, sees all the guys working hard in workouts. Mencarini notes this as well; "What we're doing is working," said Mencarini, "so I'm not going to change it too much."
The game of football is not all physical. It also involves a mentally healthy body as well. Throughout their high school football career, players learn life-long lessons that will carry them long after the fourth quarter. Rising senior, Eric Bishop, recognizes the importance of never giving up. He has learned to "keep fighting until the end." This team is one that cares about football and not just wearing the jersey. This passion is one solely developed by the attitudes displayed by the coaches. Mencarini ensures that all players know that "no one guy is more important than the team."
It is obvious that this team understands the importance of preparation paired with determination. "Preparation starts off in the summer," said Thomson; "hopefully it will all pay off and we'll have a successful season." Rising senior, Alex Twine, feels "everyone is coming out to work; everyone knows what our goal is this year." Murphy recognizes the importance of having a passion for football and "always giving it your all."
Aiming to build a team of not only strength but strong character as well, Mencarini instills a crucial motto in every player: "we play for those who came before; we set the standard for those who follow." Though a football season will always throw challenges at a team, this team is more than willing to overcome these challenges while playing a well-deserved, successful year.
