It’s all about the mental fortitude, forged by attitude and
discipline
Beat the ‘Balers will be the chant this week as the Gilroy High School Mustangs prepare to challenge their ancient rival in Hollister. On the line is Gilroy’s first outright league championship since 1986 – way back when the league was called the Monterey Bay Athletic League.
It’s exciting for the school and the community to witness the football program’s rise to the top. When the Mustangs decisively whipped Catholic school perennial powerhouse Palma High School two weeks ago, it became clear that this team would not be haunted by past GHS demons. Though many talented teams have come and gone since 1986, this one has an edge – one of mental fortitude – that many others lacked.
Could it be that Coach Rich Hammond’s clear commitment to his team this year in an academic-discipline sense has made a difference? Coach Hammond spelled out the rules early on. Gilroy High’s football squad would collectively do their homework and get tutoring if needed. Doing well in the classroom and staying eligible would be priorities. We don’t believe it’s a stretch to connect the yardsticks in this scenario. That attitude and the accompanying discipline has manifested on the field this year.
Gilroy’s team has managed the setbacks which occur in any season – indeed, which happen in every game – and managed to keep its focus.
The team is well stocked with talent, of course. But there’s more to it than that. It’s the intangibles which define a winner, and Gilroy has demonstrated that quality week in and week out.
All the coaches deserve special recognition – not just for winning – but for demonstrating to the GHS student-athletes what the priorities are and, in doing so, helping the students grow into responsible adults.
Of course, a win over arch-rival Hollister would be sweet icing on the cake, as would a solid run in the Central Coast Section playoffs.
For those Gilroyans who haven’t seen a high school game in a long time, now’s the time. Gilroy’s a treat to watch.
And regardless of what happens during the remainder of the football season, the GHS program has made significant strides this year. It’s enjoyable – and gratifying – to witness the outstanding efforts that have been made.
