The Shadow Ridge High School JV Football Team is living proof that dedication, resilience, and strong team connections can lead to a huge success. Just a year after losing from a 0-9 season as freshmen, the team flipped the script, finishing their JV year with a 9-0 record. This transformation is more than just a huge deal for statistics, it’s the result of hard word, leadership, and time but most of all facing adversity.
The 0-9 record during their freshman year season was a tough pill to swallow. Games were often lopsided, and the scoreboard did not always reflect the effort the players put in. Instead of allowing the loss to define them, the team chose to use the experience as fuel for improvement.
“We knew we were better than our record,” said Dominic Ellison, sophomore. “The losses taught us how to face challenges head on and work harder as a unit.”
The shift began in the offseason. Under the guidance of their coaches, the players committed to intense strength training, speed work, and learning the plays with their football IQ. Team chemistry was a priority, with players spending time together on and off the field to build trust. The coaching staff, known for their focus on discipline and fundamentals, played a big role in the turn around.
The coach’s message to the players was clear, “Success starts with accountability. Every practice, every drill, every rep matters.”
The transformation was amazing from the first game of the JV season. The once struggling team dominated opponents with a balanced offense, a suffocating defense, and an amazing work ethic. Each win showed the team’s belief in their abilities. By mid-season, they had proven that their success wasn’t a fluke it was the result of preparation and teamwork.
While the undefeated season is a major milestone, the players and coaches at Shadow Ridge see it as just a beginning. Their focus has already shifted to preparing for varsity competition and continuing to develop in the offseason.
“This is about more than just one season,” said Coach Giovanni Chanes. “It’s about building a culture of excellence that will last for years to come.”
The Shadow Ridge JV Football Team’s journey from 0-9 to 9-0 is a testament to facing adversity. It’s a reminder that failure is not the end, it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger.
As they celebrate their undefeated season, the players of Shadow Ridge are setting their sights on even greater success, knowing they’ve already proven that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
