The undefeated Oak Park Eagles football team has a streak of 7-0 during the 2019 preliminary games and a 2-0 score for the Coastal Canyon league.

Having an undefeated football team is not only an accomplishment for the school but the players as well. Many of this year’s varsity seniors began working toward this goal three seasons ago with Head Coach Casey Webb.

“It usually takes a couple of years for a new head coach to establish themselves and their system,” Athletic Director Tim Chevalier said. “You get groups that come in, and as they learn and play together, there’s a decent structure in place and they can be good.”

Defensive Coordinator Kevin Mosley has implemented a simple and easy-to-grasp defense system that has greatly helped players in games.

“Our strength is definitely in our defense right now; we are loaded there,” Webb said. “I like how hard we play; that’s a big strength of ours. They play together and they play hard.”

The dynamics of the team plays a big role in the performance of the players, as well as the results of the games. According to Webb, all of the teammates have effective communication, making for a more well-rounded team.

“From a football standpoint, I think that the kids have realized that if you buy in and work harder, then you are going to achieve great results. When you start to win and build that culture, everything else seems to follow,” Webb said.

According to Webb, having a good record can push the team to work harder, too. Combining motivation and hard work during practices, the varsity football team has held their undefeated record.

“We have a connection and it’s really special; it seems to be working really well,” varsity quarterback and junior Richard Russillo said. “I think it’s just the connection between the players — that’s really important.”

With the support of the Oak Park community behind them, the Eagles have risen to the challenge and emerged undefeated.

The atmosphere of the game has inspired the players to work hard and play harder.

“I love seeing the stands jam-packed. I love seeing everyone at the games. Administrators in the crowd and teachers on the sidelines. It’s awesome to see everyone being all about Oak Park,” Webb said.

With only wins under their belt, the OPHS football team has become more confident in their skills and with the idea of making it all the way to the championship.

“The main change this year is that we have a lot more new players who are a lot more committed and driven to the goal of winning championships, because … they have bought into the idea that if we try hard enough we can beat any team,” junior Max Alikian said.