Oakmont High School Football Season Preview

Entering the 2021 high school football season, the Oakmont High School Vikings are looking to bring home a league title and make a statement in the playoffs. After a solid week 1 win, the team is confident and motivated to continue their strong start. We had the opportunity to speak with Head Coach Jake Messina about the upcoming season and the team's expectations. Coach Messina identified a handful of players that he believes will make an immediate impact on the team this season. Beau Ogles, a versatile player with three years of starting experience and team captain, is expected to lead the Vikings to success on both offense and defense. Nate Sperdutto, considered to be the best lineman on the team, will provide strength and toughness in the trenches. Sulei-Hassan Olajoku, another three-year starter and the strongest player on the team, will be a key factor in the Vikings' physicality. Additionally, seniors Andrew Merino (QB), Quin Duran (RB/LB), and Mac Hughes (LB) all have three years of starting experience and are considered leaders on the team. When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Messina looks for players who possess qualities of character, growth, and the ability to lead with love. This year, the chosen captains are Mac Hughes, Beau Ogles, Dylan Ivey, and Nate Sperdutto. However, Coach Messina also mentioned that twin brothers Jayden and Jordan Beasley, who play as wide receiver and defensive back, are also competing for a leadership role on the team. Implementing team chemistry and camaraderie is another important aspect for the Vikings this season. Coach Messina believes that the team's character and ability to lead from a place of love will contribute to their success on and off the field. For Coach Messina, motivating his players to reach their full potential is not a difficult task. After facing challenging seasons in the past, the Vikings are determined to prove themselves and show the world what they are capable of. Coach Messina's confidence in his team's abilities is enough to push them to give their all in every game and practice. When asked about the biggest challenges in preparing for this season, Coach Messina mentioned the uncertainty due to the ongoing pandemic.