Orchard Park began their season with a slow 0-2 start before their home opener in Week 3. Since their home opener, Orchard Park has won five straight and looked dominant over this stretch, at the time of this interview, outscoring their opponents a combined 184-55. Because of their successful turnaround, they will be playing for the first seed in the Section, and a win would guarantee a first-round bye and a home game, providing a significant added boost amid the pressure of the playoffs.
I spoke with Senior Captain Brody Keats to get an insight into how the team is preparing.
How is the team preparing mentally for the pressure of the playoffs?
BK: This year we have cultivated a mentality through our offseason and in-season training to make sure we are ready for any added pressure and whoever is on the other side of the field.
What is the team’s collective mindset right now?
BK: Relentless aggression. Be the lion. Improve, not prove.
How are the captains and leaders stepping up to make sure everyone is on the same page?
BK: The biggest thing this season has been that the leadership has come from many different places, not just the captains. Underclassmen, younger guys, stepping up and getting everyone bought into the process.
What are the coaches emphasizing now that the stakes are higher?
BK: Much more mental. Earlier in the season, we were much more focused on the physical aspect. Now our coaches recognize that we are prepared for the physical side of things, and our mistakes are going to come from the mental aspect.
Has the intensity of practice ramped up as you approach the end of the regular season?
BK: I would say that this team, from the moment the season started, came out to kill in practice, and the results of that work show in our games and on film.
How do you go about preparing for potential different matchups?
BK: Our coaches instilled the mentality of putting OP first. We know if we solve our own issues, no matter who is on the other side of the field, we love our odds.
Are there any teams specifically you feel that you match up well against?
BK: I refuse to answer this question because I don’t give other teams bulletin board quotes. If you’re not familiar with football language, that means don’t say something that gives someone to play harder than they already are going to.
How are coaches managing players’ workload to make sure they are fresh for the playoffs?
BK: Lots of rotations, different practice schedule, and immense help from the training staff: Trainer Mike and Trainer Victoria.
Do you feel that the team is peaking at the right time to make a deep run?
BK: Absolutely, that’s a great question, intensity in every aspect has been ramping up, practice looks sharp and I am so excited to see what this team brings on Friday.
What do you think the team needs to build on going into the playoffs?
BK: Sticking to our identity and dominating every play, at times, we have allowed other teams to get us away from our identity and game plan. But going into the playoffs, we want to play our brand of football.
What are you going to remember most about your Senior season?
BK: The kids I got to play with and the bonds I got to make are something I will definitely cherish.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me, and good luck for the rest of the season.
As Orchard Park heads into the playoffs, the team’s transformation from their 0-2 start to now playing for the first seed is a testament to their leadership and dedication. With a unified mindset and relentless energy, Orchard Park looks poised for a deep playoff run.
