When it comes to Pomona-Pitzer football, students at these institutions aren’t very enthused to watch their fellow Sagehens compete in one of America’s favorite pastimes. However, this year the Hens (1-3, 0-2 SCIAC) are hoping to change that.
“A big obstacle is that there isn’t a lot of support from the team, whether that be from outside or inside the schools,” defensive end Aidan Hall PZ ’19 said. “Even though we have a lot more talent on the roster this year, a lot of people are struggling to get behind it and I feel as though we need more school spirit.”
He makes a valid point, as game days aren’t very hyped up or eagerly anticipated on either of the program’s campuses, and there seems to be almost non-existent school pride from either student body when it comes to P-P football.
Last Saturday, P-P took on the defending SCIAC champion Chapman University (1-3, 1-1 SCIAC) with the hopes of making a statement to the rest of the league and the P-P community.
The Sagehens went ahead 10-0 in the first half thanks to a K/WR Kevin Masini PO ’18 field goal and a touchdown catch by WR Brett Harper PO ’16 from QB Ed Sias PZ ’19. However, two late-second-quarter touchdowns by the Panthers changed the momentum of the game and put Chapman up 14-10 going into the half.
Chapman was able to take control of the game in the second half due to a depleted Sagehen roster and a couple of untimely turnovers by the Hen offense. The game ended in a 35-13 loss for P-P.
Despite the outcome, the Sagehens continue to show strides every week. The Hens had 279 yards of total offense compared to Chapman’s 268 yards. In addition, Sias stepped in early for injured QB Stephen Smith PO ’17 and went 11-27 for 166 yards with his first career touchdown pass.
Tim Hernandez • The Student Life
The Sagehens have the potential to refine and redefine themselves to their respective student bodies and the 5Cs as a whole this season. At the halfway point of the season, the Hens have two clear paths before them: They can either make history or let it repeat itself. But that is ultimately for them to decide.
The Hens face off against a tough opponent, California Lutheran University (3-1, 1-1 SCIAC), this Saturday at 1 p.m. on Merritt Field. P-P is hoping to finally put it all together and get a much-needed win against the Kingsmen.
“Once we get into our rhythm, we’re about to go off and show everyone this program has changed,” Hall said.