After taking over a team that went 1-9 last season, new St. Monica football coach Chris Caminiti knew that growth would come gradually.
So, after the Mariners lost their opening game last Friday to Bishop Montgomery, 35-0, Caminiti called it “a first step” and cited several positives.
“We competed,” he said. “It was a 13-0 game in the fourth quarter. I’m as pleased as can be with a loss.”
St. Monica’s players are trying to learn a new system. They’re running the triple-option, an offense used successfully by the Air Force Academy and a few other college teams.
“It will take time,” said Caminiti. “It’s hard to learn in a few months.”
St. Monica had only 55 yards of total offense against the only team it defeated last year, when Jason Strouse was the coach and the team was depleted by injuries.
But Caminiti was pleased with the defense. Anthony Flores had an interception and Caminiti said Will Stennis, James Wright and Mickey Bowe played well.
St. Monica will play El Segundo Friday, September 15. El Segundo lost to West Torrance Friday, 60-0.
The following week St. Monica will play Santa Monica at Corsair Field.
