Tigers looking to build on success

The Wasco Tigers football team caught fire at the right time last year, battling their way to the State Championship game for the first time in school history. They were 6-2 in the SSL, but turned up their performance in the playoffs, culminating with a 7-6 win in the Regional Championship.

The Tigers showed more versatility in their offense last year, with Coach Chad Martinez's squad airing the ball out when it needed to, making their running game that much more effective. With the departure of Michael Dominguez, Ram Lopez, and a few senior linemen, the Tigers will be relying on a few key returners to bolster the group.

Before last year, for over a decade, the Tigers ran a run-heavy Wing-T offense. This season, Martinez said that they are installing a new style offense. "Its going to be a lot more balanced. It won't be a true split offense between run and pass, but it is a lot more balanced than in previous years."

With four returning linemen, a receiver and back Hami Lopez, the offense will be led by sophomore quarterback Miguel Gomez. Martinez said that almost all of their defense is returning this year and should be a tough, aggressive bunch.

As far as last year, Martinez said that he told his players that last year was great, with the big run, but this is a new year and they have to focus on the task at hand, with a clean slate. "We had a great post-season last year. Even cooler, with it happening just the year before just seven miles away in Shafter. But, we have to concentrate on the next game, and play them one at a time."

The Tigers begin their season with a scrimmage against South High School at South, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, with the varsity starting at 7:30 p.m.