New era begins for Redondo Union football
Junior quarterback Harrison Faecher will be looked upon to lead Redondo’s new offense under first-year head coach Matt Ballard. The Sea Hawks open the season at North Torrance Friday at 7 p.m. Photo
School may have been out for the summer, but the football players at Redondo Union High School were studying as hard as when classes are in session.
The Sea Hawks have had to deal with many new factors, including head coach, assistant coaches, offense, defense and special team packages. They also had to learn quickly as Redondo plays an early 0 week game at North Torrance Friday at 7 p.m. in the season opener for both squads.
Redondo finished 5-6 overall last season but finished second in the Bay League with a 4-1 record. The Sea Hawks look to avenge last year’s 21-14 season-opening loss to North. It was only one of two victories for the Saxons who finished fifth in the Pioneer League and had a 2-8 overall record in 2011.
New head coach Matt Ballard knows it will take time for his players to learn so many new systems.
“It’s a lot of change and we have a lot to do, but they’re coming along,” Ballard said. “I have a bunch of good kids who are very coachable. Right now, I am very pleased with their progress.”
Ballard said time will tell as to how the players buy into his program.
“Obviously, winning will help speed up that process,” Ballard said.
Junior quarterback Harrison Faecher returns and will looked upon to lead the Sea Hawks on and off the field. Faecher will have talent around him with running back Anthony Philyaw and receiver Christian Fernandez.
Ballard feels an additional strength of the team is the offensive line that returns players such as Telea Alefosio, Brett Kassel, Chad Simonek and Harry Whitsen.
Ballard, who moved to the South Bay from his hometown of Half Moon Bay, is doing his best to acclimate himself to the area, his players and opponents.
If that isn’t challenging enough, Redondo plays its first three games on the road. Following North, the Sea Hawks travel to Santa Monica and San Pedro before returning for their home opener against Culver City on Sept. 14.
Center Brett Kassel handles a North lineman during the 2011 season opener. Redondo’s returning offensive linemen are considered one of the strengths of the team. Photo
“I’ve watched film on North and it looks like they have good talent and decent size,” Ballard said. “If we can compete on the road, then the 12th man at home will be a big plus for our team.”
Along with Ballard, who also serves as defensive coordinator, new varsity coaches include Zack LaMonda (asst. head coach and offensive coordinator), former Sea Hawk great Keith Ellison (linebackers), Tim Green (quarterbacks), Stephen Kelley (running backs), Thyrell Lewis (defensive backs), Thyron Lewis (receivers), Chase Sramek (offensive line), Powell Chee (defensive assistant and special teams).
Returning to the coaching staff are Tim Ammentorp (defensive line) assisted by Lorenzo Sanchez and Jasper Stephens (running backs and Quality Control).
To follow Redondo’s football team throughout the season, visit ruhsfootball.com.