In a Friday night football matchup, the Valley Christian Trojans have the opportunity to turn their season around and get their first win of the season.

 

After starting this season 0-4, coach Jeff Ruttledge and the Trojans look to improve their season with a non-conference away game against Wickenburg,  which is looking to improve their record this week to 3-2.

 

Both Wickenburg and Valley Christian expect to bounce back from their last games which resulted in a loss. With Valley Christian being winless this season, Ruttledge’s main priority for tonight’s game is a victory.

 

“We need a win, I mean were 0 and 4 so tonight is a business trip for us,” said Rutledge. “For us it is about confidence. We have to believe that we can win. When you are 0 and 4, it is my job to make sure that my team remains confident and believes that they can win. Which they can but they need confidence in each other and in their teammates,” said Ruttledge.

 

Ruttledge emphasized that his team needs to work on mental toughness and not making mental mistakes by getting penalties. “We’ve made a lot of major mental mistakes and mistakes can get you beat quicker than anything,” said Ruttledge.

 

The coaching staff for the Trojans wants to see their senior players take a leadership role on the field during the game.

 

Coach Ruttledge specifically mentioned senor offensive lineman Trevor Hocking, saying that he has been a key impact player for their team and knows how big of a “difference maker” he can be for his team.

 

“He doesn’t say much to his teammates, but he leads by example on the field. You don’t always have to be vocal to be a leader,” said Ruttledge.

 

Trojans Running back Jake Orth said, “I know our record does not show it, but if we come together as a team and play as a team we can be very effective on the field,”

 

Quarterback Peyton Hanzal added on to his teammate's statement saying, “Sometimes guys will do their job, and then sometimes they won't. If we are all doing our jobs right at the same time, good things will happen.”

 

Hanzal’s teammates had high praise for him coming into this game, saying that he has “stepped into a leadership role,” and has impressed everyone with his work ethic.

 

Although the Trojans are anxious to be battle tested and gain some momentum, so is Wickenburg.

 

Wickenburg has an average of 318.3 rushing yards per-game, so the run game will likely be featured.