Warriors vent frustration in positive manner

Frustration turned into anger for Snow Canyon entering last Friday’s home game against Shadow Ridge (Nev.). In normal circumstances, that kind of reaction can be a negative thing. On the football field, however, it can be used in a positive manner.

Snow Canyon looked to end its six-game losing streak dating back to last season. With the current season not off to the ideal start, the Warriors said enough was enough. Although not a perfect outing, the message became clear that the tide had turned.

Snow Canyon transformed its demeanor during the 43-16 pounding of Shadow Ridge. Now at 1-1 overall, those within the program hope the positive momentum keeps moving forward.

“The main difference from Week 1 to Week 2 was our intensity,” said linebacker Corbin Moffitt. “I actually wasn't able to play in our first game against San Juan because I had injured my shoulder a few weeks before, but it was a good experience to watch our team from the sideline and to see how we played from a different perspective. In that game I noticed that our level of intensity just wasn't there.

“We had made a lot of rookie mistakes and just didn't have the momentum to start with. In our game against Shadow Ridge, we had great execution. We still made minor mistakes that we can fix, but overall we came out with a chip on our shoulder, ready to take the win.”

Outside of some turnovers, Snow Canyon played well on both sides of the field.

Quarterback Mason Smith showcased his versatility with 162 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Running back Mitch Phillips demonstrated why the Power-I could be a good scheme for him this season after rushing for 112 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensively, the Warriors were just as aggressive and created numerous turnovers.

Of course Shadow Ridge isn’t on par with the Region 9 foes Snow Canyon will play later this year. Yet the Week 2 rout is a good indicator that the Warriors have made an impressive turnaround in a short time.

“Our defense came out ready to play. I noticed the look on everyone's face and how we reacted in warm-ups before the game and I could tell we were ready to hit. Our scheme was to mainly go out there and to physically and mentally beat the other team up,” Moffitt said. “That's our game plan. We wanted to send them home knowing that they had played the Warriors. This really helped build our mindset and our goal to soon become the best defense in Region 9.”