The varsity Liberty football team prepares to continue their winning streak against Palmer with high hopes on Friday, Sept 18. In previous seasons, Liberty Football has not won enough games to qualify for state; however, their game against Palmer has recently helped them get closer to having 3 wins in the past 3 seasons against Palmer. 

Overall the team feels confident in going into the game with just a few touch ups needed. When asked about why he feels confident about going into this game senior left tackle, Landon Evans said, “I just feel so much more connected it feels more like a brotherhood than a team.” 

Evans has been playing for Liberty all four years since being at Liberty and he has been through loads of ups and downs with this program.

One struggle he has had to overcome was learning to adapt to new coaching staff and styles. When asked about what he likes about these new coaches Evans responded, “They influence us because they make sure they know that was enough… We have the capability we just need to execute on that level.”

Evans has talked about how much more the team has connected this year, mainly through their faith. Talking about their team chemistry, Evans said, “I feel like we’re really connected through our faith. I think it will definitely show.”

The team has also been working on themselves a lot taking care of their bodies outside of team events. Elijah Takemoto said “I do ice baths two days a week, hot tub three days a week.” This shows the dedication the junior running back has to the team, as he makes sure his body is in the best condition, and his mind is in the best space before every game.

Takemoto believes there are a couple things the team needs to work on in order to be successful the rest of the season. When talking about struggles the team has had Takemoto stated, “We are going to have to overcome mental battles with ourselves. That’s what’s been keeping us down this year.” He goes on to explain that being more like a team, playing for each other instead of themselves. 

Takemoto adapted well with the new coaches and believes that the new coaching style affected the team in a positive way. When talking about the new coaching style Takemoto said,” It’s strict and loving…They’re going to help us get to where we need to be to win more games.”

Liberty has high hopes to start a snowball effect of winning with their first win coming from Palmer. 

For those who want to keep up with Liberty football they can get to MaxPreps or the Liberty football Instagram page for game times, updates, and events.