As the 2008-2009 school year ended, there was one question that was left unanswered. Who would be the new football coach? After an extensive interview process, that burning question was answered: former assistant coach Jon Kadi would be stepping up as head coach of the team.

In order to get ready for the 2009 season, the players had to make a commitment to practice everyday, day in and day out. That wasn’t the only requirement of the season; Kadi made it mandatory for all players to go to the weight room and camp during the off season.

As Kadi came in and took the position of head coach, he felt there were a couple of minor changes he had to make for the team.

“Offensively to learn the offense; defense to pick up the tempo, and to teach them how to compete,” said Kadi.

With that in mind, the mentality of the team has dramatically changed from the 2008 season. Returning junior running back Ryan Davis agreed that there has been a change.

“I’m more committed,” said Davis. “I care more about the players than just winning a game.”

As of today, the team has gone 0-4, losing against Rockville, Whitman, Churchill and Gaithersburg. Junior co-captain and quarterback Cole Ahnell has taken charge of the team with a great amount of optimism in order to build up the team’s confidence in order to win games.

“I thought we’d do definitely better than previous years,” said Ahnell before the Gaithersburg game. “I had hoped to go 8-2, but now 7-3.”

Along with Ahnell leading the team, senior co-captains Tristan Plunkett, Michael Pitsenberger and Patrick Teixeira know what’s best for the team and are seen as leaders to other players.

“I was voted team captain, and on the [offensive] line, I do my best to make sure people know what they’re doing,” said Plunkett. “I always try to pick up my teammates rather than yell at them and scorn them.”

In addition to the four captains, Kadi considers himself to be a leader of the team.

“I feel like I was a leader last year as well as now,” said Kadi. “I have more responsibility and more communication with parents and administration.”

A large amount of confidence and optimism has been passed from Kadi to the team. It has not only made the players realize that they have the skills, but that it is possible for them to win. The confidence has spread throughout the team and has also reached WJ fans; the fans have realized that a win is not out of reach for this season.

As the season progresses, the team has put the first four games in their past and looks ahead to compete against Poolesville this Friday.