The entire community is cheering for ‘Baler football after the
dramatic Saturday night win that garnered San Benito High its first
section title in five years.
Hollister – The entire community is cheering for ‘Baler football after the dramatic Saturday night win that garnered San Benito High its first section title in five years.
“Things appeared a bit bleak at first, but you can see they really gelled as a team towards the end of the year,” said longtime ‘Baler enthusiast Bill Mifsud, who also films the games for CMAP. “I think Coach Cameron made them believe in themselves.”
The ‘Balers pulled off a last-second 27-21 victory against Oak Grove High School and were named CCS Champions – after losing the championship to the same team in 2004 by only four points, and to Aptos High in 2003.
“It’s a big win for us,” said County Sheriff Curtis Hill, lifelong Haybaler fan. “I was just happy to hear that Palma lost, but this victory is a big deal, it says a lot about our athletics and coaches, as well as the administration and students at the high school. It says a lot about Hollister.”
The game was held at San Jose City College, but despite the distance, the packed grandstand resembled a sea of ‘Baler red as friends and family turned out in droves to cheer on San Benito High.
“We had great fans, great fan support – second to none in community support,” said ‘Baler head coach Chris Cameron. “The community support is awesome. They love their ‘Baler football.”
While the ‘Baler football season may have gotten off to a slow start, the team was able to go into the championship match on the surge of a three-game winning streak. The ‘Balers defeated Palma early in November, earning a piece of the TCAL title, and went on to take beat both Alisal and Independence High Schools in the semifinals.
“We felt pretty confident going in, said ‘Baler runningback Abel Jacquez. “A lot of fans were at the game. Our parents especially gave us confidence to work hard and make them proud.”
County Supervisor Jaime De La Cruz believes it’s that very parental involvement that counts for the ‘Baler victory, in addition to the players and coaches. Parents willing to take on the job of supporting their kids throughout the football season certainly deserve their share of applause, as well.
“With the right foundation, right support, anything is possible,” he said.
Haybaler football has its roots in traditions over 100 years old, with rivalries and legacies dating back to when San Benito was still called Hollister High and the campus only spanned about one city block. It’s this tradition which compels fans to come back year after year, long after their own children or they themselves have graduated.
“I love it, I’m a former Baler,” said city councilman Robert Scattini. “Those kids and coaches should really be recognized for what they’re doing for the community. Football in Hollister is a big deal.”
And it’s tradition that inspires the players.
“Tradition makes me want to play harder, our coaches really push that,” said Jacquez. “And I think we put in more work than other teams because of that tradition.”
‘Baler football athletes never stop training, either. Players meet for workouts and practices through the winter, spring and summer months, and often sacrifice their lunch breaks for team meetings, as well. All this, in addition to keeping at least a ‘C’ average on their report cards.
“‘Baler football really gives you a sense of place and community,” said Hill. “It adds to what we all like about living in Hollister.”
While players and fans alike are already dreaming about next year’s championship ring, in the meantime Hollister is beaming with pride for their 2005 champs.
“Everybody should be proud of this team and what they’ve accomplished,” said Mifsud. “Andy Hardin stadium is the place to be on a Friday in fall, even if you don’t have kids. It’s great entertainment, great football, it’s cheap, and the tri-tip is good, too.”
