The Central Coast Barnstormers plan to run a balanced spread offense this season. There should be little doubt about the semi-pro football team’s ability to move the ball through the air.
That’s because former record-setting Gilroy High quarterback Jamie Jensen is back to his old stomping grounds calling signals. Jensen and the Barnstormers are set to host their season opener against the South Bay Stallions at 3 p.m. Saturday at Gilroy High’s Garcia-Elder Sports Complex.
The event is the team’s Military Appreciation Game, meaning all who provide military identification will receive free attendance.
“I think we’re all really excited. Everyone’s been working really hard,” Jensen said. “I think it’s just starting to get to that point where we’re ready to hit somebody else.”
Jensen hopes to help the Barnstormers compete for a Pacific Coast Football League title.
“It’s really exciting,” he said. “It’s exciting to come back here.”
Barnstormers co-owner and defensive coordinator Joffre Longoria said his team has a promising mix of veteran and young talent.
Barnstormers head coach Jeff Parsley figures to have a strong offensive line. Among the veterans are center Jose Rodriguez, an original Barnstormer, and offensive lineman Jason Russell and tight end Will Lawrence.
“We have a talented group on our team of young, new guys coming in and veterans who have been around,” Longoria said. “We’re taking it week by week, but we’re real excited about the guys who are out here, and we think we’re going to be really successful.”
Longoria said the Barnstormers will run a “multiple” defense with no frequent base look.
“We try to keep our opponent guessing on what our next move is,” Longoria said. “We have the ability to blitz from all angles.”
The Barnstormers have a 10-game schedule, including a Week 2 game against the Delta Ducks at 5 p.m. March 23 at Del Oro High in Loomis.
The significance of hosting a Military Appreciation opener is not lost on Longoria and the Barnstormers.
“We have active military members on our team we respect highly for what they’ve contributed to our country and our safety and our freedom,” Longoria said. “We just want to show our appreciation for what the military and Armed Forces do for us.”
