Andrean High School faces a new challenge in 2024 as it graduates four offensive linemen, leaving the team with a revamped lineup. Senior Ben Novak emphasizes that trust is key to overcoming this transition.
“Personally, it’s trusting that the person next to me is going to do their job,” Novak said. “It’s a clean slate. Everyone else coming in is new. I need to coach up when I see something and trust my teammate to do their job.”
According to Novak, this bond was crucial for Andrean’s successful run game last season, and he believes it can be effective again. “We were so effective in the run game because we were one unit,” he said. “This year we’re trying to show that as well.”
Head coach Chris Skinner has been encouraging seniors like Novak to take on leadership roles with younger players. “He helps guide guys who have potential, making sure they understand the expectations,” Skinner said.
Novak also highlighted the importance of quickly building cohesion within the team. “If we trust each other and execute, we’ll be effective,” he said.
