After reaching the semifinals last year and losing to Westmont, 10-31, in the Medium School division in CCS, the Paly varsity football team has high hopes for the upcoming season.

"Our main goal is to win league and go deep into the CCS playoffs," said assistant coach Steve Foug.

In order to accomplish this, the Vikings face stiff competition in the De Anza Division of SCVAL.

"Our toughest opponents in our division are Los Gatos and Wilcox," said head coach Earl Hansen.

Team Captain senior Roger Prince expressed his opinion of the team’s main key for success.

"We need to go full speed and never underestimate any opponent," Prince said.

Several of last year’s key players have graduated, including quarterback Nathan Ford, wide receiver Matt Wisemann and running back John Ginnani.

Replacing Ford at the helm will be junior Nick Goodspeed who was the starting quarterback of the JV team last year.

"Goodspeed has great potential," Foug said. "He is a natural athlete with a great attitude."

Other players to look for include Cooper Miller (wide receiver and strong safety), Will Frazier (running back and linebacker), Freddie Koloto (offensive and defensive lineman) and Roger Prince (fullback and linebacker).

According to Hansen, a key strength of this year’s team is the defense.

"Fred Koloto has just been dominant at the lineman position," Hansen said. "Linebacker Roger Prince heads a solid secondary."

The Vikings hope to establish themselves as a dominant force in the CCS early starting with their season opener tonight against Carlmont at home.

"It all depends on how long it will take for us to mature, come together and play," Hansen said.