After months of waiting for a season, which at times looked unlikely to happen, the Jesuit High School Sacramento Marauders will go on the road to face the Rocklin High School Thunder in their season opener on Saturday, March 13 at 7 p.m.

Rocklin finished their last season with a 7-4 record and is ranked No. 10 in Northern California by SportsStars Magazine. Jesuit ended its 2019 campaign with a 6-6 record and is ranked No. 19 heading into the season.

According to Wide Receiver and Defensive Back Jake Hall ’21, Rocklin will be a tough matchup.

“[Rocklin] is typically a very strong defensive team so our offense will have to be fast and powerful,” Jake said.

Although Rocklin’s strength poses a threat to the Marauders, Jesuit Running Back/Linebacker Coach and Scout and Film Coordinator Jonathan Isaac has been thoroughly preparing the team.

“We acquired some film on Rocklin last year, so we’ve been reviewing that,” Coach Issac said. “In order for our team to do well, they need to apply the simple principles of the game: block and tackle. Beyond that, our players need to be present in the moment, coachable and accountable for their practice habits.”

While Rocklin won’t be an easy matchup, Jesuit Lineman Jack Hemmert ’22 is confident in his teammates and their abilities. 

“There have been trials and tribulations this season, but my expectation for our team is to compete no matter who we play or how many games we will have,” Jack said. “This year’s team has the chance to become extremely good when we come together as one. Although this year’s team is young, two of our strengths are our athleticism and we are very hungry to play.”

While spectating will be limited to players’ immediate households, the Jesuit community can receive game updates through the Jesuit Sac Sports App. Games will also be live-streamed via the NFHS Network.