SOUTH GATE, CA — Never underestimate the underdog. That was the lesson Friday night as the Roosevelt Rough Riders entered their matchup against the South East Jaguars with a 0–7 record and walked away with their first victory of the season, defeating the Jaguars 50–22.
Coming into the game, Roosevelt had every reason to be discouraged. Seven games without a win can take a toll on any team, especially young athletes still learning how to handle adversity.
But Roosevelt came ready to compete.
Before kickoff, coach Ernesto Ceja’s spoke about keeping players motivated despite their record.
“Just keep fighting,” coach said. “Every week is different.”
He also shared something he consistently reminds his players: difficult situations are part of life, and learning how to work through them is just as important as winning football games.
Friday night, those words carried onto the field.
Coaching Beyond the Scoreboard
For South East, the loss raised questions about an offense that has shown it can move the football.
One noticeable concern was the lack of involvement from receiver Adonis Washington. Washington’s limited opportunities were surprising, particularly with South East trying to keep pace with Roosevelt.
South East head coach Anthony Jackson Jr., in his first season leading the program, spoke before the game about building discipline and developing players beyond football.
“Just teaching them to be disciplined, that’s our main key,” Jackson said.
With more than 18 years of coaching experience, Jackson believes football teaches responsibility, respect and character.
He recalled meeting a former player who thanked him for providing guidance during a time when he didn’t have a father at home.
For Jackson, moments like that represent what coaching is really about.
A Lesson in Resilience
Roosevelt’s victory was more than a number added to the win column. It was an opportunity for young players to experience what happens when they continue competing despite disappointment.
For South East, now facing four consecutive losses, the challenge will be finding a way to regroup and finish the season with the same discipline its coach continues to emphasize.
High school football is where players learn more than formations, penalties and execution. They learn how to respond when things don’t go their way.
Friday night, Roosevelt showed why a team’s record doesn’t always tell its story.