HARLINGEN — Heading into the 2017 football season, San Benito’s offense is poised to have yet another strong season. The Greyhounds did not have spring football so their 7on7 squad provides a glimpse of what fans can expect this fall.
San Benito isn’t known for having a 7on7-savvy squad and has never qualified for the State Tournament in College Station. However, this group is looking to change that this summer.
After a season-opening win on Tuesday, San Benito fell 48-35 to Rio Hondo, which also possesses plenty of fire power. Both squads have the offensive weapons to seal a bid for the state tournament.
For the Greyhounds, everything begins with quarterback Erick Retta. The quick-footed signal caller displayed a cool, calm and collected effort last season and is in sync with his go-to target Isaiah Trevino.
“As a quarterback I can work on hitting my targets and my release time,” said Retta. “I only have four seconds to throw the ball so that clock in my head helps. One thing I’m working on with my receivers is the timing. We understand the routes and it’s just a matter of mastering the timing,”
Last summer San Benito did not attend a qualifying tournament, but the Hounds are looking to compete in an area one soon.
“We’re trying to get into a state qualifying tournament in San Antonio,” said Retta. “We wanted to enter some here in the Valley but they were already full. We have never made the state tournament and it’s a goal of ours to become the first team to clinch a spot.”
Retta will turn to Trevino and fellow wide out Jacob Cavazos. The duo provides Retta with soft hands and crisp route running. Running back Tyrone Harper will also be in the mix adding fire power out of the back field.
“We’re excited to be out here and play football,” said Trevino. “During the offseason we have gotten faster and have worked with Erick on our timing.
“As a wide receiver I use this time to master my route running. Just because its 7on7 doesn’t mean guys won’t be competitive and that makes it fun. They will play you the way they will play you with pads on,”
The Hounds will be back in action Tuesday at 9 p.m. as they have a matchup against Harlingen South.
All 7on7 games are being played at Victor Park in Harlingen.
