Ventura Football Team beats Buena in the first league game of the year

The Ventura High School Varsity football team played an away game against their cross-town rival, Buena High School. The game ended with a score of 34-20 with Ventura winning, making it their first league win of the season. 

Quarterback Derek Garcia ‘26 said, “We don’t plan ahead for Buena.  For us, we are only guaranteed 10 games this season. I think that it is important for us to take it one week at a time. So when Buena week comes up, then that’s the team we focus on. Our guys did a good job of starting their preparation on Sunday when film was released, and putting the plan into action on Friday night.” 

The first quarter was a head start for the Cougars, ending with a score of 14-7. Garcia scored a total of four touchdowns, two in the first quarter, his passing yards ringing in at 248 by the end of the game. By halftime Ventura was up 20-7. In the third quarter, Ventura was able to score another touchdown, bringing the score to 27-7. Gage Kushner ‘26, was a big contributor to the Cougars win.  He was able to get 171 yards, and a rushing touchdown.  With a total of 5 touchdowns, VHS was able to end with the lead, receiving the rivalry trophy for the second year in a row.

Daylin Hunter ‘25 said, “It felt really great, because this is my last year. We put a lot of work into this game, a lot of thought, effort, all our blood, sweat and tears went into how we performed on Friday.” 

VHS’s defensive line should not go without recognition, going for 29 tackles. Patrick Hindley ‘25, was able to get the most with five total tackles, three solo and two assists. The Cougars defense also got two sacks, from Jordan Butcher ‘26 and Nathan Radwich ‘26.

Hunter said, “[Our coach] has taught us to be smart [in a game like this] and go into the game with a hard working mindset, while also trying to have some fun.”

Coach Tim Garcia said, “I thought that it was one of our better team performances. Meaning all three phases of the team played well, special teams, offense and defense. There was great energy, and a great vibe on our sidelines. The excitement that people brought to the game was great.” 

VHS plays Moorpark High School, The Musketeers, at home in Larabee Stadium on Friday, Oct. 11. They hope to bring the same energy and determination to win.