Central Valley High School had success at all three levels on the gridiron during non-conference play.

The Hawks' varsity, junior-varsity and freshman football teams posted a combined record of 10-3-1.

"We're excited," Central Valley athletic director Greg Magni said. "It's a step in the right direction. The kids worked hard over the summer. They're buying into what the coaches are teaching. That's what it takes to be successful."

"We got a good group of kids," said Scott Edwards, fourth-year leader of the Hawks' football program. "Most of the coaches have worked together for three or four years. There's continuity and a comfort level."

"The No. 1 reason all three levels are having success is because there's a system approach from the top down," said Scott Barron, freshman head coach. "We do the same drills. We run a lot of the same offensive and defensive plays. We use the same philosophies with adjustments. It also helps to have some talent."

Central Valley earned preseason victories against West of Tracy (31-14), Grace Davis (35-28) and Atwater (12-9) at the varsity level.

The Hawks lost to Enochs (14-6) and Sierra (20-14).

"Since I've been here, I've always built around our defense," Edwards said. "This year is no different. We're trying to get better on the other end (offense). It's all about consistency. We've had Jekyll-and-Hyde flashes. We're trying to get better."

Central Valley's junior-varsity football team won all four of its non-league games under first-year head coach Rusty Price's direction.

The Hawks topped West (35-12), Enochs (18-12), Sierra (7-6) and Atwater (28-12).
With Barron leading the way, Central Valley's freshman football team amassed a 3-1-1 record.

"I'm not surprised at the results we've had," he said. "We have high expectations."

The Hawks bested West (21-0), Enochs (20-8) and Grace Davis (27-0).

Central Valley tied Sierra (14-14).

The Hawks were beaten by Atwater (15-14).

"We've only given up 37 points through five games," Barron said. "People are doing their job on defense. We've had touchdowns on special teams the last few weeks. We've been taking care of the ball on offense. It's kind of a relief that no one area is really bad and we have help in all three phases."

Edwards (physical education), Price (physical education) and Barron (social science) all work on campus as full-time teachers.

"We have a couple campus supervisors on our coaching staffs, not just teachers," Edwards said. "It helps to have as many faculty involved as you can. It's very important. We have more opportunities to see them (our players) and establish relationships."

"It helps with academics, too," Barron stated. "They know I know all of their teachers, so if they mess up, I'll find out. On a weekly basis, I have kids coming into my classroom during lunch."

"The kids see them all day long," Magni added.

Central Valley's varsity football team has reached new heights since Edwards' hiring in 2014.

The Hawks accomplished several firsts in 2016 by compiling a program-best 9-2 overall record, capturing their first conference title and participating in the playoffs for the second straight year.

Central Valley also set a team-record with eight straight victories.

"I played in college," Barron said. "I've been around good and bad coaches. Edwards is among the best coaches I've seen. He's authentic. He comes in so prepared. Everyone else knows they have to step their game up. Coach Edwards is awesome. I love working with him."

Central Valley's varsity, JV and frosh football teams opened Western Athletic Conference play with victories over Livingston last week.

"We're happy that we're competitive," Magni said. "Every game in league is going to be a challenge. Everyone has improved."