Sullivan-Okaw Valley looking to build winning tradition after a strong 2023

SULLIVAN (WCIA) — Sullivan-Okaw Valley has made quite the turnaround in recent years after ending a long losing streak dating back to 2016.

“We had a long time of no wins, and just being able to get over that hump was really nice,” senior receiver Seth Forlines said.

The Redskins have laid the foundation of a winning culture under fourth-year head coach John Bertetto, nearly two years removed from snapping a 32-game losing streak.

“We just had a really good team,” senior quarterback Cooper Christensen said.

“Our bonding experience with the seniors and my class and the class under me. It was just a really good connection, and I think that showed on the field.”

SOV’s Victory Field held true to it’s name in 2023. The Redskins didn’t lose at home with a 9-2 overall record, winning it’s first playoff game since 2001.

“We had fun. Our community got into it,” Bertetto said.

“It was a blast. Last season was a blast, and I think our kids are hungry for that again.”

And that hunger is fueled by last season’s victories and defeats.

“Our regular season loss and then our playoff loss is really what’s kind of pushing us this year. We’re trying to go undefeated this year. The losses are what’s pushing us, but the wins are pushing us just as much,” Christensen said.

The previous season’s success has also encouraged new players to join the roster.

“It definitely brought a lot of new guys out. It’s hard to be playing on an 0-9 team, but when you see a team that was 8-1 in the regular season, got a playoff win, it excites you and you really want to work harder,” Forlines said.

Christensen returns as SOV’s starting QB, feeling more comfortable under center as a senior.

“I did a lot of work this summer on my position and the mental side of things, and I think I took a step forward in the mental side of that aspect,” Christensen said.

“This is gonna be his last hurrah, so I think he’s really motivated to help us get back to playoffs and see how far we can go this year,” Bertetto said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.