Sports can unite people, inspire greatness, and teach essential life lessons. The West Hills College Coalinga Football team is a shining example of a group of athletes who excel on the field and give back to their community in meaningful ways. Led by Coach Justin Berna, these young men are making a difference one day at a time.
During the 2022 season, the West Hills College Coalinga Football team won the Golden Coast Conference Championship, a testament to their hard work and dedication to excellence. But their success goes beyond just their performance on the field. Coach Berna has instilled a culture of excellence and service that has helped his players develop into well-rounded individuals. "Our program is about developing leaders who will be successful in all aspects of their lives, not just on the football field," said Berna.
One of the ways in which the West Hills College Coalinga Football team gives back to the community is by volunteering at the Coalinga USDA Food Distribution each month. The players help pack food into boxes and assist with distribution, ensuring that local families in need have access to nutritious meals. This hands-on experience is a powerful way for WHCC student-athletes to learn about food insecurity and poverty and to appreciate the importance of giving back.
In addition to their regular volunteer work, the football team has assisted with several community events over the past year. They helped out at the Coalinga Chamber of Commerce Dinner at Harris Ranch event hosted by the Coalinga Chamber, serving food and drinks to attendees. They also volunteered at the Coalinga Chamber of Commerce Mardi Gras, Trunk-or-Treat, Earth Day Park Clean-Up hosted by Aera, Coalinga-Fest events, and will host their annual free Youth Football Camp. By contributing their time and energy to these events, the players are helping to make their community a better place to live and work.
Another important aspect of the team's success is their commitment to supporting one another as teammates. Coach Berna emphasizes the importance of a strong team culture where each player feels valued and supported. He says, "We're a family here, and we take care of each other, on and off the field."
The West Hills College Coalinga Football team sets an example for others by balancing their athletic pursuits with community service and character development. Their commitment to excellence on and off the field is truly inspiring, and they will continue positively impacting their community and beyond. The team's "Culture Over Scheme" motto emphasizes the importance of building a strong team culture based on values such as integrity, hard work, and community service rather than focusing solely on X’s and O’s.
Coach Berna's leadership style is focused on empowering his players to become leaders in their own right. He encourages them to take ownership of their actions and strive for excellence in their lives. "Our goal is to ‘Win-The-Day’ and small wins make a huge difference in life, academics, and sports" Berna says. "What really matters is that you show up and do your best in every situation." By instilling this mindset in his players, he is helping to shape them into well-rounded individuals who can positively impact the world.
Coach Berna's approach to developing his players extends beyond their time on the football field. He strongly emphasizes the importance of being a good student and pursuing career and college goals after graduation with an associate's degree from West Hills College Coalinga. Berna believes that a well-rounded education is essential to developing leaders who can positively impact the world.
Under Berna's guidance, the team has achieved an impressive academic record. During the 2022 season, the team had a 2.9 overall GPA, with 32 players earning a 3.0 or higher. Berna believes academic success is as important as success on the field and encourages his players to prioritize their studies.
Furthermore, Berna emphasizes the importance of preparing his players for life after football. He encourages them to pursue their academic and career goals, whether transferring to a four-year university or entering the workforce after graduation. Berna aims to help his players become successful leaders in their chosen paths.
The West Hills College Coalinga Football team's commitment to academic excellence and career development demonstrates their dedication to becoming well-rounded individuals who can positively impact their communities. By instilling these values in his players, Coach Berna is helping to shape the next generation of leaders. The team is a shining example of the power of sports to create positive change. The team's commitment to excellence both on and off the field, their dedication to community service, and their strong team culture make them an inspiration to all.
