Football: Jim Benkert’s return to Westlake High is going to be ‘huge’
Former Westlake Coach Jim Benkert returns to the stadium on Friday night, bringing in his Oaks Christian team.
Jim Benkert was the football coach at Westlake High for 26 years until he left this season to take over at nearby Oaks Christian. Borrowing a Donald Trump term, it’s going to be “huge” for Benkert to return on Friday night to Westlake in a Marmonte League showdown.
Oaks Christian is 9-0 and 2-0 in league. Westlake, under Tony Henney, is 7-2 and 1-1. Westlake could force a three-way tie for first place with a win.
Benkert said he has been happy for the success of his former players. His big issue has been dealing with a wardobe change after so many years as Westlake coach.
“I’ve had to change my wardrobe dramatically,” he said.
Westlake has faced increasing challenges because of injuries. The Warriors lost receiver Theo Howard to a possible concussion last week in a loss to St. Bonaventure and standout running back Chase Chasmin has been out with a hip injury.
“I’m really proud of our kids,” Henney said. “The next guy has come up to the level and played to give us a chance to win.”
Oaks Christian is in position to gain a possible top four seeding in the Pac-5 playoffs behind quarterback Matt Corral and receivers Michael Pittman and Colby Parkinson.
Friday’s game will be televised by Fox Sports West. Westlake Village will be the place to be.
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