Seaside football

 No, this was not the season the Spartans envisioned.
 How could it be?
 This is a program accustomed to challenging for a postseason spot each season, if not a league title.
 That didn't occur this fall. Instead, Seaside opened the year with eight straight losses before it won its first game two weeks ago -- in dramatic fashion.
 Seaside doesn't belong in the Gabilan Division. Not with a roster of 28 players. That much is certain. Yet, Seaside coach Al Avila refused to call this year a disappointment.
 "This season has been a true blessing," Avila insisted. "It really humbles me and inspires me when I see how these young men work and play hard everyday in practice and in games."
 Avila's objective is to build character and prepare his players beyond the football field. Work ethics alone suggest that part is working.
 No doubt this was a learning experience for the 18 players expected to return next year. In the right league, the Spartans will be competitive next year, building off these humbling moments.