It’s not that the Eagles haven’t proven in the past that they can compete in arguably the second strongest division in the Central Coast Section. But it’s been challenging – particularly consistently. Since being thrown into the division after capturing a then Pacific Division title in 2013, the Eagles have made just two postseason appearances. “We have to get them to believe in themselves,” McKay said of his players. “It has to come from within. It’s easier said than done. If you believe in yourself, you can achieve a lot of things.” McKay is a prime example, having walked away from football for five years before returning to pursue an education and landing a football scholarship to Kent State. The former Alvarez all-county defensive lineman has created a culture of embracing what lies in front of them, while holding players accountable and demanding discipline. “What sticks with me is we came up six inches short,” Alvarez pass rusher Jacob Peinado said. “It is fueling us.” Peinado was talking about a season-ending 21-20 loss to Alisal that kept them out of the playoffs last year. “Our mentality is we can beat anyone that gets in our way,” Peinado said. The atmosphere that McKay has created on campus with the football program is evident from the 85 kids out on the varsity field for spring ball. “We created a buzz last season with what we want to do,” McKay said. “We do not dwell on the negatives. We are pushing the positives. There’s a lot to be excited about.” The numbers alone will create a competitive environment. Taking a step forward starts with embracing the challenge of the division it has been placed in. All six losses the Eagles suffered last fall came from teams that reached the playoffs, none more painful than falling by a point to Alisal in the season finale. The biggest obstacle standing in the Eagles’ path might be themselves. Erasing the past means focusing on the present. “There’s always room for growth,” McKay said. “We don’t want to be complacent. We have not reached the pinnacle. At the end of the day, it’s about our foundation, what these kids want out of it.”