Last year, the Trojans went 1-5 in league and had one of the youngest rosters in league with only four, four year seniors. This year however, with 22 four-year returners, things took a massive turn.
The Trojans absolutely crushed the season with a 5-1 record in league, finishing in second place. Their only loss being to Carmel 34-37 on the road. “Shouldn’t have lost to Carmel, but we did because we didn’t prepare for special teams, but offensively and defensively we beat Carmel in every place,” said Coach Cesar Chaidez.
The Trojans were seeded #7 in Division 3 CCS playoffs and traveled to San Bruno to play the #2 seed, Capuchino. In a tightly contested match up, the Trojans pulled out a come from behind 20-17 upset. “I felt amazing because we chipped away at Capuchino and kept doing what we do best,” center Julio Núñez said. “If we made a mistake we continued to play our best.”
The win set up a semi-final match-up against #6 seeded Scotts Valley on the road. On a wet, muddy field, the Trojans won in convincing fashion 28-7. “I don’t think I’ve ever felt that dirty before in my life, but it was worth it,” quarterback Santiago Chaidez said.
The history-making run continued with the Trojans’ first CCS finals appearance against #4 seeded Palma. This game was a rematch of the preseason, where Palma had won 42-15, but due to an ineligible player Palma had to forfeit. This time, the Trojans improved the score, but ultimately lost 20-38. “As a team we did our best, we didn’t get the win but we made history,” linebacker Caleb Gabriel said. “We made it to the finals because of our intensity, playing hard-nosed football, and just doing our jobs,” senior quarterback Santiago Chaidez said.
Overall, the 2023-2024 Trojan football team will be regarded as the best Alisal has ever had, boasting an 11-2 record and a runner-up finish at CCS.
