Last season, the varsity football team faced early challenges but gradually gained momentum, finishing with a 4-2 record in league and securing a spot in the CCS playoffs. Their run ended in the semifinals with a loss to Leland High, leaving them with a 6-6 overall record. “We did decent, but it wasn’t enough,” senior Jayden Duarte said. “We came up short, and I feel there is still more to prove.”

Building on last season’s performance, the team now faces the new challenges of competing in the Gabilan Division, where they’ll take on tough opponents like Palma, Soquel, and Salinas. Regardless, they’re determined to showcase their skills. “I feel like this is exactly where we need to be,” offensive lineman John Barrett said.  

This year’s team is led by four captains: junior John Barrett and seniors Jayden Duarte, Xavier Estrada, and Gustavo Tapia. “They embody what our core values are within the program,” head coach Francisco Estrada said. “They have pretty good grades, they work hard, and their effort is there. They show leadership, they respect everyone, and they respect the school.”

The team feels they have a strong bond, recognizing each other’s roles on and off the field. “I mean, when we’re putting up 40+ points in games, that reflects our [unity],” Duarte said. “We have heart and resilience, plus nobody’s backing down.” Despite losing their first two league games to Palma and Hollister, Coach Estrada has high hopes for the team. “The future looks bright,” he said. “I think we’re doing really [well]. My expectations are super high, but hopefully in the next coming weeks we’re gonna play close to perfect football.” 

The players recognize that improving their defense is a key priority, especially after losing key senior starters to graduation. “That’s why you see all these high-scoring games,” quarterback and safety Hector Politron said. “But we’ll figure it out sooner or later.”

With a 2-3 league record (4-3 overall), the team’s blend of determination and talent is fueling its push toward the playoffs. With three games remaining, their chances look promising. “We’ve been told that we’re in,” defensive lineman Jorge Martinez said. “I think we just need maybe one more win and we’re locked in for the playoffs.” 

The season wraps up with matchups against Carmel, North Salinas, and Salinas, which they believe will be really good games. “They’re amazing teams, but I feel like we have an amazing team as well,” Martinez said. “At the end of the day, it’s [which] team wants it more.”