2025
TRITON
FOOTBALL PREVIEW
YOUR GUIDE TO THE SEASON: GAME PREVIEWS, KEY PLAYERS AND MORE! San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
ALL PHOTOS BY DON AUGUST
Page 1
sanclementetimes.com
2025 TRITONS AIM TO REBOUND FROM UP-AND-DOWN YEAR BY S E B A S T I A N S A N C H E Z
J
aime Ortiz enters his 14th year as the head coach of the San Clemente High football team. Following a CIF quarterfinal exit, the retooled Tritons enter 2025 with a squad that aims to restore the edge that defines the program. Last season was a rollercoaster that ended in disappointment. San Clemente
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
finished 6-6 overall, 1-2 in the brutally competitive Alpha League. The Tritons began the postseason with a resounding 42-7 victory over Damien High, the Baseline League champion, but they were eliminated the following week. Newbury Park High, led by Michigan-commit quarterback Brady Smigiel and UCLA receiver Shane Rosenthal, had
never trailed in a game last season until they faced the Tritons. The Panthers were forced to rally in that game and continued their undefeated streak, defeating SCHS on the road, 24-13. They went on to win the CIF Division 2 title. “Any time two quality programs play each other, there’s usually about three or four plays that make a difference in that
Page 2
game,” Ortiz said about the season-ending playoff loss. “They made the plays, and we didn’t. They went on to win a championship. Kudos to them, but I wish it was us instead.” A total of 18 seniors graduated from last year’s squad, including both startSee TRITONS on page 3
sanclementetimes.com
2025 2025 -- 2026 2026
TRITONS from page 2 ing quarterbacks, the leading rusher (and touchdown scorer), the top two receivers and four of the team’s leading tacklers. This year, 24 seniors take the field, ready to write a new chapter. “As a class graduates, it’s up to the next group to kind of take over, and that’s what they’ve done,” Ortiz said. It has become a next-man-up mentality for the Tritons, and Ortiz praised the Class of 2026 for leading by example throughout the offseason. The Tritons focused on building their team culture, playing together and holding each other accountable. The results have already started to show. In July, the Tritons went undefeated at the Brave 8 Invitational 7-on-7 tournament, held at St. John Bosco High. In the final game, junior quarterback Eiler King connected with senior tight end Shane Kiley for a 6-yard touchdown on the last play, securing a 25-23 victory over the host Braves. Throughout the tournament, the Tritons defeated Carlsbad High, 28-21, and La Sierra High, 28-21, winning all six of their competitions. Ortiz highlighted that it was a collective group effort to achieve those results. Three-time Super Bowl-winning head coach Andy Reid visited the San Clemente campus last month to observe the next generation of players. The renowned Kansas City Chiefs coach spoke with the
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
team, encouraging them to enjoy the moment and cherish their high school playing days.
Offense: Starting QB still to be determined, replacing production at skill positions San Clemente’s offense will look different this year. Last year’s team put up 26 points per game. A big reason for that was their surrounding playmakers. Now that a majority of their starters have graduated, there are question marks across the board — beginning at the quarterback position. Dawson Martinez split the QB reps last season with Jack Ferguson once the latter returned a preseason injury that sidelined him until midseason. Martinez threw for 1,519 yards and nine touchdowns while adding eight scores on the ground. Ferguson chipped in with 889 yards passing and eight touchdowns. As of early August, the position remained unsettled, with King and senior Luke Hardy in a tight battle for the starting role. They led the Junior Varsity team to an 8-1-1 record last season. “Both guys have done some great things in the summer, and there’s some areas they’ve got to improve upon,” Ortiz said about the quarterback competition. “There is no frontrunner at this point.
Bud Bud Light Light Draft Draft $6 $6 Fisherman’s Fisherman’s Hefeweizen Hefeweizen $8 $8 Fisherman’s Fisherman’s Honey Honey Blond Blond $8 $8
$$33ssaall55eess ttaaxx
pplluuss
20 2520 26
See TRITONS on page 4
Page 3
sanclementetimes.com
TRITONS from page 3 They’re both competing for the job.” A final decision is expected closer to opening kickoff. They have been splitting reps up to this point. Ortiz hasn’t ruled out a two-quarterback approach if the competition stays neck-and-neck. All-CIF running back Colin Kohl leaves a big void in the backfield. Kohl was a workhorse back, leading the team in rushing with 630 yards and touchdowns with 15. He was also effective in the receiving game with 295 yards and three touchdowns. He was their go-to option in the red zone. Senior Carson Sloan will be the team’s featured back in 2026. Ortiz described Sloan as a tough and tenacious runner, comparing him to two recent productive Triton running backs. “He’s like a combination of Colin (Kohl) and Aiden Rubin,” Ortiz said. “He’s a senior leader for us.” That is high praise from the head coach, because Rubin rushed for 1,790 yards in 2023. Sloan appeared in six games last season, averaging 5.1 yards per carry in limited action. He will carry the bulk of the load, and junior Colin
Granite will also be involved. At the receiver position, the Tritons lost their top two targets: deep threat Cole Herlean and two-way standout Max Kotiranta. Herlean had 822 yards on 47 receptions with six touchdowns. Kotiranta, who’s now playing at Northern Arizona University, had 672 yards on 63 receptions, scoring five times en route to earning All-CIF Division 2 honors. Perhaps the most impactful returner for the Tritons is junior two-way athlete Jaxson Rex. In his sophomore season, he posted the third-most receiving yards with 509 yards on 35 receptions and four touchdowns. The San Clemente Times asked Ortiz if he expects Rex to become that No. 1 option in the offense: “Yeah, no doubt. Not only at San Clemente High School, but I think he’ll be one of the best wide receivers in the county,” Ortiz said. Rex has offers from Sacramento State and Utah State. The Tritons’ coach has big-time plans for him on both sides of the ball. “He’s definitely a player on both sides of the ball you have to be aware of,
whether it’s a safety spot or a receiver spot,” Ortiz said about Rex. “He’s a guy that won’t come off the field next year.” Another top receiver to watch is senior Thomas Alexander. At 6-foot-2, he can be in line to replace Herlean’s role as the team’s big receiver to stretch the field. He is one of the players who stood out to Ortiz in the passing tournaments. Senior receivers Marcus Minter and Jesse Torres are also expected to contribute in the passing game. Minter provides versatility, and Torres adds a speed element. San Clemente’s head coach said the receiving corps and the trenches are the team’s strengths this year. Scott Johnson leads the offensive line unit. The senior offensive tackle has a Division 1 offer from the United States Air Force Academy. Ortiz refers to him as “Coach Johnson” for how he has taken younger linemen under his wing. He’ll most likely be one of the team captains. In the interior, junior center Brody Ragland has emerged as the communicator. “He’s had a great offseason, working hard in the weight room and kind of like the guy that’s making all the calls
with the offensive line,” Ortiz said. The line will miss the presence of Max Bolliger, who was an All-Alpha League first-team player. “At the end of the day, regardless of how many passing tournaments you win and how teams are successful throwing the football, it starts and ends at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball,” Ortiz said.
Defense: Tritons’ sack leader returns; key players depart Joshua Kerst headlines the new-look Tritons defense. The senior defensive end was a disruptor in the backfield, leading the team in sacks with 6.5 last season. Three of his sacks were against Damien in the playoffs. He also had 56 tackles and eight tackles for loss as a junior. Ortiz said Kerst is an anchor for the defensive line and that he gained valuable experience. Alongside Kerst on the line, juniors Payton Proffitt and Trey Humphrey were contributors to the team last season. Proffitt showed flashes against the run See TRITONS on page 5
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
Page 4
sanclementetimes.com
four interceptions. Rex will patrol the back end at safety. Junior Cade Hogan is expected to be the other safety. He was on the JV team, and the coach likes what he’s seen in camp. Senior cornerback Dallas Martinez has had a good summer as well. Ortiz said he’s a dynamic player who could potentially play both ways this season.
TRITONS from page 4 and was a key contributor on special teams as a sophomore. Humphrey is a strong 6-foot-1, 210-pound defensive tackle. The linebacker corps took the hardest hit. Lee “Puka” Fuimaono, Matai Tagoa’i and Kaden Raymond are gone, leaving a massive void on the second level. Fuimaono was the Alpha League Co-Defensive MVP and Division 2 All-CIF; he’s now playing at Arizona State University. Tagoa’i stayed close to home, choosing to play at USC. In his final high school season, he had 58 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and five sacks, earning him a first-team All-Alpha League selection. Raymond also received All-League honors, thanks to his 89 tackles. Patrick Norman was the starting nose guard last season and is now moving back to his natural position, linebacker, in his senior year. Ortiz credits Norman’s efforts to help the squad, saying that he wanted to get on the field in any way possible — a true team player. Senior linebacker Damian Martinez had three interceptions against St. John Bosco in the passing tournament championship game. “He’s a very dynamic player,” Ortiz said. “Tough kid who has quickness. He’s a guy that’s going to make some big plays this upcoming season.” There are also some big changes in the
Alpha League Preview
secondary. Starting safeties Max Bollard and Kotiranta, as well as cornerback Riley Kelley, have departed. Bollard, an All-Alpha League nominee, was a marquee player in
the back-end with 68 tackles, four interceptions and six pass deflections. Kotiranta had 47 tackles and two interceptions. Kelley, also an All-Alpha League nominee, had
San Clemente’s path won’t get easier. The Alpha League remains one of the toughest in Southern California, featuring Mission Viejo High, Los Alamitos High and Edison High. The Tritons’ lone league victory last year came against Edison, 21-17. Last season, Edison went on to win the CIF Division 3 championship and state title. The Diablos held San Clemente to one score in their matchup and made it to the Division 1 quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Los Al defeated the Tritons by one point and managed to win a game before being eliminated in the Division 2 playoffs. “There’s a reason why we’re the top four public school teams in Orange County,” Ortiz said about the competitive league. “You can expect a dogfight every week. There are no ‘gimme’ games.” The new-look Tritons will open 2025 on the road against Tustin High on Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
free meals at School
MADE WITH PURPOSE
Over 75% local produce. Organic when possible. Always intentional.
Free Breakfast & Lunch for ALL CUSD Students! 2025-26 School Year
Visit capistrano.healtheliving.net or capofood on Instagram San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
Page 5
sanclementetimes.com
Players to Watch (OFFENSE)
PL AYER SP OT LIG H T BY SEBASTIAN SANCHEZ
QB EILER KING
King is confident in showcasing his strong arm. Throughout last season on JV, he demonstrated an impressive ability to extend plays and deliver deep throws. This summer, he attended four college camps to further his skills. King threw the game-winning pass to secure the championship in the Brave 8 Invitational passing tournament. He is competing for the starting quarterback position against Luke Hardy.
QB LUKE HARDY
As he enters his final year of high school, Hardy is competing for the starting quarterback position. He is a composed pocket passer and has been splitting practice reps with Eiler King ahead of the season. Hardy played a significant role in the junior varsity team’s impressive 8-1-1 record. Coach Jaime Ortiz has expressed confidence in his QBs, though noting there are still areas in which they need to improve.
RB CARSON SLOAN
Sloan takes over as the Tritons’ top running back after backing up All-CIF running back Colin Kohl last season. Ortiz described the senior as a mix of past SCHS productive running backs Aiden Rubin and Kohl. Sloan is a tough runner who averaged 5.1 yards per carry in limited action last season. He’s expected to handle the majority of touches this fall.
WR JAXSON REX
Rex is primed for a breakout season after posting 509 yards and four touchdowns as a sophomore. Already with offers from Sacramento State and Utah State, Rex will be a focal point on both sides of the ball, including safety on defense. Ortiz considers him one of the best receivers in the county. His playmaking ability could define San Clemente’s offensive identity in 2025.
OT SCOTT JOHNSON
Johnson, a senior, anchors the offensive line and holds a scholarship offer from the Air Force Academy. Johnson’s leadership has caught the attention of Coach Ortiz, who sometimes refers to him as “Coach Johnson.” He has helped the younger linemen as the season approaches, and his presence will be a huge asset with the changes to the offense.
ng ri le te lab Ca vai A
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
Page 6
sanclementetimes.com
Players to Watch (DEFENSE)
PL AYER SP OT LIG H T BY SEBASTIAN SANCHEZ
DE JOSHUA KERST
Kerst returns as the team’s top pass rusher, leading the Tritons with 6.5 sacks in 2024. He notched three sacks in a playoff win over Damien and added 56 total tackles as a junior. With another offseason of development, Kerst is expected to wreak havoc in the backfield once again and be one of the team’s best defenders.
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
DE PAYTON PROFFITT
As a sophomore, Proffitt demonstrated potential by contributing both against the run and on special teams. Ortiz noted that he gained valuable playing experience last year. Standing at 6-foot-2, he has the physical tools to be effective on the edge. He will be a great complement alongside Kerst.
LB PATRICK NORMAN
Norman returns to his natural position after starting last season on the defensive line. His unselfish move to nose guard showed his commitment to the team, and now he’s ready to lead from the second level. The senior is a physical player who will be counted on to fill the void left by three graduating All-League linebackers.
Page 7
LB DAMIAN MARTINEZ
Damian Martinez made his name this offseason with three interceptions in the Brave 8 Invitational passing tournament, including a game-sealing pick. The senior linebacker proved his ability to cover. Coach Ortiz said he plays tough and quick. He’ll be a versatile piece in the middle of the defense.
CB DALLAS MARTINEZ
Dallas Martinez is a versatile player who may play both sides this season. The senior cornerback has had a strong summer, according to Coach Ortiz. He played a key role on special teams and saw some action on defense. His willingness to tackle is a significant asset for a cornerback.
sanclementetimes.com
2025 SAN CLEMENTE GAME PREVIEWS BY SEBASTIAN SANCHEZ
GAME 1
AUGUST 22
GAME 2
AUGUST 29
GAME 3
SEPTEMBER 5
GAME 4
SEPTEMBER 12
GAME 5
SEPTEMBER 19
VS. TUSTIN HIGH
VS. RIVERTON HIGH
VS. CHAPARRAL HIGH
VS. LA COSTA CANYON HIGH
VS. CHINO HILLS
Coach: Anthony Lopez 2024 Record: 9-2, 5-0 in the Delta League 2024 vs. S.C.: Did not play Season Outlook: Tustin is coming off a successful 9-2 season and a Delta League title. Their postseason ended abruptly with a first-round loss to Loyola. The team will have to move on without star running back Eimesse Essis, who rushed for 1,807 yards and 18 touchdowns, as well as top receiver Montrevian Cushionberry. On a positive note, the Tillers are returning one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the league. Juniors Jeremiah Williams, Jon Ioane and Taven Epps, along with senior Ricky Ioane, collectively recorded 32 sacks last season. SCHS Coach Jaime Ortiz calls it a “tough opening game,” which will serve as a true test for the team.
Coach: Jim Freeland 2024 Record: 4-8, 1-4 in the 6A Region 2 League 2024 vs. S.C.: Did Not Play Season Outlook: Riverton will travel nearly 700 miles from Utah to visit San Clemente, bringing a young squad looking to bounce back from a 4-8 campaign. The Silverwolves graduated dual-threat quarterback Andrew Neilson and top wideout Dane Slack. That duo combined for 845 yards and 10 touchdowns. Junior WR Bennett Neilson had 532 receiving yards and should emerge as the go-to target. Linebacker Kyler Christiansen, who racked up 64 tackles last season, anchors a defense hoping to improve on last year’s struggles. It will be interesting to see how San Clemente matches up against this unfamiliar opponent.
Coach: Andrew Ramer 2023 Record: 5-6 (1-4 Avocado League) 2024 vs. S.C.: 17-16 (OT) Chaparral Season Outlook: San Clemente hasn’t forgotten last year’s overtime heartbreaker against Chaparral. A blocked PAT by the Pumas forced overtime. The Tritons scored first, but the Pumas converted a gutsy two-point conversion for the win. The Pumas bring back talented quarterback Dane Weber, who racked up 3,494 total yards and 38 touchdowns. Weber has six offers entering his junior year. He’ll have two of his top three receiving options returning in Michael “Kiko” Farinas and Eli Woodard, who had a combined 1,145 receiving yards. Andrew Ramer and the Chaparral Pumas are coming off a 7-4 campaign.
Coach: Sean Sovacool 2024 Record: 10-1, 5-0 in the Avocado League 2024 vs. S.C.: 21-17 La Costa Canyon Season Outlook: The Mavericks finished 10-1 in 2024, outscoring their opponents by 224 points and dominating the Avocado League before falling to Cathedral Catholic in the Open Division. LCC will look to continue its momentum with its full arsenal of offense returning. Three-star senior QB Quinn Roth will lead the team after passing for 2,235 yards and 31 TDs. Dynamic senior RB Coby Herman racked up 1,490 rushing yards, while senior receivers Jackson Maggiore and Lennox Marcucci combined for 1,142 yards. The Mavericks narrowly defeated San Clemente, 21-17, last year, and this matchup could be just as competitive.
Coach: Keland Johnson 2024 Record: 7-4, 4-1 in the Baseline League 2024 vs. S.C.: 35-28 San Clemente Season Outlook: San Clemente bested Chino Hills in a high-scoring game, 3528, during the 2024 season. The Huskies finished in second place in the Baseline League and lost in the first round of the Division 3 playoffs to Cajon High, 52-22. Quarterback Alex Medyn returns after throwing for 2,271 yards and rushing for 11 touchdowns in 2024. Medyn will be without top target Cameron Bateman, who had 900 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. Senior Calum Ferrell is expected to take over as the No. 1 option. On the defensive side of the ball, the Huskies will need players to step up at all positions
AT TUSTIN HIGH
GAME 6
SEPTEMBER 26
VS. MURRIETA VALLEY AT SCHS
Coach: George Wilson 2024 Record: 11-3, 4-1 in the Big West-Upper League 2024 vs. S.C.: 35-25 Murrieta Valley Season Outlook: Murrieta Valley came within minutes of winning the Division 2 title last season, falling, 31-28, to Newbury Park after playoff shootouts against Rancho Cucamonga, Los Alamitos and Oaks Christian. The Nighthawks still boast talent despite losing their star running back, Dorian Hoze. The offense ran through Hoze the past two seasons. He had video game numbers, putting up 3,600-plus yards and 60 touchdowns. The next running back will have some big shoes to fill. On defense, linebacker Abelardo Leos (107 tackles), four-star cornerback Darius Johnson and Oklahoma University commit Derrick Johnson II return.
San Clemente Times August 14-20, 2025
AT SCHS
GAME 7
OCTOBER 3
VS. CORONADO
(HENDERSON, NV) AT CORONADO HIGH
Coach: Shawn Dupris 2024 Record: 7-5, 4-2 in the 5A Division I League 2024 vs. S.C.: 51-0 San Clemente Season Outlook: San Clemente shut out Coronado, 51-0, last season. The Nevada squad had no answers in that game, but still finished the season with a record above .500 and managed to reach the playoff semifinals. They’ll be without their top three offensive players this season: Georgetown-bound quarterback Aiden Krause, Utah-bound receiver JJ Buchanan and leading rusher Derek Hurley. Tyron Tinner will step into a larger role at receiver in his senior year. Two-way junior Jackson Humphries had 45 tackles and four interceptions and is a player to watch. The Cougars will have home-field advantage this time around.
AT SCHS
GAME 8
OCTOBER 17
VS. MISSION VIEJO AT MISSION VIEJO HIGH (ALPHA LEAGUE)
Coach: Chad Johnson 2024 Record: 10-1, 3-0 in the Alpha league 2024 vs. S.C.: 23-7 Mission Viejo Season Outlook: The Tritons’ first Alpha League matchup will be against defending champ Mission Viejo, which dominated the Tritons last season. Their stout defense allowed 142 points in 11 contests. The Diablos will be without Boise State defensive end Jaden Williams, who had 23 sacks, 105 tackles, and 44.5 tackles for loss. Northern Arizona commit JD Hill returns after racking up 101 tackles and 30.5 tackles for loss. Mission Viejo’s offense shouldn’t miss a beat with QB Luke Fahey (1,638 yards passing, 17 TDs) and WR Vance Spafford (57 receptions for 1,017 yards and 14 TD). The Diablos lost in the Division 1 quarterfinals to Centennial. Page 8
AT SCHS
GAME 9
OCTOBER 24
VS. LOS ALAMITOS HIGH
AT CHINO HILLS HIGH
GAME 10
OCTOBER 31
VS. EDISON HIGH
AT SCHS (ALPHA LEAGUE)
AT EDISON HIGH (ALPHA LEAGUE)
Coach: Ray Fenton 2024 Record: 6-6, 1-2 in the Alpha League 2024 vs. S.C.: 28-27 Los Alamitos Season Outlook: Los Alamitos finished with the same record as the Tritons in 2024, and the Griffins’ lone league win came against SC by one point. They return multiple weapons on both sides of the ball, including Boise State tight end-commit Beckham Hofland, dynamic RB Lenny Ibarra and three-star WR Kamden Tillis, who has multiple college offers. Senior center Braiden McKenna will start for the fourth consecutive year on varsity. On defense, Johnny Howze, Gavin Vera and Cornell-commit Jackson Renger form a seasoned front seven. Ray Fenton and Los Alamitos were eliminated in the first round of the Division 2 playoffs.
Coach: Jeff Grady 2024 Record: 12-4, 1-2 in the Alpha League 2024 vs. S.C.: 21-17 San Clemente Season Outlook: San Clemente’s most impressive win last season came against Edison. Colin Kohl’s three TDs gave the Tritons a 21-17 victory in the final regular-season game. The Chargers went on to win the CIF Division 3 championship and state title, finishing with a 12-4 record. Their offense will look significantly different without Fresno State RB Julius Gillick, who rushed 2,488 yards and 37 TDs, averaging 8.2 yards per carry. Perhaps Edison will switch to a more pass-centric offense led by QB Sam Thomson and WR Ayden Degiacomo. Defensively, Edison lost both of its top tacklers, Matt Lopez and Jeremiah Ross, who combined for 321 tackles.
sanclementetimes.com