A Year‑Round Approach to the Game
When the calendar turned to Monday, the sound of cleats on the asphalt at Carson High signaled more than just the start of a new season; it marked the continuation of a football culture that now runs throughout the year. The defending City Section Open Division champion Carson Bears opened official practices, but the excitement that once accompanied the first day has been replaced by a routine of steady preparation.
Coach William Lowe, who has been guiding the program since the offseason, reminded reporters that the team has been in the weight room and on the field since spring and summer. With over 100 players on the roster, including a freshman class of 37, the Bears are building depth while emphasizing strength and strategy.
The first week of practice is now largely about acclimation. Players must complete 14 days of conditioning before they are eligible to compete, and the initial days are devoted to drills, film study and gradual intensity increases. After five mandatory acclimation days, the squad will hold an intrasquad scrimmage on Saturday, a milestone that signals progress rather than a debut.
A Broader Landscape of Change
Carson is not alone in navigating the new rhythm. St. John Bosco, the preseason No. 1 team, is set to open its season on Aug. 21 in Las Vegas against Bishop Gorman, while Bishop Montgomery has returned with a fresh coaching staff and athletic director after a program suspension. The City Section also mourns the departure of veteran coach Robert Garrett, who left Crenshaw in March, a loss that underscores the volatility of high‑school leadership.
Eligibility rules add another layer of complexity. Athletic directors must verify transfers and submit paperwork to ensure players meet academic and residency standards, and all participants must pass a physical examination before stepping onto the field. Meanwhile, the growth of girls’ flag football, which begins acclimation practices in the Southern Section on Aug. 3, reflects the expanding reach of the sport across the region.
For Carson, the ultimate goal is not to peak in August but to reach its apex at the end of the season. The Bears aim to translate their offseason work into a strong finish, hoping to avoid the narrow 35‑33 playoff loss that ended their 2025 campaign. As the team takes the field, the focus is on steady improvement, disciplined execution, and the belief that a championship can be built on the foundation laid during these early, methodical days.