Central Valley Christian (CVC) football is entering its third year under head coach Don Arax, a program that has quickly become a fixture in the local sports landscape. Arax’s second‑season record was 5‑7, but the team’s playoff pedigree stretches back to 2016, a streak built on consistency and community support.
A key addition this year is offensive coordinator Sumner Manock, who previously coached alongside Arax at Bullard. Manock’s reputation for meticulous play‑calling and emphasis on technique aligns with the coach’s vision of a fundamentally sound offense.
Arax has made the offensive line the cornerstone of his scheme, installing daily drills that teach leverage, footwork and collective movement.
Fundamentals drive the offense
The line’s cohesion is intended to create running lanes for the backfield and protect the quarterback, a philosophy that has yielded steady improvement despite the team’s modest roster size.
Among the skill players, junior Gerrit DeGroot, senior Cody Roark and Ara Arax, the coach’s son, are expected to see extensive snaps, adding depth at receiver and tight end.
Championship backfield
The running back trio of Ja'khari Burrell, Shondel Hogan and Josh Hilvers powered CVC to a Central Section Division II championship and a Tri‑County Conference title in 2025, combining for nearly 1,700 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns.
Defensively, senior tackle Joe Peters emerged as a standout, posting 33 tackles and two sacks last season and earning recognition as one of the league’s elite interior players.
Program stability
The private‑school environment at CVC ensures high attendance and continuity, a factor that has helped the team maintain a playoff streak dating back to 2016.
The 2026 campaign opens on August 21 at Cavalier Stadium against Immanuel, a matchup that will test the new‑look roster against regional rivals.
With a 36‑player roster and a pro‑style 4‑4 defensive scheme, Arax believes the team’s disciplined approach will keep it competitive despite the previous 5‑7 record.