Rancho San Juan High School’s football program endured a 19‑game winless streak before finally breaking through with a one‑point victory over Harbor in the 2024 season. The team finished the year 1‑9 and was relegated to the Pacific Coast Athletic League’s Santa Lucia Division, marking its lowest scoring output in league history with just 85 points.
A New Culture Takes Shape
Coach Andrew Zarate, now in his second year at the helm, is reshaping the program’s identity. He emphasizes a return to fundamentals, a faster tempo and a culture built on belief that winning is possible, even after two seasons of underperformance.
Among the key returnees are senior lineman Isaac Solorio, an all‑league selection known for added strength and durability, and defensive back Levi Torres, who earned all‑league honors and is expected to contribute as a receiver this fall.
The Trailblazers boast 18 starters returning from a 22‑player roster, giving them depth at both offensive and defensive positions. Zarate says the team is focusing on teamwork and leveraging the growing pool of about 50 players to build a more competitive unit.
The ultimate goal is symbolic as much as athletic: the team hopes to hang a banner in the gym that represents a lasting cultural transformation. With improved protection for the quarterback and a more balanced attack, the coaching staff believes the foundation is being laid for future success.