The opening week of Utah high school football delivered a marquee matchup as Fremont High traveled to face Weber High, a rivalry that dates back to recent coaching changes for both programs. The game streamed live on Channel 5.3, marking a new partnership between the UHSAA and KSL TV that brought the contest to a broader audience.
A Freshman’s Three‑Score Night
At the center of Fremont’s 34‑3 triumph was freshman Isaia Fonotisatele, who accounted for three touchdowns, highlighted by a 73‑yard pass that showcased his deep‑ball speed. His ability to find the end zone was complemented by solid contributions from Ryder Wade, who added two scores of his own, helping the offense build a comfortable lead early in the contest.
Quarterback Calvin Cooper, who assumed the starting role after Manase Tuatagaloa’s departure, managed the game’s tempo and kept the drive alive with precise short passes. Cooper’s poise under pressure gave Fonotisatele the opportunities to exploit mismatches downfield.
Family Ties Fuel Confidence
Fonotisatele’s motivation was amplified by his family connection to the program; his uncle, head coach Nate Tuatagaloa, has been a constant presence on the sidelines. The freshman, who has been an online student since eighth grade and is currently enrolled in tenth‑grade courses, credited that flexibility for allowing him to focus on preparation and film study.
Defensively, Fonotisatele turned his attention to neutralizing Weber’s star wideout Creed DeVries, limiting the receiver’s big plays and forcing the opposing offense into short, predictable routes. Meanwhile, Weber’s quarterback Carter Payne and DeVries tried to rally their team, but the Fremont defense held firm for most of the game.
The victory not only extended Fremont’s win streak over Weber to three games but also reinforced the growing narrative of a new chapter in this historic rivalry. With the series standing at 23‑11 in Fremont’s favor, both coaches acknowledged that the competition will only intensify as younger talent like Fonotisatele continues to emerge.