A New Chapter for the Cougars
The Rancho Cotate football team is set to re‑enter the REC‑Valley league for the 2026 season, marking a return after two years spent in the REC‑Adobe division. The move follows a 6‑6 record last season and a semifinal loss in the North Coast Section Division 3 playoffs.
Head coach Gehrig Hotaling has mapped out a tough opening stretch that includes road games against Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, Windsor and defending state champion Bishop O’Dowd. The early schedule is designed to test the squad and sharpen its line of scrimmage before league play begins.
Key Players and Expectations
Seniors such as Jerrek Buckley, who led the North Coast Section in tackles last year and earned The Press Democrat’s Defensive Player of the Year honor, and quarterback Jackson Rhode will anchor the offense and defense. Additional returning standouts include running back Roman Perez, linebacker Asaeli Tuivomo and defensive lineman Samu Leaana, who are expected to make immediate impacts.
The roster also welcomes newcomers like Braden Powell, while the coaching staff emphasizes rebuilding the line of scrimmage and fostering mental toughness. Hotaling believes the combination of rigorous non‑league competition and focused training will position the Cougars to contend for the league title.
Schedule and Outlook
The upcoming slate features a mix of home and away games, beginning with road contests against Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, Windsor and Bishop O’Dowd. Following those tests, the team will shift focus to league opponents, aiming to translate early gains into consistent wins and a shot at the REC‑Valley championship.