A fresh outlook for the Trojans
Petaluma High School’s football program is stepping into a pivotal season as first‑year head coach Nick Emmanuel takes the reins, bringing nine years of deep familiarity with the squad and a close working relationship with former coach Rick Krist.
The Trojans finished the 2025 campaign with a 7‑4 record, securing second place in the Redwood Empire Conference Valley division before bowing out in the opening round of the North Coast Section Division 6 playoffs, a result that set the stage for a renewed focus on growth.
Emmanuel emphasizes the value of returning seniors, noting that a core group of veterans will anchor both the offense and defense, while the roster now includes 28 seniors and 15 juniors eager to build on last year’s foundation.
Key returners such as offensive lineman Zander Cunningham, linebacker‑running back Hudson Banaszak, and quarterback William Hale are joined by a competitive quarterback battle among seniors Hale, Xavier Kubley and junior Brodie Banducci, promising a more dynamic passing attack.
The offensive line will be led by senior Declan Romo, whose experience and leadership are expected to elevate the front five, while the defense blends junior talent with seasoned seniors to maintain stability and foster progress during the offseason.
The Redwood Empire Conference Valley has expanded with the addition of new members Rancho Cotate, Vintage, Maria Carrillo and Ukiah, adding depth and competition, and Petaluma’s status as the smallest school in the league serves as a rallying point for ambition.
Looking ahead, the schedule features matchups against Santa Rosa, Analy, Campolindo, Redwood, Ukiah, College Park, Vintage, Maria Carrillo, Casa Grande and Rancho Cotate, with several games slated as league contests, offering the Trojans a clear path to prove their improvement.