The Mustangs finished the previous campaign with an 11‑2 record, sharing first place in the Redwood Empire Conference Bay division before bowing out in the North Coast Section Division 5 title game. The loss capped a season that left the community buzzing about the team’s potential.
Now the program is stepping up two divisions, joining the REC‑Adobe league that features traditional powerhouses such as Cardinal Newman, Marin Catholic and San Marin. The move brings tougher opponents and a fresh set of challenges for a squad that has been a staple of the local football scene.
A New Chapter for the Mustangs
Head coach Trent Herzog, who has guided the Mustangs to five section title game appearances and two state championships in the past five years, remains upbeat. “We’re focused on daily improvement, competing in every game and putting ourselves in position for a playoff run,” he said.
The roster will look different. Thirteen of the fifteen all‑league selections from last year have graduated, including quarterback Gabe Casanovas and running back Mason Caturegli. Returning seniors such as quarterback Willy Pedersen, wide receiver Barrett Chaput and defensive back Dylan Chelew will provide leadership, while newcomers like Mateo Ripoll, Quest Holderfield and brothers Harry and Catcher Bettinelli are expected to fill the void.
Freshmen George McConnell, Keith Lectora and Trevor Marsh have also earned spots on the varsity roster, with McConnell listed at 6‑foot‑1, 215 pounds and Lectora arriving from Pennsylvania. The schedule includes league matchups against Mesa Verde‑Citrus Heights, St. Bernard’s‑Eureka, Redwood Christian, Arcata, Lincoln‑San Francisco, American Canyon, Windsor, Marin Catholic, Cardinal Newman and others.
Coach Herzog emphasizes that the team’s success will hinge on daily progress and the ability to gel quickly. “We have a mix of seasoned seniors and promising newcomers, and the goal is to compete hard every week,” he added.