The College of the Sequoias football program closed out the 2025 campaign with a 7‑4 record, a tally that felt both promising and frustrating.
Three of those defeats were decided by a combined dozen points, and two of them slipped away on the final play, leaving the Giants with a taste of what could have been.
Turning Close Calls into Victory
Coach Matt Mendonca says the staff is dissecting those final moments, looking for the small adjustments that could swing the outcome in their favor next year.
Recruiting has become a cornerstone of that plan, with an eye on local standouts who already know the Valley’s competition.
Brayden Stevenson, a former Tulare Union star, and record‑setting running back Jimmie Burk headline a group of home‑grown players set to join the roster for 2026.
The offensive line will retain all‑conference performers Izear Dampier, Chad Houghton, Khairee Harris, Xavier Bradley and Ka’Vohn Green, giving the attack continuity and experience.
At quarterback, the team is locked in a three‑way battle among Beau Green, Cornell McGee and Dalton Anderson, each vying to command the offense.
Defensively, Gavin Silene and Cassidy Bolong‑Banks return to anchor a unit that hopes to tighten up in crucial stretches.
The schedule opens against defending state champions San Mateo on August 29, a test that will reveal early strengths and weaknesses.
With 77 players on the active roster, the Giants are emphasizing depth while continuing to expand their recruiting footprint across the Central Valley.
Mendonca’s mantra centers on controlling key moments and finishing games stronger, a focus that could finally translate the near‑misses into a double‑digit win season.