The Aptos High football program is charting a new course for the 2026 season after a challenging 1‑9 record in 2025. With the school’s recent move to the Mission North Division, the Mariners are poised to test themselves against a fresh slate of opponents, hoping to turn a difficult year into a foundation for future success.
Key Players and Strategy
Quarterback Jared Verdia will take the snap, bringing a strong arm and sharp decision‑making to the offense. Alongside him, senior defensive lineman Ben Martin will anchor a front four that emphasizes power and discipline, while halfback River Cook, a three‑year varsity standout from a championship soccer background, adds speed and versatility to the backfield. The team’s offensive scheme relies on the Delaware Wing‑T formation, a design that maximizes carrier counts and creates mismatches, and wide receiver Ryan Murphy’s explosive athleticism is expected to make him a difficult target for opposing defenses.
The Mariners open the season at home against The King’s Academy on August 28, then host Soquel on September 4, travel to Soledad on September 11, and return home to face Alvarez on September 25. Division matchups will include contests against Monte Vista Christian, Watsonville, St. Francis, Scotts Valley, and San Lorenzo Valley, each presenting a chance to prove the team’s resilience.
Head coach Zach Hewett describes the squad as a ‘good group of guys’ who excel academically and participate in multiple sports, underscoring a culture of hard work, adaptability, and collective determination. The coaching staff emphasizes continuous improvement and a defensive mindset, with Martin noting, ‘We’re gonna play our best against every team.’