The Western Athletic Conference’s 2023 football race was dominated by Lathrop, which finished unbeaten at 7‑0, while Johansen posted a strong 6‑1 record. The two teams set a high bar for the rest of the league, but the upcoming season brings a different story for the Merced County programs of Livingston and Pacheco.
A Tale of Two Programs
Livingston, under first‑year head coach Brian Alvarez, went 3‑8 overall and 3‑4 in conference play last year. Alvarez has built a run‑heavy identity that leans on veteran standouts such as fullback Mathias Valencia, athlete Jeffrey Meneses and defensive lineman Abi Dhillon. The team also welcomes newcomers Roman Gonzalez, who will take the snap at quarterback, and offensive lineman Karson Perkins, both expected to add depth on both sides of the ball.
Pacheco, led by Jeremy Siemiller in his eighth season, struggled to a 2‑9 record and a 1‑6 conference mark. Siemiller’s squad returns experienced linemen Joseph Valencia and specialist Alejandro Sandoval, while sophomore quarterback Marco Anaya and defensive end Raymond Solia are slated to play larger roles. The coaching staff hopes the added stability will translate into a more consistent offensive attack.
Quarterback Development as a Pivot Point
Both programs pin their hopes on quarterback progress. Gonzalez’s mobility and arm strength will be tested against tougher defenses, while Anaya’s sophomore growth could provide the spark Pacheco needs to move beyond its recent slump.
If the new coaching philosophies take hold and the key players stay healthy, Livingston and Pacheco could challenge the traditional powerhouses of the WAC. The county’s football rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement, as fans anticipate a season where both teams might finally contend for a conference title.