A New Chapter for the Grizzlies
Napa High School finished the 2024 campaign with a 3‑7 record, placing sixth in the Redwood Empire Conference Valley division and missing the playoffs. The following year the team transitioned to the REC‑Bay league, where they will face a new set of opponents after posting a 1‑11 mark in the Valley division the previous two seasons.
Head coach Chris Harris enters his second year with a roster that includes 15 seniors, 16 juniors and three sophomores. The mix of experience and youthful energy is intended to provide depth at every position, especially at running back, wide receiver and offensive line where the coaching staff sees the most immediate improvement.
Key losses from the 2024 squad include quarterback Rocco Capponi, running back/linebacker Josue Victorino and wide receiver/defensive back Camden Aaen. Their departures have opened opportunities for players such as senior Matthew Hutchinson, who earned all‑league honors as a sophomore, and a group of junior and sophomore contributors who are expected to step up in downhill running roles.
The receiving corps has been a focal point of the offensive revamp, with multiple players competing for starting spots. At the same time, the offensive line features returning senior Matthew Hutchinson alongside Alan Alfaro, Giovanni Cabello, Osvaldo Cazares and Rylin Mezzanares, all of whom are vying for starting positions during preseason drills.
Quarterback duties will be contested by junior Jack Bottari and senior Jeter Ruiz‑Chavez, both of whom have shown flashes of playmaking ability in limited snaps. The competition is expected to shape the offensive tempo and could determine the team's ability to sustain drives.
Leadership on the field will be anchored by captain Dante Bynum, whose presence is meant to foster unity and accountability across the squad. Head coach Chris Harris has emphasized a more cohesive defensive unit, noting that the defense must improve upon past struggles by building chemistry and communication.
The Grizzlies' schedule includes league matchups against Piedmont, Pioneer‑Woodland, Vallejo, Hercules, Vintage, Sonoma Valley, Santa Rosa, San Rafael, Analy and Tamalpais. The season opener is set for August 28 against Piedmont, a game that will serve as the first test of the new conference alignment and the revamped roster.