The Peninsula Seahawks are poised to enter the 2026 campaign with a blend of experience and fresh ideas, as head coach Clay Mauro prepares his squad for another push beyond the district playoffs.
Mauro, now in his second year after succeeding the legendary Ross Filkins, has overseen a roster that retains 18 starters and expands to more than 120 athletes, giving the team a depth that could prove decisive.
At the heart of the offense, senior quarterback Talen McDonnell returns after a pinky‑finger injury, now sharing punting duties while steering the attack with a calm, leadership‑driven approach.
Offensive coordinator Drew Campbell and defensive coordinator Joel Epstein have woven Mauro’s spread‑zone roots with multiple personnel sets, creating a versatile scheme that keeps opponents guessing.
Key contributors on that side of the ball include running back Thomas Marzano, wide receivers Jett Ortega and Brycen McAnally, and linebacker Kainoa Coit, while defensive end Asher Epstein and lineman Finn Elliott add pressure.
A New Chapter Begins
The schedule opens with a road test at W.F. West on September 4, followed by matchups against Franklin Pierce, Gig Harbor, Timberline, Capital, North Thurston, River Ridge and a final showdown with Lakes.
Mauro has spoken of renovations to the program’s facilities and a renewed sense of unity, hoping to translate that energy into a stronger presence in the South Sound region.