A New Chapter for Stagg Football
When the previous head coach departed unexpectedly, the Stagg football program faced a crossroads. Sopeter Mao, who had spent several years as the team’s running backs coach and also led the track and field squad, stepped into the top role. His intimate knowledge of the roster and his track record of developing talent gave the administration confidence that continuity could translate into progress.
Mao inherits a squad that just posted its first eight‑win season since the 2013‑14 campaign, a milestone that sparked optimism among players and fans alike. Senior standouts such as Darnell Holmes, who amassed 1,657 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns last year, and Kemonnie Eskridge, the SJAA Defensive Back of the Year, are expected to anchor the offense and defense. Their experience provides a foundation on which Mao hopes to build.
The coaching staff also welcomes back defensive lineman Elias Mao, whose 80 tackles and 5.5 sacks last season add depth to a unit that lost two middle linebackers and several top receivers. The blend of returning talent and fresh leadership aims to reclaim the historic ‘Chavez vs. Stagg’ rivalry trophy and to capture a league title for the first time since 2015.
Beyond individual goals, Mao stresses teamwork, health and relentless effort as the program looks to break a playoff drought that has persisted since 2013. In Stockton’s competitive football landscape, the ambition extends to state championships, a target that reflects both local pride and a desire to measure the team against the best in California.