As the 2024 high school football season approaches, the Don Lugo Conquistadors are gearing up for another exciting year on the gridiron. Coming off a memorable 2023 season, the team looks poised to build on their successes and address areas for improvement.
Recap of the 2023 Season
The 2023 season was exciting for the Conquistadors, finishing with a 5-7 overall record but an impressive 3-0 in San Antonio league play, clinching the league title. Their postseason journey saw them advance to the second round of the Division 12 playoffs. They defeated Santa Paula 45-31 in a thrilling first-round matchup but were ultimately bested by Coachella Valley 52-35.
The team showcased a potent offense, with standout performances by quarterback Kaleb Pacheco, who threw for an astonishing 3,850 yards, ranking third in California according to Max Preps. Key victories, such as their dominant league performance, highlighted the team’s potential and resilience.
Key Departures and Returning Stars
As with any high school team, the Conquistadors will see some key players graduate. However, the returning roster for 2024 is packed with talent. MVP All-CIF Linebacker Tony Martinez will anchor the defense, while Offensive MVP All-CIF Quarterback Kaleb Pacheco returns to lead the offense. Pacheco’s impressive passing yardage of 3,850 yards in 2023 positions him as a key player to watch this season.
Other notable returning players include wide receivers Blake LaPorte and Joshua Morales, offensive linemen David Rivera and Jayden Ruiz, defensive back Sam Puckett, defensive linemen Jerry Beagles and Austin Brown, and linebackers Adam Luna and Shane Biggs.
Incoming Talent and Rising Stars
The Conquistadors’ coaching staff is enthusiastic about the incoming talent. Promising newcomers such as wide receiver Caleb Calvin, strong safety Daniel Guerena, defensive back Cameron Romero, and athlete Audi Richirt have already shown their potential during offseason training and practices. These young athletes bring fresh energy and a hunger to prove themselves at the varsity level.
Coaching and Strategy
Head Coach Josh Knight enters his second year at the helm, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Known for his strategic acumen and ability to motivate players, Coach Knight has focused on refining the team’s playbook and emphasizing fundamentals during the offseason. His offensive strategy continues to revolve around the Air Raid/Spread offense, which yielded significant success in 2023, with the team averaging 324 passing yards per game and scoring a total of 357 points.
Defensively, the Conquistadors employ a 4-3 base, aiming to address the weaknesses that saw them allow 466 points last season. Coach Knight is optimistic about the defensive improvements and the integration of new talent.
Season Outlook and Key Matchups
The 2024 schedule is packed with exciting matchups that will test the Conquistadors early and often. Key games to watch include their season opener against El Rancho, a crucial mid-season clash with Cerritos, and the highly anticipated Milk Can rivalry game versus Chino.
The team’s goals for 2024 are clear. “We want to win the Milk Can game, clinch the league title, make a deep playoff run, and provide our players with opportunities to play college football and secure a free education,” said Coach Knight.
“We just want to continue to get better daily and to stack up those daily wins. The rest will take care of itself if we put the work in for it,” stated Coach Knight, emphasizing the importance of daily improvement.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 season holds great promise for the Don Lugo Conquistadors Varsity Football team. As they build on the lessons learned from last year and integrate new talent, the Conquistadors are poised for a successful and thrilling season. Fans can look forward to a team that plays with heart, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Coach Knight expressed his enthusiasm about being part of the new Gano league, noting, “Great group of coaches, it should be great competition these next two seasons with Chaffey, Rowland, and Montclair.”
With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the Conquistadors are determined to make their mark this season. As they aim to achieve their goals, the support of the Don Lugo community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey.
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Don Lugo 2024 Football Schedule
8/24/24 Don Lugo vs El Rancho 7 pm
8/30/24 Los Osos vs Don Lugo 7 pm
9/6/24 El Segundo vs Don Lugo 7 pm
9/13/24 Monrovia vs Don Lugo 7 pm
9/20/24 Don Lugo vs Chino 7 pm
10/4/24 Don Lugo vs Brentwood School 7 pm
10/11/24 Don Lugo vs Cerritos 7 pm
10/18/24 Chaffey vs Don Lugo 7 pm
10/25/24 Rowland vs Don Lugo 7 pm
11/1/24 Don Lugo vs Montclair 7 pm
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