As the 2024 high school football season approaches, the Chino Cowboys are gearing up for what promises to be another exciting year under the leadership of head coach Joey LaRosa. Entering his sixth year at the helm, Coach LaRosa has transformed the Cowboys into a formidable force, and after an unforgettable 2023 season, expectations are high for what lies ahead.
A Look Back at 2023: A Season to Remember
The 2023 season was one for the ages. The Cowboys finished the regular season with a perfect 10-0 record, a remarkable achievement that catapulted them to the quarterfinals of the Division 7 playoffs, the highest division they have competed in during Coach LaRosa’s tenure. While the season ended with a 45-21 loss to eventual CIF Champion Mayfair, the Cowboys’ journey was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire program.
Key players like Diego Ogata, Brody Quizon, and Nathan Blanco played pivotal roles in the team’s success, but with their graduation and subsequent move to the junior college level, the Cowboys are now looking to a new group of leaders to step up in 2024.
Returners: Defensive Backbone with Offensive Potential
One of the most encouraging aspects of the upcoming season is the return of seven starters on the defensive side of the ball. This experienced group will be the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ strategy as they look to stifle opponents and keep the team in every game.
Among the standout returners is WR/DB C.J. Gibson, a 6’1″, 170-pound athlete who is drawing significant interest from Division 1 and 2 programs. Gibson’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a key figure in both the Cowboy’s defensive and offensive plans. Another returning leader is Johnny Navarro, a 6 ‘3 “, 250-pound force on the defensive line who will also see time at tight end. Navarro’s presence in the trenches will be crucial as the Cowboys navigate a challenging schedule.
On offense, Nathan Sena, a 5’7″, 165-pound RB/DB, returns after earning All-League honors last year. His dual-threat capability will be vital as the young and inexperienced offensive line finds its footing. Sena’s experience and leadership will be critical in helping the offense develop its identity.
New Talent: The Barroso Brothers Return
The 2024 Cowboys will also benefit from the return of Maximus and Achilles Barroso, who transferred back to Chino after spending last year at Ayala High School. Maximus, a 6’1″, 165-pound quarterback, brings valuable experience after starting at QB for Ayala last season. His familiarity with the game and leadership under center will be essential as the Cowboys’ young offensive line develops.
Achilles, a 6’1″, 220-pound TE/DE, adds size and athleticism to both the offense and defense. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball makes him a key addition to the Cowboys’ roster. Joining the Barroso brothers is Luke Prescott, a 6’2″, 165-pound wide receiver who also transferred from Ayala. Prescott’s size and speed make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game, and he is expected to make an immediate impact.
Coaching Strategy: Leaning on Defense as Offense Develops
Coach LaRosa acknowledges that the 2024 Cowboys will be a team with a lot of new faces, especially on the offensive line. “This is a brand new team with a lot of new faces that will play this season,” LaRosa said. “We are trying to find our identity on the offensive side of the ball. Our defense should be good enough this year to keep us in each game.”
The Cowboys will lean heavily on their defense in the early part of the season as the offense works to gel and develop chemistry. The skill positions are as talented as they’ve been in years, but the young offensive line will need time to grow. Coach LaRosa is confident that the defense can carry the team through the tough early matchups while the offense finds its rhythm.
Key Matchups: A Challenging Path Ahead
The Cowboys are entering a new league in 2024, and each week will be a battle for supremacy. The competition will be fierce, and every game could potentially determine the league champion.
One of the most anticipated games on the schedule is the annual Milk Can game, where the Cowboys will be looking to secure their fourth consecutive victory in this storied rivalry. Additionally, a tough preseason schedule awaits, with games against Summit, Aliso Niguel, Santa Monica, and Schurr. These early tests will provide valuable experience and insight into how the Cowboys stack up against top-tier competition.
Thoughts on the Hacienda League: A New Challenge
The move to the Hacienda League presents a new set of challenges for the Cowboys. “Very tough and competitive new league,” Coach LaRosa noted. “We have played a few of the teams already last year (Covina and Diamond Bar). Each week will be competitive, and you could potentially win or lose any league game.”
The parity in the league means that every game will be critical, and the Cowboys will need to bring their best effort week in and week out to achieve their goals.
Team Goals: Consistency in Pursuit of Excellence
For Coach LaRosa and the Cowboys, the goals remain the same year after year: Win the Milk Can, win the league, and win CIF. These aspirations are the foundation of the program, and the 2024 team is no different. Despite the new faces and challenges, the Cowboys are committed to maintaining the high standards that have become synonymous with Chino football.
Final Thoughts: Building on Tradition
As the 2024 season kicks off, the Chino Cowboys are ready to embrace the challenges ahead. With a strong defense, talented skill players, and a commitment to excellence, the Cowboys are poised to make another deep playoff run. Under Coach LaRosa’s leadership, this team is focused, determined, and ready to write the next chapter in Chino’s storied football tradition.
Fans should buckle up for what promises to be an exhilarating season filled with excitement, challenges, and, hopefully, plenty of victories.
Sportscenetv Prep Sports Coverage
Be sure to follow Chino Cowboys football with our comprehensive prep sports coverage here at Sportscenetv as we bring you live game updates on X (formally known as Twitter) @sportscenetv, game recaps on our website www.sportscenetv.net,video highlights on our YouTube Channel Sportscenetv1, and photos on Instagram at Sportscenetv1.
Chino Cowboys 2024 Football Schedule
8/23 Santa Monica vs Chino 7 pm
8/29 Summit vs Chino 7 pm
9/6 Chino vs Aliso Niguel 7 pm
9/12 Chino vs Schurr 7 pm
9/20 Don Lugo vs Chino 7 pm
10/4 Walnut vs Chino 7 pm
10/11 Los Altos vs Chino 7pm
10/17 Chino vs South Hills 7 pm
10/24 Chino vs Diamond Bar 7 pm
11/1 Covina vs Chino 7 pm
Welcome to Sportscenetv.net 