As the Diamond Bar Brahmas gear up for the 2024 high school football season, Head Coach Matt Castaneda enters his third year at the helm with high expectations and a renewed focus on success. After a challenging 2023 season, where the Brahmas posted a 7-4 record on the field but finished 3-8 due to forfeits, the team is eager to reclaim its position as a dominant force in the Hacienda League and make a deep run in the CIF Southern Section playoffs.
Reflecting on 2023: Lessons Learned and Room for Growth
The 2023 season was a mixed bag for the Brahmas. On one hand, they claimed the Hacienda League title, showcasing their prowess in a competitive field. On the other, their season ended abruptly in the first round of the Division 9 playoffs with a narrow 14-7 loss to Orange. Standout performances from QB Quinton Mendoza, MLB Matt Galvan, and ATH Brian Vu were bright spots, but the season ultimately fell short of the team’s aspirations.
“Last season, we did some decent things on the field but came up short in the first round vs. Orange,” Coach Castaneda reflected. The Brahmas are determined to build on their successes while addressing the gaps that led to their early playoff exit.
The 2024 Squad: Experienced and Ready
The 2024 Brahmas boast a roster filled with experience and leadership, returning 12 key players, all seniors, who are poised to make an impact. Leading the charge is QB Quinton Mendoza, who has been a cornerstone of the Brahmas’ offense. Alongside him, versatile athletes like Issac Insuasti, Brian Vu, and Collin Pearce provide depth and flexibility on both sides of the ball. The defensive unit, anchored by MLB Matt Galvan and DL Diego Suviate, is expected to be a formidable force.
In addition to the seasoned veterans, five new faces have joined the team, bringing fresh talent and energy. SS/QB Tristan Skipper and RB/LB Sean Thompson are among the newcomers who are expected to make immediate contributions. The blend of experienced seniors and talented juniors will create a well-rounded team capable of competing at a high level.
The Road Ahead: Key Matchups and League Play
The Brahmas’ 2024 schedule is designed to prepare them for the rigors of Hacienda League play. Week 0 presents an early test against El Dorado, a Division 7 finalist in 2023, followed by a key matchup in Week 3 against El Toro. These non-league games are critical in setting the tone for the season and providing valuable experience against tough opponents.
“Hacienda League is very competitive,” Coach Castaneda emphasized. “The new competitive equity model that has been applied to leagues makes every game a key matchup and a must-win to secure a playoff spot.” This sentiment underscores the importance of each game in the Brahmas’ journey toward achieving their goals.
2024 Goals: Excellence On and Off the Field
For Coach Castaneda, success in 2024 extends beyond the gridiron. “Develop and grow as student-athletes both on and off the field, primarily in the classroom,” he stated as a top priority. The Brahmas are committed to continuing their tradition of academic excellence, as reflected in their team GPAs.
On the field, the goals are clear: win the Hacienda League, reclaim the Branding Iron, and capture a CIF Southern Section championship. The team’s approach to the season is methodical, with an emphasis on playing their best football when it matters most.
“We want to play our best football in the first week of October as we open league play,” Coach Castaneda explained. “We have five games and a bye week to get us ready, and that’s how we approach our non-league. We have quality non-league opponents to play to give us opportunities to get better each week so that we can be the best version of ourselves as a team come October 4th.”
The 2024 season promises to be an exciting one for the Diamond Bar Brahmas. With a blend of experienced leaders and new talent, a challenging schedule, and a clear focus on both athletic and academic success, the Brahmas are poised to make their mark this season.
2024 Diamond Bar Brahmas Football Schedule
8/23/24 Diamond Bar vs El Dorado 7 pm
8/30/24 Westwood vs Diamond Bar 7 pm
9/6/24 Brea Olinda vs Diamond Bar 7 pm
9/13/24 Diamond Bar vs El Toro 7 pm
9/20/24 Paloma Valley vs Diamond Bar 7pm
10/4/24 South Hills vs Diamond Bar 7pm
10/10/24 Covina vs Diamond Bar 7pm
10/17/24 Diamond Bar vs Los Altos 7pm
10/24/24 Chino vs. Diamond Bar 7pm
11/1/24 Diamond Bar vs Walnut 7pm
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