Prep Football team previews: Palo Verde Yellow Jackets
BLYTHE, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - After two tough seasons marked by losing records and a noticeable drop in team spirit, the Palo Verde Yellow Jackets football team is looking to turn the page, and they're doing it with a familiar and deeply respected face back on the sidelines.
Head Coach Wally Grant, the heart and soul of the Yellow Jackets' program, has returned after a two-year battle with cancer. His presence alone has already sparked new energy throughout the locker room.
"I'm on cloud nine," said Grant. "The last two years have been an incredible journey, an unbelievable battle. I can’t be more pleased with what's going on out here and just to be able to be out here."
Just three seasons ago, Palo Verde was one of the premier programs in Southern California, dominating the Desert League and earning a CIF San Diego Section title.
Since then, the team has struggled, posting back-to-back losing seasons in Grant's absence. But this year, with their head coach back in command, the Yellow Jackets are determined to return to their winning ways.
Team captain Antonio Barron emphasized the shift in mentality already taking root across all grade levels.
"I think one of our main issues last year was our team spirit," Barron said. "We weren't really motivating each other as much, but this year, I've seen a big difference. Freshmen to seniors - they've been motivating each other on the field, even off the field, in the weight room."
Still, this is a much younger team than the one that once brought championship hardware home. Grant is expected to start over a dozen underclassmen, a decision that factors into both the program's future and its immediate success.
"We're young, and we're gonna have some growing pains," Grant acknowledged. "We're gonna take our bruises and we're gonna live with it. Every Saturday morning when we watch film, all I'm concerned with is: Are we better this Saturday than we were last Saturday?"
That growth mindset is echoed by players like Zarius Cano, another team captain, who's already noticed the difference in energy and intensity.
"Preseason was insane," said Cano. "Everyone was just doing their jobs. I saw a lot of hitting. It's very different from freshmen and [junior varsity]...it's faster-paced, and I'm excited for the season."
With the return of Grant, the Yellow Jackets are rebuilding their identity bonded by mutual trust and relentless effort.
"Once we get on that field, we've only got each other," said Barron. "No matter how down we are, we'll tell each other we can get back up…Your teammate is telling you, 'Hey, just a few more plays, don't worry, I'm here with you.' That's what you need to get back up, and that's what we got going on this year."
The road back to dominance won't be easy, but with Coach Grant leading the charge, Palo Verde is poised to lay the groundwork for a new era of success.
One thing's clear: The Yellow Jackets have their leader back, and they believe the best is yet to come.
