Prep Football Summer Series: Imperial Tigers

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The countdown to kickoff is on, and the Imperial Tigers are embracing a new identity rooted in youth, depth, and confidence.

Head coach David Shaw joined us for our latest edition of the Prep Football Summer Series and broke down what makes this year's team one to watch.

"This year's team is different," Shaw said. "I'm excited about the youth because we have a lot of sophomores starting in the skill positions, but I'm also excited about the experience we have on our front lines — on both the offensive and defensive line. So I'm super excited about both the…I don't wanna say the elderly — but the experienced players — combining with the youth. I think it's gonna be something special to watch."

One of the biggest names returning for the Tigers is Deren Hueso a standout running back who ran for over 1,000 yards last season as a sophomore.

Shaw says Hueso's work ethic and game-breaking ability make him a rare asset in the Imperial backfield.

"He's worked hard in the offseason," Shaw said. "He's gonna be running behind a very experienced line. So we look for big yards from him again this year, and he's the kind of player that can go 99 yards and just stand on the ball. We're super excited about him in the running back role."

But it's not just the talent that excites Shaw it's the overall energy from the program this offseason.

"The offseason's been great," he said. "The kids have been lifting since January. We've been doing our summer workouts, our summer 7-on-7 paths…everything’s going good. The spirits are high, and we're ready for the season."

And there's another family element to the program this year. Shaw now shares the sideline with his son Steven, who joined the coaching staff after previously playing under his dad.

"It's pretty cool. It’s cool to be able to coach your kids in high school, but it's also cool for them to be coaching with us," Shaw said. "I really enjoy it. I gotta get on them just like I gotta get on anybody, but it's a good relationship."

As the Tigers look ahead, their goals remain the same win league, compete deep into the postseason. But Shaw knows the road won't be easy.

"Obviously, the goal is to win league, but the two obstacles every year are Brawley and Central," Shaw said. "They're perennial programs, and we’re right there. So we're excited about the opportunity to go on the road and play them."

Shaw added that it would be a mistake to overlook the other competition.

"We can't forget about Holtville. Holtville's gonna be tough, and they're coming into the I.V.L. [Imperial Valley League]. So they're gonna pose a big challenge for everyone — as well as Calexico. Calexico is a well-coached, hard-hitting team."

And with a talented group of seniors like Gio Robles and Mario Gaxiola at wide receiver providing leadership, Shaw is confident his team's identity will be clear: fast, physical, and ready.

"Lifting weights is great, right? But it's time to play some football," he said. "All of our kids are super excited. We've got youth, we've got experience, and they're just ready to get started."

Imperial kicks off its season with momentum and belief anchored by experience in the trenches, rising talent across the board, and a standout backfield led by Hueso.

Next up in our Prep Football Summer Series: the Yuma High Criminals. That edition will air Monday.