Prep Football Summer Series: Brawley Wildcats

Wildcats begin a new era under Coach Bert Esposito

BRAWLEY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - In the latest edition of our Prep Football Summer Series, we're heading into Wildcat territory as Brawley High School ushers in a new era with longtime football veteran Bert Esposito taking over as head coach.

Esposito, a seasoned coach with over 40 years of experience including 32 years as a head coach makes his debut in the Imperial Valley after successful stints at programs like Temecula Valley and Paloma Valley in Southern California.

Despite the change in scenery, Esposito says he's eager to embrace the rich football culture of Brawley.

"This is definitely a culture shock," Esposito said. "But Brawley's history of success is something I have a lot of respect for and I want to build on that, not change it."

One of the biggest challenges facing Esposito this fall? A nearly brand-new roster. The Wildcats lost a strong senior class in 2024, leaving a young, inexperienced group to step up at the varsity level.

"Most years, you walk into a team and you've got returning starters, clear leaders," Esposito said. "Here, we're starting fresh. The JV and freshman teams did great last year, but varsity football is a different game."

To make matters more daunting, the Wildcats face a brutal non-league schedule. Six of their preseason opponents are ranked in the top 30 of the San Diego Section.

"We're preparing for a 16 or 17-game season, building depth across the board," Esposito added. "We want to be physically and mentally ready."

While Esposito isn't looking to overhaul the program, he's focused on refining what's already working and filling in the one missing piece: a CIF championship.

"In spite of all the success over the years, that CIF title has always been just out of reach," he said. "We're trying to figure that out."

Stay tuned for more stories from our Prep Football Summer Series.