Prep Football Team Previews: San Pasqual Warriors

WINTERHAVEN, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - For the first time in years, there's genuine excitement around San Pasqual football.

Head coach Miguel Rivas has helped breathe life into a program that, not long ago, was stuck in a 20-game losing streak.

Last fall, the Warriors broke that skid and finished with three wins their first multi-win season since 2017 and their best overall campaign since 2013. It was a turning point that sparked renewed interest on campus, with more players joining the team and a belief that the Warriors can compete.

"It's probably as excited as I've ever been," Rivas said. "We've got a great group of kids, and we're only getting bigger. Last year, the offense was brand new, and we made some mental mistakes. But now, the players understand the playbook, and we're ready to go."

At the heart of the Warriors' resurgence is Isaiah Martinez, a senior wide receiver and safety who led the team in receptions, return yards, and touchdowns last season.

Martinez racked up 639 receiving yards, 269 return yards, and five scores through the air. A true playmaker, he's widely considered San Pasqual's best overall athlete and one of the top names to watch in the Imperial Valley this season.

"Knowing this is the last time I put on pads it really hits me," Martinez said. "I've gotta go all out, put on for my family, and put on for my hometown in Los Algodones and Baja California."

Joining him in the backfield is junior Alex Acuna, the Warriors' leading rusher in 2024. He tallied 429 yards and two touchdowns last season and is expected to take on an even larger role this fall.

"We're not the same team as before," Acuna said. "We're becoming better together. And I think we've got a real opportunity to make the playoffs this year."

Meanwhile, junior quarterback Alfred Cornejo returns after throwing for nearly 900 yards and seven touchdowns last year. His challenge will be improving his decision-making after tossing 21 interceptions as a sophomore. Coaches say his development will be key to whether San Pasqual takes the next step.

"I just wanna send my seniors out the right way," Cornejo said. "Guys like Isaiah, Cruz, they've been leaders, and I just want this season to be for them."

Rivas is now entering his third season at the helm, balancing the growth of young players with the leadership of a motivated senior class.

The Warriors believe the pieces are in place not only to improve on last year's 3-7 record, but also to chase their first winning season in more than a decade.

The team also has its eyes on a local milestone: capturing the Telegraph Pass Trophy, something San Pasqual has yet to accomplish since the rivalry prize was reinstated.

Lofty goals? Maybe. But in Winterhaven, belief is back. And for these Warriors, the sky truly feels like the limit.