Experienced Foothill football team poised to battle for league championship

Foothill Coach Doug Case with Aaron Mitchell (left) and Nate Gouvion. (Photo courtesy Foothill football).

Foothill High School’s football team, coached by Doug Case, will rely on a number of returning starters for a successful 2023 season.

“We’re returning 15 starters from last year and a lot of experience from last year which should translate to an improved year and (being able to) compete for league title,” Case said. “We’re excited to take on the challenges this season.”

The returning players include senior running back Aaron Mitchell, a three-year starter who “will carry the load. He’s a dominant player,” Case said.

Senior quarterback Nick Miali is back to start for the second year. “He’s 6-6 with great arm strength and experienced,” Case said.

Other top returning players include seniors who are second year starters: wide receiver Jack Zerkel, linebackers Preston Raymond and CJ Sims, center Ryan Worden, the “anchor of the offensive line,” according to Case, tight end David Man and defensive backs Bode Jellerson, Bryce Perkins and Jose Navarette.

Junior defensive end Juan Juarez, who is also a two-year starter, is another top returner.

Case is also expecting big contributions from junior wide receiver Nico Mancini, senior wide receiver Connor Pietras, who was out injured last year; senior defensive back Will May, who was sidelined with an injury; junior linebacker Brady Holcomb, who takes over for all-county linebacker Ethan Charpenitier and junior running back/safety Nate Gouvion.

Foothill was 4-6 overall and 1-2 in the Crestview League last season.

2023 SCHEDULE

Home games at Tustin High School

Saturday, Aug. 19, at Bishop Diego

Friday, Aug. 25, (H) vs. Tustin

Friday, Sept. 1, (H) vs. Orange

Friday, Sept. 8, (H) vs. Troy

Friday, Sept. 22, at Chino Hills

Friday, Sept. 29, at Esperanza

Thursday, Oct. 5, (H) vs. El Dorado

Thursday, Oct. 12, at Villa Park

Friday, Oct. 20, at Brea Olinda

Thursday, Oct. 26, (H) vs. Yorba Linda

—Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com