Godinez football team looks for success after three-year rebuilding process

Godinez football coach Aron Kaye talks to some of his players during a timeout last season. (Photo: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sports Zone).

Godinez High School football coach Aron Kaye likes the progress of the football program and appears excited about the Grizzlies prospects in 2024.

Godinez was 3-7 overall and 0-3 in the Pac-4 League last season.

“After three tough years of rebuilding the program, we feel like we can compete again,” Kaye said. “Our players over these last three years have been absolutely awesome in understanding the situation that they were building for the future.

 “I’ve been so impressed by how they have humbly understood their roll and now we feel we’ve had enough time in the weight room, now have enough players in the program and enough game and practice reps to compete. We had a little over 50 players in the program that first year back and now we have about 100. It’s been a grind but we are really excited about the year and just having a chance to compete.”

A number of returning players are expected to lead the Grizzlies, including Juan Memije (wide receiver, defensive back), Chris Villalobos (tight end, linebacker), Pedro Martinez (running back, free safety), Alexis Jimenez (running back, linebacker), Jairo Gutierrez (wide receiver, defensive back), Jason Villareal (offensive lineman, linebacker)) and Bryan Sanchez (wide receiver, defensive back).

Godinez, as part of a major re-leaguing plan for most schools in Orange County, will be part of the five-team Zeta League. Saddleback, Savanna, Magnolia and Century are the other teams.

“It’s going to be a real competitive league, as it should be,” Kaye said. “We have seen Saddleback, Savanna and Century this summer and they are all improved. I would imagine Magnolia will be as well.  Every week will be a major test that will have a big impact on the league outcome.  There are no gimme’s and it will be a lot of fun.”

2024 SCHEDULE

Thursday, Aug. 23, Loara at Glover Stadium

Friday, Aug. 30, (H) La Quinta

Friday, Sept. 6, at Costa Mesa

Friday, Sept. 13, (H) Santa Ana Valley

Friday, Sept. 20, Rancho Alamitos at Bolsa Grande

Friday, Sept. 27, (H) Katella

League

Friday, Oct. 4 (H) Saddleback

Friday, Oct. 18, Magnolia at Handel Stadium

Thursday, Oct. 24, Savanna at Glover Stadium

Friday, Nov. 1, (H) Century

(Fourth in a summer series of football previews)

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