Beckman, coming off memorable 2024 season, marks program’s 20th anniversary

Coach Marcello Giuliano leads Beckman into the 2025 season. (PHOTOS: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sports Zone).

It’s a big milestone for the Beckman High School football program, as fans, coaches and players celebrate the 20th anniversary of the program.

“Beckman varsity football turns 20 this year and we are excited to keep building and elevating our level of play and competition,” said Patriots Coach Marcello Giuliano.

Beckman opens the season hosting Aliso Niguel Thursday night at Tustin in a week zero game at Tustin.

Beckman is coming off a highly successful 2024 season in which the Patriots were 10-2 overall and shared the Lambda League title with Marina and Kennedy. All three teams were 4-1. Beckman advanced into the second round of the CIF Division 8 playoffs.

The Beckman coach likes what he sees so far of his team.

“We have a bunch of guys that love football, love being teammates, and bring great attitude and energy every day,” he said. “They are a real fun group to coach because of how hard they work and how consistent they are. “Our staff is really looking forward to see how they build on the last couple of seasons.”

Beckman is led by senior quarterback Noah Nam, a first team all-league player last year. In his first year of varsity football as a junior, Nam was the top-rated passer in the league and led Beckman to its first league title in 13 years. 

“Obviously, it really helps to have so much production back on offense,” Giuliano said. “Senior quarterback Noah Nam had a terrific season in 2024, but I think that was really just a preview to what he can become. He has done a huge amount of work to get his game to the next level; weight room, classroom study, passing league, and college camps all over the country where he competed against other really talented quarterbacks.

 “He really earned the keys to the car this year and it’s going to be his show on offense.

The Patriots have some other talented players too.

“We also bring back Lambda League offensive player of the year Makhi Czaykowski, who will be taking on more versatile roles on both offense and defense,” Giuliano said. “He’s been at tailback for the last two years, but he can line up in a lot of different places and get the ball in his hands. He’ll also be playing linebacker this season.”

Beckman has seven returning starters on offense and five on defense.

Other top players on offense are tailback Aiden Tran and offensive lineman Roy Chaya.

On defense, end Rian Silva, defensive backs Nate Garcia and Sawyer Nickelson and linebacker Zak Hazboun are expected to lead the way.

Giuliano expects another battle in the Lambda League.

“I think the league will be even more competitive and exciting this year,” he said. “We have six terrific programs and coaching staffs and I expect it to come down the final games again. Our goals are the same as they have been: keep showing up to work every day, improve over the course of the season, and be ready to play for high stakes late in the year. I can’t wait to see what this group can do.”

For full view, click on the photo:

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