Santa Barbara has seen a significant shift in high school football this season as local teams adapt to new leagues. Last year, school administrators made the decision to prioritize competitive balance over tradition, leading to a complete re-leaguing of many teams across Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties using CalPreps power ratings as a foundation.
This change has been particularly impactful for schools such as Santa Barbara High, San Marcos, and Dos Pueblos, who have left the well-known Channel League to compete in new leagues. The Dons, coached by Nate Mendoza, will be part of the newly formed Conejo Coast League, alongside former Channel League member Rio Mesa and new rivals from the old Canyon and Marmonte Leagues, including Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Westlake, and Calabasas. Mendoza expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re just excited for the opportunity, and I don’t expect anybody to think highly of us in that league and that’s the way we want it.”
Meanwhile, San Marcos and Dos Pueblos will compete in the Tri-County League, which now includes Agoura, along with schools from the Citrus Coast League: Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Hueneme. Bishop Diego remains in the Marmonte League, facing tough competition from teams like Oaks Christian and St. Bonaventure. In contrast, Carpinteria will continue in the Citrus Coast League, which has seen a drop in team membership.
Coaches at the Tri-County League’s media day displayed enthusiasm about the league changes. They are eager to embrace the fresh competitive opportunities. AJ Pateras, the head coach at Dos Pueblos, remarked on the potential excitement, stating, “This is a new opportunity for some of us that were on the lower tier of that [Channel League].”
Even Santa Paula coach Mike Montoya recognized the change, mentioning that he has personal history with some of the old rivalries, having played against many current coaches back in his high school days. Ralph Molina, head coach at San Marcos, also noted the potential for growth, saying, “Now, we talk about what our goal is and the kids really believe that they have a shot to win a championship.”
Overall, while the team changes might seem complex, many involved see it as a beneficial shift that will foster greater competition and excitement in local high school football this season.
