October 26th 2024.
After years of competing in a higher classification, the Pomona football team has finally found its rightful place among the 3A schools. This is a significant change for the Panthers, who have consistently punched above their weight and now have the opportunity to dominate at their level.
Under the leadership of fourth-year head coach Nathan Johnson, Pomona has emerged as a top contender for the state title. The team's impressive 6-2 record speaks volumes about their determination and skills. Johnson proudly calls it the "new Pomona," referring to the team's renewed energy and focus in the 3A division. Despite the shift in classification, the Panthers continue to carry on their legacy and strong program tradition. They have proven that they can excel in any division and are now ready to do it in 3A.
But this wasn't always the case. When Johnson took over as head coach in 2021, the Panthers were struggling to remain relevant in the highly competitive 5A division. Despite a successful season and a playoff win, the team's performance started to decline, winning only three games in the next two years. This was partially due to the tough schedule that pitted them against some of the best 5A teams. Johnson recalls a pivotal moment in 2021 when the Panthers faced off against Regis Jesuit in the playoffs with only 33 players, most of whom were seniors. He knew then that it would be difficult for them to make a significant impact in 5A.
However, Johnson used that time to build a strong incoming freshman class, which would prove to be crucial for the team's future success. Despite their struggles, the program's numbers continued to grow, and Pomona was able to field a JV team once again. This season, they have about 95 players, a testament to Johnson's efforts in recruiting athletes from other sports and within the school.
While the Panthers' numbers were increasing, their enrollment was on a steady decline. This trend has been evident for the past 30 years, despite the team's dominance in 5A under coach Jay Madden, who now leads the Legacy program. From 2015 to 2017, the Panthers made three consecutive appearances in the state title game and finally claimed the championship in 2017 after an intense shootout against Eaglecrest.
The decrease in enrollment can be attributed to various factors, but the team remains undeterred. They continue to focus on their mission and are determined to prove themselves as a formidable force in the 3A division. As they enter the final stretch of the season, the Panthers have their sights set on the state title, and with their determination and talent, they just might achieve it.
After years of competing in a higher classification, Pomona football has finally found its rightful place among 3A teams. With a strong tradition and a renewed determination, the Panthers are poised to become a perennial state title contender once again. Head coach Nathan Johnson, now in his fourth year, has dubbed this the "new Pomona," as the team looks to continue its legacy in a new division.
Johnson's tenure began in 2021, marking the end of Pomona's success in 5A. The following years saw a drastic decline in the team's performance, with only three wins in the last two seasons. But Johnson remained optimistic, using those years to build a solid freshman class and recruit from other sports and within the school. As a result, the program's numbers grew and the JV team was reinstated.
Despite these efforts, Pomona's enrollment continued to decrease. This trend has been ongoing for the past 30 years, even as the Panthers were a dominant force in 5A under former coach Jay Madden. From 2015-17, the team reached the state title game each year, ultimately winning in 2017. However, the declining enrollment has affected the team's ability to compete in 5A and led to the decision to move down to 3A.
The impact of this move has been immediate, with Pomona boasting a 6-2 record and ranking third in the Post Preps standings. Johnson attributes this success to the team's determination and the emphasis on recruiting from other sports and within the school. He also recognizes the challenges of competing in 3A, but remains confident in the team's abilities.
As the Panthers look to continue their success in 3A, Johnson reflects on the team's journey and the changes that have brought them to this point. Despite the challenges and obstacles, the "new Pomona" is ready to make its mark in 3A and continue its legacy as a powerhouse program.
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