Monrovia Wildcats Football Prepare for Upcoming Season

The Monrovia Wildcats football team is preparing for the upcoming season with high expectations, particularly aiming for the Rio Hondo League title and a strong CIF playoff run. They finished the 2024 season with an 8-3 overall record and a 4-1 record in the Rio Hondo League, securing second place.

Here’s an overview of the team’s preparations:

Coaching Staff:
Head Coach – Jose Casagran, with Jose Casagran as the Offensive Coordinator and Cesar Guerrero as the Defensive Coordinator. Other assistant coaches include Sean Cataleta, Will Torres, Salem Simon, Jason Carlin, Kevin Scott, Lonnie Berry, and Andre Jones Washington.
Key Returning Players:
- Quarterback Jesse Saucedo, who had a strong freshman season in 2024, throwing for 2,358 yards and 23 touchdowns.
- Troy Grise (WR/LB), a two-way threat who earned Rio Hondo League first-team honors.
- Byron Bell (RB/DB), another first-team RHL honoree.
- Lucas Martinez (LB), who led the RHL in tackles with 124 in 2024.
- Kaleb Ellison (DE), a three-year starter.
- Evan Ricketts (DB), a key player in the secondary.
Team Strengths:
- Offensive firepower: The Wildcats averaged 40 points per game in 2024 and return quarterback Jesse Saucedo along with other key playmakers.
- Experience: Several returning starters, especially seniors, are expected to provide leadership.
- Improved Grit and Dedication: The team has focused on weight room training and hard practice, fostering a tougher identity, according to Coach Casagran.
Areas for Improvement:
- Defense: The team gave up 20 or more points seven times in 2024, an area they hope to improve with returning experience.
- Staying Healthy: Maintaining the health of key players is considered crucial for a deep playoff run.
According to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, their non-league schedule is reasonable, potentially leading to a 7-3 or 8-2 regular season.