As the Antelope Valley High School football team gears up for the 2025 season, Head Coach James Vondra is focused on improving team culture, work ethic, and overall athletic performance. The team has been actively working in the weight room and implementing advanced speed training programs to prepare for the challenges ahead.
Offseason Focus: Strength, Speed, and Culture
The primary goals this offseason have been:
Enhancing work ethic in the weight room through the BFS Program
Improving speed and agility with the Feed the Cats Speed Training Program
Expanding and strengthening the coaching staff, which has doubled from 10 to 20 coaches
Offseason Tournaments and Camps
To further develop skills and team chemistry, Antelope Valley will participate in several passing tournaments and lineman challenges across Southern California, including:
Charter Oak HS (5/17)
Rim of the World (5/21)
Banning HS (5/26)
Simi Valley HS (5/27)
Norte Vista HS (7/19)
Notable Roster Changes
The team is experiencing a major shift as Golden League Rushing Champion Gavin Houston and 13 other seniors graduate. Key departures include:
Ja’Ere Alexander (QB/FS) – All-League standout
DeJon Wall (DE) – Defensive powerhouse
Dwayne Ross (Special Teams Player of the Year) – A crucial part of last year’s squad
Despite these losses, the program is confident in its returning talent and the progress of its younger players.
Players to Watch
Several returning players are expected to have breakout seasons:
Dylan Westberg (Class of 2026) – Lineman of the Year and 2nd Team All-Golden League, anchoring the offensive line
Rayshawn Hawkins (Class of 2027) – Scout Team Player of the Year, stepping into the QB role
Jacob Long (Class of 2026) – Most Improved Player, leading the defense as MLB
Deion Bogan (Class of 2026) – 2nd Team All-Golden League DB, a key piece of the secondary
Strength and Conditioning Program
Antelope Valley players are committed to training, with a structured schedule including:
Weightlifting on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays before school
Speed training on Tuesdays and Thursdays before school
OTAs (Organized Team Activities) on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school
Nutritional Guidance
Coach Vondra provides nutrition education through certified sports nutritionist Nick Lemke, ensuring players understand the importance of proper fueling for performance.
Community Engagement
The program is increasing its presence in the community by participating in multiple outreach efforts:
Reading events at local elementary schools
Hosting a Youth Coaches Clinic
Running a Youth Football Camp for kids ages 5-14
Assisting the city with Easter events
Biggest Challenges Ahead
Antelope Valley faces significant obstacles, including:
Socioeconomic difficulties – The school has a low enrollment and serves an underprivileged community
Limited funding – The program provides all necessary equipment but lacks resources for extra items like spirit packs, sleds, camera systems, and headsets
Competing with larger programs – Despite its challenges, the team remains determined to rise above and compete at a high level
Final Thoughts
With a dedicated coaching staff, a committed group of young athletes, and a focus on building a winning culture, Antelope Valley is poised for an exciting 2025 season. By overcoming adversity and emphasizing hard work, teamwork, and community engagement, the program is laying the foundation for long-term success.
Rim of the World (5/21)
Banning HS (5/26)
Simi Valley HS (5/27)
Norte Vista HS (7/19)
Notable Roster Changes
The team is experiencing a major shift as Golden League Rushing Champion Gavin Houston and 13 other seniors graduate. Key departures include:
Ja’Ere Alexander (QB/FS) – All-League standout
DeJon Wall (DE) – Defensive powerhouse
Dwayne Ross (Special Teams Player of the Year) – A crucial part of last year’s squad
Despite these losses, the program is confident in its returning talent and the progress of its younger players.
Players to Watch
Several returning players are expected to have breakout seasons:
Dylan Westberg (Class of 2026) – Lineman of the Year and 2nd Team All-Golden League, anchoring the offensive line
Rayshawn Hawkins (Class of 2027) – Scout Team Player of the Year, stepping into the QB role
Jacob Long (Class of 2026) – Most Improved Player, leading the defense as MLB
Deion Bogan (Class of 2026) – 2nd Team All-Golden League DB, a key piece of the secondary
Strength and Conditioning Program
Antelope Valley players are committed to training, with a structured schedule including:
Weightlifting on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays before school
Speed training on Tuesdays and Thursdays before school
OTAs (Organized Team Activities) on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school
Nutritional Guidance
Coach Vondra provides nutrition education through certified sports nutritionist Nick Lemke, ensuring players understand the importance of proper fueling for performance.
Community Engagement
The program is increasing its presence in the community by participating in multiple outreach efforts:
Reading events at local elementary schools
Hosting a Youth Coaches Clinic
Running a Youth Football Camp for kids ages 5-14
Assisting the city with Easter events
Biggest Challenges Ahead
Antelope Valley faces significant obstacles, including:
Socioeconomic difficulties – The school has a low enrollment and serves an underprivileged community
Limited funding – The program provides all necessary equipment but lacks resources for extra items like spirit packs, sleds, camera systems, and headsets
Competing with larger programs – Despite its challenges, the team remains determined to rise above and compete at a high level
Final Thoughts
With a dedicated coaching staff, a committed group of young athletes, and a focus on building a winning culture, Antelope Valley is poised for an exciting 2025 season. By overcoming adversity and emphasizing hard work, teamwork, and community engagement, the program is laying the foundation for long-term success.
)
Share With