Joshua, TX — As the buzz of Friday night lights fades into offseason work, the Joshua High School football program, under the direction of Head Coach and Athletic Director Danny DeArman, is laying a strong foundation for a breakout season in 2025. The Owls are not just working harder—they're working smarter, building a culture rooted in toughness, competition, and unity.
Offseason Focus: Strength and Speed
The Owls have spent the bulk of the offseason locked into one mission: getting stronger, faster, and more competitive. From max-out sessions to early morning workouts, the team is emphasizing physical gains that translate directly onto the gridiron. "We’ve focused heavily on competition and commitment in the weight room," said Coach DeArman. "It’s about building not only better athletes but tougher, more unified teammates."
Team Bonding Through Offseason Competitions
In Joshua, team-building doesn’t stop at the weight room. Coaches have drafted offseason teams where players compete for points through lifting gains, attending other athletic events, supporting cheer competitions, and even through positive school behavior. “We want to build leaders who support their peers and represent Joshua with pride—on and off the field,” DeArman added.
Players to Watch
This year’s squad is packed with standout returners and rising stars who’ve made impressive offseason strides. The offensive line—anchored by Bohden Tholkes, Roger Cruz, Aiden Figueroa, and Trent Meyer—has been nothing short of dominant. In the skill positions, Lucas Liles, Aaron Martinez, Cash Criner, and Alex Rubalcaba have shown signs of explosive playmaking potential.
Under center, Brayden Payne, a tough and determined junior, is set to take over quarterback duties. “He’s a competitor. I’m looking forward to seeing him lead this offense,” said DeArman. Also expected to make waves is Malachi Berry, a tall and speedy receiver poised to be a mismatch nightmare for opposing defenses.
On the defensive front, JD Smith, Gavin McManus, and Mikey Duran have transformed into game-wreckers, while the linebacker unit—Eryk Martinez, John Pigg, Jaxon Wells, and Ethan Phan—could be the most physical group Joshua has fielded in years. In the secondary, Dre Wilson, Sergio Mata, and Kade Boone are showing elite instincts and ball-tracking ability.
A Culture Rooted in Leadership
What truly sets Joshua apart this offseason is the culture being instilled by the coaching staff. With accountability, discipline, and leadership at the forefront, players are expected to grow not just as athletes but as young men. The strength and conditioning coach is also guiding players on proper nutrition and recovery to ensure peak performance come fall.
Looking Ahead
As the team looks toward the 2025 season, the biggest challenge will be overcoming the hurdles of past seasons and believing they can win. “Our boys are tight-knit. They’ve bought in. Now it’s about executing and proving we belong,” said Coach DeArman.
If the offseason is any indication, the Owls won’t just be competing this year—they’ll be contenders.
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